S.B. MacDonald Custom Instruments

I had my Gibson SJ Deluxe restored by Scott over the past year and picked it up a couple of weeks ago. With the nature of the damage to this instrument (warped neck, warped face, etc.), I wasn't sure if it would be possible to extend its life. A year later, and it looks and sounds beautiful. I still cannot quite appreciate what has gone into the restoration of this piece and how it now appears the SJ Deluxe will live on for many years! Thank you, Scott

I brought my Martin to his shop about a year ago because it was having some serious issues (needed to reset the neck). Not only did he fix my guitar but he improved it! It’s never played better and he was an absolute pleasure to work with. This is someone who truly cares about the instrument, the customers, and the craft. I love to see the passion!

I’m hoping he sees this long overdue “Thank you”! My guitar still plays great and if it ever needs to be worked on again, he is my go-to guy!

THANK YOU!

Scott is a true craftsman with a love for his work. His understanding of the physical properties of the guitar and woods combine with his understanding of the musician's need. What I most appreciate about Scott is that he gives the same care to small repairs and modifications that he would give to larger repairs and custom builds. His goal is always to do his best.

Scott has a rare gift for getting the best sound out of a particular guitar. I have brought him work on two separate occasions. Both times he transformed an already good sounding instrument into a great sounding one. He's a first-rate luthier with superb technical acumen, and his beautiful VT shop is well worth a visit. Highly recommended.

Scott's work is meticulous, thoughtful and not only good for the spirit of the instrument but for the soul of the player as well. He built me the best guitar on Earth and invited...or rather...requested that I be a part of the physical process. I love my guitar...it has made me a better player because of Scott's attention to what I like, how I play and what my needs are as a performer. I've tried a lot of guitars...none come close. Soon he will be building me another....and I cannot wait!

While I consider it a God given privilege to have someone as talented as Scott build and maintain my instruments, i feel more fortunate to be able to call Scott a friend. He's one of the best men I've ever known, and he's a man of great discipline and integrity. Although we've got over 5,000 miles between us, he's the only guy who will ever handle my stringed instruments.

Having known Scott since he began his journey to be the skilled luthier he is today I can attest to his vast knowledge of vintage instrument repairs. I have also been a witness to his approach to a true custom guitar build tailored to each individual, from wood choices to design nuances. He is a true artisan and takes his time to do proper work at appropriate prices in line with his skills. To top it all off he is a man of integrity. My biggest regret to date is not having an S.B. MacDonald guitar in my collection yet but his meticulous care of my 1961 Gibson J45 made it sing on 2 recording sessions for One Guitar. One Guitar recorded 40 seperate singer songwriters playing that Gibson and Scott is responsible for the range of sounds you can hear. Check out the facebook page or bandcamp to hear an example sometime.

I've known Scott for more years than we'd both care to say and I can tell you as a craftsman and a gentleman it doesn't get any better than him! His work in custom builds and repair work is second to none. He can do it all to the highest level.

Made quick and precise work to my S-Type guitar. Excellent attention to detail and turnaround. I would highly recommend.

He’s the best there is. It’s a gift to have him work on any instrument. Extremely professional.