Pictured: Brian Setzer, putting a '57 Gibson ES-5 Switchmaster through its paces.

"These guitars sound amazing! Don't let me come back, or I'm gonna have to buy one."

-Larry Coryell, cheerfully coveting a 1953 Epiphone Emperor Regent

oe, We have been in business many times before. Always at full satisfaction. Because everything at archtop.com is so professional! And again « I’m as happy as a baby boy, with another  brand new choo-choo toy, it’s a 39 L5 Gibson, and I just cannot  put it down! Thanks! Roland Goerg, Nyon, Switzerland

Thanks again, Joe, for handling the sale of my Francois Baudemont gypsy guitar.  Always a pleasure working with such a fine musician and unquestionably reliable authority on quality instruments.  No finer source for archtop and related acoustic guitars! —Paul Estridge, Roseville, CA

Joe, The (Guild X-500) guitar has arrived safe and undamaged. My first impression is that it is nicer and better than I have dared to imagine... It really plays like butter and sounds very nice acoustically, I didn't plug it in yet. And the burgundy finish is much nicer than I could tell from your pictures. I am very happy with it. Just in case you are still in contact with the original owner, you can tell him that his guitar is in good hands and will be treasured for many years to come...Thank you very much for packing it really well...Best regards, Markus Buchwald, Berlin

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Joe, After looking for some time for a great vintage archtop, I found many to choose from here! Joe made the process easy with responsive communication, even a Skype call so I could see and hear the guitar as he played it for me! My overall experience with Joe and Archtop.com was excellent. The site not only has an amazing inventory but history and very useful information, as well as some cool vintage photos! Payment options were great, the guitar was well packed and shipped - I would highly recommend Archtop.com!! And I mean every word of it! Peg Andrae, Midlothian, VA

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Hi Joe, The '53 Triumph Regent arrived today in good order.  I set it up and it plays very well with beautiful note definition and natural reverb. Plenty of headroom. The finish is almost exactly the same as my '46 Spartan and I love that warm tobacco 'burst hue. Thanks for making the process easy. Best regards, Dr. D.K. Muschenheim, Acadia University, Nova Scotia

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Hi Joe, While many think Friday the 13th is a bad omen, for me it’s a good day. No, not good, great! Obviously, my Dad’s old guitar arrived today and in good order. All I can say is WOW! You far exceeded my expectations... sure glad I found your website and engaged you to restore my Dad’s ’53 Epiphone. It looks and plays like new. Many thanks. A grateful customer, Bill Holbird, Woodhaven, MI

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Joe - The proceeds were waiting for me when I got back from my trip. Thank you for uncovering and restoring the value in my guitar. I knew it was a good instrument, but did not suspect that it could be worth as much as it was. I appreciate the knowledge and workmanship that you provided - you brought out the best in the instrument. It was a pleasure doing business with you. I wish I had more guitars to sell! I would definitely use archtop.com and will recommend you to others. Thanks for all your help. Eric Loken, Spring City, PA

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Joe, (My guitar was) of such special interest, I was not at all sure it would move. Nonetheless, you managed to find a new home for it, and fairly quickly, all things considered. archtop.com must have a customer base and a reputation like none other! You have my on-going thanks for operating your excellent business in the straight-forward way that you do. I look forward to future transactions. - Tim Hillman, Bowser, BC.

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Hi Joe, The Gibson ES- 330 just arrived. Dived into the bubble plastic, pulled out the case, opened up, tuned up and plugged in. Instant channeling Grant Green. How fat and rich are those P90's? Thanks Joe, superb description in gorgeous condition. I am sure glad that I didn't delay in purchasing. Would have been a bummer to miss out on this one. It is just so playable. With my Victoria tweed amp I need to set the pots at about 7 and up. You are so correct, this is the most playable guitar in my collection. Cheers Ian Goodwin, Newport, Australia

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Hi Joe, I am very happy to write about my sales experience and I would like to thank you very much once again for your profesional deal with me selling my IBANEZ GB 20 ! And I am very happy to write about it ! I am very pleased for your excellent service, your speedy action to sell it and I perceived your genuine appreciation for the instruments ! I would be very glad to make another great deal with you again !! Marios Paxinos, Athens, Greece

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Joe, I finally received the ('28 L-5) Gibson in Brazil from my shipper and opened it up over the weekend. Really beautiful guitar and those cases you sell are superb. I reinserted the bridge at the position indicated by the post its and tuned it up and it really is a beauty. Has a really nice action - does not require as much pressure as I thought it would for an old guitar. Thanks very much. I will treasure this for years to come. James Vickers, Rio de Janeiro

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 Just a quick note regarding my experience of selling two high end archtop items with Joe at archtop.com---simply put, the professionalism and efficiency  of selling highly specialized jazz musical instruments at archtop.com is unmatched on the internet....You have established yourself as a true expert in a social space where art and business are harmoniously joined. A place where the beauty of jazz guitar is fully appreciated.Thanks again Joe! John Brown, Valparaiso, IN

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Hi Joe, Good to chat with you again the other day... I unpacked the guitar (ES-165) , got the bridge on, intonated and played.... What a smooth-playing guitar! When I was in the Gibson factory in Memphis 3 weeks ago, they made mention that neck shaping is about the only hand woodworking left in these guitars. The guy surely got this one right for my hand! This makes four guitars that I have bought from you... Always a pleasure! Prompt service and accurate description! Thanks, Joe! -Larry Seutter, Edmonton, AB

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Hey Joe, The (1917) L-1 has arrived and it is just as fine as I expected. Set it up quick (thanks for the post-its!) and it sounds wonderful. And, except for a little nick here or there (and who doesn't have those?), it looks like it just arrived fresh from Kalamazoo; sleek and shiny and good as new. Thanks for everything. I will check in from time to time and see what else you have going on, meanwhile, add me to your mailing list. Best, Don Scardino, Studio City, CA

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Dear Joe, I received the (Ribbecke) guitar today. It arrived in good condition. I really love it !! I deeply appreciate your kindness. I am going to see your items on Internet. Best regards, Thank you, Sotaro Miura, Osaka, Japan

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Joe, Thanks for hosting me today and introducing me to this Epi...  It sounds fantastic!  Really outstanding.  I've been playing it for an hour or so now and am blown away at how loud and bright, but also bassy it is.  Really an outstanding instrument.... In the meantime, thanks again for putting this instrument in my hands....Thanks, Billy Joseph, Portland, OR

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Hey Joe. I received the custom shop ES-355 today. Fabulous guitar, fabulous person to do business with. Thank you, sir. Eric Harding, Ontario

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Hi Joe, Got the guitar (ES-150) yesterday! She's even prettier in person. Thanks again for all your help with the process. Thanks, Bob Merkl, Chicago

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Joe, I can't thank you enough for the way you handled the repair and sale of my dad's 1934 Gibson L12 guitar. Finding your website was a God send. Your instructions and explanation of the whole process was clear and all was accomplished just as you said it would be. I particularly liked the fact that I could communicate with you directly and your responses were always prompt and courteous. Your extensive knowledge and appreciation for these old guitars is amazing. Sue Dickson, Fairfax VA

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Joe, I received the check (for the ES-150) today. The transaction went exactly as advertised. Your archtop guitar market is definitely the place to buy and sell vintage archtops. Thanks for running such a professional business - they are not easy to find these days. Regards, Merle Gorman, Woodburn, OR

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Joe-Sorry it took a bit to write. That was the strangest time I’ve ever had deciding whether to keep a guitar (Epi Zephyr Regent). I got it Friday. Picked it up, my little hands encountered that HUGE neck and I almost wrote and told you it was coming back. Good thing I didn’t. Yes I do prefer small necks but as I played it it got better and better. I restrung it with my gauges and it is amazing how easy it plays. And then I plugged it in. That pickup is fantastic! The true test came yesterday in my trio. Playing standards from the 40s and 50s it was as if the guitar was playing me. Somehow it knew these tunes. The tone is unbelievably beautiful, the epitome of jazz. Every day I play it it’s better. So thanks for a great guiatr. Indeed all the people passing on it made a big mistake, as did I……almost. Thanks Joe, Scott Horton, Austin, TX

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Joe, Thank you for finding a buyer for my much loved (ES-175) guitar. Professional and top notch all the way!  Thanks again, Teresa Morey, Burlington, WA

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Joe, was really pleased at how quickly the Schaefer disappeared. I didn’t even have a chance to see it on the website, it went so fast! As always, it’s a pleasure to work with you as I figure out which guitars I want to settle in with...Earl Weed, Houston, TX

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Joe, The group at archtop.com provided stellar service in the handling, care, and sale of my instrument. Unlike many other places where one can buy or sell their instruments, you get the feeling that the folks at archtop.com not only understand the inherent value of the instruments but also the beauty and value of the music that is associated with these instruments. The team kept me informed on the progress of the sale and designed a layout that accentuated the instrument down a very accurate detail level. I highly recommend them as a first stop to buying an instrument as they care about the instruments, customers, and quality placing none before the other. David Hinds, Fort Washington, MD

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Hi Joe, You've been great, very helpful and professional. Excellent experience (selling my Heritage). Will certainly work with you again in the future! Cheers, Jay Solman, Coquitlam, BCJoe, Thanks for your help in selling my 86 year old friends Heritage H-575. Your straight forward and honest transaction has made him very pleased. As with my previous dealings with archtop.com, I am very pleased as well. JW Weatherford, Denham Springs, LA

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Dear Joe, The Epiphone Howard Roberts arrived today in good shape, thanks to your professional packaging.... These are undervalued/under appreciated guitars with great acoustic capabilities and then when put through an amp, sound wonderful. Your website is so informative and educational besides providing opportunities to purchase these great instruments. Keep it going. Many thanks. Best wishes, Roy Lyness, Belfast, No. Ireland

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Hi Joe, I've been playing the (L-7) guitar for about three weeks and just love it. A beautiful instrument in great condition. Wonderful tone. Thanks for the careful shipping and instructions. Regards, Bob Ramsey, Valley Village, CA

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I have been doing business with Joe for many years. I am a different kind of archtop.com customer. Some people like new cars every year but I like new archtops every year. I buy 1 or 2 new archtops a year. I play them for awhile then ship them off to Joe as my new guitar comes in. Joe has sold countless guitars for me. The sale is always fast and the price is always fair for both sides of the sale. The second I see a sold sign on my guitar I know there will be a check in my hand 2 days later. The added bonus is Joe is a super nice guy and a pleasure to deal with. Thanks again Joe and another guitar is coming your way very soon. Vincent Kowski, Redwood City, CA

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I sold my luthier-built guitar at archtop.com because they serve discriminating customers who appreciate fine instruments. They are very approachable, helpful, responsible, and communicative, so I felt confident entrusting them with the guitar. They found my guitar a good new home in a very short time. A happy resolution all around. What more could you ask for? Highly recommended. Jaye Urgo, Charlottesville, VA

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Dear Joe, In my evolving quest for the perfect guitar, I hadn't foreseen an ES-350 in my future, until I was seduced by your description of one, which, I soon learned, was precise in every detail. The guitar arrived, carefully packed and in perfect condition, with more charm than anticipated. Thanks for a marvelous experience! Kind regards, Ray Wenzel, SFC

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.Joe, I really appreciate how quickly and professionally you handled the sale of my beautiful Moll archtop. I had taken it to two other well known dealers who passed on it because "the market for modern archtops is weak right now". Well evidently it's doing just fine. Great photos and descriptions are evidently what it took to sell my guitar. Thanks again. Tim Little, Kansas City, MO

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Hello Joe, The guitar arrived, safe and sound, and it’s magnificent!  Beautiful looking, with a big, deep voice that makes my ES-175 sound like a child.  The neck profile fits my hand perfectly, and the length of the neck and the size of the body are very comfortable – fits like a glove! Ray Wenzel, SFC

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Joe: I am very pleased with the '07 Rumley Strumberg I got from you. What a neck! The Master 400 style fits perfectly with my '20's & '30's acts. I used it in our CD project, as well as onstage at Portland's historic Crystal Ballroom. The Rumley has found the perfect home. Best Regards: Steve Boden, Portland, OR

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The '67 Gretsch Country Gentleman has found a new home. I have owned and played vintage guitars for over 45 years and your description of this guitar was spot on. It was everything as described and more. You have restored my faith that a great guitar CAN be purchased on-line from a reputable and knowledgeable dealer such as yourself. I will be looking to purchase another guitar from you in the very near future. Bill Carter, Raleigh. NC

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Hi again Joe, Unpacked the Gibson 355 last night and it was hard to put it away again. This is exactly what I was looking for! Excellent guitar for me! It was great talking with you again as you described the condition one on one. There's nothing like that! I'm always highly recommending your site to everyone I have a chance to tell. I seriously believe that you have the greatest guitar site in the world! From a returning customer, Brad Cornwell, Casper, WY

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.Joe, I just wanted to drop you a line about how much I love the 1959 Gibson ES-125 I purchased from you. That fretboard is unbelievable!! It plays great and I just love the P90 sound. Better than what I hoped for :) Thanks for your help!, Julie Tissue, Franklin, TN

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Dear Joe, This instrument (custom Benedetto/Gibson 7 string) trumps the pyramids in terms of human accomplishment. I'm quite sure that nothing more incredible has ever been constructed. Thank you for helping me find my dream guitar... and for making the entire transaction as easy as the instrument is magical. I have now bought and sold through archtop.com, and I hold no reservation in your endorsement. You're a treasure to the community. Thank you. Kenny Wunder, Madison, WI

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Dear Joe, I just wanted to say thank you for the Epiphone Triumph. Everything you said about it was correct. I also want to thank you for spending a good deal of time with me on what other dealers might consider a "smaller sale." Your patience and expertise made me feel confident and secure about buying a guitar on the net. You really went above and beyond and I hope you share this on your site. With that said, I can't wait until my next purchase. Thanks and all the best, Frank Manno, Colorado Springs

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Hi Joe, The 1938 Masterbilt Epiphone Deluxe is magnificent! I really appreciate the time you took to Skype with me so I could hear and see the guitar. It was great fun to talk and learn more about the history of these instruments. The sound is so clear and distinctive and she is incredibly comfortable to hold and play. The guitar is everything you said she'd be. Thank you so much Brent Studer, Coralville, IA

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!Hi Joe, I finally caught a moment to send you a note thanking you for sending me a beautiful instrument ('65 ES-335). She looks and plays beautifully and the sound I’m getting is beyond description!...I will follow your website regularly and if I see something I’ve gotta have, I won’t hesitate to pull the trigger again. Thanks again, and I hope you enjoy the holidays. Best, Bob LaMasney, Malibu, CA

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Hi Joe, She ('60 Bassman) has landed. Well packed mate, thank you. I have only had a quick chance to play her but I already know she is worth the time and money! Many thanks for your professional service. Much obliged, Luke Gale, Stkilda, Australia

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Hi Joe, Just wanted to let you know how much I appreciated talking with your and the "phone audition" of the 1940s Epiphone Deluxe. Your packing was superb and she arrived safe and sound right on time. Your description was honest and spot on--she's beautiful and sounds incredible. I look forward to doing business with you again and appreciate the time you took to answer all my questions before and after purchasing the guitar. Thanks again, Brent Studer, Coralville, IA

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Hi Joe, Just want to let you know how thrilled I am to own this fabulous (Moll) guitar. What a work of art. You were right about the string gauge. The strings are at a higher tension than what I am used to, yet such little force is required to intonate a string -- and this is consistent across the entire neck ...The dynamic range of the instrument is incredible. The guitar has also surprised me in terms of what I was expecting, which was that thick chord melody sound (Kenny Burrell, Joe Pass, etc.). Sure, it can make that sound, but I think I would need to start using a pick again to go there. What I am finding is that this guitar might release my inner Chet Atkins. It has that punch when finger-picked, and the bass line it produces is so solid. It is a natural finger--style guitar. It was a pleasure doing business with you. You have a great business and I hope it brings you great satisfaction. It has for me. Cheers, Dan Mackowski, Auburn, AL

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Hi Joe, The (Epiphone Blackstone) arrived this aft. You sure know how to do a setup: it's a very sweet low action. The acoustic sound is just what I was after. The electric sound is also good, warm enough and pretty well balanced across the strings ... I think it will suit the piano/bass/guitar trio I'm joining as I'll either be playing rhythm to stay out of the pianist's way (it's his group) or taking a solo . . . in essence no comping. Anyway thank you very much. Great service and a fine instrument with no unpleasant surprises. Cheers Andrew Russell, Katoomba, Australia

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Hi Joe, The (Trenier Broadway) arrived safely and needless to say I'm keeping it. It's a beautiful instrument and I love the way it plays and sounds. It met all my expectations. Thanks for a smooth transaction. It was a pleasure doing business with you. Regards, Ken Maracek, Alfred Station, NY

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Thanks, Joe. When I called (luthier) Stephen Holst to ask about re-selling the guitar he made for me, he suggested archtop.com. I am so glad he did. The pre-sale information was thorough and helpful, Joe Vinikow and his staff did a great job of representing the instrument, and it sold quickly at a very fair price. Thanks! Christian Doering, Stewarts Point, CA

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As always, Joe, it is a pleasure to work with you, and I’m thrilled that you found a new home for one of my guitars. The consistent success of our business dealings have enabled me to try a wonderful variety of guitars, with the comfort that I could always move one out – through Archtop.com -- to make room for another to move in. While, at the moment, I feel like I’ve settled in with a great little collection, I know that sooner or later I’m going to see something else on Archtop.com that I’d really like to try…and I look forward to that day! Best regards, Earl Weed, Houston, TX

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Thank You to Joe Vinikow and archtop.com for your fine website and great service. Last month we found a 1931 National Tenor Guitar on archtop.com The instrument was well described and photographed and we decided to inquire further. When I called, I was impressed by Joe's attention to detail in describing the guitar (to include a rather adroit and well played demo over the phone - not all dealers are willing to do this) and some of the instrument's history, the case, and more. I was also quite pleased with the careful attention he took in understanding our musical needs and in recording our contact/delivery info. Upon arrival, the instrument exceeded his description and our expectations! It is a fine old gem, well cared for, completely original with LOTS of life left in its pretty nickel plated self. The tenor arrived safely and on time. It is a very welcome and loved addition to our all National string band. Joe's website is well worth a careful study - I leaned much about jazz guitars just be viewing the offerings and text. I would recommend Joe Vinikow and archtop.com to anyone seriously looking for quality jazz string instruments with excellent service. Thanks again, John Lokke, Wichita, KS

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Dealing with Joe at archtop.com is a real pleasure. He is extremely knowledgeable, straightforward, and helpful. I have purchased two guitars from Joe, a vintage Gibson, and a Benedetto and I am 100% satisfied with both guitars. Joe is a man of integrity and you can trust what he tells you about the guitars. The fact that he has such an excellent selection of fine guitars is a testament to how he does business. I highly recommend Joe & archtop.com. Jim Jacobsen, Seattle

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It is refreshing to deal with skookum folks you can trust. Thanks for selling my Le Grand and my Tal Farlow. I enjoyed looking over your other arch tops as well. Bob Pringle, Kennewick, WA

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Joe, I'll be glad to write about my sales experience because the bottom line is, you guys do what you say your going to do. You are true professionals; courteous and prompt. I can tell you have a genuine appreciation for the instruments that you buy and sell. This must be the reason behind your success. I'll be back not only to sell something, but to buy something also. Thanks again, Bill Kinney, Maryville, TN

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Hi Joe, I received the ('59 ES-330) guitar safely and have been playing it. Real nice guitar which is as you describe it on your website. I love the neck, frets, the clear harmonic P90 and the condition of this guitar for a '59. Please tell the previous owner that the guitar is in good hands, will be kept in original condition and enjoyed at home. Thanks again, Joe. Regards, Joe Battaglia, Pocono Pines, PA

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Joe, The Comins Concert, what a superb instrument: a warm, clear voice, light in weight, effortlessly playable, and more beautiful in person than on TV! All for a great price and delivered one day early! Another great purchase from archtop.com. Peace, John Dale, Washington, DC

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I am very pleased with the speed at which my consignments were sold. archtop.com has the clientele for quick sales and Joe has been a pleasure to work with. In my opinion, archtop.com is the only place to buy or sell your fine archtops. Rick Whitman, Omaha, NB

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Hello Joe - just a quick but big thanks for your service and attention to detail in selling my Martin D-28. Consigning an instrument through you makes the process so painless - just get you the guitar, and wait for a check, what could be better than that? As you know, this is the 2nd guitar you've sold for me, and I've also had the good fortune to purchase 2 guitars through you as well. Likely more to come as well - hopefully my wife is not reading this! Thanks again - Joe Turner, Seattle WA

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Hi Joe, The good news is that the ('44) L-7 has arrived unscathed. The bad news is- you can’t have it back! This is another archtop.com home run. The sound is exactly as described- resonant and powerful, and the condition is almost pristine...Thanks again for a square deal on a world class vintage Gibson. Scott Palmer, Santee, SC

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Hi Joe, I just wanted to let you know how delighted I am with the Schaefer. It sounds great, plays beautifully, I love the size, the pickup is amazing; the only problem is I've been staying up too late at night because I can't put it down...Many thanks, Matt Allen, Bloomington, IN

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As always, Joe, it is a pleasure to work with you, and I’m thrilled that you found a new home for one of my guitars. The consistent success of our business dealings have enabled me to try a wonderful variety of guitars, with the comfort that I could always move one out – through Archtop.com -- to make room for another to move in. While, at the moment, I feel like I’ve settled in with a great little collection, I know that sooner or later I’m going to see something else on Archtop.com that I’d really like to try…and I look forward to that day! Best regards, Earl Weed, Houston, TX

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Thanks, Joe. When I called (luthier) Stephen Holst to ask about re-selling the guitar he made for me, he suggested archtop.com. I am so glad he did. The pre-sale information was thorough and helpful, Joe Vinikow and his staff did a great job of representing the instrument, and it sold quickly at a very fair price. Thanks! Christian Doering, Stewarts Point, CA

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Thank You to Joe Vinikow and archtop.com for your fine website and great service. Last month we found a 1931 National Tenor Guitar on archtop.com The instrument was well described and photographed and we decided to inquire further. When I called, I was impressed by Joe's attention to detail in describing the guitar (to include a rather adroit and well played demo over the phone - not all dealers are willing to do this) and some of the instrument's history, the case, and more. I was also quite pleased with the careful attention he took in understanding our musical needs and in recording our contact/delivery info. Upon arrival, the instrument exceeded his description and our expectations! It is a fine old gem, well cared for, completely original with LOTS of life left in its pretty nickel plated self. The tenor arrived safely and on time. It is a very welcome and loved addition to our all National string band. Joe's website is well worth a careful study - I leaned much about jazz guitars just be viewing the offerings and text. I would recommend Joe Vinikow and archtop.com to anyone seriously looking for quality jazz string instruments with excellent service. Thanks again, John Lokke, Wichita, KS

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Dealing with Joe at archtop.com is a real pleasure. He is extremely knowledgeable, straightforward, and helpful. I have purchased two guitars from Joe, a vintage Gibson, and a Benedetto and I am 100% satisfied with both guitars. Joe is a man of integrity and you can trust what he tells you about the guitars. The fact that he has such an excellent selection of fine guitars is a testament to how he does business. I highly recommend Joe & archtop.com. Jim Jacobsen, Seattle

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It is refreshing to deal with skookum folks you can trust. Thanks for selling my Le Grand and my Tal Farlow. I enjoyed looking over your other arch tops as well. Bob Pringle, Kennewick, WA

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Joe, I'll be glad to write about my sales experience because the bottom line is, you guys do what you say your going to do. You are true professionals; courteous and prompt. I can tell you have a genuine appreciation for the instruments that you buy and sell. This must be the reason behind your success. I'll be back not only to sell something, but to buy something also. Thanks again, Bill Kinney, Maryville, TN

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Hi Joe, I received the ('59 ES-330) guitar safely and have been playing it. Real nice guitar which is as you describe it on your website. I love the neck, frets, the clear harmonic P90 and the condition of this guitar for a '59. Please tell the previous owner that the guitar is in good hands, will be kept in original condition and enjoyed at home. Thanks again, Joe. Regards, Joe Battaglia, Pocono Pines, PA

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Joe, The Comins Concert, what a superb instrument: a warm, clear voice, light in weight, effortlessly playable, and more beautiful in person than on TV! All for a great price and delivered one day early! Another great purchase from archtop.com. Peace, John Dale, Washington, DC

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I am very pleased with the speed at which my consignments were sold. archtop.com has the clientele for quick sales and Joe has been a pleasure to work with. In my opinion, archtop.com is the only place to buy or sell your fine archtops. Rick Whitman, Omaha, NB

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Hi Joe, First, I want to say how thrilled I am to be the owner of a 1981 Gibson es175CC. Words cannot express enough I how feel. For me it is the ultimate guitar. I am a big fan of Charlie Christian and to be able to play my Charlie Christian songs on a guitar with a Charlie Christian pick-up is like a dream. Not to mention the pre-war sound from the guitar, a sound I've always looked for. My guitar is incredible both acoustically or plugged in. I have the best of two worlds. Secondly, I want to thank you Joe for the meticulous care you take in preparing your instruments for sale. The set up is perfect. The guitar plays flawlessly. The thorough shipping preparation was greatly appreciated. Also, the service I received was always pleasant and helpful. Joe you make a customer feel special. Again, thanks Joe, you made me incredibly happy! Donna Caicco, Sault Ste. Marie, ONT

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Hi Joe - Just got home and plugged in the Dell'Arte Jimmy Rosenberg model ... blew the doors off the house!  Incredible rich acoustic sound ... smooth ... a delight to play.  My third guitar from archtop.com - quality products and exceptional service. Many thanks! -Kathy Durante, Gold River, BC

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Thanks Joe - I appreciate the great job you did marketing & selling my guitar. I'm still enjoying the ES 175 you sold me a few years back, and I look forward to doing more business with you. Best, Ed Daingerfield, Baltimore, MD

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Joe, Thanks again for making the sale of my PRS McCarty happen... It’s a pleasure doing business with you. Anyone who is considering selling their guitar online should not hesitate using your site; very highly recommended. Best regards, Steve Ogden, Seattle

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Dear Joe, Thank you for making my recent consignment experience so easy, pleasant, and rewarding. I’m certain that trying to sell an instrument on my own would never have resulted in such a good outcome, and I didn’t have to worry about a single thing. With your professionalism and worldwide reach, all parties involved end up well served and delighted. My husband Dave Brown also wishes to express his appreciation for your way of doing business throughout his several transactions with you, during which you handled every detail perfectly. We will continue to recommend archtop.com to all of our friends interested in buying or selling vintage archtop guitars, even as we wait to see for ourselves every new temptation presented on your website. Gratefully yours, Candace Brown, Tacoma, WA

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Joe, Thank you so much for the quick turnaround on this instrument (Gibson LeGrand). I am very happy that it sold at full price. Again, thank you for your prompt, professional and courteous service. You did a fantastic write up on the instrument! Regards, Arne Harkonen, Burlington, VT

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Hi Joe, Love the Guild (X-150)! Your packing is terrific, and I appreciate the lighter strings. It's a perfect complement to my Broadway, which is my first love, but the shorter scale length and the neck-body position of the Guild help my attempts at solo work.And it is beautiful - often things look better in pictures on the internet than they do in real life, but I think your photos accurately portray the instruments. A pleasure dealing with you...all best, Ted Bishop, Edmonton, AL

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Hi Joe, The Holst arrived about 4:30 this evening in perfect condition!  Excellent packing job I might say too.  Once I got the bridge in place and had it tuned up, I was amazed.  Everything is perfect about this instrument for me. The workman ship on this guitar is amazing. I'ts just beautiful. I love the neck, it is very fast and easy for my short stubby fingers. It was hard to put it down long enough to notify you that it is here...It's been a pleasure doing business with you, and thank you again. Stan Warnock, Midland, TX

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 Joe, Received the ('56 ES-175) guitar yesterday, right on schedule. It is a real stunner, essentially mint. Plays, sounds and looks fantastic. Thanks so much. Scott Mattern, Silver Spring, MD

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Joe, Thank you for helping me find a good home for my baby, the Ibanez GB10N. I loved this guitar and took great care of it but decided that it is too good of a guitar to not be played all the time which I didn't get to do. I attempted to sell it myself here in Ohio but never had much luck with finding someone who really KNEW what I had and that they COULD have...YOU at archtop.com came through for me on this. I feel better knowing it's in the hands of someone that appreciates beauty, quality and a fine instrument! Thank you SO much! Mark O'Keefe, Cincinnati, OH

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Kudos to Joe for another lightening-fast sale.  My 2002 Campellone Standard wasn't up for more than a week before it sold, and as usual, it was a no-hassle deal.  We'll do business again! Len Carson, San Diego

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Many thanks, Joe, Wow - this entire process was so easy and smooth!  I'm amazed at how quickly the L7C sold.  archtop.com is THE place to be when buying, selling, or just drooling over the many beautiful instruments. Cheers and a huge thank you!- Dr. Kathy Durante, Gold River, BC

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Hi Joe, I know you routinely play the best guitars ever made and have probably heard this many times, but I now have my own personal holy grail! I have never thought this about any other instrument. It seems the combination of the guitar's age and seasoning, it's quality, responsiveness and playability, and the incredible pick up on it, have made the perfect guitar that I've always been looking for. It's the sound I always hear in my head when I imagine perfect tone and now it's coming out of this incredible guitar which is now mine!! Truly inspirational. I simply love it and could not be happier. Thanks for the wonderful packing job and putting the strings on that I requested. Also, the set-up is absolutely perfect for me. It's been a truly great experience. Thanks again, Paul Wieland, Batavia, Il

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Joe, I think you are a musician first, a guitar fanatic second, a business owner/operator a very important third and a trustworthy salesman an integrity-rich fourth. Your written descriptions of the instruments celebrate the finest qualities of every instrument, to the degree that they help the player find and come to understand those qualities in ways that lead to better playing and deeper music-making. The two exceptional instruments I've bought from you suit me perfectly, and they push me daily to become a better player and musician. I am forever in your debt, and will continue as your loyal customer as long as you remain in business. I can hardly wait for our next deal! Thanks again! Tim Hillman, Victoria, BC

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Hey Joe, Thanks for all of your help, past and present. Every pick guard I have received from you has been perfect and I appreciate the “intelligent banter” from the great phone service and I wish all of my vendors would ship as fast! Attached are photos of one of my customer’s 1949 L4-C that we recently restored and added one of your guards. He was ecstatic about the part’s accuracy. Just a little of amber tint on the binding and it is a perfect match. PS- One of my long time customers just brought in his Ibanez lawsuit L-5 that he recently purchased from you and mentioned that he could not be happier with the instrument as he has been searching for a “gently loved” one for a few years now. He asked that I send along his thanks. Best regards, Robert Scoby, Scoby Guitars, Oakland, TN

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Hi Joe, My new case arrived and it's very well-made and fits my vintage Guild X-175 like a glove. It was almost impossible to find a case to fit my 17" Guild archtop, until I talked to you . Thank you for being very helpful and accomodating to me for such a minor purchase. When I purchase my next archtop guitar or case, I now know where to go! Thank you for such a  smooth and friendly transaction. Talk soon, Jim Gaudette, Chelmsford, MA

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Hi Joe, Thanks for selling my guitar, your presentation of the great instruments on your site is an unsurpassed service for buyers and sellers alike! Mark Anagstopulous I wanted to thank you for your amazing follow-ups to let me know the status of repairs and potential buyers, and was VERY happy that (my guitar) found a good home. After checking with other repair companies, the list of repairs you performed would have generated the same price no matter where it was done, and the amount of money you got was well worth it. Just imagine if I would have sold it for $500 as was offered by a local guitar shop!! Anyways, thanks again for everything. You guys are the best. Take care. Jeff Berglund, Tahoma, CA

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Hi Joe, Thank you for such a smooth and professional consignment transaction. Your communication was great, and I was quite pleased with the speed and outcome. Mitch Seidman, Boston, MA

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Dear Joe, Over the past decade, I have become a regular visitor to the archtop.com website, which is truly unique in connecting lovers of vintage archtop guitars with the kind of instruments we love to play, to collect and (sometimes) to allow to pass into other loving hands. I truly appreciate the careful manner in which you describe and photograph the fine specimens available from time to time and I also know first-hand the rigorous set-up and "auditioning" you offer before selling any consigned instrument. My most recent interaction with you was, perhaps, the most interesting in our lengthy association. Having consigned my 1984 Artist Award about 10 days previously, logged in to see if it was yet photographed and presented on the website. Amazingly, through the processes of natural selection, a wise and knowledgeable buyer had stepped up before you even had the time to finalize the listing! This experience absolutely confirms that archtop.com is the place to bring together those who share a passion for these great instruments. John Young,Pebble Beach, CA

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I sincerely want to share with everyone how wonderful this experience has been. I will send you a quotable note as soon as I have some time to draft something that can aptly convey my gratitude and satisfaction. Also... I'm looking to make a purchase, and I'll only purchase from you... You're frikin' awesome! Kenny Wunder, Madison, WI

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Joe, just a quick not to say thanks for all the fantastic work you did to the Epi. It plays like an absolute dream, and looks even better. I know it would make my Dad proud if he could see it. I know it makes me proud to own it. Thanks again, you have a customer for life. Eric Herman, Monroe, WA

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Hi Joe, I just wanted to take a moment and thank you for all of the hardwork that went into selling my 1980 D'Aquisto New Yorker Special, my 1969 Gibson Super 400C and my 1964 Gibson ES-175D. I greatly appreciate your effort in making all of these transactions professional yet seamless. I shall return! Gary Shaw, Las Vegas, NV

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Hands down, one of the best consignment experiences I have had in a long time. I will not hesitate to work with Joe and Archtop.com the next time I need to sell a guitar. Please consider Joe's expertise, credibility, and superior service when it comes time to part with the one you thought you would never sell. Ted Swigart, Riverside, CA

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(This is) the 4th guitar I've sold through archtop.com. Each experience has been very positive. Well laid out presentation of the instruments and attentive service are hallmarks. A pleasure in every respect. Gordon Thomson, Seattle, WA

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Hi, Joe. Just wanted to confirm that the check arrived today. Thanks very much for your prompt reply and the quick mailing of the proceeds! I am very glad that I reached out to you to help me with the sale of the 1928 L5. After the unsuccessful experience with one of the major auction houses, I am pleased to say that you were able to maximize my return on the guitar and help it land in another good home. Your thorough, detailed and enthusiastic description of this exceptional instrument, with wonderful photographs, was critical in the exposure the guitar received. I look forward to working with you again, both with purchases and sales. Thanks, Joe! John C. Williams Cleveland, OH

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I have long recognized your high quality work while I have viewed your website in the past and have read what you've written. Now, after placing my guitars with you to sell for me, I am doubly impressed. You are good AND you are quick. Thanks, Mark Newberry, Paris, KY

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Hi Joe, The guitar (Redentore) arrived on Thursday safe and sound. I tuned it up let her acclimate to the new environment. This guitar is an absolute gem to play and hear. The note separation and sound on a scale of 1 to 10 is a 10+. I don’t think it could possibly be any better. The playability is effortless, a joy to play. I love the guitar Joe, thanks, Ernie Burkhardt, Forked River, NJ

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Hello Joe, I just want to let you know that it has been a pleasure working with you on the sale of my Gibson guitars.  You have followed through with what you said you would do and have gained a customer for life.  It's refreshing to know that their are still places that sell guitars without all the hype and b.s. that is often associated with such endeavors. Thanks, Brian O'Connor, Ocean Park WA

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My experience in selling my guitar through archtop.com with Joe was nothing short of the most pleasant and quick experience of any instrument I have sold. From the thorough packing instructions to the constant feedback from Joe on the status of my instrument was most professional. To say that is was a pleasure doing business with Joe and archtop.com is an understatement! Thanks, Joe and I look forward to doing business with you in the future! Paul Unger, Sylvania, OH

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Joe, Let me extend my thanks for a seamless, professional experience consigning my L7-C.  Within a week of listing, you were able to find a happy new owner.  This speaks volumes not only to your website's reach, but the classy, efficient manner in which you conduct business.  Your reputation as the go-to guy in archtops is well deserved and your inventory is enough to tempt even the most disciplined guitar devotee. It was a pleasure doing business with you, Joe.  I'll spread the word. Best Regards, Marty Mahre, Seattle 

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Joe, I wanted to send you a quick note to let you know how much I am enjoying the Santa Cruz OM-42. I have owned two other Santa Cruz's over the years, a Brazilian Tony Rice, and a Pre War D. The OM-42 is one of the finest guitars I have ever played. I have owned and own many vintage acoustic instruments, and the Santa Cruz exceeds many of them. It is truly a wonderful instrument. Thanks so much you made it an excellent transaction from beginning to end. I look forward to doing business again. Take Care, Jeff Heeney, Burke, VA

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Hi Joe, Holy smoke!!! I love the Epi ('53 Triumph)!!! Set it up late last night and was immediately blown away. It is hugely articulate, super responsive, and has a huge dynamic range. And it is excellent for finger style too! Thanks for helping me get the right guitar! Cheers, Joe Francisco, Boulder, CO

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Joe - Having had several transactions with you I can say you are the consummate arch top venue. Whether buying or selling, I have had a wonderful experience. Excellent work, great instruments, and fine transaction speed. Thanks for the services. Matthew Hunter, Alexandria, VA

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Joe, Just to let you know that I appreciate your professionalism and quality at archtop.com. I love my new DeVoe Florentine! ... This is a "lifer" guitar for me and one that I'd been searching for for years...all the right appointments. I wanted an understated look...naked fingerboard, beautiful tone woods, xlnt hue to the tint, Kent Armstrong pickup...it was all there on this axe, plus a classy case! Again, thanks for your prompt service and integrity...I can't put this thing down. When I get time, I'll record something and send it to you. All the best, Joel Henderson, Crown Point, IN

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Joe, I just want to say, it's been a pleasure doing business with you.  The guitar was sold in a very timely manner and all went very smoothly.Thank you, Bob DiNardo, Ft. Myers, FL

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Joe, I got my Ibanez "lawsuit" L-5 today and I love it. I put some new strings on her, adjusted the bridge and she's good to go. Very impressed with the quality of this instrument!! I can't think of an arch-top made this well in this price range. Now I know why people hang to this things when they get them. Thanks again and hope to do business with you again down the road...Joe Restivo, Memphis, TN

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Hey Joe, Just wanted to say I got the Campellone yesterday and it sounds fantastic. Thanks for all the help. Jack Radsliff, Eugene, OR

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Thanks again Joe...another fantastic guitar! - Tom Vergona, Idaho Falls, ID

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Dear Joe, I would like to inform you that the florentine Gibson Super 400CES safely arrived to me. Thanks for the great packaging! The guitar looks, plays and sounds fine. Thanks for the deal again! Kind regards, Laszlo Pintye, Hungary

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Hi Joe, I have recieved the Borys 120. Thank you for your excellent service: the instrument is everything I expected and more. Regards, Campbell Atkins, Melbourne, Australia

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Joe - Just received the '49 L-7 and she plays great - fantastic neck and the best action I've ever seen on an acoustic archtop...unbelievable for a 60+ year old guitar - more than pleased with my purchase - looking forward to doing business again - Thanks Much - Tom Vergona, Idaho Falls, ID

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Joe, Thanks again for your great work.  To date you and your crew have sold three guitars for me,  helping me to change my collection when the inspiration strikes.  You do a great job with the tune ups and display of your guitars as well as the exhaustive descriptions.  My only misgiving is how well you demonstrate the beauty of the axes, making it slightly harder for me to say goodbye!  My best to you and the folks at archtop.com. Skot Veroczi, Monroe ,CT

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It has been a pleasure dealing with Joe, both when buying and comissioning an instrument. The service and response time has been top notch and the description of the condition of the instrument has been comprehensive and accurate. Thanks, Johannes Lehmann, Hong Kong

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Hi Joe, I picked up the SJ yesterday. It is a beauty--really good shape for it's age. Sounds great too...it seems like a really good one. You made this transaction easy. It has been a pleasure doing business with you. Thanks! Hank Reisen, Cambridge, MA

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Big sound, remarkable build quality. My decades long dream of a Big Band axe com true! Ernie Pugliese, on his new Epiphone Emperor ImperialBravo Joe !!!! Thank you so much for selling my Gibson ES-175. You are such a important asset in my guitar life. Got another guitar on the way as soon as my new one shows up in a couple months. It is always a stress free sale with you and it is much appreciated my friend. Thank you !!! Vince Kowski, Redwood City, CA

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Hi Joe, Just wanted to drop you a note to let you know I love the guitar. The ES 175D  arrived in the condition described on your website (immaculate), and I couldn't agree more. After a few days of settling in the play-ability of the guitar is amazing, you did a wonderful job setting up this guitar... Bill Foster, Scotch Plains, NJ

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Dear Joe, Thank you so much for your help in selling my D'Aquisto Jazzline. Your guidance every step of the way including shipping was invaluable. I wouldn't hesitate to sell through you again or recommend you highly. You certainly are a class act. Anand Bhat, Marysville, PA

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Thanks Joe for helping me find the gorgeous 1930s 16 inch L-5. It's in amazing condition and sounds as good as it looks. The transaction went smoothly and the guitar was incredibly well packed. Look forward to doing business again in the future. Best, Paul Alcantara, London

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Thanks Joe for the great service and help in purchasing the Dale Ungar American Dream 16. This guitar truly lives up to it's name! The box and guitar were expertly packed  and arrived on the day desired. Sincerely, Chip Gulbro, Huntsville, Alabama.

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Hi Joe, Just wanted to let you know that the ES-150-D arrived today.  It's a beauty!  It's in great condition too, and it plays wonderfully. Thank you so much!  I appreciate your quick service and attention to detail...and of course I'll keep an eye on your website. Thanks again -- and happy spring! Bill Bartosik, Easton, CT

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Thanks, Joe, for a pleasant selling experience from the nation's archtop experts! Ron Hoffman, Eden Prairie, MN

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Hi Joe, Just sending a note to thank you. The ES-355 looks and sounds incredible. As described, the range of sounds it produces is amazing. The setup of the instrument is perfect. It plays effortlessly with excellent action and intonation. It arrived quickly and in great condition thanks to your careful packing. I really appreciate the excellent customer service that you provided. Thanks for answering all of my questions and for making the guitar available to me. I’ve been searching for a guitar like this for years and  I will really enjoy playing it. I will definitely recommend archtop.com to all of my guitar-playing friends. Best Regards, Mike from Florida

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Hi Joe, The L7C arrived. The guitar in the flesh looks much better than it did in the photo so it exceeds my expectations visually. It looks like it is brand new...I got the bridge installed and it is a treat to play. archtop.com is fantastic as it shows the world what is out there in terms of archtop guitars. I didn't know what an L7 was before looking at your website. I don't think I could get a quality L7 in Australia but you've got them in spades. If I ordered a new one from the factory I probably would have paid at least double. Once again many thanks. If I ever have the cash to afford another archtop I know where to look. Regards Terry Costello, Melbourne Australia

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Joe, I received the (Martin) today in good condition - it's an exceptional instrument. Thank you for the attention to careful packing and moreover your efficient and constructive approach to this transaction. I look forward to the prospect of doing business with you again in the future. Best, R.R. Leon, Texas

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I received the Trenier yesterday afternoon: it's a wonderful instrument and even better than I thought it would be both in sound and appearance. I don't think I could have done better for the price but I might even say, because of what I was looking for, that I might not have done much better at any price... Thanks again for great service and an all around great experience. All best regards--Tony Wallace, Boston

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Joe, I just opened the case and assembled the bridge (on the Ibanez L-5C) and tuned her up. Wow! Perfect neck. Perfect action. Perfect frets. Perfect body/ case.Perfect tone. I can't image a better value in the archtop world... I will be enjoying this guitar for many years. Once again, you have proven why you are the best person in the country (world) for quality archtop guitars. Many thanks, Richard Marsh, No. Apollo, PA

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Hey Joe - the Epi Emperor plays like and dream and sounds even better. It's getting rave reviews from some of the jazzers here in Charleston. Chris McKee, Mt. Pleasant, SC

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Hi Joe..Thanks for your efficient transaction on my beautiful John Walker Petty Creek..its a dream guitar at an even dreamier price..Rich Robinson, Easton, PA

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Hi Joe, Thanks for working with me on the Es-175, the guitar is absolutely beautiful and resonates and sounds so warm and rich, a great find! I am so happy to have found it through you guys....I check in on your site often and will continue to do so. The guitar is awesome and makes me want to practice, so that's a good thing... Thanks for being a dealer of such fine instruments. Robin Stone, Associate Professor, Berklee School, Boston

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Dear Joe… It has been a pleasure to have your expertise involved in finding a new home for my '43 Martin 000-21. Your extensive instrument knowledge, research, and combined understanding of what the current market is doing, fully satisfied what I received for this sale. I was impressed with your wonderful customer service, comprehensive description of this instrument and its presentation to the market. I am very sure that this guitar will fill the new owners life, with many years of joy… Thank you again, Rick Ahrens, Monroe, WA

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Joe, Thanks again for selling another one of my guitars. I knew it would find the right buyer with your excellent and informative website. With your wide selection of fine instruments and attention to detail, anyone should also feel confident in finding that special "axe". Anne Kutchins, Chicago

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I've worked with archtop.com to sell two different guitars and my experience has been great. They listed my guitars promptly and professionally and found them good homes. I'm thankful for their great service. William Wilhite, Henderson, NV

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Thanks for providing a trusted place to buy and sell vintage archtops. If you are a buyer, you know you will get a great playing guitar that has any of its issues resolved. As a seller, you know you will get the most for your guitar. Thanks, Michael Tachenko, Fairview, NC

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Hi Joe, My new Super 400 arrived today, as scheduled. Thank you for your quick service. I put the bridge on, and tuned it up, and then immediately left to take it and show it off to some of my friends at a local music store. They all loved it. And the more I played it the better I liked it... I bought it, mostly because I've never had one and wanted one for my collection. But, that idea is rapidly changing. It may well become my regular player...Thanks again Joe. I look forward to seeing what comes through your shop in the future. George Head, Salem, OR

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Joe, Thanks again for helping me find a happy home for my "Tal". I know they'll enjoy it as much as I have. As always your a consumate pro and easy to work with .I always look forward to opening your website and seeing what " goodies " are available! Dennis Easter, Lebanon, PA

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Dear Joe, Just a long overdue note to tell how I appreciate the incredible job you do. You should change your name to "The Amazing Vinicini" for the way you make my guitars disappear! ...You always take great care of me as both a consigner and as a customer. You're stuck with me for life! Most sincerely, Lee Haldorsen, Seattle

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In their return policy, archtop.com states that they want to be sure that each guitar they sell is absolutely right in every respect for the customer. I can attest that Joe really means this. Recently I purchased a very nice guitar from archtop.com but discovered that... this particular guitar, though a fabulous instrument, was too big for me to play comfortably. I phoned Joe, explained my problem, and with no hesitation, he allowed me to return it. He even placed a smaller bodied guitar on hold for me while the first guitar was on its way back. I was so pleased with the smaller instrument and with my dealings with archtop.com, that two weeks later, I purchased a second guitar as a Christmas gift for my wife. From start to finish, all my dealings with Joe and Julie at archtop.com have been characterized by courtesy, professionalism, and by an obvious level of personal care and concern that is not often seen in today's market place. I would not hesitate to recommend archtop.com to anyone looking for a great instrument and with the added benefit of a knowledgable expert to help you make an informed decision. Thanks Joe, Paul Moore, Topeka, KS

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This is guitar #3 you've sold for me, and each sale has been easier than the one before it. Thanks, and happy holidays. Paul Pinkham, Washington, DC

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My sales at archtop.com are exceptional. I've been on the buying, selling, and restoration side, all through Joe and archtop.com. In every case all trasactions go smooth and sales get done fast and all repair work exceeds a normal, quick fix up. Joe and his staff treat the guitars as if their own and handle with extreme care and skill. My problem is to stay away from the site as its very tempting with all of the fine guitars. Its always difficult to sell that great guitar, but archtop.com handles it all. I look forward to a few special guitars currently at your shop under restoration and a few more sales in the future. Mike Binder, LA

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Joe, Thank you for the quick reply. I am astounded at the high quality sales effort at archtop.com; the web page for my L5 made me briefly reconsider selling it! In approximately ten days from the date you received it, you had produced an insightful web page for my L5 and it had a "hold" on it. In about three weeks from the date you received it, it was sold. To state that I am amazed with your reach, knowledge of product and sales capability is an understatement; fortune truly smiled upon me when you accepted my instrument on consignment. Many thanks, Joe. Al Helm, Corpus Christi, TX

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Dear Joe, The ('69) Gibson ES-175 that you sent me really does sing. Whilst I could have bought a vintage 175 in Australia, you provided a far superior range of guitars to choose from and provided expert advice, that was well worth purchasing from outside Australia. This guitar has found a new home nestled amongst the palm trees. I have no hesitation in recommending archtop.com to all my friends. By the way the guitar made it door to door in 6 days. Cheers, Ian Goodwin, Newport, NSW

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Joe, I received and deposited the (consignment) check today...I am so pleased and will definitely return to you to handle my high end instrument issues. Thanks again. Al Helm, Corpus Christi, TX

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For anyone interested in buying or selling a jazz style guitar, I unreservedly recommend archtop.com. I have sold and purchased guitars on consignment through archtop.com, and from both sides of the transactions I was 100% satisfied. Joe's huge network of prospective buyers made it much easier and quicker to sell my guitar than I could have managed on my own. And when looking to buy a new (old) guitar, Joe's knowledge of the various styles and models combined with the variety of instruments he has lead to the perfect match for my needs. Thanks and cheers, Chris Gratham, Vancouver, BC

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Joe, archtop.com is THE place for players, luthiers and collectors.  I can think of no other store that has offered the consistent high level of quality, service and the knowledge to back it all up. Then there are the guitars.....scroll down the page and experience the how, the why, the if only, the I will and passion that is the archtop guitar.  They are glorious things, vintage or modern. I am SERIOUS about my music, and if any of you know of As Serious As Your Life, then you'll know the all of the above matters when dealing with the instrument you use to express yourself. I love my ES-175. Thanks, Joe. Sean Parker, Sydney, Australia

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Hi Joe, I’ve had the Gibson L5-CES for a few days now and haven’t been able to put it down. It’s a wonderful guitar with a beautiful voice, and is a treat to play. Guitars of this quality never appear in my prairie city so when it was time to finally get the instrument of my dreams it was a relief and a pleasure to have someone so knowledgeable  and trustworthy on the other end of the phone.  Thank you Joe, I’ll definitely be back for the next one. John McRory, Calgary, Alberta

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Good morning, I have been shopping for the perfect guitar for awhile, now, and I visit your site daily. Though I haven't found exactly what I'm looking for, just yet, I wanted to take a minute to thank you for being there. It may seem like a bit of an overstatement, but I speak the truth when I tell you that my life is better because your site exists. Thank you. Have a great day! Kenny, Madison WI

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JHi Joe, I just wanted to let you know that I really love the 1935 Gibson L-7. This purchase was a couple of firsts for me. It was the first time that I purchased a guitar sight unseen. This was in no small part the glowing commentary I have read about you and your business, not only on your website, but from across the web. Another first, this is the first big body jazz guitar for me; Joe and this website were a great source of input for which one to choose. This was a ( not inexpensive ) leap of faith, seeing that I have only had western or small blues guitars up to this point. I am so very much not disappointed. The big warm honey tone out of this prewar Gibson is quite impressive to anyone first hearing it. Thanks Joe, John Arthur, Santa Clara, CA

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Hi Joe, just a quick note to say thanks for all your help and expertise in finding a happy home for the L-7. Much appreciated and thanks again, Roy Marshall, Seattle

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Hi Joe, This is a quick note to say thank for for the terrific job you did finding a new owner for my L-7C. I'm impressed with everything from the instructions for packing the guitar to send, the way you quickly answered all phone messages and emails, the beautiful photos and description of the guitar and then of course the quick sale. I thought it was first class all the way and I look forward to doing business again in the future. Many Thanks! Jonathan Schiele, Richmond, CA

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Hi, I am very impressed with your entire set-up and the incredible standards you have in stock, information and, from the excellent testimonials, customer service.... Many thanks and keep up the good work - you play an important role in modern musical heritage! Will Starling, Colchester, UK

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Hi Joe, I wanted to write and thank you for your help with my recent purchase of the 1949 ES-175. The guitar arrived today and, thanks to your careful packaging and the enclosed instructions, I had the guitar unpacked, set up, plugged in and playing in about 20 minutes ! I am delighted with the guitar, very playable and when you consider that it’s 63 years old the condition is very good. Your help, and willingness to answer all of my questions during our phone conversations made this a painless buying experience. I especially appreciated your willingness to answer questions on unrelated issues, such as how to clean decades of built up grime from my ES-335 ! Thanks again. Cheers. Richard Burford, Sandy UT

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I have been playing this ES-175 everyday, for several hours a day. It is without doubt one of the nicest of its type I have ever experienced. It plays superbly and makes even me sound good! Thanks for a great guitar Joe! John Goble, Dublin, OH

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Joe, thanks for the check for my old L-12. You did a terific job of setting out its unique (and historic) character in the write-up and pictures, and I'm really pleased that you found it a new home so quickly. I am also grateful (as always) for your help in dealing with pick-ups for my old L-4, and it is humming along nicely -- with a body size that is a little more comfortable for me than the L-12. I'm sure we'll talk again, and in the meantime, I will continue to enjoy scrolling through your website just to look at the fine guitars. Best, Earl Weed, Houston

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Joe, OMG.  What a guitar. ('53 Epi Triumph Regent). It's incredible. The sound is astonishing.  I guess you may have heard better but neither I nor my colleagues have.  Its a very special instrument. As you may have gathered it has arrived (in 4 days door to door) safely. Thanks once again.  I couldn't be happier with it. Regards, David Watts, Melbourne, Australia

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Joe, Thank you very much for helping me sell my archtop guitar. I appreciate your excellent communication and instructions on preparing my precious archtop for shipping. It's good to know that once it's in your hands it's in good hands. Until next time thanks again. Steve Masui, Honolulu, HI

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Joe, The (D'Angelico) arrived last night. It is absolutly beautiful. First I have to tell you I have never recieved an instrument .. no, I have never received ANYTHING packed as well as this guitar. Excellent! The guitar is everything you said. Virturally brand new. I can't thank you enough. I will enjoy it the rest of my life. Ron Imbimbo, Stamford, CT

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Hi Joe just wanted to let you know how much I am enjoying my Epiphone Byrdland (now known as the "Byrdphone"). The guitar is great and is now my main gig axe. It came exactly when you said it would... It looks, plays and sounds exactly as you described it on your site and in e-mails you sent me. It's amazing... I bought the guitar of my dreams simply by picking up the phone! Anyone looking for a vintage guitar need look no further. Will Cramer, Edmonton, AlbertaDear Joe, the ('34 L-4) guitar continues to reveal her sublime mysteries as days pass! doing business with you couldn't have been better, btw. but the guitar seems almost a living thing, how she sort of wakes up and starts giving. It has inspired my playing; a thing of beauty and a constant joy. Reg Barnes, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

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I couldn't be happier with my recent purchase of a Gibson Tal Farlow from archtop.com. I can't imagine a better selection of archtop guitars anywhere. All are expertly set-up, and very clean-regardless of vintage. Exotic instruments and standard models all receive the same attention to detail. Since Joe is also a fine player, one would have a great representative for a consignment sale. Thanks Joe! Sincerely, Sandy Carter. Seattle, WA

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Joe: I have purchased and sold several guitars with you the past several years. My experiences with our business dealing have always been exemplary -- and this transaction was tremendous. You have the best clientele. You are knowledgeable, quick and reliable. My sale of my Dan Koentopp exemplifies the best of all characteristics. Thank you for the smooth transaction. Thank you for every consideration. Matthew Hunter, Alexandria, VA

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Joe, The Gibson (TG-50) arrived at my office yesterday. It sounds fantastic and the setup and intonation are perfect. I'm very happy with this purchase. John Woodard Jr., Louisville KY

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Hi Joe, Thanks for your expert help selling my ES-330. The process was effortless on my part and went without a hitch. I heartily recommend Archtop.com to anyone who wants to sell their instrument. You priced it so that it quickly sold, yet was more than I expected. The small amount of work you did on the instrument enhanced its value and increased its appeal for a very reasonable cost. The photos and description on your site showed the guitar at its best. It was definitely a pleasure dealing with you. Best regards, Steve Ogden, Seattle

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Hey there, Joe, Thought I'd drop a line to thank you again for finding a new home for my much beloved Epi Deluxe. You made the whole transaction simple and pleasant. Have and will continue to refer friends and clients to your site. Yours, David Magliari, Long Beach, CA

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Hi Joe, Once again I am amazed.  Whether buying or selling an archtop there is simply no one else who can provide your level of expertise and service to your customers. You remove all of the stress which can be significant and make each transaction enjoyable. Thanks again, Steve Wagner, FineArchtops.com

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I have had the pleasure of both buying and selling guitars through archtop.com - Joe has consistently been of great help. He is a wealth of knowledge and always treats me with the same patience and concern - whether I am trying to buy a pick up, or an archtop!  His prices are very fair - his preparation of the instruments is excellent - his reputation is well deserved and speaks for itself. The true secret perhaps, is that not only is his merchandise the coolest stuff out there, and his technical service and prices equally the best.. but the most importantly,  he loves these instruments ! And that telegraphs clearly to his many loyal and satisfied customers. archtop.com is the place - and Joe is the guy!! John Beth, Reedsburg, WI

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Hi Joe, Couldn't be more pleased with your professionalism and no nonsense approach to a consignment sale. Everything was as promised right from the beginning, from the contract to the promised beautiful photos and description of the instrument. And as a bonus, a sale in less time than I expected. Highly recommended. Thank you. Jeff Hildreth, Williams, OR

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Joe, it seems to me that there are few experiences in life that are actually better than what a person imagined. I want you to know that working with you to acquire my dream guitar – a 1957 Gibson Super 400 – exceeded my every expectation. From your attentiveness in demonstrating the guitar to me via Skype, to working out the details of the sale, to receiving the meticulously packaged instrument overnight, and to best of all playing this perfectly set-up instrument, your professionalism and kindness truly exceeded one of the dream experiences of my life. Many thanks, Joe, and all the best!!!  - Michael Lizarraga, Los Angeles, CA

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Joe, This was my first time doing business with your company. From our first contact to the final payment it was a great experience. Its always a pleasure dealing with people that know their business and are professional about it. Thank you for everything. Sincerely, Justin Wade, Medford, OR

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Hi Joe, Thanks for a super win-win transaction, fast efficient delivery. The Triggs 16 sounds as good it looks, which is fantastic. Loved the pick you enclosed, Joe when it comes to archtops ‘You‘re the Man” Hope to do business with you again. Best wishes  from Jim Keogh,  Perth, Western Australia 

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Hey Joe...From start to finish our experience with archtop.com was nothing but amazing. We didn't have a clue what we were doing and you held our hands throughout the whole process. You took the time to explain to us the pricing process right down to the marketing. We had several options to sell our guitar...ebay, Craig's list or an auction house just to name a few, but we know we made the best decision ever when we found you. We received a fair offer in a short amount of time all because of archtop.com. No hassle no fuss. Thanks for a successful sale! If you are looking for someone who is professional & honest, Joe's your guy! He's the best. J. Niemeyer, Milton, WA

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Every year I either sell or buy at least one guitar with archtop.com. You DO have a friend in the archtop guitar business. His name is Joe Vinikow. Thanks again Joe for another smooth as silk transaction. Looking forward to our next guitar adventure. Sincerely, Vincent Kowski Redwood City, CA

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Hi Joe, I see that my guitar is already on hold. That is the third guitar you are selling for me in 3 months. You are doing a great job and I truly believe that archtop.com is by far the best place to sell and buy first class instruments. I hope people who are trying to deal on ebay understand this one day. Best regards. JP Karcz, Montreal

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Hi Joe, The Shelley Park Montmartre arrived safely last Friday. The instrument is meticoulously build with passion & "savoir faire ". The sound ranges from the subtle grace of a flower to the power associated with " la pompe", melodic lines are lively and inspiring. I'm sincerely pleased with the instrument. Regards. Pierre Cantin, Quebec.

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Hi Joe, Just a quick note to say the ’40 Epi Deluxe has found a good home (mine). It’s a beautiful guitar, and has the guitardom trifecta covered, i.e., great looks, playability and tone.  I had planned on just taking my consignment proceeds on your sale of my Spartan (thanks for the quick sale), but couldn’t help myself and had to look at the Deluxe pics. Your written and in-hand descriptions were spot on. I think this is about my tenth purchase and/or sale through your fine portal. Thanks for taking care of me on both ends of this transaction. Regards, Ray Gargiulo, NYC

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Outstanding! Joe I want to thank you for the very fast selling of my DeVoe archtop. I am glad it found a new home. Your organization is highly professional, trustworthy and courteous. When I am purchasing a guitar, archtop.com is my first stop! Tom Scheira, Niagara Falls, NY

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Hey Joe, What was a pleasure meeting you, It was so exciting opening up my new guitar yesterday, and what a professional packing job I must add, THANKS! You were dead on and gave a perfect demo, I appreciate you taking the time and I'll talk to you again real soon I hope! Great instrument and great service!!! Diamondave, Los Angeles

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Hello Joe, Just a quick note to say that the D45 just continues to blow me away with its beauty of sound and appearance. It is magnificent in every way, the sound is huge and glassy, the tone is to die for, and the inlays and woods make it a work of fine art. I don't think you have ever had a more satisfied customer. Thanks again, and best wishes. Bill Van Vugt, Lowell MI

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Well Joe, this is the 10th guitar you have sold for me over the years. All sold extremely fast and the payment has always been sent immediately. My hat goes off to you my friend. Thank you very much ! Vincent Kowski Redwood, Ca.

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Hi Joe, That sold sign on my Gibson L-7 looks mighty fine. Thanks again for a quick sale. You truly are the best at what you do. Your friend, Randall Shike, Wichita, KS

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Dear Joe, All I can say, is that I am so pleased I came to you first to look for an L4, its great. It's the first time I have purchased a guitar that I have not had to carry out a little work myself getting the action right. Whoever worked on this guitar did a great job, it came out of its case and was perfect. Do I recomend Joe & Julie at archtop.com? Sure I do...Best Regards, Tony Arnold, Loiret, France

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Joe, This was my first time to sell a guitar using your services and I must say it was a complete pleasure to work with you. I have used other selling methods in the past; local consignment, ebay, craigslist usually ending up in less than desirable results. You are the ruler in high end archtop guitars for both buying and selling and I highly recommend your services to anyone wanting to sell or buy a nice archtop guitar. I will do business again with you. Thanks for your quick service. Robert Jackson, Edmond, Oklahoma

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Hi Joe, I'm just writing to say thanks for sending along that grand piano (Guild Artist Award) I asked you about.  This instrument has so much of its own identity in every way, I've been playing it for the past two days with a mixture of enjoyment and astonishment… simply majestic. …It makes me play better both in terms of how it sounds as well as its own precision.….It's a wonderfully alive instrument but with a sense of control and reserve.  …  The notes sound exactly as they should sound, both with pick and finger.  In fact, the biggest surprise of this guitar is what a wonderful fingerstyle guitar it is: great shimmering three-dimensional melody notes with the touch of a fingernail, with no scratchiness or loss of projection or dynamic range.  The chords also stand out in a way that is very piano-like, harmonically rich with just enough separation that we hear the notes individually as they chime together with one another to form the chord. … I've always wanted to play grand-piano-like, Keith Jarrett kind of stuff on the guitar--you know, like the Koln Concert improvisations--but I didn't have the instrument to pull it off with--until now…. Anyway, thanks for selling me a great guitar, Joe, and feel free to put any of this up on your very enjoyable website. …In the meantime, you can change the Hold to Sold! All best, Tony Wallace, Brookline, MA

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Hi Joe, I got the Arrow Django today and am quite happy with it.  It is a fine instrument and I think will make a versatile voice for me.  It plays and sounds really nice, so she's a keeper for me....  Anyway, thank you very much for all the great service.  I look forward to doing more business in the future. Cheers, Adam Cypress. Emeryville, CA.

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Hi Joe, The '54 Gibson ES-150 arrived yesterday and she is amazingly clean and beautiful. The setup was spot-on.Thank you for the great customer service. You inventory is always like a candy store for my eyes. Mark Stultz, Hendersonville, TN

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Hi Joe, The selling of my L5C was smooth, quick and professional. I had earlier consigned the instrument with a local shop near Boston, specializing in archtops, reputable and with a nice web site. I thought I would sell the guitar and save the shipping costs to archtop.com. Mistake. It languished there for 6 months. Then I sent the guitar to you and it sold before it left the "coming soon" list! The selling price was much higher than the local consigner and the check was here in a few days. Only now do I appreciate archtop.com's reach into the global guitar market. There must have been guitarists waiting for my instrument, knowing it you guys would eventually find one. archtop.com is now on my favorites list. It's fun just to window shop, and I may buy an instrument one day. Thank you for the good feeling of dealing with a great business. Sincerely, Lawrence Faria, Kingston, NH

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Hey Joe, Received the check for the Gibson L-12 on Saturday. Thanks, again, for the professional service you provide. I am certain I will be contacting you again to sell and purchase more incredible archtop guitars.  All the best, Ryan Durfee - Cedar City, Utah

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Hi Joe, I received the proceeds on the sale of my Gibson L-4 yesterday. I just want to say thanks for selling it so quickly. I don't think there's a better place to buy or sell archtop guitars. I would definitely recommend archtop.com to anyone in the market for a jazz guitar. Darrel Williams, Tonganoxie, Kansas

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Hi Joe, The guitar ('36 Triumph) came Thursday... I stopped myself from opening it until this morning and wow she's amazing you've done an amazing job with pick up I can't believe how good the electric sound is. It's huge, I have a modern epiphone and it blows it out of the water you did a great job on concealing the controls also very neat indeed! And the case! I'm absolutely made up. Thank you so much you've made the whole experience exciting and a joy....All the best and speak soon Martyn Nelson, Manchester, UK P.S. Thanks for all your advice!

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Joe: I just wanted to say how much I appreciated the great job you did on selling my '39 L-7 and '45 Epi Deluxe recently. The quick turnaround, as well as realizing a bit more for the guitars than I expected, continues to reinforce my belief that you are definitely the "go to guy" for archtop guitars. I received the '39 Epi Emperor yesterday afternoon and - once I'd warmed it up and unpacked it, couldn't put it down until 2am this morning. The volume, tone and natural reverb of this magnificent monster puts a pipe organ to shame!... yet again, a real pleasure in doing business with you. As a professional quality auditor, I would have to give your outfit an A+ for both service and product! Many thanks again, and be assured that, when my next bout of S.A.A.S. (Severe Archtop Acquisition Syndrome) strikes, you'll get the first call. Best regards, Tom Murphey, ASQ CQA, , CA

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My experience with Joe at archtop.com has been superb. Whether you are buying or selling, Joe has the experience to make it happen in a quick and professional manner. I would recommend archtop.com above all others when it comes to getting an outstanding archtop at a fair price! Five Star Rating! John Goble, Dublin, OH

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As I came back to playing guitar 3 years ago, many years after I set it aside for business reasons, archtop.com has become absolutely invaluable to me. Through Joe's business I've been able to buy and play some great jazz guitars.  As I've gradually learned what works best for me, I've also been able to turn around and sell the ones that suited me less, good as they were. Just recently, I sent Joe 2 fine vintage Gibsons to sell, went out of town for 2 weeks, and by the time I was back, they were sold. Bravo, Joe! I don't know where else I could go to get this variety of fine guitars to play -- not to mention some excellent advice -- then so easily move the guitars that somebody else will no doubt enjoy better. Many thanks, Joe. Earl Weed, Houston, TX

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 Hi Joe, Just to say the guitar arrived in a wet Wales today and has totally brightened my day! The guitar plays even more nicely than I remember and now has pride of place in my collection. I still can't believe the condition of it given its 70 years history. Already after a couple of hours playing I can hear its voice beginning to develop and mature. I can't thank you enough, and for being so kind as to meet me in person and to show me your beautiful collection which has allowed me to pick the perfect guitar. Hope we meet again in the not too distant future! Stuart MacKinnon, Neath, Wales

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Hi Joe! Yesterday I received the National Tricone from 1933 ...It's a great guitar in shape and sound! That's why I always prefer it to deal with you! It's my third guitar from archtop.com and everything worked in the way Joe was telling me before not only in archtop but also in flattop and resonator guitars. So thank you and I'm gonna call you in the future for very special guitars in outstanding condition, fairly priced! Best regards from Germany and happy holidays! Edwin Kimmler, Landshut, Bavaria

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HI JOE, I GOT THE CHECK FOR THE SALE OF MY 1964 SUPER 400. QUICK SALE, FAST PAYMENT, ARCHTOP.COM IS INDEED THE BEST PLACE TO SELL FINE INSTRUMENTS. JP Karcz, Montreal

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The (Dupont MC-50) guitar arrived late morning yesterday safe and sound. I patiently let it sit in the box for four hours, took it out of the box but left in case for another four hours, then finally took out of case and put on a set of Argentine 11's. Great guitar, as described, exactly what I was looking for in a gypsy jazz guitar. .. Thanks for the great customer service and quick shipping, I'll definitely recommend archtop.com to my friends!!! Peace, Jordan Sayers, Chicago

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Hi Joe, The '47 ES 150 arrived safely. This guitar is in great condition! Very easy to play, and a beautiful acoustic sound. Many thanks--Bruce Brogdon, Houston, TX

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.I've sold 3 guitars through archtop.com, the most recent my '66 ES-330... expert advice, professional presentation, easy, straight-up transaction - Joe is the best. Steve Peterson, Seattle, WA

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Joe, Thanks for taking the lead in presenting and selling our dad's blond L5 Gibson vintage guitar.  Thank you too for the great conversation my brother and I had with you about that guitar and the history of the instrument. The vast knowledge that you shared with us regarding our guitar, guitars in general, and the fun discussion about some awesome players, was very interesting and enjoyable. We felt comfortable with the fact that you would find it (our treasured family heirloom for over thirty years) a great new home, and it sounds like you did just that! Philip Snyder, Seattle, WA

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Joe - I walked into work this morning to find that Father's Day had been moved to Thursday. She ('76 Artist Award) arrived in good condition. The bridge is on and the sound is fabulous... Thanks! Brad Smedley, Beachwood, OH

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I know you must think I overdo the accolades, but I've been in the archtop world for over 35 years and I have dealt with many dealers. Sincerely, I have never been more impressed than I am with you. You are fair, honest and most of all, you know what you're doing. I trust your judgement and would recommend you to anyone who is considering the purchase or sale of a guitar. Best regards, Steve Wagner, Eden Prairie , MN

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Hi Joe, I have a set of nickel 14's on the '43 Triumph now and it sings! The neck shape is just perfect for my hand. I really like the closer spacing from the narrow nut width on this particular instrument. The volume and projection from this guitar is very impressive with a nice chunky warm tone. The guitar is EXACTLY as described really and it plays perfectly. I really am very impressed. This one's a keeper! Thanks for your fantastic service, meticulous packing and for carrying the acoustic archtop torch! Thanks so much! Daniel Baston, Toronto, ONT

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Joe, Many thanks for finding a new home for my Schaefer Swingmaster. I'm realizing now that I have about a decade's worth of experience with you and archtop.com when it comes to buying and selling guitars, guitar cases, and guitar pickups. From my point of view that record speaks volumes about trust and ethics and honesty. Keep up the good work. I look forward to doing business with you again and I always look forward to my many online visits to your website. Best, David Everett, Austin, TX

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I bought a Palen 17 from Joe about six months ago and couldn’t be happier with my new guitar and the whole transaction. Then, I decided to sell my 1970’s vintage Ibanez “lawsuit” guitar and was very happy with that result as well. If you’re thinking about buying or selling a quality guitar, Joe is definitely the guy for you. Michael McDonald, Alamo, CA

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Hi Joe, I received the ES 175 yesterday and finally got a chance to play it this morning. Thank you for an accurately described instrument. I’m a hard working player and each instrument takes a major commitment of resources for me. I was in real need of a quality working man’s guitar for use in a variety of genres and this ES 175 is the perfect fit. It’s in excellent condition, just as stated and I’m sure will instantly become my primary workhorse. Thanks again, Joe. I know where to turn for honesty and integrity in archtop world and I couldn’t be more appreciative. Sincerely, Chuck O’Connor, Stow, ME

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Dear Joe, The 1962 Fender Deluxe amp is as clean and quiet as you said. The sound is wonderful and breaks up nicely at volume level 5. For the people who have ever wondered about purchasing a vintage amp, I can tell them it is worth the effort and money. I have played guitar for almost 50 years and have nice modern amps (Victoria, Fuchs), but this brown Deluxe will be my favorite. Thanks for a great sale and service. Bill Kaylor, Minneapolis, MN

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The (Schaefer) guitar is everything you said and more. What a looker! What a player! archtop.com will be the first stop when I'm ready for another fine instrument. Mike Wong, Cupertino, CA

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Joe, thanks again- I can't say enough good about your service, or how great the '49 Triumph plays, and sounds. Superlatives still will not do proper justice to either of these above; I will simply say "Thank you" for the best acoustic guitar I've ever owned, and the most facilitating service possible. Best regards, Marc McCord, Austin TX

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Joe, I am delighted with the very fine '45 Epiphone Triumph! Your exemplary knowledge and excellent inventory made this experience positive in all ways. Thanks for the time spent with me on the phone and in your shop. David Austin, Seattle, WA

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Hello Joe, The Le Grand arrived today and you made me very happy. Your description about the condition was totally correct and being made in 1993 the guitar was really as new. ...Maybe stored-under-the bed-18-years? This is hard to believe for such a beauty but finally it has found a good new home where it will not spend too many hours unplayed. I also like to emphasize that you do a great and very professional job and I would nor hesitate to buy again. Thank you, Dieter Staron, Herne, Germany

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Hi Joe, Oh my GOD ...it's here ... it's stunning ... it's beautiful!!!!! I agree with you - it plays like butter! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!! Kathy Durante, Gold River, BC

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Hi Joe, Glad you found a great home for the Le Grand....Thanks so much.... There's no other guitar site I love as much as yours. All the best, Marc Ratner, Camden, ME

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Hello again, Joe. I can't tell you how much I like the Slaman 150-extra. It is my dream archtop. It really authentically gets that sound I've been hearing for so many years. Christian, Raney, Thomas. I am thrilled! (and thanks for the strap buttons, too) You are still a class act, and I will be in touch with you soon. Musically yours, Larry Camp, St. Petersburg, FLHi Joe, The Napolitano Jazz Box has just been delivered - many thanks for your great service and smooth communication - and above all it's a wonderful instrument! Very best Christian Richters, Munster, Germany

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Joe: My Heritage 575 was my first "good" guitar - but since I had bought a '37 L7 a few years ago from you and stopped playing it as much as I used to; I knew you would deliver on your promises when it was time to get it a new home. The packing instructions and contract were simple and understandable. Put me down as both a satisfied buyer and seller from archtop.com...Scott Furbeck, Heyworth, IL

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Hey, Joe --just pulled out the Andersen -- plays/sounds like a precision instrument. Already opening up fifteen minutes later... Thanks a lot for a great deal on a fine git-tar... I'm very happy -- David Yorkin, LA, CA

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Hi Joe, Just letting you know I'm very happy with my (Eastman 810CE). I haven't had a chance to plug her in yet.... To tell you the truth, I'm not in any great hurry. I'm having a great time exploring this baby acoustically. The pickup job and setup are immaculate by the way. Plays great, sounds great. I'm confident that I have a quality versatile instrument here. Jarrod Wilkerson, Campbellsville, KY

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Hello Joe: The Broadway has arrived. What a beautiful instrument. I can't keep my eyes and hands off of the guitar. What a great find. Once again I must commend you for your excellent customer service and quality merchandise. I look forward to dealing with you in the future and will not hesitate to recommend your company.  Thank-you , Erik Scotney, Blue Mtns, OntarioJoe: Received it. (2002 Buscarino Gigmaster) Checked it out. Played it. Love it. Thanks, Wayne D'Amico, Centerbrook, CT

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Dear Joe, I was very pleased to see that my 1948 Epiphone Triumph, as well as the 1946 Emperor and the 1961 Goya C80 had all found suitable new homes with lovers of vintage archtop guitars. When it comes to buying or selling classic instruments such as  these, nobody does it better. The quality of your service to buyers and sellers alike is always outstanding. As a serial buyer, I find the descriptions and are always highly detailed and accurate, the photography sharp and impressive and your willingness to “audition” over the ‘phone serves to build confidence in you and the trusted brand you have created and over the years. Your website should be saved by every serious player or collector in their “Favorites.” To put it simply, when it comes to archtops, you are the Holy Grail! John Young, Carmel, California

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Hi Joe, Just wanted to let you know that I received the (L-5CES) guitar this afternoon I am really happy! It's an absolutely beautiful guitar. Thanks for your outstanding professionalism in providing quality instruments with fantastic service! I would go nowhere else to buy an archtop overseas. Thanks. Tim Nikolski, Melbourne, Australia

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I've bought and sold guitars at archtop.com and have been very happy with both transactions.  Joe does it right.  He respects the instruments and deals fairly.  I have no doubt I'll be involved again both as a buyer and seller.  Thanks, Joe!, Cheers, Paul McCallum,Westlake Village, CA

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Having played for hours these past two days, find this guitar (2006 Gibson L-7C) has an intense, rich, woody, deep sound - it's the nicest acoustic I've ever heard. It'll bring a lifetime of jazz pleasure!  Many thanks, Dr. Kathy Durante, Gold River, BC

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I was very pleased with the great job archtop.com did in handling the sale of my vintage instrument. The whole experience couldn't have been easier. I originally bought the instrument from archtop.com as well, so I this is my second time, and I'm grateful for the trustworthy professionalism that archtop.com represents. Thanks again, Joe! Bob Campbell, Seattle

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Joe, I received the Herb Ellis guitar this afternoon and I wanted to let you know that I'm very happy with it. I reinstalled the bridge and (noting the new flat wound strings that were installed at my request) tuned 'er up and pluged 'er in; plays and sounds great! I look forward to gigging with this instrument for a long time...Thanks again, Steve Jones, Jacksonville, FL

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Good Morning Joe, The '44 Epiphone Triumph arrived this morning,I am very pleased with it. I fitted the bridge on it tuned up very easy, its got a lovely old sound to it. I must congratulate you on the service I got from you, it was first class in every way. I will certainly buy from you again and recommend you to people I know. Best Wishes Ian.McLean, Surrey, England.

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I can't express in words how impressed I am with you service and the rapid sale of my instrument. Thank you will have to do! Matthew Hunter, Alexandria, VA

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Thanks to Joe Vinikow and archtop.com for a grade AAA positive selling experience. He has been totally professional and quickly accountable at every level. I am a happy customer. Brent Hawley, Ft. Collins, CO

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Dear Joe, Thank you for the professional consignment service for my McKerrihan archtop guitar. From our first meeting at your shop in Seattle I was impressed with the organization and personal service you offered. I especially remember finishing up some other work in your shop and overhearing how you relate to customers. You explained the instruments in detail and even played the guitars over the phone so the customers could really know the quality of the instrument. I enjoyed working with you as well through the sale process. It was simple and easy with no hassles. Thank you once again. I highly recommend your services to other archtop owners. Sincerely, John Brozovich, Mercer Island WA

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Thanks for your help with finding a new home for my archtop. I debated whether or not to sell my guitar, but once I was ready, you took all the effort out of it. I was glad to be finding a new home for my guitar, not just selling it. Brett Romano, WA

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Joe, The guitar arrived today. I`ve got to say that this is one of the finest guitars I`ve ever played. It looks and plays fantastic! ...So thanks a lot for great service. I`ll be sure to spread the good word about you and your business to all of my guitar friends. kind regards / med vennlig hilsen. Michael Aadal, Norway

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Joe. The ('95) Triggs guitar that was owned by Mundell Lowe that you sold me is a real beauty! Thanks for the great experience!  I swear my chops are better already.  Must be Mundells DNA....Just the sound I've been hearing in my head. Thanks, I love it. Joe Cupani, NY

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The check for the L7 arrived Friday and I was floored. It was for several hundred dollars more than I'd been expecting. I can't thank you enough...As I tell my friends: say what you will about the wavering economy and the ambivalence of modern life, if there's one thing you can strike in stone, it's that Joe Vinikow can sell a guitar. Mark Baker, PA

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Thanks for the great job in selling my '49 ES-175. Although it was a difficult decision to let her go, the decision was made easier because I knew what to expect from my sales experience with you. Having done business with you several times before, both as a buyer and a seller, I didn't hesitate in deciding you were the right person for the consignment...great pictures, a wonderful and accurate description of the instrument, and your personal attention to the entire transaction from start to finish. That's why I keep coming back. Regards, Ray Gargiulo, Massapequa, NY

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Hey Joe... The guitar (Triumph Regent) arrived yesterday morning, and I'm thrilled with it... The frets and action are truly amazing! The voice is clear and big! I really dig it,.. it's a special guitar that I will play for many years to come. Well, back to more "breaking in" with my new girlfriend. Regards, Sean Daly, Brooklyn, NY

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Thanks for the great job in selling my '49 ES-175. Although it was a difficult decision to let her go, the decision was made easier because I knew what to expect from my sales experience with you. Having done business with you several times before, both as a buyer and a seller, I didn't hesitate in deciding you were the right person for the consignment...great pictures, a wonderful and accurate description of the instrument, and your personal attention to the entire transaction from start to finish. That's why I keep coming back. Regards, Ray Gargiulo, Massapequa, NY

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Hey Joe... The guitar (Triumph Regent) arrived yesterday morning, and I'm thrilled with it... The frets and action are truly amazing! The voice is clear and big! I really dig it,.. it's a special guitar that I will play for many years to come. Well, back to more "breaking in" with my new girlfriend. Regards, Sean Daly, Brooklyn, NY

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Joe, The guitar arrived today. I`ve got to say that this is one of the finest guitars I`ve ever played. It looks and plays fantastic! ...So thanks a lot for great service. I`ll be sure to spread the good word about you and your business to all of my guitar friends. kind regards / med vennlig hilsen. Michael Aadal, Norway

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Joe. The ('95) Triggs guitar that was owned by Mundell Lowe that you sold me is a real beauty! Thanks for the great experience!  I swear my chops are better already.  Must be Mundells DNA....Just the sound I've been hearing in my head. Thanks, I love it. Joe Cupani, NY

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The check for the L7 arrived Friday and I was floored. It was for several hundred dollars more than I'd been expecting. I can't thank you enough...As I tell my friends: say what you will about the wavering economy and the ambivalence of modern life, if there's one thing you can strike in stone, it's that Joe Vinikow can sell a guitar. Mark Baker, PA

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Thanks to Joe Vinikow and archtop.com for a grade AAA positive selling experience. He has been totally professional and quickly accountable at every level. I am a happy customer. Brent Hawley, Ft. Collins, CO

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Dear Joe, Thank you for the professional consignment service for my McKerrihan archtop guitar. From our first meeting at your shop in Seattle I was impressed with the organization and personal service you offered. I especially remember finishing up some other work in your shop and overhearing how you relate to customers. You explained the instruments in detail and even played the guitars over the phone so the customers could really know the quality of the instrument. I enjoyed working with you as well through the sale process. It was simple and easy with no hassles. Thank you once again. I highly recommend your services to other archtop owners. Sincerely, John Brozovich, Mercer Island WA

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Thanks for your help with finding a new home for my archtop. I debated whether or not to sell my guitar, but once I was ready, you took all the effort out of it. I was glad to be finding a new home for my guitar, not just selling it. Brett Romano, WA

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It's true what they say- archtop.com is a great place to consign an instrument. Thank you, Joe and staff. Your professionalism (particularly helping with the often difficult task of selecting the ideal asking price) made this experience almost too easy. Not only that, but your photos and description almost had me wanting to buy my guitar back! All the best, James Rowan, SF Bay Area

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Joe, I finally have had the chance to really play this (Trenier Magnolia) at length, and I must say, this is a really great example of a well-planned, well-executed design. It is very versatile with great presence, and is an easy playing guitar as well. The neck is a pleasure and the tone is to die for. It does lots of things extremely well in my opinion...I am very pleased to have had the opportunity to acquire this instrument at this price, and appreciate your making these types of instruments available. Kudos to Bryant. Thanks again. Rob MacDonald, Ft. Collins, CO

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Joe, Having now both bought from and sold through archtop.com, I can vouch for the fact that you are the best at what you do. Thank you again! Norm Ayotte, Altadena, CA

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Dear Joe, Thank you so much for helping me get the guitar of my dreams (1949 Epiphone Emperor) its looks and sounds beautiful!  The only problem now is that everyone in the family is fighting for who gets to play it! So I look forward to you helping them to get their own dream guitars soon!  Thank you for your in depth knowledge and speedy service...! All the best, Grace Degey, France

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Joe, Thanks for selling a second Ibanez "lawsuit" guitar for me. Your website attracts buyers who are knowledgeable and motivated and your pricing and assessment were spot on. The first guitar sold before it was even listed and the next, very soon after. Hands down the best outlet for fine archtop guitars. Jon Dalton, Los Angeles

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Thanks again Joe, for selling the Trenier. You're the greatest! Mark Condran, Bow, WA

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I've bought two guitars from you and both of them have been excellent. You run an honest outfit and you're just a pleasure to deal with. Kevin Connelly, New Bedford, MA

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Thanks, Joe - you really do have the classiest presentation of any guitar site I've seen. Wish I could buy them all. Herb Avery, Atlanta, GA

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I bought my first Epiphone from Joe in 1990 then a second shortly thereafter! When it came time to selling  my Epiphone collection I sent them all (5) to Joe without hesitation. Joe was amazing, selling 2 of my guitars in less than a week, with a third on hold a week later!!! If you are going to buy or sell an archtop, there isn’t a question…..call Joe V. at archtop.com. Marty Jacobvitz, Wimberley, TX

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Joe, Thanks for your help with my vintage Ibanez L-5C replica. A world renowned local vintage dealer had, in my opinion, vastly underestimated the value of my guitar and worse still didn't even seem interested in helping me sell it! His loss, you got a great price for this super-rare guitar and just as important a happy and satisfied buyer. Jon Dalton, Los Angeles

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Joe- In my personal experience, buying a guitar is usually fun. Selling... not so much. However, I couldn't be happier with the recent fast and easy sales of three of my guitars through your consignment services. Your website- and professionalism – is obviously trusted by serious players and collectors. My guitars were beautifully displayed and accurately described. All in all- a great experience ! Thank you! Forrest Newton Seattle, WA

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Hi Joe! Just a note to tell you I received the (Campellone Standard) guitar yesterday in perfect shape, and have been playing it more or less non-stop since I got it!:-) ... the instrument is absoludely amazing! The intonation is perfect, the neck and playability is really smooth, and the sound is just what I hoped - classic jazz guitar, smooth but still with that nice rawness to it. Finest jazz guitar I have ever played! ....I must say it has been a pleassure dealing with you, everything from customer support, fantastic website with really good information, how fast you sent the guitar, and how fast it arrived safely to me, and of course the shape and quality of the guitar. All in all really outstanding shopping experience, and I will definitely be shopping with you more! By the way, my new Campellone went to work with me on the musical "La Cage aux Folles" the day after I received it, and it performed just as beautifully as I had hoped it would! (as well as causing dropping the jaw of my fellow musicians from it's stunning looks.... :-) Thanks, Morten Faerestrand, Bergen, Norway

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Hi Joe! Today I've received your Gibson southern Jumbo (1952) and what can I say: It's the best Vintage Jumbo guitar I've ever heard and played! Even better than my beloved Gibson J-45 from 1950 which is also a great guitar! The SJ is loud with incredible strong middle and bass notes! You immediately hear every note you play and also the higher notes are clear, fat and loud enough! It's a great guitar for strumming but......it's much more better when you pick it! I play Blues, Ragtime, Swing or Folk tunes on it and for sure will play it on my next album as my leading Jumbo guitar! Thank you very much! You again did a great job! The guitar was packed very well and is exactly as good as you described it! Best regards! Edwin Kimmler, Landshut Germany

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Dear Joe, Dec 3 the pick-up and stealth kit just arrived. I couldn't wait (you know us old guys). I just twist wired the pickup to the end pin and let her rip. BOOYA BABY! The sound is so retro its FANTASTIC. The pickup is like it's custom made for my guitars. I have a Gretsch G400 and a G400C. I did the measurements, but I never expected this. The pickup snugs under the guard like the cord plugs in the end pin. PERFECT! The guard is held on by 3 screws when 2 will hold it fine. The 3rd hole will be prefect for the micro toggle switch. Again PERFECT! With the end pin grounded to the tailpiece the hum is marginal. I really want to keep both these guitars stock, yet I want to amp. them to keep up with piano and drums etc and have them sound great, and now thanks to you, Joe, I can. THANKS JOE, YOU'RE THE BEST ! Gordon Jones, Vancouver, BC

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Joe did a great job of handling the consignment of two family legacy guitars.  In particular, the web page for each instrument was well done and provided the potential buyer with an excellent description and photos of the instrument.  The process of following my consigned instruments on the website was convenient and allowed me to track the progress of the sale.  I highly recommend archtop.com.  Susan Huntley, Olympia, WA

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I have both bought and sold guitars with Joe Vinikow at archtop.com, and I am an extremely pleased and satisfied customer. Joe is a pleasure to work with. He's very knowledgeable, efficient, and willing to share his expertise. In short, Joe is the consummate professional, and you could not possibly do better in your search for a great archtop guitar than to utilize Joe's wonderful services at archtop.com. Cheers, Neil Shopshire, Fort Collins, COHi Joe - The Triggs guitar came through the shipping well - ...It works very well and is a great instrument. I've played guitar all my life (I'm 58) and that guitar has the best "set up" / neck angle / action etc.. ever ! Great electronics too ! I'm very pleased with the value and service - and wanted to thank you for all your help Joe. Best of success to you - this guitar has a good home !! :~) John Beth -Reedsburg, WI

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Joe, A thousand thanks for your support in the sale of my 7-string oval hole Borys achtop. That guitar is a very special instrument and I'm glad that its found a new appreciative caretaker... All is well. Thanks again Joe for what you do. Best regards, Michael Biller, Sound Island Music, Mercer Island, WA

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Joe-Another successful sale! Your program is the best in the industry, bar none. Both sellers and buyers get top-notch service and value. When you can't put your hands on a guitar before buying, having your preparation and expertise in evaluating guitars is highly valuable. Thanks again, let's keep it up., Grant Castle, Southwest Harbor, ME

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Joe, thanks for the quick sale of my Super 400. The page layout was excellent, and all my dealings with archtop.com were handled with care and professionalism. I'm especially pleased to know that the guitar I took pride in has found a new owner who is delighted by its qualities. Keep up the good work! Don McDowell, Arnold, CA

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Hi Joe, Just wanted to let you know that the Tal Farlow arrived this week. It looks and sounds great. Thanks again for shipping so quickly.This is a terrific instrument! Regards, Paul Wurster, Eugene, Oregon

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Hi Joe, Thanks again for your help in allowing me to acquire this brilliant instrument (1932 Epiphone Deluxe), it won't stop barking on or off the bandstand! All the best, Ted Gottsegen, NYC

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Joe, Thanks for handling the adoption of my Benedetto - your ad photos were beautiful as was the description. I look forward to selling more with you! Thanks, Herb Avery, Atlanta, GA

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Joe, The 1968 ES-345TDC  has arrived safe and sound and what a beauty it is too, a real classic exactly as descibed playing wise and look wise. This is my third purchase from you guys and as ever the service was impeccable. Keep up the great work. Best regards, Graham Sandford, London

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Hi Joe!, Thanks for your advice! ...You're absolutely right, the 1931 Gibson L-4 is a great guitar! I am very surprised how much volume and bass this guitar has. And it's very versatile! Comparing to my Gibson LG-2 from 1951 the L 4 surprisingly sounds fatter! And I really have a great LG-2! I've never expected these effects from an archtop guitar! I really love to play old swing- styles but also Blues on it! So I hope you'll soon get another one of these fantastic archtop guitars to make all flat top players believe in the Gibson L 4 as a very fine acoustic guitar! Thank you very much and best regards from Germany! Edwin Kimmler, Landshut, Germany

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Joe, The '34 Gibson L-5 guitar has arrived and I like and will enjoy it. Thanks again, T. K. Haruki, Kobe, Japan

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Joe, I got the guitar ('05 Cardona Elegante) early this afternoon. After leaving it in the box for an hour or so, I opened it up. It's a winner! Well-packed and in one piece. You can't beat that. Thanks! G. W. Keyl, Anchorage, AKThis was my third sale with archtop.com. All three went for the asking price. Ed Hagen, Columbia SC

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Joe, You found a new home for my Cardona Elegante in record time. I'm sure she'll take to the new owner's Alaskan clime. Thanks for the quick and professional results. In my book, you're the top purveyor of fine guitars on the web--thus in the world! Mike Lang, Sherman, Il   

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Joe, I was pleased to see you found the right home for my Devon. Your personal service is unmatched. I'll continue to recommend archtop.com as the place to buy or sell quality instruments. Len Carson, San DiegoHi Joe, The (Everett) Celona is keeper, a fine instrument, especially for the money. It is stunning both aurally and visually....That sound port makes it sound like its almost amplified. Thanks, Matt Hazeltine,Shorewood, WI

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Hi Joe, Thank you again for such a smooth process for buying and delivery of my new guitar ('53 ES-150). The ebony finish on aged cream bindings is unique and the finish is fantastic for a 57 y/o guitar. I cannot be more happy and you are always so friendly on the phone it is clear you love your work. I have attached a photo showing the new guitar settling into home here in Australia and meeting some distant cousins. Thanks again - now just need to save up for my next purchase from you. Graeme Cross, Gosford, Australia.

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Joe, You've got a deal with the '08 Palen, a great box for a good price! Be well, John I. Dale, Washington, DC

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Joe: The Super 400 arrived, as well. Words cannot express........ After having played it for a couple of hours rehearsing with my swing band last night, I must say it exceeds expectations. It feels like an old friend (I've played a 1998 Gibson ES5 for past 8 yr - same neck feel). I got the action raised to where it needs to be, those big band chords really cut through. I have to raise the volume pretty high to get electric output louder than acoustic. The electric tone for soloing is "sweet as sweet potato pie" - the sound I have always sought but could never attain. Ray Joesten, Storrs, CT

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Joe, The sale was so easy that the hardest part of the process was finding a box to put the guitar in. The rest of the process was fast, efficient and resulted in a win / win for me and the customer. Regards, Ed Gilbert, Houston, TX

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Good Afternoon Joe, The '46 Triumph arrived in excellent condition and exactly as advertised. The guitar is loud, clear and as you mentioned, without any doubt, "the most bang for the buck". It was a pleasure doing business with you. Russ Bishop, Lincoln, RI

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Joe, I received the (2008 Benedetto Bravo) yesterday. The guitar is in good shape and nothing broken in shipping. Just wanted to let you know you were right, it is a beautiful guitar in immaculate condition. I really Love it. It has great voice, a real sweet tone. I would like to commend you and your staff for your professionalism regarding this transaction. Thank you for your time and patience. Thanks again, Bobby Rambo, Dallas, TX

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Hello Joe. I picked up the ol '36 Super 400 yesterday. What a fantastic guitar in excellent excellent condition, better than expected. If you ever want to buy a top notch archtop through a great dealer, Joe is the man to talk to. The 1936 Gibson Super 400 is a fantastic guitar in fabulous condition, worth every penny. Eric Harding, Saint John, New Brunswick Canada

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Hi Joe, The '52 Gibson L-7N arrived on Monday ... Wow!!!!!! was my first impression. First off, thanks for the fantastic packing job and the way that you had the strings was pretty amazing. I've never seen that before but I can see that you really put thought into how to safely send an archtop!! I strung it up and tuned it up and adjusted the bridge a bit and away I went. I LOVE IT!!!!!!! It's everything I hoped for. Pure appealing tone, easy to play, drop dead classy and gorgeous. Add me into the "Extremely Happy Customer List"!!!!! all the best, Randy Fullmer, Woodland Hills, CA

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Hey Joe, The west wind gently floated in the Zephyr Deluxe to me yesterday, and I didn't get around to letting you know until today, BUT that's because I spent all last night getting acquainted with this fine instrument. It's truly a beautiful unique object 'd music/art.. To whoever put the work/time/moola into constructing this fine guitar to its present state, I am VERY grateful, as well as to any previous owner(s) that kept it in such excellent condition. It's just as you described, Joe, and I thank you once again for taking the 'time-out' from your busy schedule to describe, play, and ship this to me in record time. As always, the setup instructions you send along make it so easy to get the guitar in hand and playing right away. This is definitely another keeper! Thank you!!!!! Brad Cornwell, Casper, WY

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It was a pleasure doing business with you . The honest and great presentation that you gave my 1939 Broadway and 1922 Gibson A-3 white face mandolin, shows the care and professionalism that you take in your work. I highly recommend your service to anyone to sell any vintage or classic instruments. Thank you for the great prices you got for me. Mike Tweedy, Buffalo, NY

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Joe, You sold our son, Vinnie, the Gibson L-5 Wes Montgomery this past Febuary. Vinnie loves the guitar, only plays it with a long sleeve buttonless tee, washes his hands before playing and wipes the guitar down after each use... All the best, Russell Johnson, Port Townsend, WA (You can see Vinnie and his guitar in an original ballad here -jv)

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Joe, Your patience in the turnover of the Sadowsky Jim Hall Prototype was the key to a successful sale. I appreciate, as always, your persistence to get the job done. This was my second consignment with archtop.com, and I hope it won't be the last. Bob Perrey, Deerfield, IL

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Selling my '45 L-5 was fast and easy. I am very impressed with your business setup, and your marketing skill. There is no way that I could ever reach the same amount of serious buyers  via ebay or any other sort of dealer. The amount of trust that you have built up with your customer base is admirable. I really appreciate that I can use your consignment service and fair fees to sell my guitars that aren't getting the playing time they deserve. Kamlapati Khalsa, San Jose, CA

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Dear Joe: Just wanted to let you know that the (1922 Gibson A-3) mandolin arrived safe and sound and on time. I could not be more pleased with the everything about it. Thank you for making it available and your professional help. ...I'm so throughly pleased, thank you. Ted Marshall, Berkeley, CA

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I have always found your website to be a beacon of integrity and an invaluable mainstay of reliable information and wisdom regarding these grand old archtops.  I have had the pleasure of receiving a '40s blond Epi Deluxe from you and have directed friends your way, which resulted in your guitars finding new homes and my friends acting like proud new fathers! As always, thanks for your dedication in keeping these guitars in circulation and making sure they continue to live on and do what they were designed for-making music. All the Best, Don Summers, Nicasio, CA

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Joe, Just a quick note to tell you how much I love the ’46 Gibson L-7. As you know, she arrived two weeks ago and having spent her entire life in the dry air of Montana, she continues to settle-in down in this hot, humid climate in Houston.  This is my third archtop from you and I couldn’t be more pleased. Once again your set-ups are impeccable…she truly plays like a dream. But, most of all I have to say that this guitar presents beautifully that elusive vintage acoustic sound from that era, warm, woody… authentic. My search is Over.  Thanks a Kagillion !!!, Johnny M. Boatright, Katy, TX

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Dear Joe, 1935 Gibson L-5 "Advanced Model" arrived today, It was safe with swiftness. This guitar satisfied me immediately, I played it at once. It is splendid low tone and balance. Many thanks !!!!!!! Tohru Seya, Ibaraki, Japan

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I played an archtop about 30 years ago for about 15 minutes at a friend's house and never quite forgot it. I was a perennially broke music student at the time, and eventually set the guitar aside to do other things for a living, though I never completely quit playing. Some months ago I had an opportunity to trade for a somewhat beaten (but not broken) L-12, and that began my archtop journey as an adult. And, as I imagine most of us figure out, not many folks know as much as Joe does about archtops, and he has a fabulous collection of all kinds of the best of them for sale. ... I bought a Holst semi-hollow body from him, and then, finding that quite satisfactory, a Moll Workingman's Hero. Now I'm selling, through Joe, another instrument, and in all these dealings, I've found Joe to give the first rate attention, advice, and commentary that is not easy to find elsewhere from anybody. Having been bitten by the archtop bug, I know that next time I've got the resources, I'll get on a plane and go to one place -- archtop.com in Seattle -- to play guitars, visit, and figure out what my next gem of a guitar will be. Many thanks, Joe. Earl Weed, Houston, TX

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Joe, Thanks for another quick and hassle free sale of one of the archtops from my collection. There is no doubt that you have the largest and consistently highest quality archtops in the business for sale. Whether you are buying or selling, you set the standard. Your Friend, Randall Shike, Wichita, KS

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Joe exceeded my expectations of the sale of my guitar ('52 Devon) as well as my purchase ('53 L-4). The Gibson I bought has become my most prized possession and I play it almost every day. His description of the condition and sound was a very accurate representation of the facts. Packed and shipped in a very professional manner, I received the guitar in perfect condition. I was able to use Joe's packing materials, along with his instructions on the web site, to send my guitar to him confidently. My guitar was presented in the same excellent manner as all the other instruments on the site. Joe has a great grasp for market value and my guitar sold at a price that made me feel good. Now if I could just stop looking at all those beautiful guitars on his site. Richard Chapman, Mechanicville, NY

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Hey Joe, Thanks so much for handling “absolutely everything” with the sale of my 1938 C-50 Vega. I would like to say to anyone reading this… that  Joe Vinikow with archtop.com is the consummate professional.  This is the guy we wish everybody would emulate in business. I had the unusual good fortune to meet with Joe personally, to set up the consignment sale of my guitar. As with anything new, I was initially a bit concerned about how it would all come together. This was my Dad’s guitar before me and it had never left our care and custody for 72 years. Amazing! After meeting Joe and spending about 30 minutes with him,  I was completely at ease and convicted that this was absolutely the right choice , the right place, the right guy. Trust  Joe V.  and archtop.com ….you will be amazed and delighted.  I thank you and my Dad thanks you Joe …Great Job !!  God Bless !  and keep up the good work. Rich Salvaggio, Salem, OR

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Joe, I'd be happy to add my kudos to the many listed on your site. It appears that your business is a success because so many of your customers have said the same thing I'm going to say. First, your marketing works: Your website is dominent when using a search engine to find archtop guitars, collector guitars, vintage instruments, etc. So, you deliver the type of customers that appreciate a good instrument and know it's value. Second, your advertising copy is the BEST: - The description is absolutely on target to build desire among customers and provide historical facts that build preceived value. I too, like others have stated, wanted to buy my Epiphone back after reading about it on your site. Third, your reputation for superb customer service and integrity is legendary. I came to you because a friend recommended you. And, when I listed with you I heard from many others saying, "Hey, I say your guitar on archtop.com" and "That guy know what's happening and will sell your guitar." OK Joe, I'm a happy customer and will be glad to recommend you to any buyer or seller... And I wish you the best. Not just because you sold my guitar. But, because I want to come back, as a potential buyer and look over your amazing inventory and read the beautiful descriptions of the instruments you offer. It's clear you share the passion for guitar that so many of your customers have.... THANK YOU for doing such a great job to sell my Epiphone! Sincerely, Gerry Grooms, Sioux Falls, SD

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Hello Joe, I just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for the great service. I love my Epiphone Olympic: it is everything you said it would be. Thanks again, Carmine Rocci, San Marcos, CA 

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Dear Joe, The (1940) Emperor (you restored) arrived in great shape. I am in the process of playing it in and letting it settle. Pretty amazing transformation.... from a pile of lumber into a functioning note cannon. Thanx for all the help and for rescuing this fine old piece from the brink of oblivion. I hope this finds you well and enjoying the springtime. Sincerely, Bruce Reynolds... Guam USA

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Hi Joe, Great job on selling my L-5. The web page presentation was outstanding, and like many others may have stated made me want to buy it myself! Don McDowell, Arnold, CA

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Joe made (selling my L-7) easy, has the knowledge, knows guitars like nobody else and I feel like my guitar selling experience with archtop.com was the best, absolutely pleased. Roy Schwilke, Omak, WA

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Hi Joe, The 1940 Gibson L-37 arrived yesterday as described and in good shape. Nice guitar, I will take good care of it. Thank you Joe. Regards Torbjørn Stølen, Larvik, NorwayHi Joe, Thanks so much for finding my ES 150 a new home, it was a very low stress experience. Your description and pictures of the guitar made my me want to buy it back. I also want to thank you for the great experience when I came and picked out my 36 L 7. I played many great instruments and all of them were perfectly set up and played beautifully, that is an experience I have never had at any other guitar shop. I will be back. Thanks, Jay Somers, Portland, Oregon

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Joe, I was thoroughly pleased with my archtop.com experience. Your written copy describing my guitar was excellently done and professional--the photos gave me pangs of remorse over selling it. In my opinion, another dealer would not have done quite as a good a job as you did in marketing the instrument. Best, Alexander Abruzzo, Hicksville, N.Y.

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Hi Joe, Well I've had this beautiful blonde now for three weeks and she sounds better every time I pick her up. The other blonde in the house, I've been married to for 12 years and even as my staunchest critic, says the chords sound heavenly. You were absolutely right, for a 62 year old guitar, she is in exquisite condition and plays like a dream. This 1946 Triumph is my second archtop from you and I am way beyond impressed with both the quality of the guitar and the professional way you conduct your business....As always, my very best regards, Johnny M. Boatright, Katy, TX

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Dear Joe, I received the Andersen 15 this afternoon, and have been playing it for the past half hour. I had to pause to tell you that it is such a wonderful instrument - beautiful to look at and it really sings. I really appreciate your assistance with this purchase. Your kindness, care, and knowledge certainly made the decision to buy much easier. I have been dreaming of owning a guitar of this quality for a long time. You've helped that dream come true. Thanks again, Neil Shropshire, Ft. Collins, CO

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Joe, Took delivery of my 1963 Epiphone Deluxe "Black Beauty" archtop today and am thoroughly impressed with the whole experience that I've had with your shop: from the quality packing job to the well written "care and feeding" suggestions that you sent with the guitar its obvious to me that you care about your customers. Since I received the guitar at work little touches such as including a pick for me go a long way! Well done! Thanks a million. Edward Lott, St. Louis, MO

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I've sold two guitars through Joe's shop. Both sold quickly even though the market for them was pretty thin. For the type of instrument that Joe tends to sell, I can't imagine sending a consignment to any other shop. This is THE place for archtops and jazz boxes. Thanks again, Mike Wilkins, College Station, TX

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Thanks for the quick sale ('97 Unger American Dream.) I have been buying , selling and trading guitars for decades and your care and straightforward handling of consignments on your website is first rate. Thanks again, Bob Belmont, Saluda, NC

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Thank you very much! Selling my guitar through archtop.com has been a very good experience. You have been very helpful, easy to deal with and very professional throughout the whole process.  It has been a pleasure doing business with you. Rest assured, if I am in the market for an archtop, or have one to sell, I won't be going anywhere else. Thanks again! Greg Broadbooks, Claremore OK

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Efficient and effective. Joe delivered on the price he suggested we sell my baby for, which was way more than I expected. Kudos to archtop.com! Thanks again--Robert Alexander, Madison, WI

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Hi Joe, I received the guitar ('46 L-5) safe and sound yesterday. I set it up, and played it all evening. I love it. I am very satisfied as usual with archtop.com, as it is SO unusual the way that every guitar I see from you exceeds all my expectations. Will play out with it tonight, and I owe you a more thorough review in a few days. Kamlapati Khalsa, San Diego, CA

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Joe, Just wanted to thank you for the speedy sale of my Lehmann gypsy jazz guitar. I had tried for quite a while to sell it, but consigning the guitar with you was definitely my best move. You had a very detailed description and a great picture up on your site pronto and the Lehmann sold amazingly quickly, and at a very good price. So, thanks again. archtop.com is a professional operation all the way! My best, James Mumm, Amherst,  NY 

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Joe thanks again for selling my '47 L-7. All aspects of this transaction have been handled with concision and with class. I appreciate your expertise and the way you do business - always a pleasure. Steve Petac_45spartan_408erson, Seattle, WA

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Joe, Thank you again for your thoughtful approach and deep knowledge of the art of the archtop in helping me select a "new-to-me" 7-string guitar. She's a very special instrument and I'm honored to be her next caretaker. archtop.com : highly recommended! Michael Biller, Sound Island Music, Mercer Island, WA (FYI: Sound Island is the #1 source for jazz amps worldwide. Thanks, Michael!)

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Just before Christmas I decided that I would sell my beautiful ES-350. I Googled "Gibson Archtop Guitars" and found Joe Vinikow at archtop.com. Here I am, at the end of January and my beauty has found a new home. And at a good price. This was the smoothest online transaction I've ever done. I want to thank everyone at archtop.com. Thanks, Mike Curtis, Vallejo, CA

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Thanks again for another great consignment ('53 L-12). I can always count on you for a definite sale!!! Thanks again, Steve Bravante, Paso Robles, CA

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Joe, I just reviewed the list of guitars that we have collaborated on (for consignment sale) and the '49 Emperor makes eight, one per year since 2002. This one didn't get past the preview list. Len Carson, San Diego, CA

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Hi Joe, I cannot express with words how much I appreciate the salesmanship and courtesy when dealing with you on the sale of my guitar. I now realize why you have such a good reputation for moving guitars that are consigned with you company. I've heard of musicians working for musicians, you and your employees truly a musicians friend. The contacts that you have worldwide, are  loyal customers. I love the sound of the GypsyKat amp and the lightweight that I purchased from you company.  If I ever need to sell or buy, I will check your website first. Good! Good luck in the future. Herman L. Thompson, Morris, OK

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Hey Joe, Having concluded multiple transaction with your company I feel I am in a position to comment on the level of service provided by archtop.com. First , I would say I the communication was great and the process of selling moved along quicker than I expected. The exposure from your website is huge. I even had a couple of friend call me and ask if that was my guitar for sale. The web traffic ,photos and descriptions are second to none. I think when I list a instrument with Archtop.com I avail myself your unparalleled reputation for knowledgeable accrete descriptions of instruments which allow potential buyers to have more confidence when buying from Archtop.com any other dealer(or private party). Thanks, Greg Saer, St Peter, MN

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I'd got in touch with archtop.com in order to sell an early D'Angelico Excel. I packaged it to their instructions and sent it over by courier. They very quickly located a customer who bought the guitar. I felt a great deal of friendship from archtop.com during our email exchanges regarding this transaction. Mike Robins, Bristol UK

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Joe, You've designed an outstanding process for those wanting professional consignment service and should be proud! All looks good to me. Thanks! Edward Lott, St. Louis, MO

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Joe, Everything about this New Yorker is superlative and beyond! When you said 'time capsule' condition and yet vibrant and open voice, you surely meant every word and still managed to understate how exceptional this guitar looks and, better, plays and sounds! I am more thrilled than I can possibly say. You are the Mensch! Thanks a million times for finding this glorious instrument for me -- and please pass on my gratitude to its previous owner for being such a respectful curator of this extremely fine example of D'Angelico's genius. Happy new year to you and Julie, and long live archtop.com! Elie Kleiman, Paris

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Joe, thank you for finding a new home for my ES-175. This is now the second time you've located a buyer before my guitar even made it to your online gallery- very efficient and professional work! -Erik Barnes, Cambridge, MA

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Hi Joe, Happy NY. (The '59 ES-175DN) arrived and I have had it set up. It plays beautifully and is as described by you. My guitar teacher - who has been around for a while - says it's the best he has ever played. Good to do business with you. Thanks. Cheers! Geoff Crewe, Toorak, Australia

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Hi Joe, I haven't had a moment to sit down and write you a message since the Eastman 803-15 cleared Customs and arrived about 10 days ago. She really is a beauty! looks even better than in the photos. Plays great - never had 25" scale neck on a guitar before: gives great definition, but still allows for many of the extended chords that a 24.75 neck provides. The compact body is just right for me - also making it not too loud acoustically - so I won't disturb the neighbors with my night owl sessions. The 1 & 3/4 nut is the icing on the cake - being a finger style player on flat-tops, I feel right at home. Saw on your site: we've got Johnny Smith to thank ( among other things ) for bringing that Pre-War feature back to modern archtops. Never knew that! The packing as well as the instructions for fitting the bridge were first rate - extremely well done. I also noticed a set of Fender flats in the case - not without their own value - that's most appreciated. I'll definitely recommend your service to anyone I meet who's looking to buy an archtop. Many thanks, Best regards, Matt MacManus, London

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Dear archtop.com: The 2003 New Yorker arrived in perfect condition, and was exactly as described on your website. At long last i have an instrument with a voice. God bless Jimmy D'Aquisto for the life he lived, and the living designs he left us with. The High Art of Inspired Design. Many thanks to the people of archtop.com for such a pleasantly elegant, wonderfully understated, and artfully designed website. It is a testament to the character of the people whose lives comprise archtop.com, who seem to understand, in the words of the Great & Recently Late Brother Blue (of Boston Radio fame) that; "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice", to which I would like to add, "and it's nice to know there are still people who care"...An especial thanks to Mr. Joe Vinikow for helping realize a dream of thirty years. Ray Fitzpatrick, Gainesville, FL

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Hi Joe.... Just a brief note to say 'thanks' for all your efforts in getting my Byrdland sold. I appreciate the extra little push knowing that the outcome of an important family matter was riding on the sale of this guitar. .. The fact that you were able to sell it in a timely manner AND able to get the price I needed is just what the doctor ordered! In short... thanks for a job well done. Roger Kelley, Seattle, WA

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It was an absolute pleasure working with archtop.com to find a new home for my prized Gibson '56 ES-175. From the detailed packing instructions (that even told me where to find a free shipping box) to the beautiful and detailed on-line presentation of the instrument, every detail was as promised with no exception, I could not have asked for more. I highly recommend archtop.com and would encourage anybody looking to buy or sell a fine instrument to trust in Joe. Lance Broell, Placentia, CA

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Thanks a lot for finding a new home for my Ibanez Johnny Smith. The listing on your web site was excellent and the turn around was fast. I think the detailed and knowledgeable descriptions of the guitars on your site along with the top notch photography go a long way to giving potential buyers confidence that they will be making a good choice. It was a pleasure doing business with you and I look forward to doing so again in the future. Thanks again. Jay De Rocher, Bothell, WA

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Joe, Guitar ('51 ES-175) bloody great, arrived in good condition, well packed. Many many thanks for your efforts and good communications. Hopefully not the last time I deal with you. Cheers, Dave Brinsden, Subiaco, West Australia

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Hi Joe.....Wow, the '41 Broadway is amazing! She sounds great, is set up perfectly, and is beautiful as well. She's a keeper. Thanks for all your help....regards, Edwin Bomer, Corpus Christi, TX

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Working with Joe and archtop.com is one of the easiest experiences you can have -- and one of the most enjoyable. I wouldn't hesitate to sell or buy from archtop.com, no matter what instrument you have to sell or are looking to acquire. They come highly recommended for their expertise and credibiity. And, Joe's got some smokin' deals! Try him out sometime: you won't be disappointed.- Bob Hess, Portland, OR

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Thanks Joe! This is the third time we have done business, and I have nothing but admiration for the way you run your consignment shop; the web site is smart and fun, and the way you conduct business is straight forward and up front. I'm sure we will do business again; there are a couple of guitars on your list right now that are calling out to me! Don't tell my wife! Los Angeles, CA

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Dear Joe, Many thanks for the excellent service. The little Eastman guitar (905CE) sounds great, now that it has had a fresh set of strings and a workout. They are fine guitars and are amazing value for the money. Keep up the good work with your endlessly entertaining, educational, and effective web site. Best wishes, Roy Lyness, MD, Belfast

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Hello, Joe! I received the ('79 ES-175CC) guitar, today. It plays like butter and smooth!!!! You have really given me a great guitar. Thanks a whole bunch for the instructions on the bridge set up. You took the extra step in helping me get started on this super duper instrument. I was very impressed with how you took care of the packaging so the instrument arrived in pristine condition. You definetly deserve much praises for your extraordinary services!!!!!!! Thank you, Victor Hsiao, Huntsville, Texas

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Dear Joe and team, Thank you for your superb sales interaction, information, prompt and correct delievery of my wonderful new/old (!) guitar ('48 Super 400). In a wildly overcrowded internet world you are setting a standard that most will never meet. I, for one, will return to your site regularly and when funds allow will certainly give the highest priority to working with you again. Many thanks, Christopher Mark de Groot, Greenville, NC

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It's hard to imagine an easier and more pleasant buying and selling experience than working with Joe. When I purchased a guitar from him, he worked hard to get it just right; when I sold a guitar, he did all the heavy lifting to get a quick sale. Very nice! Johnny Calcagno, Seattle, WA

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Dear Joe, Thanks a millions times for the expert packing and swift shipping, as ever. Not the least surprisingly, the Borys B-120 is a MASSIVE success. It basically exhausts a long quest for a first-class 17" electric jazz guitar in the same league as D'Aquisto made electrics. This guitar has it all, playability, tone, even acoustically it is surprising while notably feedback resistant. And the gorgeous looks come on top. I know that Roger Borys is to be thanked for his wonderful skills but you're coming a close second for sending that wonderful guitar my (very happy) way and fulfilling my quest. Thanks also to the previous owner for taking good care of that instrument. All the very best to you and archtop.com! Elie Kleiman, Paris

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Hi Joe, Thank you so much for making the purchase of my new Victor Baker such a pleasurable experience, for welcoming me to your office and for jamming with me while I tried it out. Thank you also for your responsiveness to all my queries no matter how small. I am thrilled with my new instrument and would strongly recommend anyone purchasing a guitar to put archtop.com at the top of their list. Dick White, Winthrop WA

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Hi Joe - I received the check today for the Special Series - thanks for the straighforward and hassle free service - all went very smoothly and I'll be happy to do business with you again should the opportunity arise. Regards meanwhile, Mark Campellone, Greenville, RI

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Hello Joe, Thank you again for handling the sale of my guitars (Sadowsky, Unger, Gibson L-7.) I was very pleased with the help that you gave me in getting the instruments to you safely, and with the speed in which they were sold. I won't hesitate in buying or selling through you again. Two thumbs up for archtops.com. Luck and health, Frank McCrea, Victoria, BC.

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Hey Joe: Got the 1937 L-75 back today and just wanted to say what a wonderful job you did on it. It's like a new guitar only with 70+ years of character.Can't wait to hear it after it has seasoned in. This is a very handsome instrument. I've got a 1934 L-5, player, I would love you to take a look at some time maybe early next year after I save a little up. Best, Dan Curran, Salinas, CA

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Joe, Thanks much for spending the time with me and letting me play those nice guitars. Been playing the Benedetto Bambino all weekend, love it bunches. It really is a unique instrument, so light and resonant. Visiting you is hard tho - I fell in love too many times! Thanks again, you'll be hearing from me. Cliff White, Portland, OR

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Hello Joe, I received the Heritage Super Eagle safely today. Thank you. It's a beautiful guitar. My customer will be pleased with it. I look forward to doing business with you again in the near future. Thank you again, Toshi Fukamori, Guitar Trek, Osaka, Japan

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Thanks very much to Joe at archtop.com for a smooth and pleasant transaction. From start to finish my consignment deal was handled professionally, with prompt and straightforward communications, and a speedy sale. I look forward to working with Archtop.com again in the future. Peter Jung, Hudson, NY

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"I think archtop.com is the best way to buy or sell a guitar. I couldn't present it to a buyer in a more professional manner, nor could a buyer get such a guaranteed perfectly set up and reviewed instrument. It is a wonderful service to both sides of the transaction. Grant Castle, Wilton, CT

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...Every time I've visited Joe, he has been a true professional and gem of a person. A generous guitar lover and aficionado.. I'm certain we'll do business again, buying or selling, in the future.  Dr. Peter Gouzouasis, Vancouver, BC

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Hi Joe, The Borys Nylon arrived safely on Thursday and meets expectations! Sweet voice, perfect/durable construction, incredibly comfortable to play, consistent with the other Borys' I own. All the best, Patrick Bertholon, Versoix, Switzerland

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Hey, Joe. the L-5 arrived about 2 hours ago and, as predicted, I can't put it down... I couldn't confirm its arrival to you without saying that, out of the box, it is the warmest archtop I've ever played, acoustically; and the pickup only adds to it. Neck feels amazing; and to my surprise and delight the refinished maple body looks authentic and lived in. More to follow, Joe Henry, S. Pasadena, CA

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Heya Joe ! Man, am I glad I stumbled across your website ! The '64 Gibson L5C arrived safely, extremely well packed. I must say that our transaction was as smooth as one could hope for ! Thanks again ! Rob Greene, West Branch, MI

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Hi Joe, Well, the 1940 Vega C-66 arrived safely, beautifully packed, I must say -- and has been settling in to the new environment. Played her a little this morning and wow, what a beauty. I can only assume she'll get even better, though it's hard to imagine Many thanks, Hanna Richardson, Syracuse, NY

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Joe, This past Saturday I brought my new ’39 Broadway to one of our local jazz guitar icons, Dave Roos. Dave has been a fixture in the jazz scene here in Minneapolis for years and is very well respected player, teacher and general guru of all things jazz. Over the years, he has owned/played countless archtops ……he said that he felt this Broadway was probably the best sounding vintage Epi he has played!!! He really loved it... Michael Frederickson, St. Louis Park, MN

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Joe, The '68 Barney Kessel arrived safe and sound and have been having fun with it ever since. It sounds, plays and looks great. Perfect through a little '66 Fender Princeton Reverb as well as a '65 2 x 15 Dual Showman. Another EXCELLENT guitar! Thanks again. Seth Kaplan, New Rochelle, NY

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Hello Joe: The 1936 L-75 arrived safely. What a great guitar. You know, I have prized the ’29 L-4 that you sold to me a few years back for its open, woody tone. At the same time, I have always thought it would be great to find the same ‘vibe’ with a little more volume and midrange. Well, with its carved mahogany body and big round soundhole, the L-75 makes it happen in spades! Add to that the stunning original condition and the original GEIB ‘red stripe’ case, and we have ourselves a keeper. Thanks as usual for the great guitar, fast shipping, and sound advice. Best Regards, Scott Palmer, Santee, SC

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Hello Joe, The guitar has arrived today in excellent condition, professionally packed - and for the first time since I order guitars, it was with the strings unstrung, to protect the guitar from anything that might have happened during transportation - thank you, Joe, for taking so much care in preparing the instrument before sending it to me !!! The GUILD X-700 STUART looks amazing, almost untouched, exactly as advertised on your site [ it looks maybe even a little better than in the photos posted on the site] ...Thank you again for the high standard of your company, and for the beautiful guitar I now own !!! All the best, Alexi Andries, Bucharest Romania

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I own a Bose Pro sound system installation/contracting business, and have been in sales and service for about 30 years. My experience with Joe V. was thoroughly professional, like I would like to be treated, and how I like to treat our clients at Roth Electric Sound. Steve Roth, Mt. Pleasant, MI www.rothsound.com

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Hi Joe... Thanks so much for selling my Epi Broadway for me! Even though I have been an eBayer for over 10 years, I felt that you would be able to handle the sale of this guitar better than I would be able to. Because of your unmatched expertise and passion for vintage archtops, I was right. Thanks again! Paul Murphy, Sutton, MA

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Dear Joe, Thanks for selling my Epiphone Emperor for me recently. And while I’m at it, thanks for selling the Blonde Barney Kessel, the Epiphone Blackstone, the Epiphone Ritz, and other archtops of mine over the last five or six years. Thank you as well for all the beautiful archtops I’ve bought from you, that you later sold for me when it was time for me to part with them. Are we ever really the owners of these beautiful instruments, or are we simply their caretakers for however long we choose to keep them in our possession? We play them, record with them, or just hold them and look at them, to enjoy the beauty of their lines, their finish, their feel in our hands. And when it comes time to pass them on for another person to cherish, it is you that we choose, to find the next appreciative caretaker. You are truly doing God’s work for us archtop lovers and we appreciate your dedication to the guitars of these master builders and to us. I look forward to future dealings with you. Peter Corrigan,Ballston Spa, N.Y

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Hi Joe, I was a little bit nervous when I opened the package. How was this guitar that I had just seen on pictures and heard on the phone ?? In fact, the guitar is in an incredible wondeful state for a sixty years old guitar. The sound is really clear and strong with a fantastic projection. The ideal instrument to play in big band. Playing this beautiful 1947 Epiphone Broadway is a real pleasure. Thank you joe for your friendly demonstration and your great professionalism. Laurent Petit, Toulouse, France

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Hi Joe, Just wanted to let you know the '56 ES-175 arrived safe and sound in London and is an absolute pearl in every aspect. It's exactly as described and plays beautifully. It's the second guitar I have purchased from you and I am sure it will not be the last. Kind Regards, Graham Sandford, London

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Hello, Joe, What a beauty!!! I had seen so many photos of the D'aquisto Solo in the net, I knew every detail, but when I opened the case... wow!!!! You have to feel it, play it, touch it to believe what an incredible axe it is... The guitar arrived safely, just the day I expected, everything it's allright, very professional shipment, Like-new condition, just the same you said! Get me in your fully satisfied customer list. Thanks for all, Joe. Pedro Ledesma Ruipérez, Malaga, SpainI

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received my funds for the sale of my D'Aquisto New Yorker . It appears the person who purchased the guitar is quite happy as am I. I would recommend archtop.com to anyone interested in buying or selling a quality instrument. The customer service is better than excellent!! I am delighted that I decided to have this great company handle the sale of my guitar. Keep up the good work Joe. Take care, Paul Farkas, Hoosick Falls, NY 

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Hi Joe, Thanks so much for finding my guitar a new home. It literally took less time to sell it than it took to DECIDE to sell it. And you made the process absolutely trouble free and easy. I'll certainly recommend your services to anyone without hesitation. I had no idea it was even possible to sell a high dollar archtop this easily. Thanks again. Jeff Messinger, Lake Oswego, OR

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Dear Joe, Thank you for selling another archtop (Gibson ES165) for me. Over the years archtop.com has been extremely valuable to me. Being a complete archtop fanatic I like to buy new archtops gig them for a year or so and then sell them to buy another. Your great service affords me that luxury. You have sold every archtop I sent you in a very short time frame and you always send proceeds lightning quick. I wish you and archtop.com much continued success and look forward to our next transaction. Sincerely, Vincent Kowski, Redwood City, CA

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Joe, I received the 1955 Epi Deluxe Cutaway last Friday and I have to say that it the best instrument I have owned in the past 30 years of playing...after hearing it played, you convinced me that I had made the right decision. It is a fantastic instrument and one that I will never part with. Thanks and I will do business with you again. Robert Jackson, Edmond, OK

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Hi Joe, Thanks for your email. I'm glad the guitar arrived safely. I sincerely appreciate the way you treat your customers at archtop.com. You really live up to your fine reputation. Most sincerely, Fulton Yee, San Francisco

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Dear Joe, The guitar (D'Aquisto New Yorker) arrived in perfect condition. Now when I say perfect condition I mean specifically that. It is better than you advertised. As you know I was on the fence about this guitar. You played it for me over the phone, A-B'd it with a similar guitar and repeatedly assured me that I would really be happy. I am.  I realize this isn't our first transaction but you continue to amaze me. I guess it's possible I'd buy a guitar from someone else, but, there may also be a day when popsicles don't melt in hell. Thanks for pushing me in the right direction. As usual "Joe knows best". I'd wholeheartedly recommend archtop.com to anyone, anytime. You are the best, Thanks, Rick Weiss, Palm Desert, CA

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Joe, Many thanks for selling my '92 Emperor Reissue. It's always been great dealing with archtop.com as a customer, and now, having you handle the sale of one of my treasured pieces, well, I knew the guitar would be in good hands and go to a good home. Well done, I know the new owner will treasure the guitar as much as I did. Thanks again and best wishes for continued success in finding and making available these great instruments. Paul Mimlitsch, Evergreen, CO

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It's been a real pleasure to work with you on selling my Tal Farlow.  It was a tough decision to make, but I knew from the first contact with you that it was the right thing to do.  Your presentations are impeccable, the pricing is right on and the follow up service is outstanding.  When I'm ready to get back into a serious archtop, you'll be my first and only stop.  Thank you again for making this such an easy transaction. David Robinson, Sherwood, OR

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Joe, I appreciate your help in finding the Epi (Devon) a new home. I knew that with your care and expertise it would all work out, and I look forward to working with you on future archtop sales and acquisitions....Thanks Again! Brian Delaney, Ann Arbor, MI

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Thanks, Joe. I was very impressed with the manner in which my selling experience was handled. The pictures and descriptions were top-notch and the guitar ('53 ES-175) sold very quickly. Couldn't be happier. Mike Wilkins, College Station, TX

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Thanks Joe, Just wanted you to know that I appreciate your quick response and refund. I'm sure you know that buying a guitar is an emotional as well as a practical purchase. You always offer the best in archtop guitars...as your correspondents illustrate with their happy responses. But, on the rare occassion where the guitar/human interaction fails to materialize, it is very good to know you have a problem free return policy. I'm sure all your customers appreciate this, as do I, and is another reason why I will continue to be a faithful customer. Your friend, Randall Shike, Wichita, KS

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Hi Joe, Once again thank you selling another one of my instruments. I know you found a good home for my Guild Artist Award where it will be appreciated. I wish you all the best and hope to continue to depend on your expertise, help and assistance in the future. Sincerely, Lee Burton, Fox Lake, Il

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Hi Joe, Love the guitar (1953 Epiphone Devon). You were right, this one won't be making a round trip. It looks, plays and sounds great! Thanks again for all of your help! Jeff Pecca, Lakewood, NJ

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Joe, Just wanted to let you know that the 1953 ES-175 arrived safely in London – I’ve owned several 175s in the past but as you described, this one is a true gem and I won’t be letting go of it. Many thanks again and best regards, Steve Kardar, London

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I've been playing, buying and selling guitars my whole life. I am grateful to Joe and archtop.com for impeccable service, responsiveness and, integrity combined with care and passion for fine instruments. Highly recommended. Rep. Paul Hodes, Concord, NH

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Hey Joe, Noticed my guitars sold. Thank you so much. When I saw the presentation you did for the guitar I almost bought it myself! Any way dealing with you has been a very positive experience and all the praise you guys receive is well deserved... Thanks for everything. Sincerely, Omar Ahktar, Chicago, IL

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Thank you a million times Joe, for another wonderful guitar. This 1928 L-5 is truly a fantastic instrument. When I opened the case, all I had to do was rub the venerable rims gently and repeat Kalamazoo three times... The genius of the guitar immediately appeared, looking every bit like Eddie Lang, clad in his tuxedo, with his carefully combed jet black hair... OK perhaps I should not have had three glasses of fine French wine with my lunch! But let me tell you what you already know: this instrument is killer. Best, Elie Kleiman, Paris Hi Joe, VERY HAPPY with the guitar (American Archtop 7 String), has a nice sound and plays well and for the price ya can't beat it. Please keep me posted if any high end 7's come up and I book marked the site to keep looking. Thanks Tom McDermott, Burbank, CA

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Joe -Thanks, again for marketing my guitar.  I was thrilled by the quick sale.  I have received the proceeds and the money will be recycled into another quality archtop.  It's been a pleasure dealing with you, and I look forward to future transactions. Greg Richards, Germantown, TN 

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I have been fortunate enough to live in proximity to Joe in the Great NW and have gotten to know him over the last several years. I have purchased a few guitars in the past and recently I had him sell another one for me. Every transaction has been positive, flawless, personal, gratifying and productive. What you the reader may not know about him is that he is also a player. Not a casual one, but a hard working, out on the scene, feet on the ground and hands on the frets everyday player. He teaches and performs as a living. Important to you as a potential buyer or seller? You bet. Any other player knows that what sets apart a good transaction or purchase from a great one is whether or not the guitar is understood as an instrument of trade, cared for, set up and scrutinized for playability and tone. To purchase a guitar without ever seeing it, hearing it or holding it, one must put tremendous faith in the words of the seller. Having intermittently played a few of these grand instruments over the years, the descriptions on his site are always spot on. Aesthetics, feel, tonal qualities, and overall gestalt are all accurate to a tee. How can you not feel the love of his trade and see the hours of research in the historic descriptions he shares? Before I conclude, let me share a few words to the person behind these beautiful boxes. I assure you, Joe is one of the nicest, most gracious and real people you'd ever be fortunate enough to meet. He is honest, sincere and dedicated, organized and thoughtful. His shop is impeccably maintained. Joe is not a nameless faceless guy pumping merchandise. He is a tremendous individual and a skillful artisan with an avocation for instruments and music. The archtop world is fortunate to have him and his site as the place to go whether for casual window shopping, serious purchase inquiries, historical review, selling or setting up your prized guitars. Mark Colombo, Arlington, WA

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Dealing with Joe and archtop.com has been a most pleasurable experience. Not only did he describe the guitar accurately, if a little conservatively, he shipped it out ASAP... Now, if he'd only expand into high end flattops..Brad Little, Hamden, CT

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Hi Joe, I recently purchased a Wes Montgomery L5 guitar from you. Thought I'd let you know the guitar was in my hands in less than 24 hours after finalizing the sale. That's a pretty quick journey from Washington to Southern California! I would describe the guitar as... perfect !! That's the only word that really covers it. I plan to keep this one for as long as I'm able to play guitar, and maybe even after that! As I expected, the tone is very nice, and the guitar is extremely easy to play, a bit of a surprise. ( Thanks for the help in placing the bridge on the guitar. )... I really appreciate the professionalism, integrity, and craftsmanship you have at archtop.com. I'm sure all serious musicians do, especially if they have had to deal with one of those big chain music stores. Hopefully, I'll do business with you in the future, perhaps when I restore my very worn but much loved 335. Thanks for your dedication to the art. Peter Bent, Goleta, CA

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Hi Joe, I finally picked up the (Foster 7) yesterday from my local depot, who have been very helpful. It arrived in perfect condition, so thanks for packing it so well...Everything is exactly as you described on your website and it is in immaculate condition. Given it is four years old there isn't a mark on it. It certainly has a beautiful acoustic sound, which will only get better with playing and it sounded great through my amp too. So I am very happy and would like to thank you for all your help and excellent service. If you ever get any more interesting 7 string guitars, it may be worth letting me know. Thanks again for everything. Tony Marshall, Nerwton, UK

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Dear Joe, I’m writing to thank you and archtop.com. I think your business is the best.  My experience has been that archtop.com is top of the line in every aspect from service to selection. I’ve been accused of being a purist and I’ve always envisioned the archtop trade to be a “bricks and mortar” industry. This idea just doesn’t seem to exist anymore. In fact few if any cities have stores with such a great selection of top-value, top of the line guitars as archtop.com. What makes archtop.com really shine is the service and attention to detail. When a friend asks me where can they go to sell their archtop guitars I tell them “archtop.com, they’re the best’. Ned Boynton, San Francisco, CA

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I had picked up a 1953 Epiphone Broadway in pretty rough shape, but saw the potential. I brought it to some prominent luthiers and shops here in Connecticut, and was frankly disappointed in the inconsistent diagnoses and estimates for repair. I took a leap of faith and sent the guitar to the west coast and to Joe at archtop.com. Joe was a pleasure to work with. The guitar was professionally and beautifully restored at a very reasonable cost. I enjoy finding the hidden treasures in the guitar world and getting them back into circulation. I've been at this for about 20 years now and have worked with many shops around the country and would highly recommend Joe and archtop.com. I have a new secret weapon for archtop restoration! Thanks again Joe - I hope we'll be talking soon, Doug Sager, Southington, CT

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Joe, The (Super 400) has arrived. I am very very satisfied, it's a wonderful guitar with great playability and sound. Many thanks for all. Guy Barboutie, Paris

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Dear Joe, I have two words for you.... Thank You. Now, let me expand on that... THANK YOU ! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! and THANK YOU ! After having the Broadway for 4 days, she had opened up so beautifully...warm, even and fretted like a dream. I thought then that if she stopped "playing-in" at that point, I had made a wonderful acquisition. However, much to my neverending delight, she is getting better by the day. Taking in mind that I play for hours each day, we have had ample time to get to know each other voer the last week or so. I just have one question for you...."How in the world do you part with guitars such as this?". Thank you for pointing me in the right direction. A VERY Happy Customer, Johnny Boatright, Katy, TX

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Hi Joe, The Ibanez (L5) has arrived and it's so beautiful; both tone and appearance! Thanks again for the job you do. Best regards, Alex Mateu, Barcelona, Spain

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Joe just sold my Ibanez L5, and I am impressed with his high caliber operation. His presentation of the guitars for sale is as intelligent and professional as any dealer anywhere, maybe more so, and his consignment policy is fair and efficient. Nice doing business with you, Joe....Thanks again. Next time I am in Seattle, I'll drop by. John Barton, Duarte, CA

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Dear Joe, It's been a couple of days since I received, here in Paris, France, this wonderful Lacey Argonaut. It makes me such a happy and lucky guitar player, and there's two people I need to thank for that: Mark Lacey, for building an outstanding guitar that couldn't have been better to me if it was made for me, and Joe Vinikow, who made it possible the guitar to be mine. Joe, you're doing a great job, I would definitely recommend you to any one looking for a great archtop, and I'll keep my own eyes on your website in the future. Best, Fabian Daurat, Paris

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Joe: I wanted to write to tell you how thoroughly impressed I have been with my experience in selling a vintage guitar through your company. Recently, I placed a 1969 Guild Artist Award with you on consignment. I had owned the instrument for 33 years. Despite the current economic recession, you had arranged its sale for the asking price within only a few weeks. Your pre-sale appraisal of the guitar proved to be experienced and dead-on accurate. The presentation of the guitar on your website was extraordinarily detailed and well-informed, emphasizing the instrument's unique features with insight and specificity. Also, your pre-sale refurbishing of the guitar was expert, and was accomplished at a very reasonable cost. I should mention, for the sake of comparison, that some years ago I placed the same guitar on consignment at a top Nashville guitar store, but did not receive appropriate offers, and ultimately had to take the instrument back. What a difference it made to present the instrument in such a professional manner to potential purchasers who could appreciate the rarity of its characteristics! If I ever sell another vintage guitar, I would be delighted to request your services again. Jonathan Rich, Winter Park, Florida 

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Dear Joe, I got the proceeds for my guitar sale today. You must have sent it by lightning bolt. Thank you for the super fast payment. Always a pleasure to do business with you. You will be hearing from me again very soon. Sincerely, Vincent Kowski, Redwood City, Ca.

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Hi Joe, Good morning. My D'Angelico has arrived safe and sound. She is a beauty and far outweighing my expectations. She will be much loved and well played this side of 'the pond'. I knew instinctively when I read the many testimonials on your website that I would, at some time, be posting my own. Thank you so much for your kindness and help. Kindest regards, Bob Greenhalgh, Greystoke, Cumbria UK

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Joe did a great job helping me select the perfect instrument to compliment my playing style - the Fender-D'Aquisto Ultra is truly magnificent, and the transaction was a breeze.  Thanks,Mike Caldwell, Norcross, GA

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Joe, Many thanks for selling the Hofner for me. The pictures and description were so great that I wanted to buy my own guitar. I didn't realize it was such a nice archtop: your research is topnotch. I will certainly return again to consign my guitars and hopefully to buy one of my dream guitars: if I can find the guitar of my dreams anywhere, it will certainly be on archtop.com. David Aline, Portland, OR

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Joe, The '49 Gibson L-50 arrived in perfect condition, and I am ecstatic. I love this guitar, and even with medium guage strings it is a breeze to play. This was a great deal, and I thank you! Given my guitar mania, this may not be the last you hear from me...Regards, Bruce Brogdon, Houston, TX

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Hey Joe, Having concluded multiple transaction with your company I feel I am in a position to comment on the level of service provided by Archtop.com. First , I would say I the communication was great and the process of selling moved along quicker than I expected. The exposure from your website is huge. I even had a couple of friend call me and ask if that was my guitar for sale. The web traffic ,photos and descriptions are second to none. I think when I list a instrument with archtop.com I avail myself your unparalleled reputation for knowledgeable accrete descriptions of instruments which allow potential buyers to have more confidence when buying from Archtop.com any other dealer(or private party). Thanks, Greg Saer, St. Peter, MN

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Dear Joe, I collected the (1934) Gibson L-7 today, from my local post-office. The word "awesome" is much overworked, but there are times when a rose should be called "a rose" and a guitar described in such seemingly hyperbolic terms. In fact, to prove I'm not adjectively challenged, let's call her: "bloody awesome"! I'm in love with both the guitar and your packing department for making sure the 5,000 mile journey treated my new-found with the respect she deserves! Please add my name to your ever-growing catalogue of admirers, and please accept my heartfelt thanks for all your help in making this a remarkably painless transaction. Speechless, with just the strength to type these few words! Kindest regards Andrew SJ Stoddart, Barnet, UK

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The '46 Emperor arrived safely today, thank you for the careful packing and quick shipping. It's beautiful, just as you described. This was my first purchase from archtop.com but not my last. I'm already squirreling away funds for the next one. Thanks, Jay Van De Velde, Seal Beach, CA

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Hello Joe & Julie, A note of thanks to both of you for all your kind help and the time you took with the purchase of the Super 300. Being able to compare a guitar from your current inventory (the '36 L-12) that is very similar to my '35 L-12 with the Super 300 and the two Emperors there was incredibly helpful and very illuminating. I'm definitely a "Gibson Guy". The buttery power and resonance of the Super 300 compliments the warm, open sweetness of the L-12 perfectly and your suggestion of dividing the chord chores up as fingerstyle and plectrum is a good one. I now know why they're called Super 300s ... they are that. I don't know where the maple in this guitar came from, probably Michigan, but it'll be living among the maples of northern Vermont for the duration. Many thanks, Ryk Loske, Glover, Vermont

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Hi Joe, Thanks for the great job on the (1940) Epiphone Broadway. Really a great old guitar which plays remarkably well and seems to have a built in reverb! Old spruce does matter! Best regards, Jim Silvestri, Woodcliff Lake, NJ

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Joe, the condition of this 1989 Gibson ES-175, which arrived so lovingly packaged, is just as wonderful and immaculate as you described on your Web site.  And its playability is a thrill every time I pick it up! What really amazes me is that it's completely free of dents, scratches, checking or any kind of wear. It's almost as if this 19-year-old guitar has never been played, except maybe on Sundays by a little old jazz-lady, who never went faster than one whole note a measure. As a first-time customer in such a rush that I didn't even read a sampling of the Friends' comments before ordering, I have been immensely gratified to discover that you treat your customers with the same first-class professionalism that you give the guitars for sale. Your regard for buyers is shown, on the telephone and in your shipping, to be utterly gracious, friendly, helpful, and honest. You're truly a class-act of the first degree, Joe! Thanks!  David Baker, Georgia

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Hello Joe, The blonde 1940 Gibson L-7 arrived safely today and exactly as described. I am a VERY satisfied customer. Thanks so much. Best of luck and continued success. Captain Allen Ross, Highland Heights, OH

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Hello Joe, Today I received the Polytone Amp in my home. I´d like to thank you for the sale and the shipment. Every thing is OK. Was a pleasure to me buy the Amp from you. I will recommend Archtop to my friends.Thank you one more time. Regards, Clayton Roger, São Paulo, Brazil

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Joe, This (consignment) experience was just stellar. All my questions were answered quickly. I would not hesitate to sell another guitar through you in the future. I will also make archtop.com my first stop when it comes time to purchase another instrument. The depth of knowledge and care afforded are unparalleled. Best regards, Glen Hall, Costa Mesa, CA

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Joe -- The guitar got in this morning. It's in one piece, it's a beauty, its neck profile is to die for, and its acoustic voice is awesome. All expectations exceeded! Many, many thanks again for faster-than-lightning shipping and super safe packing as always. I understand why this Gibson Johnny Smith was Chuck Wayne's choice. Every word you wrote was true. This guitar clearly has it all and more. In a world where guitars are sometimes traded like second-hand cars, you do make a huge difference: professional, knowledgeable, reliable, trustworthy and ever enthusiastic and friendly. This is the third first class instrument I purchase from archtop.com and certainly not the last one. I know I'll also rely confidently on you to sell some of my vintage guitars and I look forward to our restoration projects. All best, Elie Kleiman, Paris

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Hi Joe, Just to let you know I received the Dupont MD30 today. No issues, exactly what I hoped it would be. It will probably be even better with a new set of Argentines. It looks like it was hardly played-- apparently somebody bought it and kept it in the case (which is also in great shape) for a decade and a half.... Thanks again. Best, Barbara Daniels, Bethlehem, PA Hi Joe: I can't believe you sold the '34 L-10 already...you are unbelievable! Regards, Ray Gargiulo, Massapequa, NY

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Joe, just e-mailing you to let you know how pleased I am with your work on my McCormick archtop. The ebony bridge really opens up the sound and it looks great too. Thanks for doing such a great job on the setup as well. You really are the archtop specialist. Best regards, Steve West, Columbus, GA

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Dear Joe, Thank you so much for the experience! I was able to come into your shop, strum your inventory and talk guitars with you. You sold my L-4N in only a few weeks and met my target net gain, while making my old baby shine like new. I am so pleased to know that my little blonde will be traveling the world, perhaps on stage, and strutting her stuff. It sure beats staying home Saturday nights! Perhaps, should our roads cross again, I'll get to see her shine one day. Thank you, again, Ron Moore, Longview, WA

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Joe, The ('57 L-5CES) has just been delivered to me without problem. It is just how you've described it, very accurately indeed. Perfectly clean. Altogether, a great old L-5 that plays and sounds superb. Thank you for a perfect business! Roland Goerg, Switzerland

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Joe, I received the American Archtop guitar today and I must say it's in wonderful shape. The directions and attention to detail in regards to packing is amazing. Thank you again for the great service. Dennis Cox, Austin, Texas

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Joe, Thanks for finding new homes for my two 1936 Gibson round-hole archtops: the L-4 a couple months ago, and now the L-75. It has been a pleasure doing business with you, and it's good to know that both guitars are now in the hands of faithful archtop lovers, and will continue to make beautiful music for decades to come. If I ever have other vintage guitars to sell, or am in the position to buy, I will certainly contact you. Thanks again!" D.D. -Michigan

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Joe, This '39 Super 400 is fantastic! It's everything I've ever wanted in Gibson guitar and it has a sweetest, richest tone these ears have ever heard from an archtop. Thanks so much for finding this treasure. As usual your packing job was top notch. Warmest regards, Don Tycholis, Tampa, FL

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Joe, Thank you for your assistance in helping me sell my Patrick James Eggle guitar! My experience consigning my guitar was great! You were very helpful and thorough throughout the entire process. It was just like I read it would be like on the website. I would highly recommend going through archtop.com for any consignment needs. - Andrew Paterik, South Holland, IL

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Dear Joe, thank you very much for selling and wonderfully packaging this Trenier 17 Special to me. It is a wonderful guitar, as I expected it to be, and your customer service was top-notch. Keep up the good work, all the best. Felix Majou, London

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Hi Joe, I just received your check for the proceeds from the two guitars ('46 Emperor, '88 X-500) you sold for me. Thank you so much. I had a good friend who recently passed and his wife asked me to liquidate the instruments. I tried on ebay but I found I knew very little about marketing high end guitars. I put my trust in archtop.com and you handled the sales in prompt, equitable and professional manner. Thank you again. Chuck Preston, Spokane, WA

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Joe, I just want to tell you how much I love this guitar (1945 Epiphone Spartan) that I got from you a few months back. Nothing matches its sound or playability. If I had to pick one guitar for the "desert island" scenario, this would be it. Thanks again, Norm Ayotte, Pasadena, CA

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Joe, This '38 ES-150 ROCKS! (Ok, JAZZES!) Exceeded all expectations. Ultra resonant and easy to play. I've wanted one since I was 19 and never found one until now with this fine example. Needless to say, a few decades have passed in the interim but I'm making up for lost time now. The practically mint original hard shell case is an added bonus! Again, a pleasure doing business with you. Your knowledge, dedication to detail and excellent customer service are much appreciated. Seth Kaplan, New Rochelle, N.Y

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Dear Joe, Just a quick note to thank you for your great work in selling my Benedetto.  I was amazed that you were able to sell it before you had a chance to fully list it on your website.  The entire transaction was perfect.  You told me what would happen.  The you made it happen.  Then you told me it happened and sent me a check before I could say thanks.  So.... Thanks. E commerce without losing the personal touch.  The world would be better with more people like you, Regards, Rick Weiss, Palm Desert, CA Hi Joe, the Moll Express is with me since Monday... The real fact is that the guitar is exactly what I would like it to be and that's a really good thing. A set of fresh flat strings and the thing just booms. I love the tone, the sustain, the volume, the evenness along and across the fingerboard and of course the playing ease. Thanks a lot. Regards, Antony Tsetsos, Halandri, Greece

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Joe, I was very pleased with the whole (consignment) process. You were very helpful with shipping recommendations, and the listing page, historical info, and photos were very professionally done. You made it easy for me to find a new home for my L5-S. I will definitely be back in touch when it's time to sell (or buy) another vintage guitar. Thanks very much.-Erik Barnes, Cambridge , MA

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Joe, The '46 Emperor (+ cutaway and humbucker) arrived as promised and once strung up, has me chanting the they don't make 'em like this anymore mantra. The neck does in fact sit smartly in the palm and the guitar sounds so good I'm going to put off re-stringing it with new.  Thanks to your cleverly marked masking tape the intonation is strobolicious on the first try. I get it now. Please re-designate as "sold" as sworn by me, one satisfied customer on this day, June 4, 2008. Ralph Mason, Salt Lake City, UT

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Hello Joe, 1936 L-7 arrived! SO GORGEOUS I AM STUNNED.!!! Even case was very fine....Many thanks! Patrick Smith, Stockholm, Sweden

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Thanks so much for that FAST sale (Gibson '34 L-5 RI). You didn't even give me enough time to change my mind. Thanks again, and all the best. Clint Oakley, Miami, FL

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Thanks again Joe, I knew that someone in your knowledgeable clientele would appreciate my guitar (2002 Rumley Custom). This completes our fourth transaction together, in a seamless, effortless, expeditious manner! Ernie Pugliese, West Chester, PA I found archtop.com to be unique in its scope of instruments, customers and service. This is one stop shopping. I both purchased and sold an instrument through archtop and couldn't have done nearly as well by myself. I was able to purchase a genuinely excellent vintage instrument that is now used daily and gigged with weekly. The instrument that I no longer had a use for now has a productive new home. All is well. You get what you pay for. Allen Jones, Beaufort, NC

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Joe, Just a quick note to thank you once again for another highly satisfying transaction. I've been buying by phone and over the Internet for 30 years and I continue to be impressed with the consistent level of quality you deliver to the guitar buying experience. The choice guitars, your detailed writeups, the spot-on setups and restorations to make the guitars right, timeliness of communications, and commitment to customer satisfaction are some reasons why I keep coming back to archtop.com. Warm Regards, Don Tycholis, Tampa, FL

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Hello Joe, I wanted to write and say my experience using the services of archtop.com to sell my guitar (Foster St.Charles) was truly a remarkable one. Your description of my guitar was right on the money, the photos were excellent, and the on-going communication superb. I have the archtop.com web site saved into my favorites and I look at it several times a day. Next time I want to buy or sell a guitar I will definitely contact you first. Best Regards, Don MacArthur, Spokane, WA

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Thanks Joe, I just realized I've bought 2 guitars and sold 8 through archtop.com over the years. It's a true must-have resource for any guitar lover. Even when I'm not looking for a new instrument, I browse your site just for a history lesson. Rik Wright, Seattle, WA

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Joe, I can hardly stop smiling as I have just managed to put down this awesome guitar (1951 Emperor Regent) in order to write you this note. I consider myself very fortunate to own this wonderful instrument. As you said, stunning looks aside, this Emperor plays itself. Not only is the instrument in perfect condition (great job, very accurate description) but the neck is truly too good to be true... The neck is unbelievably comfortable, fast and easy. The mother of all comfy and fast necks I would call it... The voice of course is classic Emperor at its best. As powerful as my 1940es full body, same marvellous reverb, and wonderfully open. This is the second über-archtop that I buy from you Joe. You rightfully can call archtop.com the most trusted market place for the finest archtops! Enough said... The Emperor is begging to be played... Merci beaucoup et amitiés de Paris, France!, Elie Klieman, Paris

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Joe, The '53 Triumph Regent is a corker! And to top it off, a guitar of mine sold the day after. Thanks for the great service. Regards, Sean Parker, Sydney, Australia.

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Hi Joe, Just a line to say thanks for your help,and how pleased I am with my purchase.Everything about the deal was great,from the initial conversation,to the arrival of my guitar. I would recommend anyone to deal with you. The service you gave me was superb. Cheers, Richard Ball, Bradford, UK

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Hello Joe .... This '34 Gibson Round Hole L-4 is just a phenomenal guitar! I can't keep her out of my lap .... and as light as she is ... you barely know she's there. A voice to die for with looks to match ... what's not to like? The old Gibson archtop with the round hole is just an all around winner. Along with her '35 L-12 sister, purchased from you, I now have all the bases covered for trad jazz ... ragtime ... old timey .... swing ... whatever. Many, many thanks. I may not be your biggest customer with three purchases and two sales thanks to your great efforts ... but I sure as hell am the happiest! All the best, Ryk Loske, Groton, VT

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Hi. Joe, The Benedetto Bambino arrived today in perfect condition..after the setting the bridge I played it through my Deluxe Reverb and an AER alpha. Such great tone. From great jazz/blues to acoustic like tones it really does it all. My teacher thought it is such a light and perfectly balanced instrument. Really impressive .After all the guitars I have sold with you it was really great to purchase one from you! Thanks again Joe. Best regards..Dennis Easter, Lebanon, PA

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Selling my guitar on archtop.com couldn't have been any easier. After shipping my guitar Joe took care of the rest - the great photos of my guitar; the detailed description; and all interactions with potential buyers". Joe immediately responded to my e-mails and phone calls. Thanks for the great work! David Bernstein, Phoenix, AZ

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Joe - I picked up the guitar (Ibanez L-5CN) from UPS. Everything was shipshape. It strung right up no problem and now we are in the groove. Thanks very much. Next time I am in Seattle, I will drop by. Thanks. John Barton, LA, CA

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Joe,...Your website is outstanding. Many guitar websites don't supply even the most basic information that one needs to know in order to decide whether or not to buy. Your verbal descriptions provide all pertinent details that a prospective buyer could want and are extremely well put besides. Regarding my experience in consigning the Petros, you have been easy to get along with and pleasant to do business with. I wouldn't hesitate to contact you again about buying or selling a guitar. Ross Miniter, Valley Center, CA

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Hey Joe, The check (for consignment proceeds) came in the mail yesterday. Thanks for the quick turnaround. Hope to have business with you again. Best, Adam Ackerman, Boston, MA 

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Dear Joe, Thanks again for selling my L-5. As always, it was a pleasure to work with you. Whether buying or selling, you provide an amazing service and a great website. Best, Mike Rovine, State College, PA

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This is my second purchase from archtop.com and again Joe was extremely friendly and helpful in completing this sale. My new addition the Fender D'Aquisto Ultra, far exceeded my already high expectations. I have played it for about a week or so pretty much nonstop!!! ...this ULTRA is nothing short of amazing!!!!!...The light build and superior open resonance is remarkable. I can easily compare it anything I own... I love it Joe!!! Thanks again and best of luck. Hope to buy another from you if you come across one again. Let me know if you do as we would have another great and easy sale. George Trksak, Watertown, MA

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Hi Joe, The Magnolia is sounding better everyday - it's a gem here's  a few words in support. When I looked over the Archtop.com website it seemed almost too good to be true - an oasis of beautiful guitars sold by a heck of an honest, extremely personable and super knowledgeable guy (at least according to the satisfied customers).  With a bit of incredulity in my heart I gave Joe a call - ordered a spectacular archtop by the super talented Bryant Trenier (maybe the finest young luthier to come along in a quite awhile). A few weeks later after I had paid the guitar off - it came in the dead of winter perfectly packedand in perfect condition.   I can't recommend Joe And his wonderful Archtop.com enough - if you are looking for a special guitar look no further, this is one of the best places in the world and THE best place on the Internet to make such a purchase. Joe thanks again look forward to speaking with you again soon, Best, Jon Wang, Scotch Plains, NJ

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Joe, The AI amp is in my home in Denmark now. The transaction (I think number six or seven between us) went as always quite troublefree. I have tested the amp with my Gibson Johnny Smith a few hours now and everything seems to be as splendid as I have been told or even better. Thanks a lot. Greetings, PeterMoefelt, Horslunde, Denmark

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Thanks Joe, Thanks for selling my '51 ES-175; I'm sure it went to a good home. This was just another very favorable experience! I've been on both sides of the transaction with you - several times now - as a buyer and a seller, and each time has been a very comfortable experience. It's easy to see why you continue to be successful! Best regards, Ray Gargiulo, Massapequa, NY

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Hi Joe, Thank you, sir! The guitar (1945 Epiphone Zephyr Deluxe) is everything I had hoped for. It sounds amazing and plays like a dream. Thanks for all your help! I look forward to doing business with you again. Until then, take care! Best, Sam Raver, LA, CAJoe, I was delighted with the experience of working with archtop.com and would not hesitate to sell or purchase a guitar through Joe in the future. Andy Cowan, Portland, OR

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Dear Joe, Just wanted to express my appreciation for your fine effort in finding a new home for my vintage archtop. The entire experience was enjoyable, and handled in a totally professional manner. My hat's off to you! Larry Moser, Lake Havasu City, AZ

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While I hated to part with the Gibson ES-165 Herb Ellis, your prompt and professional service has made the process as painless (dare I say convenient?) as possible. Plus, it's reassuring to know that the guitar has found a new home with a satisfied customer at the other end. Many thanks, Joe. Best, John Rodrigue, North Easton, MA

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Hi Joe, ...the blonde lady (1953 Epiphone Zephyr Deluxe Regent) has found her new home in Parma's quiet countryside and looks ready for a new active happy life. She looks very sweet and sings very well. There is no doubt that, beside her beauty, her mellow and woody voice will enchant all my friends and maybe make them jealous. She arrived yesterday, I don't know her very well yet but I am already sure that she will make me even happier and she will feel comfortable with her sisters Gibson ES-150 and Vega E-201 ... since they come from your place...and are all about the same age......ciao amico, a presto, Christian Laurent, Parma ,Italy

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Thanks so much for your great service. After years of buying and selling serveral guitars through your company, I feel I have found a wonderful resource that I can easily go to with confidence for buying and selling the coolest guitars ever. It's truly been a pleasure dealing with you and I look forward to calling on you again soon. Thanks again, Dave Blair,Vero Beach FL, p.s. That little Bourgeois OM Custom continues to blow my mind.....thanks for turning me on to it.

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Hi Joe, Thank you for moving my Dunn Mystery Pacific into a new home in short order! I highly appreciate the trusted service you provide. You have a great site and it's one of the first places I look, when I'm looking for an addition and/or change with instruments I may be using. I highly recommend your site to any Jazz guitarist looking to buy and/or sell. Again Thank You, Lee Burton, Fox Lake, Il

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Hi Joe, Thank you for your assistance in selling the ('97 L-5CES). Your professionalism is exemplary, and it is easy to see why archtop.com has maintained such a high reputation. Best regards - John Nunnari, Covington, WAI'm delighted to learn about the quick sale of my Albanus. Much quicker than I expected! Every part of the whole experience was first-rate, from communication, to preparation, to presentation, to sale. I've been around music and guitars since Truman was President, and believe me, archtop.com, and your attention, are the best. Many thanks. Bob Perrey, Deerfield, IL

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Hi Joe, I actually ended up getting the ('33 Epiphone Olympic) a day early on Thursday. Wow... what a guitar! The volume, tone, and playability all surpassed my expectations. It appears to be in really good shape as well, given that it is 75 years old. Thanks again for your help in getting the guitar to me. Thanks again! John B. Everhart, Nashville TNHello Joe, The '46 Epi Spartan arrived without any hitches. It looks and sounds great, and is everything I hoped it would be. Thanks, Michael Connors, Plain, WI

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Joe...I'll tell you now, when people are leery and somewhat mistrustful of doing business over the net, archtop.com is the absolute prime example of trust, professionalism, and a complete understanding of its customer's needs--all without a single meeting face-to-face, or even a phone call! Best, Tom Hughes, Upper Jay, NYDear Joe, The Gibson L5CES arrived safely yesterday. I'm absolutely delighted with it. It seems like it's hardly been played ...Will give it the love and attention it deserves. Thank you so much, Antony France, East Sussex, UK

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Joe, This (Tele Custom) is a great sounding guitar...it has a lot of chime and this is super light weight ...hot PUs and great neck... ...thanks a lot for being patient and cool on all questions and getting back quickly...I would deal with you and your store anytime Best of luck and long life to archtop.com Sincerely, Michel Pepin, Canada

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Dear Joe, My "new" '46 Epi Blackstone was delivered on Thursday as expected. Well packed as usual, and when unpacked it tuned right up. The condition is everything you said and more. You really could of talked up the great condition of this guy more than you did. When I order a 1946 "sort of low end model," I really don't expect anything this pristine, so this guy is really a treat. I appreciate that the words and the pictures on your website describe the guitars so well but tend to understate their condition and their greatness. You are my first choice of all on-line vintage guitar dealers. It was well setup, and the .013 strings feel lighter than expected. Right out of the box, the first chord said that this guitar was a beauty. Sweet, warm, smooth, great articulation and string balance, but not quite the attack of my L-5. Its character and voice are unique and this is what will keep it near the front of my lineup. I see why you extol the virtues of these 16" Epiphones. Other than the simple trim and aesthetic, it is hard to see these guitars as low end models. The wood and finish compare to much more expensive models, as do the construction techniques and quality. I especially like the suspended neck, which puts this guitar in different class than the comparable Gibson's that I have played. Although the art of high end archtop construction seems to have been revived in recent years, I would love it if modern builders could learn some lessons from this model. Finally, thanks for the Pick-Up-the-World Powestrip pickup installation too. Even through my Fender Deluxe, the pickup is remarkable in capturing the true acoustic sound of the guitar. Again, I was pleasantly surprised, this is no ordinary piezo sound! Keep up the great work and keep those great guitars coming. Kind regards, Kamlapati Khalsa, San Jose, CA

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Hey Joe, I love that '46 Epiphone Spartan! It's everything and more than advertised! Thanks for the easy transaction and wonderful headache free purchase. Shipping from Seatle to Massachusetts can be mentally stressful, but the guitar was nicely packaged and the tracking number made the wait fun to watch with anticapation. I can't wait to get another guitar from you guys! Thanks again, Matt Robbins,Worcester, MA

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Dear Joe, Thank you for selling my guitar ('05 Cushman Trophy) and finding a happy home for it. You provide a great and professional service for us archtop lovers. Looking forward to doing business again with you. Keep up the fantastic work. Vincent Kowski, CA

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As you have skillfully and successfully sold a number of guitars for me in past years, I am confident that there is no other company that I would choose to work with. Thanks for your professionalism Joe. George Rubaloff, Ashland, OR

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Joe, Just received ('39 Triumph sent by owner to archtop.com for restoration) She is BEAUTIFUL!!!!!! I can't tell you how impressed and happy I am. (Pause while I string her-up) SOUNDS AMAZING!!! You're the best!!! Warm regards, Don Howard, Louisville, KY

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I had an expectation, based on past experience with archtop.com, that the experience of selling my guitar ('30s Bacon and Day Ramona) would be a pleasant one all 'round, but I must say I was a little shocked at how quickly and smoothly it all went. Thank you so much! Best wishes, Chris Wilding, Calabasas, CA

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Joe -- Thanks so much for selling two great guitars for me ('47 L-5, '33 Broadway). I've bought, and now sold, multiple items through archtop.com and know I can always count on you for handling the coolest gear! Many regards, Gretchen W. , Bakersfield, CA

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I am thrilled to say that this wonderful looking (1971 D'Aquisto) Excel looks and sounds as wonderful as I dreamed it would - it has already pushed the limits of my wildest musical dreams. I cannot wait to get to grips for good with this intimidating beauty. Thank you for being such a friendly and reliable ressource in Archtopland: I thoroughly enjoyed dealing with you. Shipping was very fast and very safe - by far the best experience I have had with purchases overseas and I have had a few. I that there will be more and I do hope that you will be involved. You are settling a very high standard. Thank you again and all best! Longue vie à archtop.com! Elie Kleiman, Paris

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Thanks Joe for selling my 1955 Vega E-202! Your site is the best on the net!  Fast sale, great contact and service! I bought a 1942 Epiphone Triumph from you years ago and since then I have watched archtop.com get bigger and better. Keep up the good work! Donald H. Young, Schuylerville, NY

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Joe, I can't thank you enough for delivering me a true beauty yet gig-worthy beast in that Guild X150! Your photos truly did it justice and I'm really enjoying it now in person. Thanks again!! Eric Koessler, Amherst, NY

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To all you out there considering dealing with archtop.com, whether buying or selling........do it. I was a little apprehensive sending my Gibson L5 through the air to have it sold by Joe. One never knows. But after always being greeted on the phone with a pleasant and friendly attitude, and having all my questions answered, I had my fears relieved. Joe has sold 2 nice Gibson archtops for me and the service and payment has been prompt and professional. Thanks Joe. John Allemond , Wellsburg WV

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Dear Joe, I wanted to thank you again for finding a new owner for my 1947 L5-E. You offer an important service, I enjoyed working with you and was really impressed with your professional approach. I would highly recommend that anyone buying or selling a vintage instrument use archtop.com. Regards, Jeff Davison, New Castle, DE

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I recently offered to help a close friend whose husband died; he had collected some very nice guitars over the years, (including) a 1946 Epiphone Emperor... I spent a few days thoroughly researching the best way to sell the guitars and the advice I got from several knowledgeable sources was archtop.com That is the route I took and Joe Vinikow and crew did a fantastic job, I recommend them unhesitatingly to anyone looking to sell a vintage archtop guitar. -Andrew Schulman, NYC

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Joe: Thanks! The recent sale of my ' 36 Epi Deluxe went so quickly and smoothly that you deserve the highest accolades for your excellent service. May you continue to amass the positive feedbacks you so richly deserve. Again, thanks! George Knoblauch, Pleasant Hill, CA

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Thanks, Joe. The '85 Guild X-170 is the second guitar you've sold for me, and I'm really pleased at the price and the short time it took to sell, and more than that, the careful attention you give to the instruments. I'm fortunate to have found archtop.com--I have high praises for your experience and friendly placing of guitars into the hands of those who love to play them. Jeff Smith, Oviedo,FL

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Joe: It's a keeper (1950 L-50). I use the entire neck, but I guess I tend to camp out between 5 and 12 a lot. I liked the tone and volume O.K. with the action around 5/64" 12th fret according to your tips and loved the feel & speed of that action. It felt like I had to baby it a little bit, though. I was fine with it, compared to my Martin flat top, but I finally got around to experimenting with a higher action and ended up around 7/64" or so and....WOW. Did this baby find itsvoice! Wooo Ha! Not really that much difference in speed either. Now, I really love it. A good tip for all might be to "Try the action a little higher than you think it should be". What a pay-off in volume, and you can chop hell out of it and maintain a clear ringing bell tone. This is why I wanted an arch top. Thanks for a great player's guitar. Send the fiddle player on a coffee break - Sweet Jawjah Brown! Jim Hays, Mackay, ID

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Dear Joe, Just like to say, after scouring the world and drawing a blank I sent you an email and you had what I wanted. I would advise any one looking for difficult to obtain parts for rare guitars to do the same. Thanks, Mick McKeown, Bath, England

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Joe, I am truly impressed with the honesty, professional atmosphere, and the world wide following (of archtop.com). A current feel for the prices and salability that impresses both the seller and the buyer, amazing. And to top it off you take the time to email personally with a friendly style that allows us non specialists to feel your care and hands on experience with our instruments. Thank you Joe for making this a human experience. Jeff Myers, Finger Lakes Region N.Y.

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Dear Joe, The guitar (1946 Epiphone Blackstone) arrived safely on Friday via UPS. Many thanks for the fast shipment. I love the guitar. It is exactly what I wanted tone-wise. You can count me as another very happy customer. Thanks again, Erik Kundreats, Belmar, NJ

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Joe, I love this guitar (1974-5 Gibson Howard Roberts) it is just what I wanted. The instrument arrived in perfect condition, very impressed with the excellent packing job. Was able to string it right up and intone it perfectly. A beautiful clean guitar, especially for a 30-year-old instrument. It has a wonderful arch-top jazz tone. It is a pleasure to do business with you, thanks for your availability-prompt correspondence and very professional service. Good job, hope to do business with you in the future. Happy tunes, Terry Sharp, Shasta Lake, CA

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Hey Joe, Received the '47 Triumph yesterday at work. Had time to set it up after work and couldn't hardly put it down. Finally decided I'd better eat something... Very responsive guitar with great projection and fast comfortable neck. Had time to plug it in today and I love it! Thanks for all the care you take with your customers! I'll keep watching your site for more gems. Brad Cornwell, Casper,WY

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Joe, Thank you so much for the amazingly fast sale of my Harptone 920-S archtop. I hope the buyer is really happy with the guitar! I look forward to doing future business with you, both in consigning and purchasing from your incredible selection of instruments.David Fleminger, SF, CA

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Hi Joe...early afternoon I arrived at my office and I had the following message : a package to my attention has arrived .... Once the package open, I discover the hardshell case and open it ! ...I had in my hands a wonderful guitar (1948 ES-150) in more than mint condition. As you may imagine, I have played it all the weekend acoustic and plugged in ... A pure sound of smooth jazz....Like a kid, I took a lot of pictures of it like if it was ...a kid. Therefore, I am going to treat it with respect and care and enjoy its magic sound. Thanks to you for this nice adventure, I realized, that it is the fourth guitar I have bought at archtop.com...Ciao amico, a presto e grazie per la bella chitarra. Ora, devo organizzare un concertino a la casa e farci ascoltare la sua musica. Christian Laurent, Parma, Italy 

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Joe, We have had many successful transactions over the years but this month's experience is the pinnacle. In less than a month's time, you took two of my treasured Martin flat tops, took beautiful photos and found new homes for them. It's hard to give up a great guitar. You made the process quick, easy and with very appropriate compensation to me. Flat tops!! This isn't your father's "archtop.com" anymore. Many thanks, Joel Tepp, Seattle, WA

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Hi Joe, Guitar ('47 Epi Zephyr Regent) arrived in good condition this morning. It is now 9pm and I have only just found time to e-mail you to tell you I love it. Must get back to my picking! I shall keep watching your website for my next guitar. Thanks a lot, Best regards, Ian Pickering, Hockley, UK

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Hello Joe, A quick note to say that the Devoe has arrived safely, very well packed and exactly as described (except that the appearance of the guitar is even better than your excellent pics). It's staying. Best wishes Tony Chennells, Southampton, UK

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Hey Joe, What can I say, you sold my guitar while it was only on the Coming Soon list. It only proves you have a lot of guitarists watching your site. It's very hard to sell a expensive guitar on ebay due to fear of fraud. This same guitar was on ebay with no takers, you sold it in 3 weeks, great job. Thanks John Parizo, NYC Archtop.com did a fab job getting the word out about my beautiful Epi. I wouldn't hesitate to trust them to the sale of any of my instruments! Michael Andriaccio, Lancaster, NY

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Hey Joe, Received my '38 Epi Broadway yesterday. She's as beautiful as you described. Her tone is remarkable. The Walnut body brings out a brightness in the tone that Maple just can't match. And the look, absolutely gorgeous. Then there's the neck, slim & comfortable. A true pleasure to play. Needless to say she's here to stay. Thanks for all your help & patience. Look forward to doing more biz. Paul Avery, Rocklin, CA

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Dear Joe, Thank you for placing the Super Eagle. Your check for the transaction proceeds arrived Saturday. Thank you for your excellent service and for upholding a high standard of business practice. Best regards, Jason Goff, Floral City ,FL Joe, Thank you for selling my D'Angelico NYL-2. It's been a great experience working with you. I learned a lot about packing archtops from your website and through our phone conversations. Keep up the fine work of matching great guitars to players who appreciate them. All the best, Jim Richardson, Yucaipa, CA

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Dear Joe, ... I am enjoying the Eggle immensely and that your appetizing description of the guitar was in fact quite modest. This guitar drips with tone and sustain thoughout and is probably the most versatile acoustic guitar - flat- or archtop - that I have ever had the pleasure of playing.  It is also flat out drop dead gorgeous. Many thanks... M. Lee Wolfe, Oviedo, Spain

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Joe, The PRS Archtop is here and is a dream come true! I have been looking for this model for years. It is in perfect shape. Thanks so much for the great service and I look forward to more business with you in the future. Best, Robert Dean, Huntington Station, NY

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Thank you Joe. It has indeed been a pleasure dealing with you and your company. You are most knowledgeable of the archtop and all guitars as far as I am concerned. Most impressive are your descriptions of the guitars with specificity of what is being put on the market. I was so impressed with the description of my Eggle archtop, I almost bought it myself.  -- Thank you for your fast responses to my emails, questions, etc. This was comforting since you are over 2000 miles away. --- In short, a great experience. We shall do business again. Thank you. My best to you and your staff..Bill Witt, Hudson, OH

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Joe, Just a note of thanks for selling my 1947 L-48 Gibson archtop. I've been watching at least 20 websites for the last year...yours is the best. The best pictures & accurate descriptions of the best archtops at a fair price. I will continue to follow Archtop.com, to add to my personal collection, or to make a hassle-free sale. Thanks, Joe. Your friend, Randall Shike, Wichita, Ks

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Joe, Just wanted to let you know that the '68 Guild X-175 traveled well and I'm very happy with the sound and condition of the instrument and the Schertler David amp. Thanks very much for matching me up with this guitar. Jack Price, Meridian, ID

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Dear Joe, Many thanks for your usual care in the packing and shipping of the Gretsch G-450 which arrived yesterday afternoon and was ready for play within 10 minutes... Thanks also for the check relating to the sales of the Epi Triumph and Guild X500.... As I make further decisions about the instruments in my collection ­ whether adding to it or reducing it ­ I will continue to place the same high level of trust in archop.com that you have earned with all our prior transactions. Best regards, John Young, Carmel, California

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Dear Joe, It was a privilege working with you in acquiring my 1997 Guild Artist Award. You are very knowledgeable about your instruments and helped me with your advice. For many of us a purchase of an archtop is a once in a lifetime experience and a great deal of money is at stake. It is obvious you and your company have a solid reputation. You gave me honest and thorough suggestions and making the purchase from you put me at ease. In the future, should I buy another instrument; you will be my first consideration. I wish you the best, Thomas R. Scheira, Ph.D, Niagara Falls, NY

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Hey Joe! The Triumph arrived today. Man, I love it! About a 30 second approval period was enough. :-) Well packed. As described. And awesome! You've answered my questions very helpfully by phone and by email regarding several guitars over the last 6-9 months. And everything about this buying experience has been positive. Thanks very much. I am already recommending you to all my player friends. Thanks again, Phil McWilliams, Atlanta GA

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Joe, The Guild X-500 just arrived and I've had a chance to set it back up and give it some play time. Very very nice!...I'm delighted ! Gotta run now and get some new strings! Thanks for your followup call and all the fine service ! Chris Gander, Portland, OR

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Joe: The Shelly Park Encore makes 4 instruments I have purchased from your great company in the last year. I am not only pleased with the exceptional quality, playability, and condition of all of the instruments, I am also very satisfied with sales policies you offer a guy 1500 miles from your location. I can plug it in, play it, and primp it, and if I am not elated with the instrument I can package it and send it back. Obviously I have never NOT been completely satisfied...what a good feeling to know that when the mood strikes me and your web site has something I might really like to own and play I only need to send you and email.....ps the work your guys did on the '41 L5 I sent in was equally satisfying....thanks Joe...and when I am in Seattle again I'd love to visit your operation. John Castronovo, Burr Ridge, IL.Joe, UPS dropped (the '56 ES-175) off around seven. I don't think I have ever seen anything so carefully packaged. And everything was exactly like it was described on your site... The action was perfect with the bridge just like it was when I put it on. I didn't really have to do anything but put the strings on and tune it up. The guitar plays very nicely. It even sounds good acoustically, even better than my carved top Heritage. All I can say is that it sounded just as good as I hoped it would.... And what I got was the sound of a fine old guitar, like an old Jim Hall record. ...Thank you very much. I have been looking at vintage guitars on a plethora of websites for the past several months hoping to find something really nice that I would feel comfortable spending that kind of money on. I was very impressed with your selection and attention to detail. ...This one is in really great shape and the case is in even better shape than some of my much more recent cases. Well worth the money I paid. It might be awhile before I buy another archtop because I have some good ones. But when and if I do I hope to do business with you again. And if any of my musician friends want to get an archtop I will send them your way. ...Take care. Roy Brooks, North Charleston, SC

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Joe, just wanted to let you know the guitar (Guild X-700) arrived in perfect shape and is fantastic! It's pretty rare these days to find someone who does everything right. I consider myself very lucky to have found your business, and look forward to future purchases. Thanks so much. Kevin Bayless, St. Louis, MO

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Joe, the ES-175 arrived !!!! First let me say your packing job is with out a doubt the best I have ever seen !!!!! The guitar arrived in perfect condition... I am very happy...and will enjoy puting some music into the guitar...Thank you agin for your site... Michael Law, Rhinebeck, NY

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Joe, I received the Fender D'Aquisto Deluxe on Friday as promised, pro-packaged and not a mark on it. To say I'm thrilled with the instrument would be an understatement. The tone (plugged or unplugged) is outstanding, playability is excellent, and even the setup is spot-on.  For me it is the perfect jazzbox for fingerstyle or flatpick playing, and thanks to you I didn't have to break the bank to get it. It must be very rewarding to make a living matching up quality guitars with people who love them! I'm sure we'll do business again. Many Thanks, Harry Haltman , San Antonio, TX

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Joe...What a wonderful guitar!!!! My 1997 L-5CES is absolutely the most stunning, visually and tonally, of any of the 15 guitars that I presently own. My brother came down from Austin to check it out. We tried every guitar I had against it... all my other axes are fine guitars, but they're not even in the same tonal universe as my L-5CES. Just a great guitar!!! Arrived, very well packed, and was everything that you advertised it to be. Joe. The setup was absolutely magnificent. Some of the best I have ever played..I think you have finally cured my GAS that I've had for years with this wonderful guitar. (Guitar Acquisition Syndrome, a chronic affliction of the plectrum. -jv) I just hope my other guitars don't get too lonely sitting in their stands and cases. It's just like the top of your home page says..."WHAT A GUITAR!!!!". Thanks Joe for giving us archtoppers a place to to shop for quality vintage instruments. Rolland Harrison, Seabrook, TX

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Joe, received your check (for the consignment sale) today. Thank you so much for your prompt response and for working with me. Always a pleasure! Warm regards, Dennis Easter, Tell City , IN

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Joe, I just wanted to thank you for that 1966 L-5CES...I have not put it down in 3 days. Really!!! My wife is wondering when I`m going back to work! It`s so warm and smooth, I can`t believe the texture, and response. I`m going straight into my Vibroking and I `m speechless. I asked (my luthier) to check it out for me thoroughly and he was amazed. He's built guitars for some pretty big names in rock...(meaning-hard to impress...right? ) He said that this is an exceptional L-5, ...one of the nicer ones he`s seen, and heard. He`s seen and heard a lot! I`ve played quite a few also, from different years, and... this is my new baby !!! Just thought I`d write, and say thanks again and I`ll be looking for that D`Angelico... (- the next on the hit list-) on archtop .com Regards... MJP. Boston, MA

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Hi Joe- I LOVE the Trenier Broadway. I can't take my eyes off it when I'm not playing it. (Of course, I'm playing it as often as possible.) It's opening up beautifully and I'm most pleased that the tone is not strictly suit-and-tie...there's a raunchy edge too when I push it that way. Thanks again for the great selection and service! Best, Gretchen Wenner, Bakersfield, CA

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Dear Joe, I am just contacting you to confirm that I received the (1948 Gibson Super 300) from you in perfect condition...I am sorry I have not contacted you before but I only had just enough time to unpack the guitar and reset it up (I commend your expert packing by the way) before completing last minute work and packing before we were off on our summer holiday...I had to wait till I returned to really play it in - the suspense ruined my holiday!!? Let me say that on opening the package this guitar made a very impressive impact. Now that I have really had a chance to play it the sound is just as impressive - I have to say I am thrilled to bits with it, I am sure it will give me many years of pleasure; it is one of those few guitars that has almost as much presence acoustically as it does amplified even with its DeArmond pick-up. I can't wait to take it on the first gig with my band. Once again it has been a pleasure to do business with archtop.com, thanks Joe for your time, your honest and very accurate description of the guitar, and for fitting the DeArmond pick-up which works very well. Till the next guitar! All the best, Jerry Alexander, Essex, UK

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Joe, The Melo EM3 arrived yesterday, a day early! I took it home on my lunch hour and damned near didn't go back to the office. This is the finest instrument (of any kind) I have ever played. You were right about the neck -- it is ideal for me. The guitar plays and sounds great, even through the small practice amp I am running it through at the moment. Thanks for all your help. This baby will not be making a round trip. I've got it now, and it ain't going nowhere. It was a pleasure doing business with you. Best regards, Jim Rowell, New Orleans, LA

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Dear Joe, The (1996 ES-165 Herb Ellis) arrived safely. There's no way you're getting it back!! Seriously it's exactly as you described and, while I've had little chance to play it today, it seems user friendly, on first acquaintance. My next acquisition will be an L5C, as soon as I recover from a recent guitar buying binge! I will check the site regularly. Very best regards Garry Polled, Goleta, CA

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Joe, My sales experience with you has been great. (Obviously, or I wouldn't keep coming back). Without a doubt the finest site on the web. Regards, David Rabinowitz, Berkeley, CA

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Joe, My 1944 Epiphone Olympic arrived safe and sound. Wow. I just have to keep buying guitars as every one from you keeps getting better. Chris Bayer, Carson City, NV

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Hi Joe, I just wanted to tell you that I got the guitar yesterday, thank very much by the way to upgrading it to 2 day air, it was very thoughtful. I am testing it out and so far so good:) I like the L5 because it is a closer fit when shifting between the classical and an electric... I don't think this guitar will be returning to you, it truly is a beautiful instrument, and I love the neck, archtops are such a work of art:) All the best, Robert Pierson, Roseville, CA

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Joe, Thanks for the fast sale of my 1976 Ibanez L5CESN. It sold so fast that it never made the photo board. Definitely a testament to your status as the No. 1 site for Vintage Instrument sales! Many thanks,Brian Keith, Beaverton, Oregon

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Joe,WOW. The '45 blonde Epi Emperor is a fantastic instrument; the workmanship is incredible, the tone sublime, and the action is like SUPER butter...As usual, you are a pleasure doing business with; that's why I keep coming back for more and more :>) Appreciate your maintaining high standards for what you sell. You are my go-to connection for superior guitars and no-hassle transactions. Best Regards, Don Tycholis, Fountain Valley, CA

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Hello Joe. I received my '53 Guild X-350 "Stratford" this morning. What an amazing unique guitar. Sounds and looks fabulous. Absolutely nothing like it. The pickups and switching are outta sight! This guitar sounds seriously good. Next gig, it's coming with me. Once again, oustanding service. Always a pleasure. Regards, Sean Parker, Sydney, Australia

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Joe, I appreciate the service you provide. Your professionalism and aptitude (not to mention great instruments) caught my attention. I pushed to have my Dupont MD30 sent quickly, I needed it. Your playing the guitar for me over the phone to the moment it shipped took three days and I used it on 6 gigs and two recording sessions in the week that followed, thanks for honest answers. I will spread the good word. Regards, Robert Bell, Minneapolis, MN

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Joe, Just want to say that the 1941 Gibson EA-185 amplifier is way ahead of it's time, you guys really did a great job tweaking it into a very compatible amp. Not only does it have a smooth vibe with my arch tops, but also works very well with my Martin that has an added pickup. Thanks again for offering such a unique product! Steve Tickes Campbell, Calif.

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Joe, The '36 Triumph arrived safe and sound. Many thanks for another great one of a kind instrument. Looks and plays great/ sounds fantastic - nice warm tone with fine projection. The Emperor style inlay along with that big Triumph pre-frequensator tailpiece really adds a unique touch of class to an already fine instrument. Keep up the good work on finding and making these "guitars for grownups" available. Thanks again. - Paul Mimlitsch, Evergreen CO

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Hello Joe, The ('46 Epi Triumph) made it just fine. I was happy to see it so soon after talking with you. I am very pleased with the guitar. It is everything that I hoped it would be....It has been a pleasure doing business with you all. Michael Connors, Plain, WI

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Joe, Got the guitar (1967 Gibson Southern Jumbo) extremely pleased with its look and sound just as you described it. Many thanks, Graham Sandford, London

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And thanks to you, Joe, for making this a very pleasant experience. Given the horror stories you hear and read about purchasing "remotely", one can't be too careful these days. Your written descriptions and availability for questions via phone - plus good things I'd heard from elsewhere - convinced me you were a very reputable dealer. This was confirmed when the guitar arrived - on time and as you described. The 335 is excellent - plays and sounds exactly as it should - and is in great condition to boot. Can't ask for any more than that. It's definitely a keeper. Will look forward to doing business with you again! Bill Auld, Ra;eigh, NC

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Joe , Looks like on your site some smart dude scooped (my consignment guitar) up fast. It has an incredible neck!... That was incredibly fast, you're the standard everyone else looks at. Brian Keith, Portland Oregon

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Hello, Joe! Two lines just to tell you the guitar (Fender D'Aquisto) has arrived and is in mint condition. Thanks again for your help. Take care! Fiorenzo Roncoroni, Ticino, Switzerland

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Dear Joe, Thank you very much for selling my 1945 L-5. I enjoy looking through all amazing guitars on your website. Thank you for your kindness and help always. Kenji Seki, Seattle

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Hi Joe, Just a short note to let you know that the ES-346 arrived safely this morning and is a keeper. Great packaging and beautiful set up. I like the fact that I can take it straight to the gig without having to mess with it ! Take care for now, Skip Moy, Hong Kong

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Joe, I got hold of the (1947) L-5 on Friday and am happy to confirm it as sold. Very pleased to have found this guitar through you and delighted that its tone, resonance and playability have lived up to both my high hopes and its beautiful looks. I will be recommending you strongly to students seeking quality instruments from a real archtop expert. Many thanks. Best Regards, Steve Kardar, London

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Hi Joe, I just received my Shelly Park gypsy guitar. Wow ! !! What a beauty! Your description was spot on. The spruce top, the Koa binding, everything about this guitar is exquisite...Your input was very helpful, ....I don't think I've ever had anyone play a guitar over the phone to let me hear it, but once you had, I couldn't get the tone out of my head. Many, many thanks. Jeff Bailey, San Francisco, CA

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Joe, I recommend your consignment service all the time. I sell stuff on ebay a lot for for high quality archtops, archtop.com is the only way to go. Ed Hagen, Columbia SC

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Joe, Just a note to let you know the guitar (Fender D'Aquisto) arrived Friday afternoon. It is truly as advertised, and after only two days, it already feels like an comfortable "old shoe." Many thanks, Larry Quinn, Christiansted, US Virgin Islands

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Hi Joe, Just wanted to let you know we got home okay and could hardly wait to start playing the Epi (1933 Blackstone). It felt like the hands and years that touched her before me came out in full force. She has a beautiful voiceand great classic lines...You set it up perfect. I have never played a guitar that was so easy to play. The balance is what I have been looking for all these years. Normally I had a difficult time holding up the guitar and moving around the neck. The Epi rests as though it was made to rest there. It felt strange at first not to struggle to keep it upright. Please tell the former owner that I plan on growingold with "Lil Epi Blackstone". She will not be sold, she will be passed on to other family members. I always trust that all is in highest and best interest. Gifts like the Epi just reinforce it all the more to me. Thanks again, Patrick Madsen, Blaine, WA

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Joe, ...It was a pleasure doing business with you (selling our Gibson Howard Roberts). Hope things continue to go well for Archtop.com. The world needs an outlet like it. --Paul Madden, Acton, MA

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Hi Joe- Thanks for all of your time and great advice. I put big bronze strings on my new Triumph - it has a great resonant tone, just as you said, plus a very sweet upper register. It is an elegant and powerful old guitar. The 2D pickup is spectacular on my guitar even with bronze strings. It is very easy to get the actual acoustic tone of my guitar and is also very capable of going from fat to funky. The 2 D is far superior to the Johnny Smith pickups that I have played for most of my career. Thanks again for being so easy and professional to work with. We will do more business. Very best regards- Tracy Pfau, Casper, WY

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Dear Joe, Thought I'd send an update pic of me and the Olympic. I was in Santa Barbara over Easter visiting my parents (my mom played and taught guitar which is how I got into it in the first place). I'm really digging the archtop sound...so different from flattops. I've been playing more than 35 years but never had an archtop before! It's like a new dimension. I didn't have a strap so am barely hanging on...Thanks again- Gretchen Wenner, Bakersfield, CA

And thanks again to all our kind correspondents. You've made our mission a real pleasure! Best, Joe Vinikow, archtop.com