Ask the Experts: TJ Thompson

October 2018

Every two weeks, the FJ Insider will ask one of our favorite icons in the fretted instrument world a couple of questions. First up is legendary luthier TJ Thompson.   

FJ: What’s the number one mistake customers make when buying a valuable pre-war guitar?

TJ Thompson: Buying the guitar BEFORE having it inspected by a knowledgeable pro. I once had a client bring in a 30's 00-28 for a saddle adjustment. It appeared to be in near mint condition which is why he'd just paid full boat fare for it on eBay. He was beside himself with joy. Not for long -- it apparently...

This article is only available to Fretboard Journal Subscribers.

As a Fretboard Journal Subscriber, you'll have access to new and exclusive stories, videos and content you won't be able to find anywhere else, online or offline.


Exclusive Video: Bill Frisell - "Go Happy Lucky" Homer’s Odyssey: David Rawlings’ unlikely new archtop (orig appeared in the Fretboard Journal 41)