It sure is, Just_Guild!
I think there were some excellent points made in this thread. When you start going off-the-map with custom orders from a big-box shop, you might want to consider working with an independent luthier instead. I don't know if you guys spend any time on the Acoustic Guitar Forum, but that's like mecca for the independent builders. You get amazing personal attention. If I wanted something radically different than the standard guitar line from Martin/Taylor/Gibson/Guild, I probably would go that route. You really want the luthier to make that guitar work for you.
That said, Martin is kind of a special case. They've got the name and reputation so that basically, even if you commission a dud, you'll be able to sell it down the line.
That said, once you enter the world of luthier-built guitars, you gotta' be careful. It's unquestionably a bigger risk, but I would argue the reward is likely greater.
Just my thoughts.
If Guild ever goes with a custom shop (and I think they will), you're going to be dealing with some highly motivated craftsmen. And, yeah... they sure won't be cheap.
I think there were some excellent points made in this thread. When you start going off-the-map with custom orders from a big-box shop, you might want to consider working with an independent luthier instead. I don't know if you guys spend any time on the Acoustic Guitar Forum, but that's like mecca for the independent builders. You get amazing personal attention. If I wanted something radically different than the standard guitar line from Martin/Taylor/Gibson/Guild, I probably would go that route. You really want the luthier to make that guitar work for you.
That said, Martin is kind of a special case. They've got the name and reputation so that basically, even if you commission a dud, you'll be able to sell it down the line.
That said, once you enter the world of luthier-built guitars, you gotta' be careful. It's unquestionably a bigger risk, but I would argue the reward is likely greater.
Just my thoughts.
If Guild ever goes with a custom shop (and I think they will), you're going to be dealing with some highly motivated craftsmen. And, yeah... they sure won't be cheap.