The world of high-end guitars is often dominated by names like Fender Custom Shop and Suhr. For many, these brands represent the pinnacle of quality and craftsmanship. So, when a lesser-known name emerges, claiming to compete in the same league, it’s natural to be skeptical. I confess, I was one of those skeptics. Having owned a considerable number of guitars from Fender Custom Shop, including two Masterbuilt models, alongside instruments from Suhr and my current collection of fourteen Tom Andersons, I thought I had a pretty good handle on what constituted a top-tier guitar. My journey had also included exploring guitars from other respected boutique builders like Novo, Danocaster, and Whifill. Then came the Shabat Lynx.
My introduction to Shabat Guitars wasn’t through flashy advertising or celebrity endorsements, but through sheer curiosity. The price point piqued my interest, sitting comfortably in a range that suggested quality, but still well below the stratosphere of some custom shops. I decided to take the plunge and ordered a Shabat Lynx, their Strat-style model. The arrival of the Lynx was more than just another guitar day; it was a revelation. From the moment I picked it up, it was clear this was something different. To put it plainly, the Shabat Lynx wasn’t just good – it was exceptional. In fact, and I don’t say this lightly, it surpassed any of the Fender Custom Shop, Suhr, or Tom Anderson guitars I’ve owned. This wasn’t just a slight margin; it was a noticeable leap in quality and feel. So impressed was I that within 24 hours of receiving the Lynx, I had placed orders for two more Shabat guitars.
Now, I understand that such pronouncements can sound hyperbolic, especially in the often-subjective world of guitar tone and feel. Therefore, I encourage anyone intrigued by my experience to do their own due diligence. Don’t just take my word for it. Reach out to Ben or Jeff at Rigtheous Guitars in Atlanta. Mention Jason from Canada referred you and ask them about their impressions of my recent Shabat guitar. The reason I suggest this is because even Rigtheous Guitars, seasoned dealers in high-end instruments, were taken aback by the Shabat Lynx. Before they even shipped it to me, they called to convey their surprise, stating that this guitar wasn’t just on par with Fender Custom Shop – it was operating at the level of Fender Masterbuilt. In my experience, their assessment was spot on.
For those unfamiliar with Shabat Guitars, it’s crucial to dispel a common misconception: they are not “partscasters.” Unlike brands that assemble guitars from sourced parts, Shabat builds their instruments in-house. This includes crafting their own truss rods, ensuring a level of control and consistency rarely found in the boutique guitar world. While they do use industry-standard components for tuners, bridges, and pickups, the core of the guitar – the wood, neck construction, and finishing – is all handled internally. Furthermore, Avi Shabat himself plays a significant role in the process, overseeing the final completion and setup of every guitar. This hands-on approach, combined with a small team of skilled luthiers (one or two, as I understand), ensures a level of personal attention and quality control that is truly remarkable.
When you consider the price bracket, the value proposition of Shabat guitars becomes even more compelling. Fender Masterbuilt guitars often start in the $7,000 to $8,000 range and can climb significantly higher. Shabat guitars, in contrast, typically reside in the $3,000 range. This puts them in a price category that, while still a serious investment, is considerably more accessible for serious players seeking top-tier quality without the exorbitant price tag.
Finally, let’s address the aesthetic aspect. Some might associate boutique builders with heavily relic’d finishes, and while Shabat offers relic options, they are by no means mandatory. In fact, Shabat guitars can be ordered with varying degrees of relicing, or even with a pristine, non-aged finish. Personally, I’m not a fan of heavy relicing, and my Shabat Lynx reflects this preference with a more understated and tasteful aesthetic. The beauty of Shabat is their commitment to customization, allowing players to tailor their instrument to their specific preferences, both in terms of feel and appearance. Whether you prefer a vintage vibe or a modern aesthetic, Shabat Guitars offers a level of craftsmanship and quality that deserves serious consideration from any discerning guitarist.
