Testimonials

Here at Santa Cruz Guitar Company, nothing makes our day more than hearing from players around the world. Below are some wonderful testimonials we’ve received about our guitars, our strings, and our shop, and we are grateful for each and everyone one of them. I’d you’d like to drop us a note about your experience with SCGC, we’d love to hear from you.

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What Our Fantastic Customers Have to Say

I am sending heartiest greetings from Stuttgart. I have just arrived home after my trip to Nuremberg today to see Jens to pick up my new guitar. And what an incredible and beautiful guitar you have made for me. Can you please pass on my sincere thanks to Richard and every luthier involved in the process of making this incredible instrument. Every little detail is just right and the wood is incredibly beautiful. I cannot put in words how this guitar sounds. Simply amazing. Thanks to each and everyone in this great team.

 

Kurt von Poelnitz

4/28/22

I have the guitar and it arrived today in perfect condition. I had very high expectations and was still blown away by it when I opened the case. I depended on you to design what I wanted and between you and the guys in the shop you certainly did that very well. The design is subtle, not too much (if you know what I mean?) and very tasteful. Of course it is beautiful as well, all about the wood in that sense. I like the playability and the sound. Construction is amazing. I have not seen a guitar before that was this perfectly put together.  This is money well spent and I would not change a thing. Thanks so much to you and the luthiers for this opportunity. I wish your shop continued success in the future.

 

Alex Midwinter

4/14/22

This 000 delivers more than I could’ve imagined or expressed what I was hoping for in terms of sound. It’s perfection. The Adi/Koa  make big, clean sound. The tone, the resonance, the projection. Chords, notes jump out of the sound hole. The fit, finish and action is absolutely perfect. It’s so easy to play; fingerstyle and bar chords. And the neck. Like Goldlocks said it’s just right!  The bone bridge pins too are beautiful, lovely shape, match the saddle perfectly. And the way they sit in the bridge. There’s just nothing about this 000 that I don’t love. 
 
So…I just could not be any more pleased. It was Sooo worth the wait.  Thank you and all so much for this most “Welcome To the Family”. Cheers!


Ron Spilker

4/13/22

Just a quick note to express my deep gratitude for all your help in putting my dream guitar into my hands. This is an astonishing instrument. The tone is sweet and focused everywhere on the fingerboard. The setup was perfect; it plays wonderfully. It fits my hands and my body perfectly. I couldn’t possibly be happier. I will joyously be playing this instrument until (or perhaps even as) I walk across that Rainbow Bridge, many years from now, of course. Please pass on my gratitude to the luthiers and everyone involved in the creation of this heirloom instrument.
Neil Shropshire

3/26/22

The custom OO Skye you all built for me is perfect in every way. I wanted to ask who the master builder is but I know you will say it was a team effort. It really is just out of this world and shows that Santa Cruz Guitar Company are masters at their trade in every level of the process. It just sparkled and glowed and took my breath away when I opened the case.  Thank you for being so great and providing the world with the gift of a guitar that has such a wide and dynamic range in the expression of sound…..a sound that heals. Thank you.
Lisa Means

2/28/22

My custom order OM arrived last week and I picked it up on Saturday from Steve at Down Home Guitars. I cannot begin to express how happy I am with the build.  It is of course appropriately named “The Daisy” ❤️?❤️.  The Tunnel 13 top is stunning and the shading around the edges is perfect! The African Blackwood sides and back are beautiful – richly dark but still allowing the grain and figuring of the wood to show through. And the blue paua tree of life and other inlays give the entire build an elegance beyond description.  It truly is a work of art. And most importantly the sounds that emanate from it are beyond description and will only improve with time. Thank you so much for working with me and Steve to create this masterpiece.  And please thank Richard Hoover and all of the individuals that worked to create The Daisy.

Kevin Passowic

2/19/22

Dear Carolyn,
 
My custom OM arrived from Zak at SoundPure yesterday, and I unpacked it this morning after the shipping box had warmed to room temperature. It is absolutely gorgeous, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with its tone and playability! Thank you so much for assisting me with ordering it, and please express my thanks to Mr. Hoover and your other luthiers as well. You guys are definitely the best!!!
 
Mike Cloud
Mike Cloud

2/10/22

I am speechless. If I’d have known how beautiful looking and sounding this would have been I would have been more impatient.
It’s a piece of art and easy to play. My old fingers feel 25 again.
Thank you, so much. I will keep you updated.
Charles Slater

10/19/21

She is a stunner. Tuned her up to pitch and I don’t know how to say this. She has made every other guitar in my collection weep. I own some mighty fine instruments, two of your OMs, a Collings OM, a Bourgeois D Vintage Heirloom, a Huss and Dalton TD-R. This 1934 D feels and sounds like it’s in a class of its own.  I am so grateful to your shop’s attention to detail and craftsmanship. I’ve played a few Brazilian backed guitars in the past (Martin, Taylor and Bourgeois) and can appreciate the tonal difference between Brazilian and East Indian rosewood. Brazilian just sounds so much sweeter, has a more balanced sound, and more controlled and pleasing overtones than East Indian. However none of the other Brazilian guitars inspired me to pay the extra money for them, and those guitars were half the price of the 1934 D. Santa Cruz isn’t just using Brazilian rosewood in the 1934D, they’re using the real deal old growth Brazilian. “The Good Stuff” as they say. This guitar took the positives I heard from the other BRW guitars, and turned up the dial to 11. This is truly a lifer. Heirloom quality both in aesthetics and in sound. What is amazing is that this was just finished by your shop earlier this year, so it’s “the worst it is ever going to sound” right now, and it’s already the best guitar I’ve ever played. It will only open up and sound more amazing in the years to come!
Carlo Medina

10/1/21

Just wanted to leave the following review regarding the Parabolic Low Tension strings for my Martin 000-15m. Okay I’m officially SOLD!! I tried these out a few times over the past month or so. I’d put them on, take them off and go back to what I was using before (Martin Flexible Core Strings) and finally, I tried them one more time. I put them on my guitar, waited a few days and then went and got my neck relief properly adjusted for them and OH MY GAWD!!!!! This was about a week ago and they just seem to get better sounding every time I play with them! I actually feel like they were made for my guitar!! I signed up for the subscription, where they send you a new set every 3 months. I’ve actually got a coffee house gig coming up next Saturday and I can’t wait! Thank you for making these strings for my Martin 000-15m!! They are truly amazing!!!!
Hank Emery

10/9/21

This is John Cable with Maple Street Guitars. I just wanted to drop you folks a note to let you know how wonderful my new OM Grand is. The first time I unpacked one of these at the store (several years ago) I was hooked. I’ve wanted one since then. Needless to say, I’m thrilled and I wanted to reach out and thank everyone for making such a fantastic instrument.

John Cable

9/24/21

O. M. G. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You all are simply amazing.  It will be hard for me to play my other guitars ever again.  This lady is a stunner from head to toe and the sound is next level.   I truly can not believe how great it turned out.  Her voice is strange and unique and I’m just tickled pink.  Please tell the luthiers their all Picasso’s  and deserve a raise.  My quest is over but the journey has just began.  Many well deserved thanks and praises to the whole team.  Your company is legendary and you all just proved it.  Last but certainly not least, I must give my final kudos to you, Carolyn.  It’s been such a pleasure corresponding with you throughout the process.  Your sunny demeanor is a real treat and the cherry on top for the privilege of working with Santa Cruz.  I salute you madam!!!  Well done Richard Hoover…. Your only as good as your people, and you sure know how to pick em!!!

Brian Smith

9/22/21

I have been playing Martin guitars exclusively for over 60 years and finally decided to branch out. So….  I did some research on Bourgeois and Santa Cruz. I purchased a Bourgeios and this Vintage D and was blown away by the craftsmanship and finish of the Santa Cruz in particular. I don’t know why I waited so long. But the important thing is that I am an instant convert to your guitars. I am in the process of reducing my Martin collection and replacing them with the Santa Cruz line. Thanks! – John Stockwell 9/20/21

John Stockwell

9/20/21

The new 1934 D Custom. It is an absolutely amazing guitar. I am so thrilled that I own it. Thanks for making some of the best guitars in the world and sharing them with me. I truly appreciate your attention to detail and dedication in your craft. I am proud to be playing two 1934 SCGC guitars. Thanks Again, Peter Richter

Peter Richter

9/20/21

About four months ago, I was considering having a guitar custom built by a legendary luthier here in Oregon. I have been playing for well over 40 years and, despite having amassed a considerable number of guitars, decided it was time to get something really special. I was at the point of picking out woods and style etc. when I ran across the 1934 Brazilian/moon spruce OM online at Eddie’s Guitars. In addition to being completely beguiled by the looks of the guitar and the sound from the demonstration video that Eddie’s produced, I was equally enamored with the back story of the “moon spruce” top. I took the guitar on a three day trial and within an hour of receiving it emailed Matt to let him know he would not be getting the guitar back. Four months later, every time time I pick that guitar up and start to play it (which is to say daily) it nearly brings me to tears. So much so, I felt compelled to stop playing long enough to send you this note. Every square inch of that guitar is a demonstration of pure artistry. The wood itself is a constant reminder of the wonder of our natural environment. There are times I find myself just sitting and staring at it. And the sound…holy moly. It is magical. All of this to say, thank you for your dedication to creating such incredible instruments. And please pass along my particular thanks and awe to the luthiers and team that were involved in creating my particular guitar. It brings me such joy on a daily basis. What a gift to have that to look forward to every day.

Craig Wessel

8/8/21

I had promised to write, to let you know my impressions of the H/13 I recently purchased.  (btw, I really do like the parabolic tension strings and will continue to use them).  The model I obtained is of a beautiful sunburst color, with the “Moon Spruce” top I was excited about, and Indian Rosewood back and sides. Gorgeous! So, after tuning, I strummed my first chord….WOW, I thought, who let that Dreadnought into the house!!!   To say I was surprised by the volume alone, would be understatement.  This guitar has some chops…in a very good way!   But more especially, the tone of this guitar is just majestic!   I realize, as the new owner, I am biased, but I can truthfully say that it has a voice that is so clear and succinct, yet light; and it chimes like church bells!  I am so, so happy with this guitar! 

I have generally always played rhythm guitar, using a pick. Although, I have tried in the past to finger pick a little, I never really kept up with it, or progressed with it.  This guitar has inspired me to stretch myself a bit, as it just sounds so good!  I really do not believe the English Language is definitive or expressive enough to convey the absolute joy that playing and hearing this guitar brings to me! From the bottom of my heart, I truly thank you one and all at Santa Cruz Guitar Company for having imagined and created this exceptional instrument!  May you all be Blessed and Uplifted in your daily pursuits, and let me restate:  “Thank You For the Magic!”

Brian Hicks

7/28/21

I recently received one of your new HT-13s from Northern Lights Music which is just amazing. It’s my first great guitar – my other guitar is a relatively recent OM-28 which is great but the difference between the two is huge. The HT-13 is so light and responsive.. the sound is incredible, it makes me play differently – slower, so I can hear it ring. Also it’s truly stunning – I spend a lot of time staring in awe at the workmanship and the beautiful grain. It’s something really quite special so I wanted to say thank you to all who had a hand in it.

Many thanks for your time and for this incredible instrument.

Ewan
(Glasgow, Scotland)

Ewan of Glasgow

7/17/21

Dear Richard and crew,

Last week I bought my first ever custom/boutique guitar ever. It was last week I bought my first Santa Cruz guitar. I’ve been playing country blues music now for over 15 years… and I have to say; I never had an experience like this. It’s the first time in my life a musical instrument “moved me”.
 
This Santa Cruz 1929/O (serial nr 370) is such a beauty and great great great sounding guitar. I really want to thank you for that! Thanks for enriching my life with such an amazing instrument and such an inspiration to play more and double the enjoyment.
 
The owner of the amazing guitar shop, Mr. Bults (Fellowship of Acoustics) spoke very highly of you and your company. And he was right in every aspect.
 
Thanks so much and please keep up the great work!
 
All the best,
Robbert van der Vleuten
The Netherlands
Robbert van der Vleuten

7/4/21

So what I can say by now … we are already goooood friends and I can’t stop playing it! Already had a few ideas for new songs with it and I will definitely make a video with the outcome in a few days!
 
To the guitar: it’s definitely different from my 14 year old OM/PW. The tone is clearer, it’s a little more balanced sound, the top is thicker (I guess) and the short scale is a dream came true, because it’s so easy to play. At the beginning I thought the action is too high and that I should it get set down a little bit, but after 3 days of playing I really think it isn’t necessary and the setting is great the way you built it. I really LOVE the aesthetic of this guitar! For Example the fingerboard isn’t plain black, it has a wonderful brown stripe in it .. I think that looks absolutely great! Also the rosewood on back and sides and the top are amazing! 
 
I hope that wasn’t to much of worshiping ?
 
Once again, I THANK YOU SO MUCH and I’m very happy! 
 
All the best

Markus Schlesinger

Markus Schlesinger

7/1/21

Dearest Richard, Carolyn, and the entire SCGC Family,

On Thursday, I had the great privilege of picking up from Gryphon my custom SCGC OM. I have not been able to put it down since. It is a genuine masterpiece.

The sinker redwood top is one of the most gorgeous pieces of wood I’ve ever seen. The blackwood back and sides reveal a subtle and exquisite figuring on close examination, and they pair with the maple binding with elegant simplicity. The visual star of the show has to be the custom headstock inlay–it took my breath away to see how perfectly you all executed that detailed work, with every nuance of the design showing through. A true feast for the eyes.

But, as beautiful as it is to look at, the guitar sounds even better! Richard, I remember when I took that wonderful shop tour telling you about my upright bass, made in France in the 1820’s, and how I always felt that it was my “voice” when I was a classical musician. I never expected to find that kind of connection with a sound again. But you’ve done it. This guitar is what I always have wanted my music to sound like. It is my voice. And you have given it to me in a manner for which I shall eternally be grateful.

The bass response is superb! Resonant but not boomy, powerful but not overwhelming. The advanced X bracing really did the trick! And the sinker redwood top responds to the lightest fingerpicking but still has enough snap and articulation to make bluegrass licks sparkle! When I did some heavy strumming, I was amazed at the guitar’s headroom but also appreciated the soft, slight compression when really driven hard–evening out the tone and giving the sound a kind of balanced power that I never knew could come from an OM! I have yet to find ANYTHING that this guitar doesn’t do well, and I frankly doubt there is anything for which it will not be my go-to, perfect, desert island instrument.

You all have been an absolute pleasure to work with through every single stage of this process. I am just a dude who loves music, a lawyer with a passion and love for playing and expressing myself through sound. And to own this instrument, a truly world-class piece of art that sounds better than anything I’ve ever played, is an absolute thrill and a humbling privilege.

You have given me an endless supply of joy and inspiration. Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart.

Most sincerely,
Chris Rosina

Christopher Rosina

5/24/21

Hi Carolyn! Well you definitely steered me in the right direction… no custom order needed. Fell in love with an OM, absolutely bright tone that I can only describe as “singing.” Couldn’t leave without it! Beautiful Carpathian Spruce top with Rosewood body. You guys make seriously amazing guitars… please thank the team for all their hard work!

Dan Ford

2/05/21

What an amazing guitar. The quilted Sapele back and sides are jaw droppingly stunning. The custom burst on the Cedar top, combined with the scrimshawed wolf on the heel end cap adds to the personalized uniqueness of the guitar’s visual appeal. It’s playability and tone are by far the best of any guitar I have ever owned or played. Please let team SCGC know I am truly thankful and honored to own one of their guitars.

Scott Wolfe

1/21/21

Hi Carolyn, I submitted my warranty info last evening, with pleasure. I wanted to say, and you may pass this along as you’d like, how pleased I am with my new 1934 D. The workmanship is impeccable, of course, but for a new guitar the sound probably exceeds my expectations. Also, the set-up tech nailed it-it plays like butter. Excellent. You were great to work with also. The only thing you needn’t have done was to be so appreciative of my patience! I didn’t feel things went any faster or slower than I expected, especially under the circumstances we are dealing with with the pandemic! I’m just happy to be able to own, and pass on some day, this fantastic instrument. I’ll enjoy it for many years.

Dave Dungey

12/16/20

I’m loving this guitar! It sounds, well you know…phenomenal, beautiful amazing, unbelievable, out of this world, heavenly, you’ve heard all of these a million times I’m sure. We need some new words to describe the SCG sound, but until someone invents them I guess I’ll just settle for a giant GREAT! I haven’t been this excited since I married my wife… I think y’all build the most beautiful guitars in the world!

Truitt Rogers

12/4/20

This guitar is magical.  While I loved my Cocobolo OM (which I just sold), this Brazilian one is on another level.  Whereas the Cocobolo one had really great bass presence and decent mids/trebles, the Brazilian one does too but I hear noticeably more clarity and separation among all the notes.  I am a fingerstyle player and the balance between bass, mids and trebles is just perfect. This was such an expensive purchase for me, especially buying it new.  However, it was worth every penny and after buying and selling a number of guitars from other brands, I finally feel like I have the lifetime guitar.  I am so happy with it and I thank you and your team for building this beautiful once in a lifetime instrument. 

Andrew P.

11/5/20

Hello Santa Cruz Guitar Co.
I just registered my new D12 and wanted to say how proud I am to own this amazing guitar. It is a very special looking feeling and sounding instrument and I feel very lucky to be playing it. It has already brought me a lot of joy in only two days and I will cherish it for the rest of my time. You have all my admiration.

Stanley Kaplan

9/19/20

I absolutely love it.  I’m well past the “new toy” fascination stage, but it still draws me in like no other guitar ever has before.  I’m playing so much more!  And it really challenges me not just to play more, but to play BETTER – it really rewards more precise and articulate playing.  So great. I’m really glad I finally took the leap. Thanks a million.

Phil Scaffidi

9/4/20

Wow, what a great instrument the RS is! The practical stuff… I have a bit of arthritis in my fingers and the RS is one of the most easy playing guitars I’ve ever played and though it’s a large guitar, it’s so nice and light in weight. Tonally it really fits what I’m doing musically… for the most part a backdrop supporting my songs and my voice… it just fits beautifully. Though it can be played very loud, there’s something so beautiful and intimate about the timbre when played quietly, I think this is really a Santa Cruz signature as well as the tone-woods on this particular guitar itself. Maybe the aged woods, I don’t know. Bottom line is I’m really drawn to picking up the guitar and playing. Just an exquisite instrument that I’m lucky to have. So thank you for all your guidance, the folks at Northern Lights have been great too.
David Murphy

7/28/20

Dear Santa Cruz,
As a surfer and skateboarder from the Basque Country in France, the name Santa Cruz always has had a special sound to my ears. But when I learned about Santa Cruz guitars some years back and had the chance to play some of your guitars at Kitarapaja in Helsinki, Santa Cruz started to mean much more than just words. It meant sound. Pure sound, never experienced anything like that before. I have been playing guitar or 30 years and I have a few of my own but your guitars are pure art.Keep on the fan tastic work you´re doing!

Pascal

6/10/20

Hi and good morning! Hoping that all is well with you and yours, and looking forward to your return to normalcy.  Just prior to the Shelter in Place I purchased an OM/PW in the secondary market and want you to know that I am amazed by this guitar. I parted with my Taylor 814ce as your OM spoke to me, lovingly, every time I picked it up. I cherish every day that I play your guitar while stuck at home. Thank you.

 

Pete Page

5/15/20

Dear Santa Cruz Guitar Company, one and all – Just want to say thank you for making incredible instruments that bring happiness into this world, always, but especially in these times. Staying home is so much easier with a great guitar to play and enjoy. It can change anxiety into calm and joy. For all you do, thank you.
Neil Herring

5/15/20

I’m very happy with my OM. It has beautiful workmanship and sounds well balanced and articulate. The neck is very comfortable for me.  It has a nice combination of punch in the low end and definition in the high end.  I’ve owned louder sounding high end acoustics by larger manufacturers, but I quickly grew tired of the brittle and metallic sound they produced. Those instruments had bolt on necks.  I think the dovetail jointed neck of my Santa Cruz makes a huge difference in the sound.  I knew I wanted a Santa Cruz after the first time I heard one! Glad I made the purchase.

 

Randy Larkin

5/14/20

Dear Carolyn – Proud to inform you that since last Friday I am the owner of a magnificent Santa Cruz H 13.  So, next to my Tony Rice model we have discussed so often, I have two Santa Cruz guitars. My grandson has also fallen in love with them already.  Please be so kind to greet Richard Hoover and thank him and all those who work at Santa Cruz (including yourself) for making wonderful guitars all these years.  Warmest regards.

 

Jan Kooistra, The Netherlands

5/11/20

I just unpacked the Santa Cruz. I have been playing guitar and collecting guitars for over 30 years. I have never seen or played anything so wonderful. The craftsmanship vibe and even smell of the guitar are unequaled. I can’t thank you enough and please pass on my gratitude to the craftsman as well as Joe at The Music Emporium.

 

Peter Jaffe

5/7/20

I just wanted to let you know that I recently purchased a set of Santa Cruz Parabolic Mid Tension strings (from Chicago Music Exchange) for my Taylor 317e and all I can say is I have found the “Holy Grail” of guitar strings.  The bass response in particular has improved and it no longer sounds “thuddy”.  I wish I had better words to describe the transformation of this guitar but it is astounding.  My son is ordering a couple of sets for his guitar also.  I believe you have customers for life.  Thanks and keep up the good work.

 

John Swope

4/8/20

I’ve had my new OM for about a week. It really is a beauty to behold. Congratulations to all involved and a special thanks to you for interpreting my musings so well. Apart from my obvious delight in the volume and bottom end (this competes with my HD 28 in those qualities), the stain is spot on.The back and sides are such a close match to the photo I sent you. As for the extra purfling around the side binding, this is a masterstroke. I never thought about that idea, but it really works a treat. The peghead has the subtle touch of colour I like too, as does the fingerboard. Love it!

Les Rault

3/14/20

Hello Carolyn, I can confirm it made it here unscathed and is the finest guitar I have ever laid hands, eyes and ears on. Effortless to play and a beautiful sound. Needless to say it looks amazing. Many thanks to you all for such a brilliant job.
Guy Pople

3/13/20

Just wanted to drop a line to say thank you. I purchased a left handed RS Model through the North American Guitar Store in the UK with some ivory open back Waverley tuners. I’ve wanted a 12 fret short scale guitar with a wide neck for a while now and I just wanted to say I’m blown away. It plays like butter. It is the first high end guitar I have purchased and it delivers sound and quality in the bucket load. I have never played a guitar as good in my life. The volume, it’s like a canon! Just wanted to say thank you again and it definitely won’t be the last Santa Cruz I purchase. You’ve got a customer for life.
Declan, Manchester England

3/1/20

I was checking out your website and ran across the set of videos of the company hosted by Richard Hoover. I was gratified to see him, as he built my F model serial 244. I knew I had a fine instrument when I purchased it in 1991, but the videos made it clear to me just how special this instrument is. The sound has only become richer with age. Many thanks for many years of beautiful sound!  I am looking forward to trying the Santa Cruz strings on it!
David Power

2/27/20

I just received my custom FS. I don’t know where to begin. My expectations have been exceeded in a number of ways! When I played the FS that Matt Chulka designed, I was blown away! Mahogany is my favorite tone wood! It is a really a great compliment to my baritone voice. I felt Matts guitar had the perfect balance across the EQ band, and an amount of sustain not present in any of the many other guitars I have. A second guitar of the same specs came in and it was spot on, a clone of the first. That was all I needed to have the confidence to custom build my own. In the two days I have had to play it I still get chills about the sustain and the tone! I think the sustain is allowing me to play more delicately, because it allows me to increase and decrease the volume with little effort!

In addition, I’m really in love with the shape of the FS neck. My hand moves up and down the fretboard like glass. SO smooth! I play a lot of folky ballad type songs and this is the only guitar that doesn’t require any tuning when I use a capo all the way up to the 7th fret. The intonation is perfect! The other hidden secret is how light the guitar is! Can’t figure that out! In addition, you performed magic on the aesthetics! The dark varnish top with the bear claw spruce is a knock out. I wasn’t sure how that was going to come out, but WOW! And the blue Paua inlay work was worth the wait! The colors are so vivid! The headstock is exquisite! Thank you both and everyone on the team for creating an instrument that calls to me!

Mark Ginsberg

2/25/20

Just wanted to say that I bought a gently used left-handed Tony Rice signature model the other day, and it’s heads and shoulders above what I’ve ever owned or played. I had the opportunity yesterday to really put it through the paces during a bluegrass jam in our small town of Chester, CT. All of the other musicians were blown away by the tone and balance of the guitar, and were very jealous that they couldn’t try it out (they are all right-handed players!)  Thank you for your thoughtful wood selection and crafting skills. It’s my heirloom guitar. 
J. Matt Gyorog

12/25/19

I thought I’d send you a quick note after playing on my OMG for almost a year now.At this point, I find myself thinking how very comfortable the neck is, and how it’s shape is making me focus more on the mechanics of being a better player.  I’m really liking it.  The guitar itself is a perfect build in my opinion, and the sound is everything and more, especially when in DADGAD.  It is my go to instrument for so much of my playing and inspires me every time I pick it up.  I’m so happy I choose SCGC for my build.

Steve Osborn

12/10/19

I just wanted to drop you a note regarding your low tension Santa Cruz Strings.  I have been playing acoustic guitar badly for close to 50 years and i have tried every string imaginable. I have never taken the time to write to a manufacturer regarding the quality of their product. However, these strings are so amazing sounding and so easily played, that i had to take a moment to compliment you on succeeding in producing maybe the finest acoustic guitar string i have ever had the pleasure of playing. Not only do they play effortlessly,  and with superior tone, but they last forever! I normally need to change strings every 2 to 3 weeks to keep the tone i like. These have been on for 2 months and sound as good as they day they were put on. They have definitely improved the tone and playing experience on all my guitars both wood And carbon fiber. I am now a lifelong convert. Thanks for listening.

Mark Stevens

12/9/19

I received my guitar yesterday morning from FedEx and cannot thank all the folks at Santa Cruz Guitars for the beautiful workmanship, the playability and setup.
I really like the parabolic strings that were installed. I just could not be more appreciative of the whole experience.
Thanks to Carolyn for her attentive and complete communication and to those who performed such precise and careful repair to the instrument. keep up the great work you do.
I have always been a proud owner of the guitar and now am even more so.
Richard Hardy

10/24/19

I have been using Santa Cruz Parabolic strings for the last year or so on all of my acoustic guitars. Until recently I had never played a SCGC guitar. I was browsing the internet and I came across a deal I could live with on a Santa Cruz 1929 00. Wow… this guitar changed guitar playing for me. It has such a pronounced midrange that makes playing melodies ring out so beautifully. Since receiving the guitar a couple of weeks ago, I began writing songs on, which I had never written a song in my life up until this point. I love my new Santa Cruz so much I bought a SECOND one that should be arriving in a day or so from this post. You have truly gained a new follower and lifetime player of your instruments. I’m absolutely thrilled.

Tyler Wilson

9/24/19

My name is Joachim Rosenbrück from Germany. For the past month, on the occasion of my 50th birthday, I am the proud and happy owner of a Santa Cruz – Tony Rice. Your company was unknown to me until then. But in a guitar comparison of many big and famous companies like Martin, Gibson, Taylor, Lowden, Collins, … I discovered the sound of Santa Cruz as my ideal. Whether Celtic Fingerstyle, Pop, Strumming, Bluegrass, Picking or some blues – this guitar can do everything and I fell in love with this sound !!! A big compliment to all employees of your company!

Joachim Rosenbrück

9/23/19

I’m a believer in SCGC; it’s more than just a “small shop.” It’s an exemplar for businesses small and large. The company has resisted the urge to engage in an expansion that would betray its principles of quality in materials and workmanship and customer service.

When I am asked to recommend a guitar, I always recommend SCGC if the person has the budget for it. That’s not to deprecate any other maker, as I’ve owned splendid guitars by Martin, Bourgeois, and Collings. And without intending to diminish anything else in my small collection, I have come to believe that if I had to save just one guitar from an oncoming conflagration or were allowed to have just one guitar in the nursing home, it would be the SCGC OM. It’s simply the best sounding guitar I own, and its simple, classic appointments really appeal to me. Had I been smart enough to realize that a long time ago, I could have saved myself (and cost UPS) a lot of money. We live and learn.

Marshall Fleisher

9/16/19

I took delivery of my custom ordered H13 yesterday from the excellent folks at Northern Lights Music in Littleton, NH. This guitar is amazing. It has all the tonal qualities of a smaller body with the power and volume of a dreadnaught in an easily handled guitar. The attention to detail is exquisite. These guitars are special. There is no doubt in my mind that you folks are building the finest guitars available today.
Clay Stalker

9/14/19

Having just taken delivery of my new Style 1 Cocobolo/Adi from Eddies Guitars, Missouri, I think SC is doing something right, because this is guitar number four for me. I didn’t think you could improve on my 1929 0, but the Style 1, while a different guitar, is my small guitar favourite. The Cocobolo and the Adirondack top combine beautifully. Please pass my congratulations to the luthiers.
Michael McCarthy

9/13/19

I own an Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-45me. I didn’t like it. It sounded dead, and I’ve been trying to sell it. Absolutely hated it. Then I took out the under saddle piezo figuring a direct contact with the sound board would liven it up. Nope. Tried 2 types of strings recommended for more tone on dead sounding guitars. Nope. Then I was at a guitar show in Melbourne, and saw some of your parabolic tension strings. I remembered seeing them on Tony Polecastro’s site. So I took a punt and bought some. WOW! I can’t believe how good these strings are. It totally changed my mind about this guitar, and I now love it. I have another dread which sounds insanely good with Martin phosphor bronze on it, but I’m thinking I’ll get some for it as well. Thanks so much.
Tony Dennis

9/3/19

I have been using you Parabolic strings for a while now.. I love them. I have some on my Taylor 322 and my Breedlove premier auditorium.. I had used Thomastik Infeld for years and your parabolics are now my go to strings!!! Well done.
Chuck Patrick

8/17/19

Dear all at Santa Cruz,
Last year I was fortunate enough to purchase one of your fine model D guitars.
I was looking for a studio instrument that would sit in a mix without battling for space.
I tried many many guitars from most of the renowned builders but kept coming back to the Santa Cruz.
It just had a sweetness and lack of boominess that I knew would avoid me spending too much time fighting to fit it into a busy arrangement.
It has now been recorded dozens of times and all I have to do is put a Mic in front of it and there it is. A perfect guitar sound.
Thank you for making such a brilliant instrument.
Gez Murphy, Berkshire UK.
Gez Murphy

8/5/19

Richard –  We wanted to thank you for the factory tour the other day – even though the power was out. Some of the things you touched on were eye opening and extremely helpful in understanding the nuances of fine musical instrument construction. We appreciated your willingness to answer questions and explain things in a way that we could understand.  Your recognition of and approach to minimizing related physical issues for employees that do the hand crafting was also impressive.  Without a doubt, the tour was highly worthwhile. We really enjoyed it. Thanks, Steve

Steve Faria

6/25/19

I have had the guitar you guys made that I referenced above for quite a few years now.  I bought it used at Elderly Instruments in Lansing, Michigan. It’s been a great guitar and amazingly stable all these years. I have never had to adjust the truss rod and the neck has never bowed or backbowed . I never had a guitar that was so stable. I do keep it in a humidified room in the winter which stays between 40 and 45 percent humid   I just want to thank you for providing me with such a wonderful guitar.  Thanks much.

Angelo Meli

6/17/19

The VJ arrived today, It is absolutely stunning. I can’t believe how it sounds – it is the exact tone I was hoping for and more. Simply amazing! The finish is lovely too…much better in the flesh! Thank you so much for everything. Kind regards, Dan
Dan Lethbridge of Acoustic Centre, Melbourne

6/4/19

Hello! I put medium tension parabolic strings on my Santa Cruz D a couple days ago and I can really tell a difference! My other strings sounded “thin” or “plinky” compared to these, especially in the higher strings. I agree that the overall response is more balanced in volume between the strings. Is resonance a term for this? definitely a more complex sound, especially with fingerpicking. Single note picking with a pick sounds more full, especially higher up on the guitar. It really sounds like I have a new guitar, not just new strings. It also feels easier to play, but that’s probably because it just sounds better! Thanks again!
Alex Walsh

5/10/19

Getting back to you now that I have had some time to play the OMG.  This is a superb guitar.  It delights my eyes and ears each time I pick it up.  The build is perfect, and elegantly ‘simple’ as we designed it together.  The gold Gotoh tuners and Brazilian bridge are stand-outs as evidence that this guitar is something special.  I have had many high-end small shop and luthier built guitars over the years.  The is perhaps the best of them all.  It sounds just like the way I described I wanted it; a 6th string that is resonant and deep even with the capo at the 5th fret.  Trebles that ring like bells, and the perfect amount of sustain and overtones.  I could not ask for more.  Gives me goosebumps sometimes when I listen to it.  I’m not parting with this one. Thank you again for all your help.
Steve Osborn

5/9/19

The repair looks great.  Interesting, the guitar sounds wonderful – I think better than when it was new.  Perhaps due to the attention to detail during reconstruction, including fretwork and the new parabolic strings. I am very pleased with the sound.  I am looking forward to spending some time getting to know this new instrument.  Worth the wait. Thanks again. – Carl
Carl Eikenberry

5/10/19

Just a short note, I’ve had my Tony Rice Custom guitar for a little over six months. I have to tell you the instrument is one of the most amazing guitar I own. It plays like a dream, sounds better than I could’ve imagined and that smell of wood when I open the case takes over my senses. Thank you and your amazing staff for all the excellent hard work on my guitar.

 

Jon-Nolan Paresa

4/23/19

I’ve had a fabulous few days auditioning the 00 1929. What a beautiful, light, responsive, warm and exceptionally toned guitar to add to my collection. It’s addictive.

 

David Bateson

4/16/19

I wanted to take a moment to thank you and the whole SCGC for the incredible build on my custom order. I couldn’t be happier with the guitar. This is the first custom guitar I’ve ordered and I took some educated guesses on what I was looking for in terms of tone and look. All I can really say is that it has completely exceeded my expectations…it’s just an amazing sounding instrument! I have a few older guitars that I’m afraid will now never get played since they just can’t compare. I’m already thinking of selling a couple of them so I can get another custom order going! Haha! Thanks again to the whole SCGC team!

 

Jonathan Langley

4/12/19

… this custom 00 Skye takes it to another level.  It’s remarkable.  Even when picking on a single string, the other strings get drawn in and resonance abounds from elsewhere in the guitar.  This is an heirloom instrument for sure. Thank you again! – JM,  Salt Lake City, UT

 

JM

4/08/19

… this custom 00 Skye takes it to another level.  It’s remarkable.  Even when picking on a single string, the other strings get drawn in and resonance abounds from elsewhere in the guitar.  This is an heirloom instrument for sure. Thank you again! – JM,  Salt Lake City, UT

 

JM

4/08/19

This work of art is something to behold … the sound, the perfection in the detail, its playability, and the wood, the wood, the wood!!!

The articulation of the notes … they’re so pure!!! Can’t help but just hold it … look, and wow away!

My deepest thanks to all involved in its creation!

 

Mason Houghland

4/04/19

It’s hard to explain how the sound of this instrument feels “alive”. It talks back at you depending on how you talk to it. It sings when I sing. This is an insanely responsive instrument, and it has challenged me to become a more focused, nuanced player. The body in the trebles saves them from being “tinny”, the warmth in the mid range saves it from hurting my ears, and the definition in the bass sounds like a composed chord in each note! The harmonic content in each note puts the Rosewood/Mahogany argument to shame. There is so much depth!

By buying this guitar, I opened myself up to a new world of tonal possibilities which has rendered most of my older instruments quite useless. This is more of a companion than a guitar, while still serving as a simple music-making tool. And it’s good at making music. Beautiful music. I have fallen, deeply, in love…

My warmest thanks to the team at SCGC!

You have absolutely nailed this one! (Custom F Model, Adi/Mahogany)

 

Stefan Jansen

4/01/19

Just wanted to let you know I’ve been using these strings for about a month and they are hands down the best I have ever used.  The string balance and tone is amazing.  I was a dedicated fan of Martin Lifespan strings for many years, but no longer. I usually don’t provide a lot of feedback but I am so impressed. It even helps the string balance when I plug the guitar in. 

 

Jeff Ward

3/25/19

I am sending a note to give you feedback on the Parabolic tension strings. I put them on right away and was extremely impressed, I was looking for a more even feel across the fretboard as I noticed standard medium sets were more difficult to play on the inner strings in the middle area of neck. This was alleviated right away with your strings and as a studio engineer I think the claim of it providing EQ is actually accurate, the sound of the balance is definitely more even across strings and the fretboard. I have since bought several more sets, put them on my three acoustic guitars and just placed an order from your website.

 

Steve Greenberg

3/17/19

I have a standard Tony Rice model that have on for 20 years. I bought it new and it just sounds better and better over time. I go to a jam session at a very high-end vintage guitar store where I play many pre-war Martin’s and other brands that are very popular today. I have yet to play any guitar whether it is a 30s Martin or modern recreation of another brand that I would trade my Santa Cruz Tony Rice for.

 

Raymond Eaton

3/17/19

The strings arrived this week.  I started with the Voyage Air Premier series VAOM-2C, Sitka spruce top with rosewood back and sides.  The Elixir HD lights on it were last changed in August 2018 so well overdue for a change out.  The guitar has some koa-like chimi-ness to it already so I didn’t know what to expect with the SC strings.  I was absolutely blown away on 2 fronts:  the installation was different in that the strings came to tone way faster than I was used to, not to mention that they were less lively out of the packaging.  The tone can only be described as unbelievable!  More of everything:  more bass, mid and treble, more chime.  I found I had to dig into a little harder to form a solid chord and strum a lot lighter or the volume and resonance became a little too large and overpowering.  I can’t tell you how impressed I’m with them but if you could see my smile…..

Next to the Taylors.  Tough call to change the strings over as the Elixirs HD Lights are only a month old.  Played them back and forth against the Voyage Air and then changed the K24CE and 614CE over.  K24CE, absolutely crazy chime, tone and resonance.  I thought it was good before but now know what good is! 614CE, more bass and mid with a little less brightness.  Still freaking amazing!

First impressions are that the SC’s are well worth the cost.  Looking to see how long they last as compared to Elixirs.  Glad to have made the switch and very thankful to have found Blue Dog Guitars as a local supplier.

 

Terrence Howell

3/2/19

Well I’m almost 64 years old and have been playing guitar since i was 10. I believe I contacted you in October ’17 about purchasing your new parabolic strings that were released in my search for the ultimate string. Well i just can’t believe how great your strings are!!!  I put your low tension parabolic set on my Taylor 714ce on 10/6/17 to test its longevity, intonation, and ability to keep in tune. The strings have been on this guitar for a bit over FOUR MONTHS now!

The G,D,A, and low E strings have ALWAYS kept in tune since every last playing session! The 1st string E & B were ever so slightly flat. The crazy thing is……..the sound at 4 months is not that much different than a new set!! CRISP…..BRIGHT……it’s ALL THERE! Intonation is phenomenal! When playing a chord…….the whole guitar sounds unbelievable and every note of that chord is identifiable!

I am extremely grateful that you have brought this technology to us! I am also grateful that i do not need to pack 4 different brands of strings anymore…..I will donate all my other ones to a school music program…or just give them away. One day I will buy the ultimate guitar…a Santa Cruz….. to go with these incredible strings. I can’t imagine what that will be like!!   Thank you!!

 

John Kozlowski

2/17/19

I only want to say: THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!!!!! I just received my guitar and it is by FAR the best guitar I have ever played in my entire life (and believe me, I can say I have owned tons of super high end guitars)…. this guitar is a “tone monster” and it’s a piece of art! I just cannot believe this guitar is mine! This is my second SC custom shop, and I will soon get in touch for a third one, I won’t be funning around with other guitar makers! THANK YOU! 

 

Leo Bego

1/11/19

Happy New Year! I picked up the H13 around Thanksgiving. It’s absolutely gorgeous. The moon spruce top is jaw dropping and the rosewood body binding very handsome. Ive been playing it a bunch and it is just amazing. The string spacing and neck are perfect. It’s articulate and warm and seems to have unlimited power. It really shines when fingerpicking with open bass strings while playing treble up the neck. It is definitely sounding better every time I play. Thank you so much for all your help, suggestions, and patience with me. Also a big thank you to everyone in the shop who had a hand in building it.

 

William Fleming

1/1/19

I put your parabolic strings on 5 high quality guitars. These strings are awesome. These are definitely the finest available. What an improvement. I’m hooked.

 

Denny Holtzapple

12/29/18

I received my OM Grand Friday 21st December.  I am absolutely delighted. You have done all that I’d asked. The Soundboard perfectly matched with no colour changes across the top… Its Perfect.  The back and sides are magnificent, Mahogany showing some streaking but darkened to a dark Brown, absolutely beautiful.The Ebony fingerboard is the finest piece of Ebony I have ever seen. I could well go on and on about the Guitar. Frets, playability, the sound hole inlay, the beauty of the inside, the attention to detail, etc. etc.etc. When I get finished with that, I would start on the Guitar case absolutely stunning. I can image you get letters like this each and every day from your delighted customers. Can I ask you to pass my thanks to you team of superbly talented Luthiers for a job truly well done. My Kindest regards.
P.S. There is always one other thing. It sounds beautiful too.

 

Bob Griffiths

12/24/18

Richard and company,

Attached for your consideration is my Lombard arch top guitar… bought it at the Philly show maybe 10 years ago ( couldn’t leave without it). Experts suggest it was made for the Lombard Department Store in Chicago somewhere between 1934-1939, probably by Kay for sale as a student model. So almost 90 years later there’s not a crack in it. The neck is warped a little, so when it was re fretted by Billy Penn of 300 Guitars in toms river, he set the new frets level with the string action, so it plays “pretty well.”  This week I put your new strings on it, low tension…….now, with those on, the guitar has come alive, the sound is so rich, your strings bring out the best of this instrument. also, the finish is so slick, the guitar plays faster !!!

So keep making these new strings..

Thanks, Ed

 

Edward O'Brien

12/22/18

I had a look at the Skye Model last night. Carolyn, let me just say… we try to be as objective as possible… but I think you guys build the best sounding instruments in the Milky Way! When I played the 00 last night the first thing that struck me was some form of brilliantly beautiful peace between raw power and musical composure in the voice. If I have to guess what I mean by this is that, due to the small top diameter, the tone is tight and bouncy, like a loaded spring.. But then coming off of a strum of picked note the notes ring out forever! And it’s loud! The sustain is beyond worldly! I don’t know how you do it.. What kind of witchcraft is this? And the Adi/Cocobolo combo… That is the business!! THE business!

No, seriously, the guitar sounds unlike anything we’ve had the chance to hear out. It’s an instrument that absolutely markets and stands for itself… I’ll just take a breath and swim in that tone! Absolutely astonishing!

 

Stefan Jansen

12/11/18

Hello, my name is Jared Riley, and I have several purposes for this message. The first of which is to thank you for building such exceptional quality guitars. I recently purchases a Tony Rice model with German Spruce and am absolutely blown away every time I pick it up. My father has had a Tony Rice model for just over a decade and I have always admired the tone and ease of play of his instrument. When it came time for me to decide on which guitar I would ultimately buy, I knew SCGC would be at the top of the list. I have played very few guitars that could match the exceptional tone, clarity, and depth that this instrument possesses. Every day it seems to open up more. Thank you.

Secondly, I wanted to commend you on your new (newish?) strings. When I was told that the guitar was set up with Santa Cruz strings I’ll admit I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. “I’ve done this dance before” I thought. Expensive strings with claims that can’t be matched– and at the end of the day I end up with D’addario EJ17’s with no complaints. This time the EJ17’s lasted on the instrument less than a day before I replaced them with the original set of SCGC strings. I’ve subscribed to receive your strings quarterly, and I don’t expect I’ll be going back. I’m going to continue to experiment, but I will say that the tone of your strings is second to none and the comfort and ease of play is miles ahead of my normal option.

Again, thank you so much for what you do. I’ve had the guitar a short amount of time, but between the hours I’ve already put on this instrument and the countless hours of enjoyment I’ve had playing and listening to my father’s guitar I am truly grateful for you guys. Keep it up. – Jared Riley

 

Jared Riley

12/10/18

I just cannot say enough about my 1929 00 Mahogany guitar. I purchased this beauty in 2012 from Artisan Guitars. It is hands down the best guitar I’ve ever owned, including a mahogany/spruce 00 Santa Cruz I purchased 20 years ago. When i first received the 1929 00 I thought it was too “quiet.” I preferred to play another 00 I own from another fine builder. I soon developed arthritis in the base of my thumb on my fret hand and had to put my guitars down because of pain. Only in the last few months have I been able to play pain free. Since then I have re-discovered this amazing, amazing, instrument. Boy did it open up. Not sure how, since no one was playing it. (it’s been kept in its case). This guitar is so responsive, articulate, loud, or soft, perfectly intonated, and just beautiful. When I first considered a 1929 00 I thought I might get a sunburst model. I’m so glad I didn’t. The mahogany on my guitar is stunning. Finally, I recently purchased a new set of Santa Cruz parabolic strings and Santa Cruz guitar wax, both of which I have applied to my guitar. Your strings last like none I’ve ever used. Love the wax, too. And it smells nice! Thank you, Richard Hoover, and thank you to the amazing craftsmen of Santa Cruz Guitar Company.

 

Dennis Dalton

12/5/18

I recently purchased a SCGC 1929 00 from the original owner in Vermont. It is in showroom, pristine condition and is an exceptionally wonderful guitar. I now have three SCGC guitars (Tony Rice model, an OM/PW and the 1929)…They are all exceptional….Consider this a fan letter and thank you to all of you and Richard Hoover.

 

Tom Paine

11/29/18

Last week I had the good folks at Santa Cruz Guitar Company install a K&K Mini in my Firefly. I played it for the first time yesterday evening through a Bose SP1 with not additional effects except the reverb included in the Bose.
I was blown away on how impressive the guitar sounded. I wish you could have been in the room with me. I was just astounded. But, I’m a little nervous that the Firefly maybe something I will use quite regularly in that, the overall sound and easy of the playing the instrument may force me to use the Firefly as my main guitar. So, what’s wrong with that you ask? Nothing!

 

Jon-Nolan Paresa

10/29/18

I purchased an H13 last week in Mount Pleasant, SC from Rusty’s Cool Guitars. I just wanted to send SCGC an email and say THANK YOU to everyone involved in the production of these instruments. My H13 has amazed me every single time that I’ve picked it up. I’m considering selling the majority of my acoustic collection just because the H13 is so good. I’m amazed, and I truly feel fortunate to own and be able to play such a wonderful instrument. I just wanted to say thank you, and express my sincere gratitude. One day, I hope to visit SCGC to see where my beautiful guitar was created. Thank you.

 

Nick Greer from Greer Amps

9/10/18

I’ve had my 1929 O for a couple of months, and I love it so much that it’s the first one I pick up each day. It’s just so darned comfortable to hold and the tone is amazing. I’ve had several O sized guitars from different high end makers, but it’s the Santa Cruz that is the standout guitar.  My other go to guitar is the Custom Coco/ Moon OM that you fine people made for me. Just brilliant.

 

Michael McCarthy

8/26/18

I am very, very happy to announce that today I received my (first!) Santa Cruz guitar: the 00 Skye Moon spruce top / Cocobolo back and sides bought from Eddie’s Guitars. The guitar is… stunning. Absolutely stunning. I have held many guitars, but this one feels out of this world. And yet it also feels like it has always sat on my lap – the ease of playing is extraordinary. But more importantly, the sound is beyond words. And I know it will just get better with time. I have no idea how you guys manage to bring out such sound (powerful, precise and yet so rich) in such a small guitar. Thank you so much for your advice, and please convey my thanks – and congratulations – to Richard who really helped me decide on which model I should go for: this is really the guitar I was seeking, even though I didn’t know it myself ;-). I am so, so pleased to join the Santa Cruz Guitar family. – Pierre M.

 

Pierre M

6/12/18

Hi Richard. Just wanted to thank you for the tour you gave us yesterday.  I wanted to tell you how impressed I was with the way you conduct your business, from the way you think of your employees to the way you source your woods and decide what should be done by hand and what should be done by robot. Also the fact that more is not always better and that you seem to be satisfied with the amount of guitars you make.The whole thing just seemed really comfortable and enlightened.And the guitars themselves are individual works of art. I am so glad Roberto suggested we drop in- our timing could not have been better.Anyway, just wanted to let you know how I felt about this. Best regards, Jeff Heintzman  from Whistler British Columbia

 

Jeff Heintzman

5/14/18

I love the strings! They feel worn in straight away which I love – new strings usually rattle for awhile with me anyway – and I love the compressed equal sound over all the strings at the same time !  THANKS AGAIN!!

 

Christopher Brennan

4/23/18

Hi SCGG – I just joined the family! ???? I bought a H13 for a couple a days ago! And I’m in love!!  What an amazing guitar you guys have built.Once again, amazing guitars you build! Looking forward to playing it for the rest of my life!

Regards, Jonas Brekke Hansen

 

Jonas Brekke Hansen

3/24/18

Dear Sir / Madam,

I have spent the last two days in London UK searching for a dream guitar. I took a friend with me and we enjoyed a pretty much unlimited budget for the purchase to two guitars.

We were very fortunate to play some of the most beautiful guitars available from extremely beautiful Martins, Bourgeois, Froggy Bottom, Thompson, Collings, Gibson, H&D, McPherson, Guild, Gibson, and many other stunning instruments by some outstanding luthiers.

It was an absolute treat! I already own a Santa Cruz vintage artist which frankly I consider to be about the best guitar I have ever played and in all honesty, I was leaning towards another manufacturer so I could own 2 beautiful guitars by different luthiers. The bottom line is this, I played a Sant Cruz OMG and simply fell in love with it on first listen. It is simply stunning to look at and to play. My friend also fell in love with it and we left London with 2 SG OMG’s both believing they were pretty much the best guitars we have ever played! Amazing work!

I now own 2 SG’s and have to say, to my ear, nothing quite compares.
Thanks for continually producing outrageously good instruments, SCGC really is very special!

 

Euan MacRae

3/15/18

Hi Carolyn Last night I returned home, and finally I could hold my H13! She sounds incredible, plays like butter, and looks like a diamond. I thank You, Richard and the whole team for this fantastic instrument.

 

Bruno VanderVeken

2/19/18

I LOVE these new strings and want to sign up.  They really made a huge difference on my 1945 Gibson Banner LG-2!  They also sound great on my Collings Mahogany top OM that you restrung at the Fretboard Summit in 2015 and still sound great.  I’m looking forward to trying them on some other guitars!  I hope you all have a great Christmas and a happy New Year!  Thanks,

Chris Wade

12/6/17

Hi Carolyn and thanks for the prompt reply. I fell in love with the sound on a trip to Melbourne and the rest is history. One of the things I love about Santa Cruz guitars (besides the guitar itself), is the service and the feeling of being part of a community.  Thanks again. Cheers,

Alan

10/13/17

The repair was perfect and I am completely satisfied, your craftsmen did a great job and the guitar plays wonderful! You and your company gain nothing but praise from me….you guys are the Best!

Jerry Martin

7/31/17

Carolyn and Richard,

I just recently received my Santa Cruz Tony Rice guitar back from your shop, and all I can say is wow….it plays awesome!  I really appreciate everyone involved at Santa Cruz for going the extra mile, and going beyond what was necessary to really fix my guitar.  It plays as good now as it did when it was new, and so I just wanted to say thanks for everyone’s efforts.  If anyone asks me about guitars, I will be certain to tell them to check out Santa Cruz, and I will reiterate how you stand behind your product.   I look forward to playing it for many more years, and it always seems to make me sound and look better than I really am….what more can you ask your guitar to do?  Thanks again!  Sincerely,

Jim Davis

6/17/17, Greenville, SC

Hello from Australia – I received my Cocobolo/ moon custom OM today and I am thrilled with it. It is also the first time that I have played the Parabolic strings, and I’m impressed with their clarity. The marriage of cocobolo and moon spruce is just brilliant. In combination with the parabolic strings, it is easily the best sounding guitar that I have ever owned.Thanks for building such an outstanding guitar.

Mike McCarthy 3/21/17

3/21/17

Thank you so much for my beautiful Janis Ian parlour. I call the Guitar Janis. It rings with such clarity and beauty. Wonderful to play and hold. My favourite guitar,that I play quite often at gigs. I also have a beautiful Bob Brozman baritone. Magical sounding beautiful rich baritone. RIP Bob.  Thankful for your music and this fine instrument. Cheers,

Vanessa Craven

3/21/17

New parabolic Mid tension  strings  on my Collings D-2H, changed the tone from overly bright to now perfectly balanced and even.  A dramatic positive change.  Thank You!!!

Dave Bauer

2/13/17

Dear Richard Hoover,

You do not know me but I am writing to let you know that I just recently purchased a Santa Cruz D-Law from the Acoustic Centre in Melbourne Australia. I wanted to express the gratitude and emotion this guitar you have built has given me. All the superlatives you have most likely heard from the many doting players that own your guitars cannot come close in describing what this guitar has done for me. Beyond that it has done something to me inside. It has literally moved me! An emotional tangibility that I have never experienced to this degree with an instrument. (I thought I had!) I played many instruments in my search of a perfect inspiring writing/studio guitar. I was beginning to get disheartened. Being in Australia there are only so many shops that carry high end instruments and that is an expensive exercise in and of itself! Did I need to pilgrimage? It was starting to look that way! It just so happened I found myself in Melbourne at the Acoustic Centre recently (have to give a big shout out to the staff there, particularly Josh Owen! Amazing service; your instruments are in great hands in that shop!!!) After playing a few guitars I nearly fell off my seat with the first strum when handed the D-Law. I was sold right there and then! This instrument literally emotionally moved me! I have played some special instruments in the past but I’m not quite sure what alchemy was used in this guitar? It is as if you wondered through the forest personally selecting the trees by light of a full moon, knocking on each one with a magic hammer until you found the perfect one. This is truly a special instrument and I just want to say thanks! It has ended the search for what I hear a perfect guitar to be. I wanted to express a gratitude that is often hard to do, that holds any gravity. You have made an instrument that has made me feel something musically I have never experienced. This is a letter purely and sincerely saying thank you:-)

One very grateful customer,

Matt Magee

I want to congratulate Richard and the Santa Cruz Guitar Company on your 40th anniversary. I’m a mediocre guitar hobbiest at best. However, I want you to know how special my OM/PW is.  A day doesn’t pass without me playing on it — this guitar has brought much joy to me and my wife over the years. Especially, during my recovery  from quintuple-by-pass surgery.  Thank you so much, Richard.  Congratulations on 40 years of guitar making. I hope one day I can meet you.

Tom

1/8/17

This is my first experience with your strings and I now have 2 SC sets on my 2 favorite guitars and completely loving the sound and feel. I look forward to the continued experience over the coming months. Your strings are living up to everything I’ve heard about and I’m thinking they’re becoming my “go to” strings not only for their quality but because of your outstanding service for me. THANK YOU!!

 

Bob Garrity

9/26/18

I went down to Gryphon and picked up the guitar Friday and spent the long weekend getting to know it a bit.  I wanted to let you know I just could not possibly be happier with it.  It turned out so beautifully – the perfect finish and just flawless work on every single part of it – I’m finding myself stopping in the middle of playing just to look at the color contrast from the perfect ebony on the fretboard to the binding to the sunburst and herringbone.   And the sustain and clarity and just perfect punchiness – wow.  Happy to know I bought a new heirloom here.  Please tell everyone I say thanks so much for this.

 

James Alonso

9/4/18

I just wanted to let you know I received the strings and I LOVE them! They are everything I hoped for. They have a great tone and nice slinky feel. I have already picked up two more packs.  I’m on my fourth gig with them and they have put up with a lot of punishment and held up wonderfully. I shall be recommending them to all my colleagues. Thank you again!

 

Darin Ames

8/24/18

To Santa Cruz guitars. After many years of playing good guitars and looking for the one perfect guitar in terms of build quality, size, aesthetic appeal and most importantly the tone I have been looking for I finally found it in a 00 Skye which I purchased from Guitar Gallery in South Africa. Thank you, you have created my elusive guitar and you have a new very happy fan and it will only get better as it ages. Regards Christopher Mason

Christopher Mason

6/1/18

I would be remiss if I did not close with this comment. My TR is the BEST guitar I have ever owned or played in my 47 years of playing. I guard it with my life and when I play it out it is never more than 3 feet away from me. I love it so much I bought a SCGC 12 String. After getting my TR I sold all of my acoustic guitars (except for six of them) and that sale included all my Martins which ranged in years from 1946 to 1993.  Every time I break that guitar people say “holy sh*t. Where did you get that guitar!” I am a SCGC fan in a very big way now. I hope one day to get out your way and visit your shop.  Thank you and please give my compliments to Mr. Hoover.

Robert Thomas Harrington
Attorney at Law

 

Robert Thomas Harrington

5/1/18

Last Saturday I had the privilege of meeting Richard at Key Music in Antwerp. I am a secondary school teacher but have been working at Key Music for about 20 years. First as a student job and later on just because I couldn’t quit working there because I loved it too much. My department at Key Music has always been the acoustic guitar department because I simply adore acoustic guitars.

Because I have been working there, I have had the privilege of getting to play about a 1000 different acoustic guitars. From very cheap guitars to very expensive boutique guitars. A couple of years ago (about 9 years) our store decided to sell Santa Cruz guitars and I have to say… I immediately fell in love.

When I first tried my ‘guitar to be’ I was completely stunned… everything was up to my personal taste… incredible looks, and that sound… my oh my that sweet sound. A simply perfect EQ to my ears… and I knew… I have got to have this because this magic will never ever happen again. And in the last 9 years, no guitar has come to the same standards (in my humble opinion off course).

There isn’t a day that I don’t play my guitar and when I do… everything just drops right off my shoulders. To this very day… it is still magic to my ears, hands and heart.

Therefore, thank you all at Santa Cruz for the amazing work you all have done.

Kind regards,
Bob de Groot
The Netherlands

 

Bob de Groot

4/16/18

I have a B/PW that is an exceptional guitar that I purchased from Willcutt Guitars last summer.  I love the voicing, overtones, and build quality of the guitar, and it is my favorite instrument to date.

 

Jonathan Kidd

3/22/18

Hello,
I purchased a Brad Paisley (B/PW) SN#7283  in November. The guitar was simply the best acoustic guitar I’ve ever played.Thank you,
Chris Bucki
Milwaukee, WI

 

Chris Bucki

3/14/18

I just want to say that your Parabolic Tension strings are the best. The first thing you notice is the even volume across the strings. The tone is wonderful. I strung up my Martin 000 and happy to say it is hard to put it down. I look forward to the day when I can get a Santa Cruz guitar to complete my collection. I play mostly finger style with a soft touch. Your strings are simply the best for my ear.
Thank You.

 

Daniel Papagno

2/17/18

Hi Richard, it’s been a few weeks now since I’ve been using the parabolic tension strings. I have to say they are unlike any steel strings I’ve ever used. They are remarkably balanced and are so well suited for my OM, I can’t imagine using anything else! I’ve compared them to the Elixers I have on my other guitars and I’d say the parabolic strings are more akin to nylon classical strings. As a finger style player, these strings not only have the tone I’m looking for, but the quality only SCGC can provide.  Thank you, and I look forward to ordering more.

James Bartolozzi

11/21/17

Hello dear people at SCGC  –  I’m back from a trip to Netherland (TFOA) where I went to take my new guitar: a delicate OM PW sunburst. It’s the second time I have the pleasure to own a Santa Cruz guitar (my first one was a 000).  I just wanted to thank everybody at the workshop for the heartfull work, the guitar is gorgeous and as a stunning voice!  I really hope I could visit you someday..

Bertrand, from France

10/27/17

I live on the Central Coast of California. I purchased a D/PW about 5 years ago. ON my birthday last October my loving wife bought me 2 sets of your mid-tension stings and I have to tell you they are by far the best strings I have ever used. I played on the worship team at church and could never find the sound I wanted from my SC.  Since I switched to your strings I will never, repeat never buy any other brand. I even told Dave Stamey to give them a try the last time I saw him. Again, thank you for another wonderful Santa Cruz product.

Bob Stiles

9/26/17

I am deeply appreciative and happy with my experience with you all at Santa Cruz guitars.  It feels like it plays and sounds even better before the repair.  Again, I can’t help but say thanks to you all over and over again.  I feel truly blessed with all my interactions with you and everyone at your company. Forever grateful and a fan, Ted

Seb Goldswain

Ted, 10/25/17

The guitar arrived yesterday and I’m already infatuated! Very dark, complex sound. It’s also very responsive, which I’d attribute to the MoonSspruce top. The Koa binding is really striking as well, with the dark Blackwood and creamy white of the Spruce. Please pass along my compliments to the gang there!

Grant Colby

8/25/17

Hi – Just a word of praise and encouragement for you and your team.  I had the opportunity to borrow a friend’s OM Grand to play at church, and I was totally blown away. I played it both acoustically and plugged in and heard it through in-ears. Well done on this model, I am ruined for life, ha. This is exactly how I’d like an acoustic to respond, sound and feel like, perfect! Regards,

Edo Kamal

7/25/17

Good day to you all at Santa Cruz Guitar Company.  My name is Reinhardt Lourens from South Africa and this past Saturday I purchased one of your Tony Rice models from your agent here in Johannesburg, Stephan Burger.

I want to sincerely thank your company for the incredible product which you have created.  I am grateful to have been introduced to this exceptional guitar and I am enjoying every second which I am able to spend with it.  I can only try to explain the appreciation and admiration I have for the beauty of the guitar’s appearance and its sound, but I am afraid I do not possess the vocabulary to truly express my gratitude towards your company, every person involved in your business and for what you stand for.  The sheer bliss of experiencing and being able to play one of your guitars is something I will forever treasure and proudly introduce to my two twin girls (aged 1) and eventually pass on to them.

I must, however, reserve immense praise for your chosen agent here in South Africa.  The manner in which I have been treated by Stephan and the effort he has put in to introduce me to your guitar is an invaluable part of the amazing journey which I have been so privileged to enjoy.  Stephan has spared no effort to spend time with me and to ensure that I was so well informed of every aspect of the guitar and how to care for it so that I, and my family, can enjoy it for as long as we are spared.

My most sincerest thanks to all of you for the joy you have created and for the person you have partnered with here to introduce someone like me to a Santa Cruz guitar.  Kind regards

Reinhardt

12/11/17

Hello friends at SCGC – I bought a Santa Cruz OM (from Gryphon in Palo Alto) about a year ago now, and I just wanted to tell you that I am simply amazed at the joy it has brought me.  I was skeptical when a friend told me that a good instrument will teach you how to play it, but it is absolutely true!!!  When you play something well it sounds *soooo* lovely that you want to make that same lovely sound again, so you practice more, and with a lot of attention to technique.  The blond top is now starting to develop a honey gold tone, and lovely vertical flames are starting to show up in the grain.  The sound (which was remarkable to begin with) has also gotten more beautiful. THANK YOU to the entire team of craftspersons (and those who support them) for making this delightful instrument.

Cathy B

3/20/17, Los Altos CA

Remember the standard Sitka/Indian D that we got?  It was an amazing guitar….so much so that I had to buy it. I work with a lot of guitars but it is rare for me to find one that is that toneful and expressive but still be somewhat in my price range. Some snobs look down on guitars if they aren’t Adi or whatever but I would put this guitar in a blind test up against anything. I have been playing it and loving it. Just wanted to let you know. Thanks!

Brandon

6/20/17, Willcutt Guitars, Lexington KY

Congratulations to the Santa Cruz Guitar Company for building a one of a kind… exceptionally beautiful… guitar in sound, sight and feel. It exceeds all my expectations…in fact I could not have even imagined the sound of this guitar. The bar in sound and expression that a guitar can produce has just gotten exceedingly high after this guitar build! The guitar excels in all playing styles…it does it all very well.

Thank you….the sound this guitar projects is a gift from heaven brought to us by way of the Santa Cruz Guitar Company. It means more to me than you can ever know! Thank You all your exceptional work and talent!!!  (1934D Mahogany,100 year old German Spruce top and Snakewood bindings)

 

Lisa

9/14/18

A few years ago I bought a 2001 Tony Rice D which I liked a lot.  One night I sat down with all my guitars and decided I like my Martin D-41 better than the Tony Rice, so I sold it.  This past May I got the chance to play a 1941 Martin D-45 guitar, the holy grail.  The sound was indescribable .  The price was in the stratosphere. A couple of months ago I found another Tony Rice at Guitar Showcase in San Jose that I think is a 2008.  The sound just knocks my socks off.  As I recall the sound of the 1941 D-45, I believe your Tony Rice sound is so close that the two are probably indistinguishable, at least to my damaged ears.  The Tony Rice D just makes my insides vibrate when I play it.  I will keep it forever.  It is the sound I have looking for forever.  Keep up the good work.. I hope one day to see your factory.

 

Dick Francis

9/10/18

I thought I would share with you my experience relative to the Firefly guitar and Parabolic Tension Strings. I purchased the Firefly from Willcutt Guitars in early May 2018 and I was not sure if they had, in fact, changed the strings on the guitar prior to shipping it to me. I played the guitar for about four months and loved the way the guitar sounded. I had read a lot about the Santa Cruz strings and decided to call the company and ask if my Santa Cruz had, in fact, the Parabolic Stings contained thereon. According to Carolyn, they had. What was surprising to me was, how much fun it was to play the guitar and the amount of sound I got from it. Now, that was prior to having the guitar set up to the way I like it which is, very low action.

I decided it was time to change the strings and get a set up from a local repair person. When complete, I was taken back by the action and more importantly the sound was even better than I had expected. One thing though, I ordered two sets of strings from Santa Cruz but purchased the Mid-Tension sets. According to the web site, perhaps I should have used the Low-Tension. No matter, it worked perfectly. I am very much in love with my FireFly and the Santa Cruz Strings. I have three Collings Guitars which when ready will have the Santa Cruz strings placed on the instruments. I love the tone and more importantly the ability of the stings to sound very good for a long time. I am looking forward to getting another Santa Cruz Guitar just to even out my collection. Well done Mr. Hoover and staff. Thank you Carolyn for all your support and outstanding professionalism. All the best! Aloha

 

Jon-Nolan Paresa

8/29/18

I wanted to get back to you now that I’ve had a couple weeks with my new Custom OMG and give you my impressions. It’s amazing! The European Spruce is beautiful, the Cocobolo B&S is gorgeous and the build quality couldn’t have been better. I have been fortunate to have assembled a nice collection of guitars and this guitar is really very special indeed. I don’t know what you guys did under the hood, but it is stunningly good. I commissioned a Froggy Bottom K a few years ago that was built with locally harvested English Walnut & Adi that is my pride and joy. It’s the guitar I thought would find no equal. I am floored that this OMG has matched it as my number 1. I couldn’t be happier. You nailed the tone I was hoping for. And the build is impeccable. It has been a pleasure working with you from design through delivery. Thanks go to you and the team for providing me with such a great instrument and pleasant experience.

 

Paul Fisette

7/12/18

Some notes on my new FS:  I have been playing the hell out of it for the past three weeks, and this morning I noticed it sounded like a seasoned guitar, like it had woken up, and what a sound it has, deep, rich, balanced, and full of color.  I have some beautiful sounding guitars, notably the Olson and the Ryan, but they are Cedar tops and have a soft luxury to their sound.  The FS is direct, sharp, and clear—a nice contrast to the other two.  It is every bit as sweet to play as it is to listen to—quick, responsive, and easy to fret.  I love the slightly wider neck down around the nut. It is a risk to buy a guitar on the internet.  I relied on your expertise and advice, and the guitar has proven you entirely correct.  Thank-you!

 

Jackson Schmidt

5/18/18

Dear Richard,

Thank you so much for taking the time to speak about guitars and guitar making yesterday in Paris, and answering – patiently ! – all my questions. It was an honor to meet you and it confirmed my decision in making my next guitar a Santa Cruz guitar. I will now try all the Santa Cruz guitars I can lay my hands on and hopefully find the one suited for me… if not I’ll be in touch again, to discuss a custom made project! I need to do a bit of saving, and probably sell one of my current guitars – but that seems absolutely worth it! – Pierre Monégier

 

Pierre Monégier

4/23/18

Hello Carolyn and everyone at Santa Cruz guitars.
I am the proud new owner of a 1929 OOO, which I bought from Ivor Mairants guitar shop in London, three days ago.
Just wanted to let you know how pleased I am with it. Stunning guitar, a joy to look at and play. My first Santa Cruz and already thinking about another! Also, just wanted to say how pleased I was with the staff at Ivor Mairants, very helpful and knowledgeable. When I’m ready for another Santa Cruz, I’ll be back there!
Please send my regards to Richard, you make wonderful guitars.
Thanks again, kind regards, Derek.

 

Derek Cain

4/2/18

Richard & Carolyn – You have not heard much from me because quite frankly – I’m almost speechless!  Needless to say, I’m just blown away by what a fantastic bunch of guitars this truly is!  You guys are Blessed in your abilities out there and just what I’ve been hoping to find in the ways of build quality, voicing, tone, playability, just to name a few. Best, Pat Hodges @ Tonewood Guitars
Pat Hodges

3/22/18

So I’m the lucky owner of the Santa Cruz D custom koa / cedar guitar from 1995. The guitar is not only beautiful but has a fantastic sound. Thank you all for building such instruments with your soul. Now I know that God exists whoever He seems to me.
Regards, Henryk Grzeszczak, Gdansk Poland

 

Henryk Grzeszczak

2/23/18

So I have had some time now with the Koa Firefly and I have to tell you, I am just amazed at what you guys are able to do with wood.  Everything they say about SCGC is true.  All of it.  This little guitar is amazing.  It sounds amazing. I really love it.  I will be on the look out for an FTC now as I would love a SCG with a full scale neck.

Brian Piccioni

1/8/18

I first tried a set of Santa Cruz Low tension strings earlier this year and was immediately taken by them. I love the feel of the altered string tensions, how warm the strings sound without losing brilliance or clarity, and how they bring out more of the “woody” sound of the instrument rather than the “zing” of the strings themselves. They are undoubtedly the most musical acoustic guitar strings I have ever used. My guitar sounds far more natural and organic when plugged in at shows, and I recommend them to anyone who asks. The highlight of my shows is breaking out and winding up a new set of Santa Cruz strings before I go on!

Seb Goldswain

11/22/17

I just wanted to drop a note to say thanks again for the fantastic factory tour that I had with Richard on 18th August. It was extremely informative and interesting. It was a nice touch that Richard was able to look over my Tony Rice guitar that I brought with me. The tour has been making me think seriously about ordering a custom model. Thanks again

Eric Lennon, The Netherlands

9/6/17

Thank you for taking the time to answer my e-mail. I am currently the proud owner of Santa Cruz #VA 2066, and I have 3 other friends with Tony Rice models! The tone and quality of your guitars is absolutely superior to all other manufacturers. Sincerely Yours,

Seth Foerster

8/1/17

We want to thank Richard for an amazing and informative factory tour last Thursday.  The passion and craftsmanship is without equal.  We tried the 1929 “0” at Sylvan and it was, of course, beautiful in all respects.  Time to start saving!  Thanks again.

Rich and Cathy Warner

7/22/17

Richard, just enjoying another day playing my Santa Cruz custom VJ and want to take a moment to simply say God Bless you for sharing your knowledge and wisdom and artistry through the making of incredible guitars. You are an incredible man and I am just one of many so appreciative of your passion for acoustic sound.  Wishing you the best always

Bob Waddell

6/26/17

Hello.  My name is Jon and I am located in New Hampshire.  I recently purchased a B/PW from Willcutt Guitars .  First off, it sounds incredible!  This is my first Santa Cruz and the only one I have ever played.  I am a Collings dreadnought owner as well (D2HG) which I find very good for flat picking and finger picking, but not so much for strumming.  The B/PW has a very special character to the tone that my Collings is lacking.  I also find it just more versatile overall.  In any case, I just wanted to contact you to tell you how pleased I am with my purchase… Thank you!

Jon K.

9/14/17

Dear Richard, Carolyn, and all of SCGC,

I recently received my Santa Cruz OO Skye from Down Home Guitars.  It is hard to put into words just how spectacular this guitar is…to me.  For a guitar lover, how a guitar speaks to someone is a very personal thing.  I believe it is a function first and foremost of the sonic qualities of the guitar combined with it’s aesthetic qualities and other elements that amplify how strongly the instrument speaks to someone.  Considering what I am looking for in this guitar, the attributes of the OO Skye are impeccable.  To my ears, the sonic qualities are exactly as you intended for the OO Skye and the results are exquisite.  I have never played a guitar that so perfectly delivered the sonic qualities that I was looking for; in fact, it overwhelmingly has exceeded my expectations.  To complement that, the simple, elegant aesthetics of the Italian spruce on cocobolo is gorgeous.  Finally, the intangibles that Richard Hoover/Santa Cruz’s mission/culture provide amplify how strongly this guitar speaks to me.  I listened to a podcast of Richard speaking at the 2015 Fretboard Summit when he led off asking the audience if they were grateful yet and several times during the podcast he spoke of gratitudes.  I am grateful for many things and that certainly includes the wonderful OO Skye that you created and way in which you help make the world a better place!

With gratitude and best wishes,

Dave F

7/7/17

The guitar arrived over the weekend, and it was worth waiting for! It is beautiful, and sounds wonderful – the tone, bass, and sustain are amazing. My concerns about the finish were completely unnecessary, it is more beautiful than I imagined. The 000 size also turns out to be perfect for me. Thanks to everyone at SCGC! I added a picture of it sitting in a stand in my den. Regards,

Peter K.

5/14/17

Good Morning Richard & Santa Cruz Guitar Company – My Vintage Southerner is turning 10 years old this year and dropping a note to say that I really love the guitar and play it just about every day! I am the original owner and purchased the guitar from Acoustic Music in Connecticut.  My VS has several unique features ordered by Acoustic Music such as a Carpathian Spruce top, Brazilian Rosewood headstock overlay, fingerboard, and bridge, Firefly burst, and no pickguard installed.  She is slowly starting to show some finish wear but the great guitars that get played always do! Since purchasing this guitar I have not had the inclination to buy another acoustic guitar.  Kudos to the entire SCGC team on this and all the fine instruments you build. Thank you

Al

3/20/17

Please tell Richard and your staff that I am inspired owning and playing my OM Grand. It was a fairly lengthy search and to say that I was a nervous buyer would be an understatement. The staff at Music Emporium were very knowledgeable and never rushed my trial of any instrument. The fact that I was able to speak to Richard directly was a real plus because he answered my questions with detail and took the time to make sure that I understood some technical issues regarding the construction of bracing and neck.

Now that I have had a chance to play for a few weeks, I want to let you all know that the guitar has exceeded my expectations. The tone quality and sustain are exceptional. The guitar is easy for me to play and I find myself playing longer and enjoying it more. For the first time in a long time, I am scheduled to take lessons and am gaining confidence that I will reach new levels of competence and enjoyment.  It’s a special guitar, I am grateful…………many thanks again.

Dick

1/24/17

Santa Cruz Guitar Company