Information on ordering, care, warranty

The current waiting time for an order is approximately 18-24 months. Generally, one or two current models are available for testing and display. I usually keep these for a year, after which they can be purchased. Please inquire about current availability.

I understand that ordering an instrument without prior testing requires a considerable amount of trust in the luthier. Almost always, guitarists are very satisfied and best served by a custom-made instrument. In most cases, expectations are significantly exceeded; see references. Custom-made instruments simply fit better than off-the-rack ones. In very rare cases, an instrument might not meet expectations or its sound might not suit the player. Even in these situations, I offer a fair solution. For standard models, you can usually choose between two instruments upon pickup or opt for one of the display models.

Payment & Pickup:

Orders are typically paid with a 1/4 deposit of the purchase price. Another quarter is due upon commencement of construction. The remaining balance is then due upon pickup/before shipping. Individual payment plans are available upon request. A high-quality case is included with the instrument. A current price list is available upon request via email.

I strongly prefer and recommend personal pickup of the instrument! This will also allow us to fine-tune the string action. Insured shipping is available upon request at the buyer’s expense.

Instructions for Using and Caring for Your New Guitar

1. Storage & Humidity

A handcrafted guitar made of solid woods is a delicate instrument. Ideally, the humidity should be between 40-55%. Use an accurate hygrometer and, if necessary, a humidifier (conventional hair hygrometers are very inaccurate). If the fret ends protrude sharply, it is definitely too dry. Cracks are then the logical consequence. Protect the guitar from high temperatures and direct sunlight, as well as from dry air from heating systems. When not in use, it is best to store it in its case. This way, you will enjoy your instrument for a long time!

2. String Action

The neck and top will initially give slightly due to the tension of the strings and find their balance. Therefore, the string action of a new guitar must be adjusted after the first few months and occasionally thereafter. I try to set the string height as low as possible for easier fretting, but personal preferences can vary greatly. This can be easily replicated by any good luthier or by myself.

3. Cleaning & Care

Use a soft cotton or microfiber cloth for cleaning. Never use polishes from the automotive or hobby sector, not even cleaners recommended for electric guitars! For heavier soiling, use a special cleaner. The fretboard should be cleaned and re-oiled once a year with a cloth or 000 grade steel wool to prevent cracking. Apply 2-3 drops (e.g., lemon or linseed oil) and wipe off any excess.

4. The Break-In Phase

A new guitar develops its full tonal character during the so-called break-in phase. The instrument „learns“ to sound. This may be surprising, but it can be explained by physics. The internal damping of the wood decreases due to vibration, and various aging and hardening processes take place. The sustain in the higher registers and the tonal colors, in particular, will develop during the break-in period. With intensive playing, this takes about a year and diminishes over time. However, changes can still be perceived even after several years.

5. The Shellac Polish

Shellac is initially delicate and takes about 3-4 months to fully harden. Place a soft cloth under the arm of your picking hand and on your legs. Heat and perspiration attack the shellac. Be careful with (shirt) buttons, zippers, belt buckles, or similar items, as well as coarse fabrics. These can leave marks and scratches. The good news is: a shellac polish can be repolished at any time.

6. The Double-Hole Bridge

Most of my guitars have a bridge with two holes for each string, for a total of 12. This offers two mounting options. You can either string the guitar as usual, or you can use both holes to achieve a steeper angle and thus more string tension. It also depends on the string tension and the desired sound. You’ll have to experiment to find out which sounds better. It’s crucial to use the correct hole each time, otherwise the strings won’t run centered. The lower of the two holes is always the correct one.

7. The Double Top

The double top, constructed using a sandwich technique, has many advantages. It offers enormous potential and volume, and is less affected by changes in humidity. This is a great advantage on concert tours. However, it’s important to know that the top layers are less than 1mm thick and therefore sensitive to mechanical stress, such as fingernails, tapping, etc. Extra care is required.

If you have any further questions or uncertainties, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Retreat to the test room and try out the instruments in a relaxed atmosphere. Here you can find out at your leisure which instrument suits you best. Bring your own instrument for reference and perhaps a second guitarist.

I guarantee that you will receive an instrument crafted to the best of my knowledge and with the utmost care. Expertly crafted according to the highest standards of craftsmanship. Each instrument is assembled under controlled conditions of 38-40% relative humidity using woods that have been seasoned for many years.

The Stark Guitar Workshop offers an extended warranty of 48 months against defects in manufacturing and construction, exceeding the statutory warranty.

Damage due to wear and tear, damage caused by external influences, weather, aging, or excessively high/low temperatures and humidity is not covered by the warranty. Hairline cracks can occur in some woods (e.g., Brazilian rosewood, cedar) even without external influence. Wood is a natural product. Cracks, discoloration, etc., are excluded from the warranty.

Parts from other manufacturers attached to the guitar, such as tuning pegs, cases, or pickups, are subject to the statutory warranty. The seller assigns any warranty claims for these components to the buyer against the manufacturer of these components. Unauthorized repairs and modifications will void the warranty. The warranty is non-transferable. Stark Guitar Studio is not liable for any consequential costs arising from a defect in the instrument. The warranty is a bring-in service. You are responsible for any shipping costs incurred.

If you purchased your instrument from a retailer, only the statutory warranty applies. This may vary depending on the country. In this case, you must contact the retailer directly.

In any event, I will always strive to find a fair and satisfactory solution!