Carrollton, Kentucky · By appointment
The right upgrade should solve a real problem and make the guitar work better for you. From a straightforward pickup swap to a new control layout, every job starts with compatibility, a clear plan and a conversation about the result you want.
Pickup Installation
More output is not always the answer. The pickup, position, wiring and height all work together. I will help make sure the parts fit the guitar and the change matches what you actually want to hear.
Common reasons for a bench visit
Crackling controls, sound that cuts out, a faulty switch, a loose jack, unwanted hum or uneven pickup volume can all point to an electronics problem.
Sometimes a repair is all the guitar needs. I will not recommend replacing parts when cleaning, adjustment or a secure connection can solve the problem.
Electronics & Modifications
Single-coils, humbuckers and rail pickups installed with the correct connections, mounting and final height adjustment.
Volume and tone controls, capacitors, switches and output jacks repaired or replaced, with every control tested before the guitar leaves.
Coil splits, switching changes, control-layout updates and other options when the guitar and pickups support them.
Guitar Upgrades
New tuners, saddles, bridges and other hardware can improve the way a guitar functions, but only when the parts are compatible and the change addresses something that matters to the player.
I will inspect the instrument, talk through the tradeoffs and explain any drilling, routing or permanent modification before the work begins. If the original part is the better choice, I will tell you that too.
If the guitar feels hard to play or will not stay in tune, I will inspect the cause before recommending new hardware.
“Doug does fantastic work! Everything that I have had him work on came back to me perfect and looking better than when I dropped it off.”
Planning an upgrade?
Tell me what you want to hear or change. I will help confirm the parts, compatibility and plan before work begins.
How It Works
I will check compatibility and explain the work before you approve it. Contact me about your guitar and any agreed parts before your visit.
Service guarantee
I stand behind every instrument that leaves my bench. If something related to my work doesn’t feel or perform the way it should, bring it back and I will take care of it.
Common Questions
You can supply the parts, or I can help you identify what the guitar needs. Compatibility must be confirmed before installation, even when a part is advertised as a direct replacement.
Often, yes. The available options depend on the pickup wiring, control-cavity space and the guitar's existing electronics. I will inspect everything before recommending a plan.
Pricing is confirmed after inspection because access, wiring condition, parts and required modifications vary from guitar to guitar. Nothing begins until you agree on the work and cost.
A setup is quoted separately unless it is included in the agreed work. I may recommend one when pickup height, bridge hardware, string gauge or tremolo changes affect how the guitar plays.
What Do You Want Your Guitar to Do Better?
Include the guitar model, current pickups or hardware, the parts you are considering and what you want to hear or feel differently.
First visit? Here’s what to expect.