Any familiar with Carvin Guitars?

[Cam_H]

After searching around for custom guitar builders, I came across Carvin Guitars. Has anyone got one or played one? Just looking for a bit of info/advice about them. I'm still going to be looking for a UK Luthier to take on my Ibanez Sabre clone project, but really interested in getting a Carvin.

Also, is it possible to replace their pickups with BKPs? I see they have 2 screws on one side, so unsure if it's possible to replace the mounting rings, etc.

[Philly Q]

I've never tried one myself, but there are several past and present forum members with Carvin guitars, if you do a search there may still be some pictures/info.

As far as I know their pickups are standard sized, despite the 22 polepieces and extra mounting screws, so I think you could replace the mounting rings with more conventional ones.

[JJretroTONEGOD]

After searching around for custom guitar builders, I came across Carvin Guitars. Has anyone got one or played one? Just looking for a bit of info/advice about them. I'm still going to be looking for a UK Luthier to take on my Ibanez Sabre clone project, but really interested in getting a Carvin.

Also, is it possible to replace their pickups with BKPs? I see they have 2 screws on one side, so unsure if it's possible to replace the mounting rings, etc.

from what I know I think they are one of the only manufacturers who let you create a custom guitar with no pickups and then you can add your own. I've only ever heard very positive things about carvin... it's a shame they are in the USA only.

[Cam_H]

Well I've found a dealer so that's lucky. I'll have to enquire about the no pickup option.

[Philly Q]

I've only ever heard very positive things about carvin... it's a shame they are in the USA only.

There was a (brief) period where they had a UK operation, but if I remember right it was still basically ordering a factory-direct custom build, only through a UK middleman.

I always liked the look of the Holdsworth models, but it would be nice to be able to try one first.

[blue]

I've seen ads for them in UK magazines recently, so they must have a new distributer.  not sure if they have off the shelf models or take custom orders only.

[Cam_H]

Well I've been speaking to Sounds Unlimited, and I can actually place a Custom order through them. So just waiting for a quote at the moment :)

[Philly Q]

That's cool.  Do they let you choose details like the neck shape?

[Cam_H]

That's cool.  Do they let you choose details like the neck shape?

I never new you could pick the neck shape. I'll have to enquire about that. From what i'm aware, you place an order with the dealer like you would if you was in America, then they make it and ship it to them. You can design your guitar online to get the specs down, but I believe there's many more options which the website doesn't have, so I'm going to have a deep discussion with the dealer some time next week.