Custom ordering...

[metallibanger]

I'm planning on ordering my KV7 soon, but I was wondering if you can order instruments direct from Jackson. I always hear about people who order custom guitars and get to see the guitars being made, get picture updates, get tours of the factory and all that shit. I know I'd never get any of that if I ordered through Drumcity Guitarland like I did for my RR1, plus I have some pretty specific requests as far as the finish and inlays. Can I do this kind of thing with Jackson, or do they force you to order through a third party? Even in that case, how should I go about getting across my finish and inlay ideas?

Andy Oliphant
The Thirteenth Hour

[LesPaulCustom]

Re: Custom ordering...

All of the special options or specifications will be spelled out on the work order.

I think you have to go through a dealer to get a Custom Shop rolling. I don't think they have direct ordering from Jackson/FMIC [img]graemlins/refuse.gif[/img]

[quiksilver]

Re: Custom ordering...

I share your concerns. As I understand it, the entire process must be handled through a dealer. That makes for a scary situation when you are ordering a custom, very expensive item and making unique requests that must be communicated clearly - e.g., the finish and inlay details you mentioned.

A work order does not provide the amount of detail that could be expressed by direct contact. For example, I'm thinking of either a spalted maple top or a flame maple top, but I'd like to see the stock before choosing, since the figuring in those materials can vary greatly. I'd like to see a digital pic of what's available, or talk to someone at the Custom Shop to make sure we're on the same page.

It would be nice if, after putting down your deposit, you could have access to someone at the Custom Shop while your guitar is being built. My fear is spending the money, placing the order, waiting for months while it's being built, then receiving a guitar that's not what I wanted due to a miscommunication.