andy manson: Guestbook
David Antony Reid
February 10, 2010
From one luthier to another Andy, your work is remarkable. I truly wish your mermaid finds a special place in someones collection soon. I think it's hard putting 3 months work into one of my Vaultbacks, but she must have taken you years!?
My warmest regards, David, darluthier.com
David, coming from you that is high praise indeed. The Vaultback defines your sensitive balance of acoustics, aesthetics and structure. I applaud your dedication.
Best regards
Andy
PS .....about three years actually.....
Fernando G. Duran
January 13, 2010
Hello Mr. Manson.
I think I have found your web site too late. I would like to buy your book, if I have still the possibilitie of it. I am very impresed for your work. It is really excelent.
Warm regards from Spain.
Oh Fernando, so sorry but the book is now sold out. Thanks for your encouraging words. Andy
Dylan Wiener
January 12, 2010
Dear Mr Mason, with the electric hollowbody guitar you made, I was wondering if you made on the computer, and if so you could send me the blue prints, kind regards Dylan Wiener
Ah Dylan...I can just about manage emails and web search...as to computer controlled drawing or shaping...well I was born too early for that...I do it all by hand and prefer to seek to emulate the fore gone masters in the appropriate context. You may like to put your request to Paul Reed Smith, he's more in tune with your request. Good luck! Best regards, Andy.
colin fitch
December 29, 2009
VERY FINE WORK YOU ARE A MASTER OF YOUR CRAFT
Colin, Thanks! Andy
Ian Baynes
December 24, 2009
Hello Andy, this is the first time I've visited your website and I love your work. These instruments are the most beautiful sculptures I've ever seen. I can't afford this quality of craftsmanship!! I own a 1974 Fender Jazz Bass (which I love very much) but one day, when I'm rich, I'll be talking with you !! Ha !! Best wishes and cheers mate, Ian Baynes, Sydney, Australia
Thanks Ian, hope to talk to you soon! Andy
aaron baker
December 21, 2009
Hi Andy , Its Aaron from the Sunset lodge in Taupo .. We met up at the Tongiriro Crossing when your wife and kids were doing the walk , we spoke awhile and i was saying how you looked alot like " Mick " ... We'll I told my friends I met a guy who knew the brother of Mick jagger and yes you guessed right , they thought I was full of bullshit , so no beers today hahaha ... hope you made your way to coromandel safely , and that your xmas and new years will be a good one.
Cheers
Aaron
Hey Aaron, yes it was nice to chat awhile, we had a wonderful time in your beautiful country, now home to deep snow and shivering! Good luck with your new guitar! Best regards, Andy
Michael O' Connor
December 21, 2009
I have to say that your mermaid took my breath away. Outstanding spirit. What a beautiful blend of wood! Outstanding craftsmanship and vision.
Michael, thanks for your comments, best wishes, Andy
Alistair Hay
December 7, 2009
I just stumbled across your site and was blown away by your work. I though I built some exotic stuff but that Mermaid is in another league of craftmanship.
Just wanted to say well done and I hope it finds a fitting owner at a fitting price
Alistair Hay
http://www.emeraldguitars.com/
That's very kind of you Alistair. Your "Dragon" is awesome!
Keep up the good work!
Andy
laura
November 15, 2009
Hi,
stumbled upon with website while preparing a dissertaion on custom made guitars vs off the shelf guitars. after looking at thousands of different websites for this. i just thought i'd drop you a note to say that your work is miles above any of the rest. your work is truely beautiful and i can only hope to be able to earn enough to buy one of your guitars one day. laura.
Minolli Frederic
September 28, 2009
Hie,
Your guitars are very beautifull and I love your work with woods and steel. I think lot of people ask you advices, so... Have you an opinion about my guitar design ? You can see it at thhis web adress http://www.myspace.com/elefant_guitar
Thank you for an answer if you have time to see my work.
Fred.
Hey Fred
Thanks, I like your style. Very modernistic, while keeping a strongly grounded aesthetic. Keep up the good work.
Best regards
Andy
Lewis Todd
September 24, 2009
Hi Andy,
I mailed you back in june and am coming to Exeter in october for the Manson guitar show. Two questions for you, will you be at or be exibiting at the show, if not will your shop be open on the saturday for me to visit?
By the way I really like the Lotus guitar and the bluebird guitar.
Thanks,
Lewis
Lewis...yes I'm planning to be there, I'll look forward to seeing you,
Best wishes, Andy
Dafydd Richards
September 16, 2009
have been saving for 10 years to buy a martin small bodied acoustic guitar.tried loads,new, used.they were o.k....tied gibson,patrick eggle, santa cruz,taylor etc. my wife found mansons on the internet and i visited on my way home from plymouth. great shop, played about 8 guitars, nice relaxed atmosphere, then a bloke puts the kingfisher in my hands with the casual words,"try this!" unbelievable! It blew all my ideas out of the water!It is an absolute joy to play and does everything i want sound wise..bell like clarity,great bottom end,strums really nicely and terrific projection.i am just totally delighted with it..thankyou andy.....dafydd richards p.s. can a guitar be cited as the other woman in divorce proceedings? (joke)
Not sure about that Dafydd, I'll have to consult Rufus T Firefly....seriously, wouldn't want to be responsible. Anyway, so glad you found what you need. Enjoy it!
Best wishes
Andy
Rocco Phipps
September 14, 2009
Andy-
You are an amazing, inspiring person.
I sincerely admire your thought process. I hope we meet someday!
best-
Rocco
Rocco...thanks for what you say, come by sometime...Andy
Reuben
September 7, 2009
Andy,
I believe i played the Spanish Yew guitar in the Exeter shop a while a go and i must say, I felt like I was holding nature in my very hands. Absolutely beautiful guitar and i hope to be able to add one of your 'artworks' to my guitar collection very soon!
May i ask how you found yourself making guitars? I would very much like to start and you are simply the best person to ask!
Thank you.
Thanks Reuben....if you let me have your email address I'll correspond directly. As to how did I find myself making guitars...well the first one was because I needed one to play. Regards, Andy
Pablo Villanueva
August 12, 2009
Desde Argentina le escribo con enorme gratitud. Exelentes trabajos ha hecho usted. Usted es el "Maradona" de los luthieres... No, ese es Mr Leo Fender... pero seguramente es usted el George Best!! lo saludo con gran admiración. Pablo A Villanueva. Buenos Aires. Argentina
Ben Marks
July 10, 2009
Hi Andy
This is probablely a very rude/stupid question but I am going to ask it anyway! What are the starting prices for a Manson guitar. I love the heritidge your family have built up over the years of beautiful English craftmenship. Im a semi- professional guitarist, looking to make it big and I know your guitars are a feather in the cap of any musician. Thankyou for taking the time to read and reply all the various comments left. It is a rare thing indeed for a man of you status.
Best regards,
Ben
Thanks for your message with your kind remarks Ben. Your question is by no means stupid or rude. The answer is £4000. Hope that's helpful, best wishes, Andy.
lewis todd
June 24, 2009
hello mr manson my names lewis,
im twelve, i live in hastings and im a great admirer of you and your brothers guitars. i wish to have one one day.
my granfather lives in tiverton and next time we visit him i would love to visit your shop first hand.
i have started a manson fund and am saving hard.
regards, lewis
Lewis, it would be great to see you if you visit. Best regards, Andy
Rob Mock
June 16, 2009
Hi Mr. Manson,
Just saw the article on The Mermaid Guitar in Guitarmaker Magazine. "AMAZING"!! I am a woodcarver and apprenticing Luthier. It is rare to see something that truly makes me go WOW. That did it.
Ronald Soares Jr
June 9, 2009
Mr. Manson,
I'm Ronald S Jr, from Fortaleza, in Brasil.
Just "surfed" in your excellent site! GReat Job!
Your artistry is nothing short of amazing!
The JPJ's (Jonesy)instrument photo is wonderful.
Congratulations!
Thanks Ronald, I appreciate your comments. Andy
Osamu Kise
June 4, 2009
Mr.Manson
Thank you for the answer.
I'm very happy to know that my bouzouki was made by you.
The meeting of your bouzouki and me was...
I bought it from my friend, Atsushi Akazawa who is Japanese famous Irish music player. He plays fiddle, bouzouki and whistles. He often traveled abroad. And He had some bouzoukies including from Greece.
When I acquired it, it's bracing was broken, actually.So top-board dented.
But for me, it seemed that it shone from other any. The tone gently enchanted my mind.
I send it to the repair. three Japanese luthiers had seen before.
So pegheads, nut, tail piece, bridge and saddle are not original now.
I would be interested to know how you think the bouzouki that you made 27 years ago.
Serial number is 820210.
I want you to watch the bouzouki's photo, but I can't send them to you by e-mail.
There are some photos in my website. It is for Japanese only, but I think photos can be seen. >>> http://ma-moon.net/
By the way,I will go to UK with the bouzouki about the end of this month.
May I visit your Ark?
Best wishes
MAMU Osamu Kise ('Mamu' is my musicians name.All friends call me Mamu.)
Osamu Kise
June 1, 2009
Mr.Manson,
I'm glad to contact you. I'm a Japanese living in japan. And I have a bouzouki made by Manson Guitar, Windsor place Crowborough in march 1982. it's signed with Andrew Manson.
Do you think it is what you made? If it's so, I want to express my gratitude to you.
I spent a lot of wonderful time with this bouzouki.And this bouzouki led me, and taught a lot.
Thank you very much! Best regards, Osamu Kise
Osamu, I'm very happy to hear that instrument has given you so much. I would be interested to learn where and how you acquired it. Perhaps you have a photo....?
Best wishes
Andy
Patrick
May 19, 2009
Hi I would like to send you a copy/link to one of my Guitar works.
I would be grateful for your ear to attend its' counsel. One day I will need a few new Guitars and your work is admirable-This wooden lady piture is amazing-please notify me with a e-mail that I might submit my composition- I assure you that my compositions are worth your listening time- I hope that you might be able to match an instrument to my abilities-What I mean this as your knowledge of playability exceeds my playability and that your opinion is needed..I am in Ohio -will be moving to San Francisco in August 2009- next two years I will be putting together a set list for solo compositions and possibly a world group of multicultural musicians for performance- this is my love- thank you
Joshua Martin
May 18, 2009
Hi Andy, I received guitar lessons from a man named Rod, though I am unsure of his last name. He hired you to create classical guitar for him, a guitar that he treasures.
Rod did his back in a few years ago and was forced to retire from being a professional musician.
But he still plays his beloved Manson. I do wonder if you remember him? Many thanks, Joshua.
Michael Taylor
May 17, 2009
Hi Andy
In 1984 I drove down to Crowborough Sussex and asked you to build me a Magpie acoustic No 840228 well its still going strong and sounds just great, Thank you for all the pleasure it's given me. Regards Mike
That's very nice to hear Mike, thankyou. Long may it continue.
Andy
Mike Lydiat
May 9, 2009
Andy - I just bought the Mockingbird from FoA - i'm awaiting delivery with keen anticipation.
Mike
fernando
April 26, 2009
ola andy,, havent so much time to visit, but shurely will soon, wiyh mi neighbour steve.. hehe mean wile, thought u would like to check this links. its the greatest portuguese guitarrist ever, carlos paredes. and he plays portuguese guitar, a version of the british one, i think. hope u like (and all the curious people out there) : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKnO_RwGhss&NR=1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97YbSYfOs_o
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZgeOwTxJV8&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqo33D8Y7ZQ&feature=channel
Ben
April 16, 2009
Hats off to you and your brother Andy, You have both created some astounding guitars of very high quality, I hope to be able to one day commision a work from you.
Keep it up
Thanks Ben....
Andy
Ben
April 16, 2009
Hats of to you and your brother Andy, You two have created some astounding Guitars and I hope one day I will be able to commision a guitar of your high quality
mark
April 11, 2009
I bookmarked this site, Thank you for good job!
That's nice, thank you,
Andy.
WDT
April 10, 2009
Mr.Manson,
All I can say is wow! I wish I could be 1/4 the luthier that you are! Sheer talent, craftsmanship, attention to detail and best looking woods I have seen!
Aside from praising your work and talent, I would like to know more about the triple necked guitar and mandolin you made for one John Paul Jones. I know how to build acoustic guitars and madnolins, but the thing that gets me is the support on the soundboard,how do you do it?I would really like to make one for myself,but I dont want to over support the soundboard.Any chance on selling a set of plans? Also the back of the triple Mandolin,it has a few curves in it,like a wave,once again,how do you do that!!
If you can only tell me if I become your apprentance..done! Ill grab a ticket and come to England now! =) I do understand if you cant devulge your secrets.
Thanks for your work,it continues to inspire and puzzle me!
Thanks!
William
I suggest you apply what you know from your work and do what seems obvious, even if you can't explain it. This is what I did...do. An improvement I've found is to make the mandolin with pin bridge, as for guitar. Sits better with the general configuration. And thanks for your kind remarks...good luck, Andy.
Alton "Bear Acker
April 7, 2009
Hi Mr. Manson,
Dick Boak from Martin Guitar sent me some photos of your mermaid guitar. I'm interested in doing an article about it in Guitarmaker in an upcoming issue. I was wondering if you could supply me with some photos of your creation. There are seven color shots of your work which Dick send me, but I don't want to scan these for the magazine, your photography is too nice for that. Would you please be in contact with me about this.
Regards,
Alton "Bear" Acker, Executive Director, ASIA
Editor, Guitarmaker
Manuel M. Mateo
March 31, 2009
Excelente trabajo, maravilloso, sorprendente... Gracias por mostralo.
¡¡¡Felicidades!!!
Gracias Manuel!
Recuerdos,
Andy
rob higgins
March 27, 2009
beautifull,one day i hope to be able to own one of your pieces,they truly are a work of art,keep up the beuatifull work,these are the nicest guitars i,ve ever seen
Rob, thanks, I'd be happy to oblige.....whenever,
Andy
Dan molligan
March 11, 2009
Is it true that you make ian Anderson his guitars? I love sound. What in the design of his guitars makes the tone so remmarkably rich? I'll have to visit your shop if I ever make it to the UK.
Dan.....Well I personally designed and made several guitars for Ian over many years. Brook guitars now make for him, and very nice they are too. Their work is superb and they have a very wide clientele, which is a great satisfaction to me as we used to work together under my instruction. I would be happy to meet you, as I am sure would the Brook guys. Best regards, Andy.
www.brookguitars.com
Fontaine Burnett
March 9, 2009
Hi Andy!
First of all I just want to say how inspiring your work is. A true symbiosis of creativity and craftsmanship... please don't stop!!
I was also hoping that I might be able to get some more information about your legendary slideslammer mechanism. I've not been able to find much information about it, so I thought I'd best go directly to the horses mouth. Do you still offer this device. Would you consider making one if I begged and pleaded and eventually groveled? Be kind and keep my hope alive! All the best!
Fontaine
Fontaine,
"...please don't stop!!" are you kidding, what like stop breathing or something? No chance.
That looks to me suspiciously like one of my pieces on your Bio page... Anyway, slideslammer...where did you hear about it? It's, I believe, over ten years since I've done anything about that. I spent years and, by implication, thousands of pounds developing that thing. Seven prototypes and then something which was just about presentable. Also some related devices, such as a B bender to fit acoustic guitar bridges. Couldn't find a company prepared to take any of it on, "low volume, specialist" not interesting to money makers.....
The one thing that's come out of it of any substance is Rick Shubb's Dobro capo, which I invented and showed to him one year at Namm. Not that he's ever acknowledged the fact. What I'm left with is the acquired knowledge from all the R and D work. My focus was on a retrofit device to work on as many of the proprietory designs of guitar as possible. What I could do now would be to make something individually to fit a particular guitar. This would probably be prohibitively expensive to most normal humans. What I would actually prefer to do, if some one was willing to commission it, would be to build a purpose designed guitar incorporating that function in the original design and build. I have many thoughts and design ideas swimming around in my grey matter, and in the meantime persistent orders for more regular kind of work, necessary to keep the wolf from the door.....
Where to go from that.....you got any ideas?
Best regards
The horses mouth
AKA Andy
Payton Pringle
February 28, 2009
Groovy Guitars!
The mermaid guitar is really neat!
Hello Payton, Mermaid sends her love, Andy
david lindsay
February 7, 2009
hi
i recently came across a manson 8 string bass guitar serial 850413. neck-thru. i wondered if
a.this is one of yours
b.any information about it eg year of manufacture, woods used etc
any info appreciated.
thanks in advance
david lindsay
ps nice website :)
David..... my brother, Hugh, is responsible for electric guitars and basses. I'm forwarding your enquiry, I don't have the information you request. Best wishes, Andy
Philip Saulnier
January 31, 2009
when I grow up I wanna be like you
Phil, you flatter me...I'm touched. If you really want to be like me though it's essential that you don't grow up. I'm sixty this year and until very recently have always pondered that eternal question, what to do when......well, here's the thing........now I know It's too late to grow up and it's too late to do anything else. Suits me....
Will Satchwell
January 23, 2009
Many thanks for the Message Andy, Sorry i got it wrong! am quite embarased, But between you and your brother your Britons Most talented luthiers in my mind and alot of other peoples!
p.s. Mermaid guitar if Just Beautiful! how long did it take you???
About three years Will, and thanks for the comments, gives courage....Andy
Will Satchwell
January 22, 2009
Andy.
May i just express how Incredible the work you have done is! The technological Advances in such guitars as Matt Bellamys are Beyond Belief! i meen the first time i ever saw the Black Kaoss manson used on invincible my jaw hit the floor! Such an amazing sound and so unusual but yet pulled off so faultlessly!
Your an inspiration to all training and up and coming Luthiers! As a guitarist and fan of Muse your work jumps out at me so much it gave me the inspiration to start planning and building guitars. Thank you so much for this! Your a Genius!
Will, your praise is flattering, or would be....my brother Hugh is responsible for Matt's astounding guitars. I build acoustic instruments. Contact for Hugh is hugh@mansons.co.uk
Seo, Michael
December 28, 2008
Hi,
It seems that you are making every kind of stringed instruments, and all the instruments look very nice.
Especially, the mermaid guitar looks so fantastic!
As a guitarist, I wish I had one of your special hand made guitar.
from S.Korea
Michael.
That's kind of you Michael......Andy
Cyril O'Donoghue
December 13, 2008
Hi,
I see my Manson is a some
time talking point so here is a little update.
It was made in 1980 and I have it since 1982 (bought if from Jerry McNamara,he is still trying to buy it back!)and have recorded with it on all the albums (17) except the one with Tola Custy 'Setting Free'(I used a small bodied Joe Foley).
That's very nice Cyril, it will be a pleasure to meet you. Andy
I love my Manson...I think it is one of the best instruments ever made (would love to meet the man that created it)..
Regards,
Cyril
William P. Ankele Jr
December 5, 2008
So, I'm looking at my Magpie I Custom, Serial No. 971125 (a florentine cutaway with D-45 style trim, flame Koa back and sides, and tree-of-life fretboard inlay) and thinking how lucky I am to have stumbled across you through Shoreline Acoustic Music back then). Not as sexy as the Mermaid, but not too far behind from my point of view! Best of luck in 2009.
Thanks William, you too.....Andy
Kevin Burton
November 26, 2008
It was nice to have a brief chat at the Mansons show about your craft, and to see the beautiful Mermaid & the amazing 14 string Electic too, very inspirational!
Thanks Kevin, I enjoyed the show, nice to meet so many people with the same obsession.....Andy
David Nichols
November 13, 2008
Great work, nice to see something out of the ordinary!
Thanks David, Andy
areez abidin
October 24, 2008
Hello Mr.Manson.........
i'm from indonesia
your amazing hand made guitars so...so...
i cant say anything...
i cant believe !!!
i wish i had the money to afford one of your guitar art..
so lucky to be matthew bellamy,played your work of arts..
God Bless you Mr and Mrs Manson..
Thanks Areez, you're very kind. Andy
Lucas Nolting
October 10, 2008
Hiya there... I love your work its stunning, and makes me wish i had the money to afford one of your works of art... I especially appreciate your work with Matt Bellamy... keep building beutiful instruments.
Thanks a lot Lucas, you're very kind. My brother Hugh is the one responsible for Matt's guitars. www.mansonguitars.co.uk
Best regards, Andy
doug fitch
October 2, 2008
Lovely seeing you today - don't see enough of you guys these days, love to Debs
XX
www.douglasfitch.co.uk
Hey Doug, the pleasure was mine, sorry about the cold......good to see Hils also. Looking forward to seeing your exhibition at gallery 86. Anyway might see you tomorrow......or the next Love Daddies gig...
Deb sends her love
Andy
XX
robin watson
September 29, 2008
My God, yours are some of the most beautiful-looking guitars I've seen in my life...
Holy Crap.
The Parlor guitar is stunning...everything, stunning.
You use a Headway HE2 pickup. I suspect it must be one hell of a pickup to warrant use on ANY of these pieces of artwork.
Gobsmacked in Japan.
Steady now Robin, blood pressure........The Headway system is really good. That whole issue of pickups in acoustic guitars is the bete noir of modern luthierie. We hate them on principle. Generations of luthiers have evolved the instrument to fill a certain size room with sound. Now they want to fill a stadium. What's that? Crazy! Anyway John Littler's efforts are much appreciated, other luthiers agree. And thank you for your enthusiastic remarks, Andy
Steve Fletcher
September 23, 2008
Hi Andy, I was the guy who lusted after your Bluebird all Saturday. It was beyond doubt the best guitar at the show. Just wondering how I can raise the money to have you build one of my own....... There must be a way. I look forward to seeing you next year, if not before. All the best, Steve.
Steve, it was a pleasure to see you so inspired by the Bluebird. I'd be very happy to build you a guitar whenever it suits you. In case you're free I'll be at mansons.co.uk's guitar show in Exeter 25th/26th October. I'll be playing the Mermaid on the Saturday about noon.......Best regards, Andy.
Chris blenkinsopp
September 17, 2008
Hi Andy and gorgeous wife,
Met you at Chelt Ax show on Saturday; you were eating lunch. I admired and played your Blue bird, bell...forgot! (£4000 ax)...lovel;y...beautiful...the BEST guitar in the show without a doubt. I would love to own it...!
You are a lovely man; you make really special guitars and I acknowledge you for your work. Thanks for a nice chat.
Chris Blenkinsopp.
You're very kind Chris, we're flattered, me and Deb. It was good to see you and share in the enthusiasm buzzing around the show. Wasn't it a blast?! Paul, Phil and Matt deserve big applause for their efforts. Best regards, Andy
tim clarke
September 6, 2008
Just read and enjoyed your book Andy. Amazing work on display here too. As a brand new student of instrument making I've got plenty to aspire to!
Tim, that's a very nice compliment. Thank you. Good lick with your luthierie! Regards, Andy.
chris knight
August 21, 2008
Hi Andy
I have an Ovation with a damaged front - would you be willing / able to give me a quote for repairing it please? Chris
Very sorry, I don't do repair work. Good luck, Andy
Ismet Mustafic
July 20, 2008
Really enjoyed your 'in the making images' on the site Andy. Having loved your book, 'Talking Wood' it's nice to get more images of your work in progress. I'm moving towards the idea of making my first steel string acoustic guitar. Your work is an inspiration!
Many thanks indeed
Ismet
Thanks Ismet, good luck with your first guitar. Best wishes, Andy.
Mr. HERB SHANAFELT
July 7, 2008
It Seems Quite easy to understand why you are enjoyed such a clientele as Mr. Ian Anderson and Mr. John Paul Jones!! There are seasoned Luthiers on our West Coast..(Galif,. Washington, Oregon,etc) WISHES they Could court and attract such Clientle, by producing such Instruments that are ALSO clearly seen as Objects D'ART!
Why, thank you Herb. Andy
John Bolton
July 6, 2008
Dear Andy,
I would like to buy a copy of 'Talking Wood' and will be happy to send a cheque if you would let me know the price including p&p.
I have two of your guitars, a Magpie 1 SN 950203 and the other I have been unable to identify.
It has 12 frets, spruce top, very rich coloured mahogany back and sides with rosewood binding. I think it's an oiled finish.
Upper bout 9.75" and lower bout 13.5". SN 820426.
This guitar has no label inside, only your name on the peghead.
I would be very grateful if you could tell me anything about it.
These guitars sound, feel, smell and look perfect. Can't tell you how they taste...
Best regards,
John
John, thanks for the comments. But, do you mean to say you've never even tried just a little nibble.....? Cheque for £25 for the book and CD, and £6 for postage (UK). Don't forget to send your mailing address with it! I'll have to check my serial number book, I'll get back to you.
Regards, Andy
David Malton
June 27, 2008
Oh my god!! Here i am looking on the web trying to find out who made Matt Bellamy's guitar and i came across your site. Your Mermaid guitar is amazing.What people can create from a humble piece of wood is mind blowing.Ive never seen anything like it a real work of art.I had a guitar made by a friend in 1991 which i am rather fond of would you consider customising it with a kaoss pad? After seeing your work i know you would do a top quality job.
David, Thanks for your remarks. It's my brother Hugh who deals with electric guitars and all the Matt Bellamy stuff. I've forwarded your message to him. Good luck!
Regards
Andy
Fliss Davies
June 18, 2008
Hello, I recently had the privilege of trying out one of your beautiful guitars, and was very impressed with its light and responsive feel and lovely tone. I love the artistry that shows in your instruments. I haven't yet had the opportunity to try one of your mandolins, but will be visiting the Cheltenham Guitar Show in September, so I wondered if you will have any with you there? Also, please can you give me an idea of the base price for mandolins, and do you ever build A-style mandos?
Kind regards
Fliss Davies
Thanks Fliss,
The birdseye mandolin in my photo gallery, for example, would be £5000. I could build an "A"style for you, with a flat back, for £3000. Hope this gives you some idea. Please call me at the workshop if you'd like to discuss any details. I look forward to seeing you at Cheltenham.
Regards, Andy.
Sean Earnest
June 14, 2008
Hello Mr. Manson,
Your artistry is nothing short of amazing! Your bouzoukis are especially interesting to me. I really like the tone of one of your bouzoukis, played by a friend in Ireland, Cyril O'Donoghue. Are you still making instruments like his and if so, could you give me some price information? Thanks,
Sean Earnest
Thank you Sean,
If you could send me a photo of Cyril's bouzouki I can get some idea of what you are interested in. Then maybe we could discuss the details by phone. I find it's much the best way to clarify things. Best regards, Andy.
Danny Lauder
June 3, 2008
I am absolutly amazed by your guitars.
i love playing electric and would love a hand made guitar from the best in the buisness.
could you email me some prices as i am willing to pay anything.
thank you
danny lauder
Hello Danny
You're too kind......Anyway, basic price for a flattop acoustic is £4000. Any type of model is possible. Custom requirements, like inlays, pickups etc and case are extra. What did you have in mind? Electric guitars are from about £2000, the price is greatly dependent on components.
Best regards
Andy
Iain Hamilton
May 15, 2008
Hi, I am still enjoying my Magpie I, made for Maitland Music of Dingwall in 94. It will be handed down in my family for years to come. I am using Thomastic Plectrum 11 Strings at the moment and it gives it a very smooth soft sound.
Keep up the good work. Iain
foyle
May 10, 2008
Hi andy
you might now remember me?! Its foyle from Stroud.You made a Heron guitar for me many moons ago! Back in 1988/89 i think. Just wanted to say it sounds phenomenal at the moment, and has and still is providing so much sweet melodic tones that are also shared by friends and family! Its incredible to believe that my Heron guitar is going to get better and better with more time, because at the moment its just so beautifully booming yet crisp and clear! nice to know that you are continuing the masterful work. Best wishes in happiness Foyle
Hello Foyle. Great to hear the guitar is still serving you well. If you ever come this way it would be nice to see you. Andy
Mike Lydiat
May 10, 2008
Andy
I have seen a couple of your side-hole acoustics on the web recently, sometimes described as prototypes. Is the sound 'muffled' to the audience when not amplified? Any reason they did not progress beyond the prototype stage?
Hello mike, I'm not sure what is meant (or by whom) as prototype. Some years ago I built a couple of guitars with no hole in the front, only the side. I wouldn't recommend that. A soundhole in the side gives more sonic access to the musician and doesn't (of itself) seem to badly affect the overall sound. Technically it increases the overall aperture for the given resonant chamber, thus raising it's pitch, (cf Helmholtz resonators).
Thanks for your interest. Andy
Lawrence Dexter
April 20, 2008
Dear Mr Manson. It is over twenty years since I first played one of your guitars. It belongs to Julie who introduced us at that time. I still think it is the best six string I have played. When funds allow I will be in contact with you. I am building a small home recording studio so it will be quite a while yet but . . . . . one day I will ask you to make a guitar for me if you have time. If you are ever near Portsmouth you are welcome to visit. Kind Regards, Lawrence
b.e_cooling
March 29, 2008
Thanks for your time and attention, Andy. It was very much appreciated. I learnt more about my guitar through our conversation than I've managed to pick up in thirty years.
Regards,
Brian
My pleasure Brian. You got me on my favourite subject.....almost...
See you soon
Andy
Ivan Ossandon
March 23, 2008
hi, im from chile, southamerica.
your guitar are awesome. absolutely.
which is the price?
bye.
Hello Ivan,
Thanks for your words. I build guitars to suit the client. What do you have in mind? Basic price for a six string is £4000. Let me know what are your personal requirements, I'll let you know the price.
Best regards,
Andy.
David Mather
March 22, 2008
Hi Andy, really pleased to see the photos of the "tree" and my 12 string Magpie in the making. Both guitars are an inspiration and with the inlay wedded to me for life! For the record, the design of the Tree was totally down to Andy who followed my wish to have my initials in there somewhere. (Take another look and see how he did it). Thanks Andy, I'm in awe of your talent and will treasure my guitars always. Dave
Well thanks Dave, my pleasure....
Andy
Jeff Titus
March 8, 2008
Incredible instruments! Thanks for posting the photos... any videos of your instruments being played.
http://harpsympitar.com
Thanks Jeff, that harp guitar of yours looks beautiful. I love Fred Carlson's work, (See LINKS), though I've never seen it in the flesh. There's a couple of videos of the mermaid on youtube.........
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9hWqQaVLLE http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=xGQ3pAFXARI&feature=related
Best regards
Andy
Sarah McQuaid
March 6, 2008
I am indeed a happy person now that I have the beautiful, beautiful guitar you made for me. It's taught me many things already and I look forward to getting to know it even better! Did my first gigs with it in Holland in Feburary and was delighted -- you can see it in action on www.youtube.com/sarahmcquaid -- also see photos on www.myspace.com/sarahmcquaid
Many, many thanks and all the best,
Sarah
Thanks Sarah, it's happy I am to hear you're getting properly acquainted with your bluebird.......Best regards, Andy.
David Casale
March 5, 2008
Hello Mr. Manson, your work speaks for itself. I was curious about the mini guitar you made for Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull. Would you be able to make another....perhaps cheaper version? (I am not a professional musician). If you could email me a price and or some photos of that beautiful instrument.
Thank you so much,
David
Thanks David, I will direct your enquiry to Brook guitars (See LINKS). We worked together on the original model, since then they have successfully built a good number.
Best regards
Andy
Mitchell Kane
February 21, 2008
Greetings & Salutations
I have finally tracked you down after quite an effort.
Let me first say how impressed I am with your legacy, reputation, and craftmanship, as an exemplary luthier in the world of stinged instrumentation.
I purchased one of your instruments quite a while ago, and wanted to tell you, not only what a fine instrument it is, and secondly, how well it has stood the test of time. By today's standards, if there is such a thing, the quality, craftsmanship, and your vision that inspired this instrument, is unsurpassed.
I was wondering what you could tell me about this instrument, assuming you have the time and inclination, since I can find nothing in the authoritative literature that mentions this instrument.
The instrument comes with the following visual information, as follows;
Found inside guitar
Made by Manson Guitars
Kingfisher
Serial # 850726
"Dewsmoor"
Devon
Appears to be signed by you
Description
Wood not sure, Slot Top, 3/4 or Parlor size, looks like mother of pearl (not sure) tuners, machine gear is elegent sterling silver with beautiful etching, wood binding with hearingbone trim on top & around sound hole,
It also has a second sticker inside body of guitar;
Ivor Mairants, Musicentre LTD, 56 Rathbone Place, London W1P 1AB,
01-636/1481
Can you provide any history on this particular guitar, e.g. historical perspective or significance, if any, year produced (I think 1985), custom made or part of standard line, number made, technical specs - wood, machining, luthier of record (probably you), and perhaps any thoughts as to valuation in todays marketplace.
Thank you for your consideration in the matter
Warmest Regards
Mitchell Kane
Raleigh North Carolina USA
Hello Mitchell
Thanks for your kind remarks. The serial no. is the date backwards, so 26th July 1985. Currently I'm in New Jersey (until 2nd March) so I don't have my records to hand, I can't tell you much more about it except that I was working solo at that point, (as I do now). Ivor Mairants Musicentre is a guitar store in London( (at that time the only real contender) which I supplied occasionally. "Dewsmoor" is the name of the place where my workshop was located for a brief period, shared with my brother Hugh (building electric guitars and basses, (see LINKS). As to current market value, I couldn't say. Trading and second hand pricing and all that kind of stuff is not really my territory. Current price for new work is based on starting price £4000.
If you can email a photo or two I can probably identify the woods and so on. If you have a 'phone contact I could call you while I'm here.
Went to see Lyall Lovett and John Hyatt at the Count Basie Theatre last night. Most enjoyable, what a treat.
Best wishes
Andy
Artyom Bogosyan
February 16, 2008
Greetings! I from Ukraine. It is very difficult to me to write on English, I ask in advance me to forgive. To me 16 years, very much to like sounding your guitars. I would like to buy your guitar Manson Black Midi Guitar. How many it will cost approximately?
Hello Artyom,
Congratulations on your English, it is completely understandable. As for my Ukrainian, it is I who must apologise since I don't have a single word.
I have passed your message on to my brother Hugh,(see my LINKS page), it is he who builds electric guitars, whereas I specialise in acoustic instruments.
Best wishes
Andy
chris gibbons
February 6, 2008
you ARE the master...(ps how much is the mando?...;-D)
Chris
You're too kind.Dunno......it has a Calton case. Green. Say, 5k......
Stephen Sedgwick
February 5, 2008
Truly amazing work you do and very inspirational. I hope I can make it to the Cheltenham Acoustic Show this year.
All the best
Steve
Thanks Steve. Love those harp guitars. Just recently, through lack of patience, I botched up the harp guitar effect on my personal twangle box. I'll put a couple of shots up. May take a moment or two.......
Hope to see you at Cheltenham.
Andy