Services

Custom Guitar Builds

At J. Smith Custom Guitars and Repairs, I turn your dream guitar into a reality. With my extensive knowledge of materials and design, I ensure that every instrument I create is not only visually stunning but also tailored to your musical style. Together, we will discuss your vision, whether it involves unique wood selections, custom pickups, or any specific features you desire. The entire process is collaborative, ensuring that the final product is truly yours.

My goal is to craft a guitar that feels as amazing as it looks, providing a sound that inspires creativity.

Refrets, Partial Refrets, Fret Leveling and Crowning

Fretwork is a crucial aspect of guitar maintenance, and it's where my meticulous approach truly shines.

Full refrets, where the player can choose the gauge of fretwire, the fretwire composition and brand. I carry stock of some of the most popular brands and sized fretwire to ensure a speedy and reliable service.

Stainless steel fretwire, bound fingerboards, notoriously hard, brittle woods like Ebony and lacquered Maple fretboards are all catered for,

Stainless steel fretwire, lacquered Maple fretboards, bound fingerboards and woods such as Ebony are an additional cost due to the extra work involved.

when re-fretting lacquered fingerboards, I will always try my utmost not to disturb the original lacquer, but sometimes its unavoidable. Any refinishing work attributed to the re-fret is an additional charge and will be discussed beforehand with the client.

If choosing to fully refret a guitar, it can, depending on height of the newly fitted frets when compared to the previously installed fretwire, require a new nut to be fashioned. This will be an additional cost to the refret and will be discussed with the client before any work is undertaken. Replacement nuts can be fashioned in a choice of materials, Bone being most popular, either bleached for a clean white look, or unbleached for a more vintage appearance. Graphtech Tusq and Tusq XL are other popular choices. Tusq nuts mainly are in black or white colours.

A full refret includes a guitar setup, fret level and re-crown as standard.

Fret levelling ensures that all your frets are the same height, preventing unwanted buzz and ensuring smooth playability across the fretboard. Once levelled, I carefully create what is known as 'fall away'. This is the science of allowing the strings to vibrate clearly beyond the twelfth fret, for a clearer buzz free playing experience, then crown each fret, giving them a rounded top to enhance their intonation and performance. This process not only improves playability for rhythmic chords, but also lead playing in the upper registers of the fretboard while enhancing the guitar's overall tone.

Brand new guitars often need a professional setup to be at their best, this often needs to include a fret level and re-crown, depending on the guitar and factory build quality.

If your frets are worn or uneven, trust me to restore them to peak condition.

Guitar Setup, Playability and Intonation Adjustments

A well-executed setup is essential for a guitar that plays well and sounds right. My setup services include adjusting the truss rod, string height, intonation, and action, ensuring your guitar is comfortable and easy to play.

Each guitar is unique, so I take the time to tailor the setup to your individual playing style. If you're experiencing tuning stability issues or finding your guitar difficult to play, a proper setup can make all the difference.

Brand new guitars often need a professional setup to be at their best, this often needs to include a fret level and re-crown, depending on the guitar and factory build quality.

Let me help you achieve the ideal balance of playability and tone.

Guitar Repairs and Restoration

Restoring your beloved guitar to its former glory is a specialty of mine. Whether it's a vintage instrument in need of a delicate touch or a modern guitar requiring quick repairs, I approach each job with care and expertise. I understand that a guitar is often more than just an instrument; it's a piece of your musical history, it can be the very thing that makes you, you.

From replacing broken parts to finish repairs, I handle all repairs with the utmost respect and attention to detail.

Your instrument will receive the care it deserves, bringing back it's sound, playability and above all else, keep it's Mojo.

Neck Adjustments

A well-adjusted neck is essential for optimal playability and tone. At J. Smith Custom Guitars and Repairs, I provide comprehensive neck adjustments and setups to ensure your guitar feels just right. This service includes adjusting the truss rod, string height, and intonation, allowing for smooth play and improved performance.

If you're struggling with buzzing, inconsistency, or uncomfortable action, I can diagnose the issues and make precise adjustments.

My goal is to enhance your playing experience, making it both enjoyable and inspiring.

Pickup Installation and Upgrades

Upgrading the pickups on your guitar can significantly alter its sound and character. I offer expert pickup installation and upgrades tailored to elevate your instrument's audio capabilities.

Whether you're looking for vintage warmth, modern clarity, or anything in between, I can guide you in selecting the right pickups within your required budget; helping to achieve the Tone you desire. A professional installation ensures that your new components are set up correctly for optimal performance.

Let’s work together to unlock your guitar’s true sonic potential.

Guitar Finish Repairs

The finish of a guitar is crucial not only for aesthetics but also for protection. If you wish to restore the original beauty of your instrument or customise it with a unique finish, I offer comprehensive finish repair services. Whether it’s removing old finish, applying new lacquer, or relic work, I take great care to enhance the overall look and feel of your guitar.

My goal is to ensure that your instrument stands out while maintaining its integrity and quality.

Electronic Repairs, Modifications & Upgrades

Guitar electronics play a significant role in shaping your sound, and I specialise in both repairs and modifications. Whether you're facing issues with your pickups, pots, or wiring, I can troubleshoot and restore your guitar's electronics to peak performance. Additionally, if you're interested in custom modifications, such as adding new pickups or switching systems, I can help accommodate your creative desires.

With my expertise, you can trust that your guitar's electronic components are in skilled hands, ensuring your instrument sounds great.

String Supply and Restringing Services

Regular string changes are vital for maintaining your instrument's tuning stability, sound quality and playability. At J. Smith Custom Guitars and Repairs, I provide convenient restringing services, exclusively using D'Addario strings which i can supply at excellent prices due to an exclusive deal with my supplier, this ensures your guitar is always ready to perform. I can help you choose the right gauge of strings that match your playing style and preferences. Whether you're a heavy strummer or a delicate fingerstyle player, I can recommend the best options.

With expert attention to detail, I ensure that your guitar is re-strung for optimal performance with every new set of strings.

Consultations and Appraisals

If your guitar requires a refret, fretwork, a set-up to improve it's playability, or has been damaged and needing repair, I offer free consultations and appraisals to help guide your decisions.

With years of expertise, I can provide valuable insights into the quality and value of instruments, as well as recommendations for modifications or repairs.

I believe in helping my clientele to achieve a premium playing experience; while also helping to educate, giving an understanding of good care and maintenance for your prized instrument.

Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned musician, my goal is to ensure you make informed choices.