Submitted by Slide-hound (see all reviews from this person) on 11/30/2012

Where Purchased: J.D. Myers Warsaw, Ohio

Year Purchased: 2012
Price Paid: Don't Remember historic exchange rates / currency converter

Sound

This Reso produces a full rich sound that is well suited for any style of music, but specifically for my music style (bluegrass). The bass strings deliver deep tones that are very clear. Mid-range and treble are crystal clear and very pronounced. The volume produced by this guitar is simply amazing. It takes very little effort with the picks to produce a full sound. Digging in hard with the picks is not necessary. No doubt this will eventually lead to an increase in playing speed and a decrease in sloppy string attack. Clean Clear hammer-ons and pull-offs are easy to achieve as the steel seems to bounce off the strings when hammering-on.
I currently have 4 high quality Reso Guitars each one made by well-known and respected Luthiers. I can honestly rate this East India Rosewood/Carpathian Spruce top Fishook as the best in the lot. I am simply overwhelmed by its stunning response and playability. The harmonics when playing chimes seem to sustain forever; This is somewhat lacking with my other resos.

Sound Rating: 10

Setup

The setup on my new Fishook was absolutely perfect. I spoke with J.D. Myers several times before he shipped the guitar. He stated that he had gone through the set up process four times because he personally was not satisfied. That is true dedication to the luthier trade and speaks volumes for the quality of his guitars and his reputation as an expert Luthier.
I have made no adjustments to the setup and don’t anticipate having to do so. The intonation was absolutely perfect. Not trusting my own ears/hearing I used a digital tuner to check it. It was perfect on all strings. How J.D. achieved this is a mystery to me! If anyone has ever tried to accurately set the intonation on a square neck resophonic guitar, then you know how difficult that task is. There is no substitute for experience and dedication.

Setup Rating: 10

Appearance

The appearance of this guitar is absolutely stunning! The back and sides are made of East India Rosewood. The grain patterns are not what I consider to be Master Grade, but are stunning and “Easy on the eyes” just the same. The top of the guitar is of Carpathian Spruce and the growth rings are very tight. This tight grain pattern is much sought after and usually only found on very expensive guitars because it is conducive to exceptional tone. The binding is Koa and truly presents a brilliant pleasing contrast to the rosewood and spruce top. The only thing I would have requested differently, to enhance the overall appearance of this guitar, would be herringbone purfling. Although strictly subjective to one’s individual taste, I find it more appeasing for my taste. The neck is made from 100+ year old walnut and is truly beautiful. Over -all the entire mirror finish is absolutely perfect. Even to the point that I was hesitant at first to take this guitar to jam sessions and gigs. However, this instrument needs to be played so others can enjoy the sound as well; “Battle Scars” are inevitable.
All hardware is perfect. No scratches or mechanical flaws (tuning machines) noted. I’m very pleased with the hardware.
I opted for the mother of pearl inlays on the neck, snowflakes and dots. Nothing fancy in this area. I do, however, anticipate ordering a second Fishook guitar sometime in the future with very ornate inlay work. But for now I’m totally satisfied with this recent purchase and expect years of enjoyment from this quality built guitar.

Appearance Rating: 10

Reliability

I have not had this guitar for a complete month, yet. However, I have taken it to numerous jam sessions and one paying gig. So far I have experienced no problems and don’t expect to as this guitar is so well made. All hardware is top quality. The finish appears to be “deep” and I suspect it will last for many years even with hard playing and numerous temperature changes. My confidence level is such that I see no need to have a backup for gigs.
I have gone through 3 sets of strings during the past few weeks and did notice one of the screws holding the tuning machine knob on had loosened up slightly. I consider this a non-issue as I’ve experienced this before over the years with numerous guitars. It is prudent to inspect your instruments before venturing out to play.

Reliability Rating: 10

Customer Service

I have never dealt with J.D. Myers, owner and luthier of Fishook guitars, before. I chose Fishook for this build simply because of J.D.’s reputation and after hearing the tone of one of his early Fishook guitars. Just prior to placing my order for a new Fishook, I had turned down a very good offer on a beautiful Maple R body Scheerhorn. I am satisfied with my decision!
Helpful, friendly and very receptive to suggestions are all attributes that J.D. Myers possesses. It was a true pleasure exchanging ideas during the ordering phase. Also, J.D. kept me informed all throughout the building process and even sent me photos from each stage of the build. I could sense through the excitement in J.D.’s voice during our phone conversations how thrilled and honored he was to be able to build a custom made guitar for me. I have no doubt that J.D. treats all customers in the same fashion.
I have not had to have any repair work done to this guitar, but feel confident should that be necessary J.D. Myers will take care of any needs that arise. The guitar warranty is for life to the original owner.

Customer Service: 10

Components

All components are top quality. There are no weak or cheap components on this Fishook Guitar.

Components Rating: 10

Overall Comments

As stated earlier, it was a true pleasure working with J.D. Myers at Fishook guitars. If anyone is in the market for a custom handmade one at a time resophonic guitar, you owe it to yourself to check with J.D. Myers before making a final decision. I understand his lead time is now approaching 12 months, but I assure you it will be worth the wait.

Overall Rating: 10