The demand for American made acoustic guitars is growing among guitar enthusiasts who value quality craftsmanship and rich tonal qualities. At Get My Guitar, we’ve researched and compiled a list of the top five American made acoustic guitar companies that are setting the standard for excellence. These companies are renowned for their dedication to creating instruments that not only sound incredible but also preserve the traditional artistry of guitar making.

American Made Acoustic Guitars – Top-5 Companies Listed

1. Bourgeois Guitars

Location: Lewiston, Maine

Bourgeois Guitars, founded by Dana Bourgeois in 1993, is known for its commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. Each guitar is handcrafted in Lewiston, Maine, using premium tonewoods and meticulous attention to detail. Models like the Bourgeois Dreadnought and the OM Vintage are celebrated for their exceptional sound quality and playability. Bourgeois Guitars combines traditional techniques with modern advancements to produce instruments that are highly regarded by professional musicians.

2. Santa Cruz Guitar Company

Location: Santa Cruz, California

The Santa Cruz Guitar Company, established in 1976 by Richard Hoover, is dedicated to crafting custom, hand-built acoustic guitars. Located in Santa Cruz, California, the company uses the finest tonewoods and traditional luthiery techniques to produce instruments of unparalleled quality. Models like the H-13 and OM/PW are known for their rich, complex tones and exquisite craftsmanship. Santa Cruz guitars are highly sought after by discerning players who appreciate the artistry and precision involved in their creation.

3. Huss & Dalton Guitar Company

Location: Staunton, Virginia

Huss & Dalton Guitar Company, founded in 1995 by Jeff Huss and Mark Dalton, produces high-end acoustic guitars with a focus on traditional craftsmanship. Each guitar is handmade in Staunton, Virginia, using carefully selected tonewoods and time-honored construction methods. Models like the TD-R and the OM Custom are praised for their warm, balanced tones and exceptional build quality. Huss & Dalton guitars are a testament to the enduring appeal of American craftsmanship.

4. Larrivée Guitars

Location: Oxnard, California

Larrivée Guitars, founded by Jean Larrivée in 1967, is renowned for its dedication to quality and innovation. Although originally from Canada, Larrivée moved its production to Oxnard, California, where each guitar is handcrafted using premium tonewoods and meticulous attention to detail. Models like the OM-40 and D-40 are celebrated for their exceptional sound and playability. Larrivée guitars combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to produce instruments that are both beautiful and sonically impressive.

5. Preston Thompson Guitars

Location: Sisters, Oregon

Preston Thompson Guitars is known for creating exceptional handmade acoustic guitars inspired by the best American instruments from the 1930s. Each guitar is crafted in Sisters, Oregon, by a small team of highly skilled luthiers. Models like the Dreadnought and the OM are noted for their powerful and responsive voices. Preston Thompson guitars are designed to offer the look, feel, and sound of vintage instruments with modern reliability.

The Importance of Understanding “Made in the USA”

While many guitar companies proudly label their instruments as “Made in the USA,” it’s important to understand what this designation truly means. Some companies produce a limited series of their guitars entirely in the USA, while others may source woods and electronics from other countries but assemble the guitars domestically. This practice allows them to label their products as “Made in the USA” even though not all components are sourced domestically.

To ensure you are getting a guitar that is both made and assembled in the USA, it’s crucial to check the fine print or FAQ section on the company’s website. This diligence will help you make an informed purchase and support American craftsmanship fully.

The Price of Quality: Understanding the Costs of American Made Acoustic Guitars

American made acoustic guitars often come with a higher price tag compared to those manufactured abroad. This higher cost is due to several factors:

1. Craftsmanship: Many American guitar companies are small, boutique operations that produce guitars on a workbench rather than a production line. This approach ensures each guitar receives individual attention from skilled luthiers, resulting in superior quality and unique characteristics.
2. Quality Materials: High-end American guitars often use premium tonewoods and components that contribute to their exceptional sound and durability. These materials are carefully selected and sourced, adding to the overall cost.
3. Labor Costs: The cost of labor in the United States is higher than in many other countries. This is reflected in the price of the guitars but also ensures fair wages and good working conditions for the craftsmen and women who build them.
4. Limited Production: Many American guitar makers produce guitars in smaller quantities, focusing on quality over quantity. This limited production often makes these guitars more exclusive and sought after, which can drive up the price.

While the higher cost might be a deterrent for some, it’s important to recognize the value of supporting true craftsmanship. When you purchase an American made guitar, you are investing in an instrument that is not only built to last but also crafted with a level of care and expertise that is hard to match.

American Made Acoustic Guitars – Conclusion

The future of American made acoustic guitars is bright, with these top manufacturers leading the way in craftsmanship and innovation. These companies continue to set the bar for quality and excellence, ensuring that the tradition of American guitar making remains strong. At Get My Guitar, we celebrate these iconic brands and their contributions to the guitar world. We’ve highlighted a few standout companies, but we know there are always new makers emerging and some we may have missed. If you know of other American made acoustic guitar companies, please share them in the comments section. We’re always eager to learn and update our list to keep our readers informed.

Stay tuned to our blog for more insights into the latest trends and timeless traditions in the guitar industry. Happy playing!