Who Makes The Best Guitar Kits?

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  • Опубліковано 25 чер 2024
  • In this video we discuss the various guitar kit manufacturers that I am familiar with, and what kind of product they produce. Some are great for variety, quality, price point, or a combination of those elements. Who do you think makes the best guitar kits?
    Check out the guitar kits from Solo: www.solomusicgear.com/?ref=1512
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    Don't forget to ask your questions in the comment section.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 671

  • @darylhudson777
    @darylhudson777 Рік тому +5

    I watched several of the Crimson Guitar videos I love the expert attention to details. He doesn't skimp and in today's modern world I appreciate it so much more. I usually try to buy all American-made products so Crimson Guitar is an exception because they are top-of-the-line.

  • @hdcat61
    @hdcat61 5 місяців тому

    Good video, I look forward to learning more about the kits mentioned and have begun following your channel

  • @rickgold6664
    @rickgold6664 Рік тому +2

    Thanks again, Brad! Appreciate your time involved with making your videos. Even the comment section is good!
    😀

  • @danandratis
    @danandratis 2 роки тому

    Very informative video, thank you Brad - Cheers

  • @golflre7179
    @golflre7179 Рік тому

    Ty! Excited to get started.

  • @TaxPayingContributor
    @TaxPayingContributor 2 роки тому +4

    Finishing my second Muslady. Learned a lot from your channel and created a beautiful looking green flame gold burst LP. After another hundred dollars for upgraded parts, she just ain't the first one I grab. My Tele is green birds eye maple with edge bindings and gold hardware. Kits are fun to do and marginally pleased with these two experiences

  • @jake-gk1jy
    @jake-gk1jy 2 роки тому +6

    My strat style Muslady kit I bought through Walmart of all places arrived in great shape and was a two piece mahogany body. The neck pocket was very good although I did have to drill my neck bolt holes but that's ok. The CNC work was very clean for a kit guitar and overall the quality was very good for 100 bucks. Would buy again

  • @Mossy5150
    @Mossy5150 Рік тому +1

    I bought an offset headstock 5150 kit from KNE Guitar and everything came really nicely packaged, ready to finish and assemble. I bought most of the hardware and additional parts from Solo, and added a pariah 1986 pickup. The tremolo fit perfectly and everything was wonderfully aligned without any additional woodworking.

  • @landofahhs_1
    @landofahhs_1 2 роки тому +3

    Nice job covering kits you have used and are familiar with. I thought you were fair and honest in your discussed points. I appreciate reviews where the reviewer doesn't appear to be rehearsed, but just frankly speaks their mind...thank you!

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому +1

      Thanks Paul. You may have noticed this over time, but for better or for worse my videos are never rehearsed haha.

  • @wm4486
    @wm4486 6 місяців тому

    Thanks for the info 👍

  • @ChrisWilliams-cb9kt
    @ChrisWilliams-cb9kt 2 роки тому +10

    Only done one but Crimson Guitars did an excellent custom kit for me. My spec throughout. Quality woods, accurate neck pocket, frets, inlays etc. all spot on.

  • @CANNIMAGINE
    @CANNIMAGINE 8 місяців тому +13

    I built 3 Harley Benton kits during covid lockdown. They are inexpensive and of decent quality, especially for folks like me who use my own pickups, tuners, etc to finish the kits. I did a PRS style a LP style and a Jaguar style.

    • @bernardo9202
      @bernardo9202 Місяць тому

      Do you know from the guitar kit on the LP style of guitar, what is the comparsion on their line up, is it a lower grade like the 200 or 400 or like mid tier 450 or 500 kit or even the higher tier 550 and above?

  • @Torgo63
    @Torgo63 2 роки тому +7

    Thanks for the video, it's just what I needed. I just finished a 335 kit from Stewmac, and am looking at my options for my next build. I agree that Stewmac's prices are a bit high, but I ordered when they were having a $90 off sale, so making the purchase was less difficult. The 335 turned out beyond my expectations, both by how it looks, and how it plays. I also learned a whole lot (by making mistakes). I had never painted a guitar before, not to mention doing a 3 color burst.

    • @pugforce8315
      @pugforce8315 2 роки тому

      what kind of finish did you use? was it too difficult for a first time?

    • @Torgo63
      @Torgo63 2 роки тому +4

      @@pugforce8315 It wasn't too difficult at all. I made mistakes due to lack of experience it being my first time. I learned things like that overspray can go all the way to the other side of the guitar, gotta mask off everything. Also, you can't fix paint defects when it's still wet, let it dry then fix it. For the painting, I didn't want a Tobacco sunburst, so I got the Cherry Sunburst paint kit from Stew Mac. I also wanted the sides to be Gloss Black, so I got a can that, and a can of Sunburst Black (to fade in from the edge). I made a YT slideshow video if you want to see the kit progress (it ends before I set the intonation and final polish which I will update soon). If I do a guitar again like this, I will get an extra can of Clear Gloss, because if you make mistakes you are going to need more.

  • @karlcarpenter771
    @karlcarpenter771 2 роки тому +1

    Built a Solo PRK-1, and for the most part it was a complete breeze to finish and assemble. Used leather dye for the back and sides, and an indigo burst with Rit dye on the flamed top. Finished with tru-oil and a paste wax finish.
    My previous experience included neck refinishing because poly necks are horrible, and regular maintenance of my own guitars.

  • @billsguitargarage
    @billsguitargarage 2 роки тому

    I have built Crimson's Fan Fret uncut kit. What a fantastic build. Kit was great. It was actually my 2021 GGBO Kit Build entry.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому

      Nice! I can’t wait to do mine.

  • @Nverinder716
    @Nverinder716 2 роки тому +1

    I've used two, and I've had great experiences with both. Solo provided me with my first kit (an SG) and probably my current favorite, which is their SBK-150 .strandberg*-like headless. I've also been picking up kits from Pitbull in Australia, and have been super happy with them, especially on my custom 335 which is just about finished up. Also, while I haven't used their kits, Guitar Fetish has a massive variety of the various hardware you need to throw together really unique kits. My 335 custom is fully kitted with GF parts including pickups, bridge and trem, and even a wiring harness.

    • @nfabulous2932
      @nfabulous2932 Рік тому

      I actually did the same thing as you. i started with the SG kit from Solo, and now im using a Solderless Ash top Telecaster kit.

  • @davidspeller4344
    @davidspeller4344 2 роки тому +2

    I built a Strat using a XGP body and Neck from Guitar Fetish. the quality and fit was far better than I expected. The body was Alder and the Neck Maple. fret ends were rounded and polished. I only wish they offered medium jumbo or jumbo frets. I found that they are often out of stock on items. (the hardware I used was from Solo Guitars - a Xmas gift from my son) I recommend at least the body and the neck from them!

  • @kevmac1230
    @kevmac1230 2 роки тому +2

    I've built five or six kits, mostly basses.Two were Solo and they're pretty good.

  • @bendriggs8595
    @bendriggs8595 5 місяців тому

    Thanks, Brad

  • @markusbe.musicfromtheunder2497
    @markusbe.musicfromtheunder2497 2 роки тому +2

    I just completed a Harley Benton kit. I'm surprised how well it came out and how well it plays. Vey good quality. The more work you put in the greater the reward! I got cool guitar, that plays and sounds pretty good. Going to try a StewMac next. * * * * THANKS BRAD.... for the inspiration and sharing your expert knowledge with us new builders. Cheers! Markus

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому +1

      Cheers Markus. I’m glad it came out well.

    • @markusbe.musicfromtheunder2497
      @markusbe.musicfromtheunder2497 2 роки тому +1

      @@BradAngove Thanks to you!!! You ARE a great teacher! Love your channel. Gonna try a SOLO branded one as well....

  • @ronaldplagens6382
    @ronaldplagens6382 2 роки тому

    Glad I watched this. Waiting on 2 Solo kits

  • @christophercarroll
    @christophercarroll 2 роки тому +9

    Hey Brad, I just got one of StewMac’s offset kits. Definitely worth picking one up while they are on sale for $185. Cheers!

  • @Xpyburnt_ndz
    @Xpyburnt_ndz 2 роки тому

    Gr8 vid Brad! Thnx!

  • @michaelhumphreys7882
    @michaelhumphreys7882 2 роки тому

    Thanks Brad, a very useful steer from someone who knows👍

  • @briankmavpro5246
    @briankmavpro5246 Рік тому +1

    My last build was a PVX kit. Came out great with a really nice flame top.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  Рік тому

      Nice; those look like good kits.

  • @jimmyjoe1871
    @jimmyjoe1871 11 місяців тому +8

    I just finished a Korina Explorer from precision guitar kits. It is a fantastic instrument. I didn’t cut any corners though. Hide glue, nitro finish, faber tonelock hardware, OX4 pickups. Easily rivals a custom shop Gibson.

  • @christopheraaron8299
    @christopheraaron8299 11 місяців тому +2

    I've built 2 strats, one from random parts I ordered and one from a kit. I ended up not using most of the hardware from the kit because I wanted some upgrades, like locking tuners, roller saddles, roller trees and a bone nut. I also got a nice blue pearl pickguard (I painted the guitar blue.) The kit guitar was from a company called RSW and it's rather nice quality. Basswood body, maple neck, maple fretboard, Fender shaped headstock. I'd say it's about the same quality as my Squier Affinity Strats.

  • @Heartwing37
    @Heartwing37 2 роки тому +2

    Got a great TS from GKW! Beautiful, but I did my own upgrades and customization!

  • @christopherhester2845
    @christopherhester2845 2 роки тому +11

    I built my first LP kit from Stewmac. I immediately replaced all the hardware. I would say it took it from playing like a $300 to a $600 guitar. It is not my Les Paul, but it sounds great and stays in tune.

  • @toasteroverdrive1097
    @toasteroverdrive1097 2 роки тому

    Got 2 GTS LP kits. 1st one I glued the neck rigth away, did came out great, nice frets. 2nd one I waited before gluing the neck. It develloped a small hump at the 15 fret. An Epiphone switch is better than the boxy ones. They both had slim 60 neck profile.

  • @mind140
    @mind140 2 роки тому +2

    I've bought 3 or 4 Precision kits and they are the best I've come across by far.

  • @ebandcamp
    @ebandcamp 2 роки тому +2

    I have the same spalted maple LP that turned out outstanding from SOLO from your recommendation ! Thanks .
    I trashed all the chrome hardware and went with gold , Emerson electrics with a treble bleed I added , Lumberbucker p/ups ( sound amazing and fairly inexpensive ) Gohto locking tuners with amber pearloid tuners , I found amber knobs that go to 11 , stained and oil neck and gold mirror rear covers . Polyurethaned the top and head stock walnut stained the sides and back . Sounds and plays amazing .

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому

      Nice! That sounds like an awesome project.

  • @pops71
    @pops71 2 роки тому

    Great video, thank you. The other brand you didn’t mention, but imho invented the DIY guitar is Warmoth.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому

      Yeah warmoth makes awesome partscaster stuff and diy parts. IM not sure they do kits per se, and I don’t really have any experience with them because of their price point, but I know their work is high quality.

  • @NickSelfridge
    @NickSelfridge Рік тому +2

    I’ve built precision guitar’s single cut Junior and currently working on their double cut Junior kit as well, for the price and quality, like $350 after shipping, the single cut is my best guitar and I have a good feeling about the double cut.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  Рік тому

      They seem quite reliable for quality. I’m sure the double cut will be good.

  • @joncaradies3155
    @joncaradies3155 2 роки тому +2

    Not really a kit per say but I've bought a couple unfinished bodies and necks from Warmoth and thought they were great !!! The roasted maple necks are especially beautiful in workmanship and the way they feel .

  • @alanwalker1698
    @alanwalker1698 2 роки тому +1

    I love my Precision Double cut Jr kit

  • @clarkbabin9799
    @clarkbabin9799 Рік тому +1

    I've priced Stew Mac and do agree they are a bit proud of their products and its reflected in the prices. Your better off buying a whole kit they suggest for what ever style your interested in. To go in and select parts individually your getting into new assembled guitar range.

  • @gregkelly9732
    @gregkelly9732 2 роки тому +2

    Hi Brad, I wanted to mention Guitar Kit World. They make very nice looking kits. I recently purchased 2 from them. They had a BOGO sale. Great opportunity to get them. I haven't built them yet because I've been in the hospital. But I do look forward to building them soon!

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому +1

      I hope your build goes well once you get it.

  • @user-ze7cu2uq7j
    @user-ze7cu2uq7j 5 місяців тому

    Hi Brad, I have been watching your videos on various guitar kits, as a Christmas present this year 2023 my good lady bought me the Guitar Works Solo Telecaster Pro Kit from Guitar4Music here in the U.K. Wow, what arrived was not what i was expecting, the kit was well boxed, well presented and very much first class, everything fitted perfect, the drill holes was spot on and the hardware was good, from opening the box to completion of the build took just 3 hrs excellent for a first time, i would certainly give it my No1 build kit, ***** Thanks Brad, Keep up the Good Work.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  5 місяців тому

      Thank you, that’s good to know.

    • @paulwatson
      @paulwatson 5 місяців тому

      I think the company is Gear4Music

  • @HigzyTeflon
    @HigzyTeflon Рік тому

    Solo Guitars. I have dealt with them twice now. I got my Seymour Duncan Invader bridge pickup for my ESP Eclipse and most recently a Seymour Duncan Hot Rails for my US Strat. Customer service was fantastic -- thanks @ Dave Marocco for the freebie selector switch tip I asked for and also the picks and sticker -- looks great on my Strat case. Plus, I like that they are local (Markham, ON) and only took 3-4 days for deliveries to arrive in Toronto.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  Рік тому +1

      Yeah they’re a great company. Almost everyone I talk to about them says the customer service is awesome.

  • @markmilligan8773
    @markmilligan8773 2 роки тому

    Hey bud that was a great video. Especially for me in UK as crimson is well outside my price range and custom build uk might suit.

  • @allenstroo5414
    @allenstroo5414 Рік тому

    I have personally built 4 PGK kits! And all 4 were phenomenal! No issues at all!

  • @jeremyklein9679
    @jeremyklein9679 2 роки тому

    I can't say that I have much to compare to, but I've built 2 Guitar Kit World kits and was very happy with them. They were both set necks, and the necks fit great and aligned well without having to adjust the pocket. There was also virtually no sanding needed when I took them out of the box. They have nice verniers, decent hardware, and a variety of options, even within a single style if guitar. Also plenty of lefty options (which is great for me). The only flaw I noticed was a little bit of glue from the binding on the body of the Guitars that I didn't really notice until after i stained the guitars.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому

      I’ll have to check them out. Haven’t seen anything from there before.

  • @guitarzan0515
    @guitarzan0515 2 роки тому

    Yet another great video! I have built A Solo SG, very high quality, also a few Fretwire kits, and a. few Bargain Musicians kits. Solo was the best, although their prices have gone way up from before the Covid. Fretwire comes in 2 , then Bargain. As you state, they all have their challenges, but are fun to build!
    Thx Brad, I’ve mentioned your channel a number of times on my channel. Keep up the great work and informative videos 💥👍🤙

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому

      Sounds like you’ve got quite the list of kits under your belt.

  • @randynicholsonsr560
    @randynicholsonsr560 Рік тому +3

    I built a Telecaster from Solo and was very impressed.

  • @Johnny.D
    @Johnny.D 2 роки тому +1

    my first kit was a solo way back in 2011. then a guitarfetish LP which wasn't too bad but I had to shim the neck pocket.

  • @pimpdaddy1445
    @pimpdaddy1445 8 місяців тому +1

    Precision guitar kits that I have done are beyond epic. My fender custom shop strat stays collecting dust in a closet for the last few years , just put it that way

  • @acecomet
    @acecomet 5 місяців тому

    Solo are really good, i m building my second one tomorow🤙

  • @frankryan8100
    @frankryan8100 2 роки тому +1

    I’ve done fretwire and bargain musician kits. Both do their woodwork well and the necks and fret work were better than expected. The hardware is lacking on both so I upgrade that stuff. But the wood and fit? Love them both… until I have to apply the finish which I hate/suck at. Thanks Brad but man you make it look easy!

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому

      Thanks Frank. I may have to try those some day.

  • @hotcakesman
    @hotcakesman 2 роки тому

    my 1st kit was an Aeirsi kit and honestly despite the crappy hardware.. the body has been amazing. One of the best players I own

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому +1

      Glad to here it. I’ll have to check them out

  • @danieldunn293
    @danieldunn293 2 роки тому

    Purchased two StewMac kits, strat and tele. Both were on sale and worth every penny.

  • @hollierthanthou83
    @hollierthanthou83 2 роки тому +28

    As an Aussie, and the cost of international postage, it's difficult to try a lot of manufacturers out there. But we do have Pitbull Guitars, and they are very nice quality, great service, and the customization options are great!

    • @franknicastri9201
      @franknicastri9201 2 роки тому +4

      As a fellow Aussie I also love Pitbull. Great quality and great customer service!

    • @scottbegg7459
      @scottbegg7459 2 роки тому +3

      Being from New Zealand I too have tried Pitbull Guitars and was well pleased with the quality of these kits. Service was unbelievable . from Australia across the sea to NZ to my door in less than 48 hours everytime

    • @tsikoutsikou
      @tsikoutsikou 2 роки тому +2

      I've bought from Pitbull, currently living in Poland, especially because of the customizations that they offered, as you mentioned. Found out that they're really nice people as well!

    • @woodskid4ever
      @woodskid4ever 2 роки тому

      Are Pitbulls made in Australia?

    • @franknicastri9201
      @franknicastri9201 2 роки тому

      @@woodskid4ever manufactured in China I believe but everything else is here.

  • @briw4647
    @briw4647 2 роки тому +2

    ive found sometimes its not just the quality, its the finishing. ive bought some cheap kits and very expensive kits. the only difference the expensive kit was finish sanded

  • @ricksigurdson2016
    @ricksigurdson2016 2 роки тому +1

    To me an uncut kit means a trip to the lumberyard.
    Solo's templates are good well done using mdf.

  • @haldasinger6440
    @haldasinger6440 2 роки тому

    I built a tele kit from Guitar Fetish and it was great. Super lightweight. Neck lined up fine, was straight and felt great. I upgraded all the hardware so can't say what the parts were like.

  • @RuthlessMojo
    @RuthlessMojo 2 роки тому

    I recently built a Haze Jazzmaster Kit. The neck and heel joint was really tight, the body required no extra sanding and the hardware was very decent when it came to quality. It came with no solder electronics and two P90 pickups that actually sound great. They had vintage spec brass back plates on them as well. Nice kit. Pitbull Guitar also sell some decent kits and have a good range of kits.

    • @franknicastri9201
      @franknicastri9201 2 роки тому

      Interesting you had a great experience with Haze. In my experience they're terrible.

    • @RuthlessMojo
      @RuthlessMojo 2 роки тому

      @@franknicastri9201 I imagine the QC isn't the best in the cheaper brands. Sometimes it's dependent on who's doing QC. You may have one person who's very meticulous and another who's not. I've seen that in name brand quitars too. I can't attest to others experience but the kit I got was great.

  • @heartofoak4503
    @heartofoak4503 2 роки тому +3

    I'd highly recommend BYO guitars, I have 2, a Jazz bass and a Jaguar...awesome kits and great support

    • @johnpecoraro1720
      @johnpecoraro1720 2 роки тому

      I worked for them years ago, their custom kits are very high quality.

    • @boogrbear788
      @boogrbear788 2 роки тому +1

      Haven't used them yet. But got my eye on a body they have. Great site with a lot of options. I recommend anyone looking at guitar kits to have a look.

  • @ceruleanguitars6281
    @ceruleanguitars6281 2 роки тому +1

    I have done a few kits and have only once (the first time) used any of the hardware that they come with. Now I usually stay on the lookout for a model I want or an interesting shape that looks fun, or a really good mod platform and plan a build around a body and neck using some of the parts I already have. Since I stock up on parts a couple of times a year it's, so far, not a problem. I guess I just need a good, reliable, source for stuff I might need without long waiting periods. We shall see. Looking forward to your next build....

    • @dogslobbergardens6606
      @dogslobbergardens6606 2 роки тому

      Kits are cool but it's really starting to look like HB and others' finished budget guitars are finally good enough that you may as well just buy one of those and paint it however you want. You can get models with good Gotoh hardware for under 300 bucks, and they get very good to excellent reviews. Makes it hard to justify going through the extra work of assembling a kit that comes with cheapo hardware you're going to replace anyway, and spend another hundy or two in the process.

    • @jthonn
      @jthonn 2 роки тому

      @@dogslobbergardens6606 You are absolutely right. You kind of feel like a fool buying a cheap kit when you can buy the guitar cheaper from Glarry or of the sort and they throw in the cheesy soft case, strings, pics and crap. I do it for the fun, but the kits are getting to pricey.

  • @thegarageluthier
    @thegarageluthier Рік тому

    Crimson Guitars and Precision Guitars are my go to for kits, always perfect.

  • @G2Giaco
    @G2Giaco 2 роки тому +3

    I've built 3 from TheFretWire - a flying V, an ESP-type, and just did a paulownia & Maple resonator. They definitely have a good variety.
    The first two kits went together pretty well (within reason), and I did a lot of custom carving/engraving on them (all 3, actually). The last one (resonator) had all kinds of design issue in it - the resonator cone didn't have anywhere for the piezo pickup wire to go through, there was chipping around where the neck attaches on the body, the provided mini-humbucker pickup didn't fit in the neck pickup cutout (the end of the fretboard was in the way), and a few other things. I got it sorted out, but did not have good luck with setting the neck, so the action is super high - which is OK for the slide work I'm using it for but would otherwise be an issue.
    Support *used* to be amazing, but I wouldn't recommend at this point.

  • @lucentguitars
    @lucentguitars 2 роки тому +1

    Pitbull have some good stuff and great customer service. I'm not a fan of veneered kits because of glue spots but plenty of choices for paint grade stuff

  • @ronznine7870
    @ronznine7870 2 роки тому

    Stew-Mac. He's right about them. Great supplies if you don't mind doubling your price with shipping & handling. Check out what they charge just to pack and ship a couple of spray cans.

  • @jonathanray4598
    @jonathanray4598 2 роки тому +1

    I took a stock 2011 Gibson les paul 60s tribute guitar ( mostly hollow) put it face down and routed out every hollow space in it and filled it up with steel run off tabs from work...this added 10 extea pounds plus the pounds of pennies I put on the top ( 3D effect ). I filled the neck pickup, and toggle switch area with steel too. Then I installed a single gibson bridge mini humbucker ( new ) with a single volume knob, all wired with vintage braided wire and painted the guitar black ( the body ) before added the pennies to the surface on the top. I plan on adding a gibson t6 fine tunning tail piece in time. This guitar blows les paul customs and standards out of the water now! This cannon weighs in at 18 lbs now and has massive chords and sustain.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому

      18 lbs! Wow. Might as well strap a piano to yourself haha.

  • @gergemall
    @gergemall 2 роки тому

    Thank you. New subscriber.

  • @larrywhitley3359
    @larrywhitley3359 2 роки тому +1

    I did a fret wire for my very first build. I was not happy with it, the laminate top was so thin, that I sanded right through it. It had a high and low spot on on the top and I tried to work them out but it didn’t work out well. I was really disappointed with it. I now prefer to build from scratch, but I do have a SRP crimson guitar kit that I’m waiting to get here. I’ve been waiting for a while now but I believe it will be here this month. Thanks for your channel I really enjoy it. Yes the CG kit was expensive.

    • @GPO_Studios
      @GPO_Studios 2 роки тому +1

      I did a Mustang kit from FretWire as my 2nd kit build, and was a bit disappointed as well. The neck pocket was not right, and the placement of the bridge screws was questionable. (Manufacturers: we would rather you leave stuff like that to the builder if you can't do it absolutely correct yourselves!). My first kit was a Tele style from StewMac, which had great build quality in comparison, although I originally received an LP-style kit from them by mistake, so it took an extra week or so to get the product I actually ordered. For a couple hours I thought about keeping the (more expensive) LP style one, but I'm so happy with how the Tele turned out that I have absolutely no regrets.

    • @dogslobbergardens6606
      @dogslobbergardens6606 2 роки тому +1

      Yeah, the veneers they use for figured tops are VERY thin. Be real, real careful sanding them. Like, don't do it normally, just go straight to the final grit and use an extremely light touch. You're not going to get the same smoothness as doing it properly, but you can sort of hide that in the finishing.

  • @michaelrosebud
    @michaelrosebud 3 місяці тому

    You are right...Stew Mac prices are quite high, and they do not give discounts, that is why I buy from All Parts in Texas....

  • @sh4969
    @sh4969 4 місяці тому

    The Kit I came across was a book on how to chop down a tree and sweat out the water depending on how much water you want in the wood for the build. But now I would go on a Crimson guitar 5 day building course

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  4 місяці тому

      That would be awesome. I’d love to take Ben’s course one day.

  • @jacksonmarshallkramer5087
    @jacksonmarshallkramer5087 Рік тому

    I want a neck-thru Baretta or a neck-thru Soloist. A San Dimas, neck-thru, of course, would be cool too. I like neck-thru guitars.

  • @hatintec
    @hatintec 2 роки тому +2

    BYO is my choice. Both their Import and Made in USA Custom Shop kits are great quality. Custom Shop Kits are some of the best, and they can be ordered with the options the builder selects. That are not cheap, mass produced. They are best-quality, USA made. Try one of each, you’ll fall in love.

  • @nicokarsen6131
    @nicokarsen6131 2 роки тому +2

    Warmoth, I have 4 now. These guitars are the best guitars I have ever touched let alone owned.

  • @darktecheon3693
    @darktecheon3693 5 місяців тому

    Big fan of the wilkinson kits, Quality build, pickups, and have the patented fender headstocks. (not bad for price)

  • @tombruno3969
    @tombruno3969 2 роки тому +140

    Hey Brad! I feel like Warmoth definitely needs to be mentioned here, they have so much customization and basically you can piece together a kit

    • @dogslobbergardens6606
      @dogslobbergardens6606 2 роки тому +77

      Yeah, and end up spending two grand on a guitar nobody else will ever want.

    • @KeganVanSickle
      @KeganVanSickle 2 роки тому +39

      @@dogslobbergardens6606 Yep. You buy a Warmoth, you buy it for life, or take a huge hit.

    • @rodneywatkins4731
      @rodneywatkins4731 2 роки тому +4

      @@dogslobbergardens6606 why.? Whats wrong with Warmoth?

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому +41

      Yeah, warmoth was definitely worth mentioning. High quality for sure. And of course high price point.

    • @tombruno3969
      @tombruno3969 2 роки тому +24

      @@dogslobbergardens6606 not sure where you are getting 2 grand from, I spent $600 for my mahogany Flying V body and maple neck w/ ebony board.

  • @IndyRockStar
    @IndyRockStar 2 місяці тому

    all the parts I've every bought Musiclily has been of good quality and more importantly always fit!

  • @Pegasus4213
    @Pegasus4213 2 роки тому

    At the end where you give your three best guitar kits, I couldn't hear the name of the third one. You need to insert words onscreen or in the links below! Thanks, I love Solo-finished body kits! Their finished body for Les Paul is just great!

  • @howardmcmillian5764
    @howardmcmillian5764 2 роки тому

    god I am glad you made this video

  • @nicokarsen6131
    @nicokarsen6131 2 роки тому

    PLEASE do a review of the new Stewmac Jazzmaster kits. Can't find a review anywhere.

  • @richsackett3423
    @richsackett3423 2 роки тому +4

    The ES-175 kit I got from Guitar Kit World was excellent. The rest of the catalog was appealing quality stuff. Got sick and tired waiting for Solo to restock (4+ months). A couple phone calls saying "soon" then I bailed.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому +1

      Yeah, they had a real supply chain issue for a while there. Especially before they built their new bigger warehouse.

    • @michaelknight4041
      @michaelknight4041 Рік тому +1

      There's a 175 KIT?? 😳. Oh man! I got to get one! Or two

  • @TiagoGarrinhas
    @TiagoGarrinhas 2 роки тому +3

    Pitbull is great! I’ve built a few kits, they were awesomely well built. Highly recommended 😉

  • @user-wk6zq4tr6k
    @user-wk6zq4tr6k 2 місяці тому

    Thank you for you Brad for recommending Solo Guitars I am about to get a 335 kit from them and I agree with you on Solo one place I would recommend to you would be Guitar Kit World

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  Місяць тому

      Thank you for the recommendation

  • @sylvainrichard1577
    @sylvainrichard1577 Рік тому

    i agree on stewmac

  • @sydwynd
    @sydwynd Рік тому

    I built a tele kit from BYO Guitars. Budget friendly. Body and neck were great. Pickups were pretty cheap and sounded just OK. Build was a lot of fun. The do have options to upgrade hardware, pre drill holes, etc. I'll likely get my next kit from them when I'm ready.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  Рік тому +1

      Glad to hear you enjoyed the build.

    • @pv6505
      @pv6505 9 місяців тому +1

      I've been looking into a Custom kit from BYO. Are they worth it?

    • @sydwynd
      @sydwynd 9 місяців тому +1

      @@pv6505 I had great luck with mine and was happy the way it came out. Built it with my oldest kid and he LOVES that guitar. I personally think they're reasonable depending on which body style you like. Would recommend a bolt on model if it's your first go.

    • @pv6505
      @pv6505 9 місяців тому +1

      @sydwynd I've got a few I've built through Warmoth already. Looking to mix it up though. Was debating a BYO Custom Strat that THEY painted (I'm impatient and you can tell in my pain jobs).

  • @mveitchmunich
    @mveitchmunich 5 місяців тому

    I had great luck with both Fretwire and Bad Cat. I did the Fretwire 12 string 335 kit and the Bad Cat Firebird. Pango Firebird was difficult as the wood was almost petrified but it came out great. I agree with Guitar Fetish who I love for their pickups and clearance section. They should really line up someone else to supply their kits.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  5 місяців тому

      Glad to hear you’re experienced with them were good.

  • @thomaslthomas1506
    @thomaslthomas1506 2 роки тому

    I’ve bought from stratosphere & fret wire. Never a complete kit though. Good parts though. I’ve been especially happy with Allparts necks & stratosphere branded pickups.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому

      Allparts certainly has some good options.

  • @bobbydrex5268
    @bobbydrex5268 Рік тому +1

    I've done a jazzmaster kit from harley benton and it was pretty good for only $80

  • @kmalcolm5352
    @kmalcolm5352 2 роки тому +1

    Worth noting that shipping and currency plays a part in this. I’m in Canada so a $300 kit from the states becomes a $400 kit with duty and exchange. Solo has pretty much filled the stewmac market in Canada as they’re in Ontario and have almost as many cool tools and parts. Importing from the UK or Oz is another matter. But generally the mass-made Chinese kits are all the same. Solo does good quality control and offers seconds and a really good customer relations program. But I’d never pay exchange and duty for a MIC anything.

  • @allenstroo5414
    @allenstroo5414 2 роки тому

    I ise Warmoth gor fender style builds, but as far as kits go....PGK hands down makes the best I've built! And I've built quite a few!

  • @vamcaptain
    @vamcaptain 2 роки тому

    I have three Pitbull kits, one of them is total custom work from Pitbull. Very nice work and fit.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому

      Nice! Glad to hear they do custom.

  • @jjulch
    @jjulch 2 роки тому +2

    Precision Guitar Kits in Canada makes the best. Hands down. No fretwork needed, neck fits like a glove.

  • @rturney
    @rturney 2 роки тому +9

    Precision Guitar kits are great. You'll get very high quality wood and precision NC machining. Their fretwork is top notch. I've built two of their Les Paul Jr kits.

    • @dogslobbergardens6606
      @dogslobbergardens6606 2 роки тому +1

      They're pretty much all built on precision CNC machines. Nobody's sitting around with hand saws and chisels building any of these things. Including the vast majority of the Big Name Brand guitars.
      The fretwork, binding if applicable, and wood is where the real differences are, for sure.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому +4

      There are definitely different levels of CNC machining out there though.

    • @heres2ya
      @heres2ya 2 роки тому

      they have some great kits, but i can't see spending $600+ on a body and neck, when you can actually buy a USA strat for about the same money as doing one of their builds.

    • @hkguitar1984
      @hkguitar1984 2 роки тому +4

      Precision Guitar Kits are the only brand I'd even consider. What is a person's time worth? I've repaired enough cheap-o kit guitars that its obvious that most cheap-o kits are a waste of a person's time and efforts.
      I'd place the Precision Guitar Kits at the quality level of Fender or Gibson concerning materials used and fret work.

  • @aceforyoutoo
    @aceforyoutoo 2 роки тому

    The DIY kits from thoman are nice price from 89 euro’s to 120 euro’s good woods nice complete kits , but you can get also some other hardware from them like seymour duncan and dimarzio and lots more

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому +1

      Nice. That sounds like a perfectly reasonable option.

  • @jessebrigden2920
    @jessebrigden2920 2 роки тому

    I'm doing a precision kit right now. It's excellent. Their customer service could use a tweak or two though.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому

      Haha fair enough. I don’t think they have many people. It’s a small operation.

  • @shanefoster2861
    @shanefoster2861 2 роки тому +1

    Look into BYO.

  • @TheOtteroo
    @TheOtteroo Рік тому

    Would love to see some neck through designed Kits.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  Рік тому

      I imagine those would be hard to come across because of how much extra storage and shipping hassle is involved.

  • @E.T.musics
    @E.T.musics 2 роки тому

    Hi im not an expert but i made one P bass guitar kit from harley benton. İt felt super cool the body the electronics and everrything. Especially for the price. İ recommend Harley benton and Thomann. But Crimson guitars as you mentioned like one of the best i think :) because i follow their channel just for fun. That guy is an awsome luthier. Thanks i like your videos

  • @MUFC1878AC
    @MUFC1878AC 2 роки тому +1

    I bought a SG kit, Strat body and paddle neck from Solo. Well made, neck and body a good fit, good pricing as well. Easy going guys at Solo, great to deal with,a place to browse and shop for all your builds. Brad, thanks for all your tips and advice.

    • @BradAngove
      @BradAngove  2 роки тому +1

      Cheers. I’m glad your kit looked good.

  • @M5guitar1
    @M5guitar1 Рік тому

    I used a Solo Les Paul neck to build a Rickenbacker 350V replica. About 75% into the build...great neck.

  • @xF1revolution
    @xF1revolution 2 роки тому

    Precision Guitar Kits for Gibson style stuff, and Guitar Mill ( not kits but bodies and necks) for Fender style stuff for me.

  • @xXGamerGod20Xx
    @xXGamerGod20Xx 19 днів тому

    Just recently built a leo jaymz guitar. Got the BC beast style. And it wasn't bad for the price. Definitly didn't use the strings that came with it.

  • @timjennings8152
    @timjennings8152 2 роки тому

    can say that pitbulls customer service has been amazing. and the kits have turned out really nice

  • @AsyncVoid
    @AsyncVoid 2 роки тому

    Thomann? Also, did you say Guitar Build Kit UK right? Can't find them online