Humidification check
Seasonal top belly, sharp frets from shrinkage — we assess and recommend safe humidity care.
Included with setup
Services & rates
Clear work. Clear prices.
Rates below are typical starting points. Every guitar is different — you’ll always get a written estimate before we start paid work.
Playability
Setups
A proper setup is the single best upgrade most guitars never get. We measure relief, set nut slot depth, adjust action and intonation, clean the fingerboard, dress frets lightly as needed, and string it up with your preferred gauge.
Standard setupElectric, acoustic, or bass — full playability pass
$75–$95
Performance setupIncludes light fret dress, detailed cleaning, and hardware check
$110–$140
12-string / classical / archtopExtra time for specialized instruments
+$20–$40
String change onlyQuality strings included, basic stretch & tune
$25
Typical turnaround: 3–5 business days. Rush available when the bench allows.
Fingerboard work
Frets & necks
Buzzing, dead spots, sharp fret ends, worn crowns — fretwork is where a good tech earns their keep. We level, crown, and polish with care for the finish and the wood underneath.
Fret level, crown & polishIncludes setup after work
$120–$180
Partial refretWorn frets only, matched wire
From $180
Full refretBound or unbound boards; nickel or stainless
$350–$550
Nut replacementBone, Tusq, or graphite — cut to your gauge
$65–$110
Neck reset (acoustic)Estimate after inspection — structural job
Quote
Signal path
Electronics
Crackles, dropouts, weak output, noisy switches — we diagnose before we solder. Clean routing, quality pots and caps, and shielding when the instrument needs it.
Diagnostic / hourApplied toward repair if you proceed
$45
Pot, jack, or switch replaceParts extra; CTS / Switchcraft available
$45–$75 ea.
Pickup installPer pickup; includes basic setup check
$60–$90
Full rewireCustom harnesses & coil-split options
From $150
Cavity shieldingCopper tape, quiet operation
$60–$90
Structure & finish
Repairs & restoration
Cracks, open seams, lifted bridges, broken headstocks — structural work is quoted after a careful look. We favor reversible, instrument-safe methods and finish matching that respects the guitar’s age.
Crack / seam repairCleats as needed; finish touch-up optional
From $80
Bridge re-glue (acoustic)Includes cauls and proper clamp time
From $150
Headstock breakStructural glue-up, touch-up, and setup
From $200
Brace repairReglue or replacement as needed
Quote
Finish touch-upNitro or poly; color match to age
Quote
Estimates are free for walk-ins during shop hours and for booked drop-offs.
Also available
Extras & add-ons
Hardware upgrades
Tuners, bridges, tailpieces, strap locks — installed and set correctly, not just bolted on.
Labor from $40
Fretboard conditioning
Clean, oil (when appropriate), and dress the board so it feels smooth under the fingers.
$20 add-on
Rush service
Need it for a weekend gig? Ask — when the schedule allows, we can prioritize.
+$40–$75
Instrument appraisal notes
Condition notes useful for insurance or sale — not a formal certified appraisal.
$40
Loaner guitars
Limited loaners for extended structural jobs. Ask when you drop off.
Complimentary when available
FAQ
Common questions
Do I need an appointment?
Drop-offs are by appointment so we can give your guitar proper bench time at intake. Quick questions and string changes sometimes walk in — call ahead if you can.
What brands do you work on?
All of them — Fender, Gibson, Martin, Taylor, PRS, Ibanez, Gretsch, Epiphone, Yamaha, Guild, and plenty of no-names that still deserve to play well. Acoustics, electrics, basses, classicals, and most mandolin-family instruments.
Can I bring my own parts or strings?
Absolutely. Happy to install your pickups, pots, or preferred string brand. If you don’t bring strings, a quality set in your gauge is included with full setups.
What if I don’t like the setup?
Come back within 90 days of the work. Minor tweaks are free; we’ll adjust until it feels right for how you play.
Do you buy or consign guitars?
Occasionally we’ll take a trade or help place an instrument locally, but repair is the focus. Ask Dad if you’ve got something interesting.
Ready for a written estimate?
Tell us about the guitar and the issue — we’ll follow up with timing and next steps.
Contact the shop