Featured: Sadowsky NYC Custom Buckeye Burl S-Style
"Viewing this S-Style beauty for the first time, I was immediately struck by its stunning combination of the mastergrade buckeye burl top against the classic alder body. This is a guitar that manages to blend traditional S-Style DNA with unique modern refinements in an absolutely captivating way.
"Its three P90 pickups serve up a remarkable tonal palette, from classic Strat sounds to snarling P90 powerhouse punch. Sadowsky's preamp and midboost electronics further enhance the sonic possibilities, and the lightweight 6.6 lb body ensures excellent resonance and playing comfort...'" - Craig
Featured: Roger Sadowsky NYC Custom LS13 Broadway
"This LS-13 Broadway is a perfect example of why Roger Sadowsky is considered one of the finest builders working today. That dark cherry burst over flame maple is simply gorgeous, and paired with a matching flame maple fingerboard, every note rings clear as a bell.
"The alder body with flame maple top delivers an ideal mix of warmth and definition. Roger's unique Broadway body shape is remarkably comfortable and ergonomic - it's no wonder it has become legendary guitarist Lee Ritenour's go-to instrument. At just 6.4 pounds, it's perfectly balanced for long sessions...'" - Craig
Featured: Roger Sadowsky NYC Custom S-Style
"When I opened the case of this new S-style Sadowsky, I knew I was in for something special. Roger Sadowsky and I share a long history, and I've always been impressed by his ability to source the most exceptional tonewoods.
"The Tiger Eye Burst finish over the mastergrade quilted maple top is stunning. Roger's choice of an Amazon rosewood fingerboard perfectly complements the maple neck, delivering that coveted Brazilian rosewood-like character and response...'" - Craig
Featured: Roger Sadowsky Electric Nylon
"The Sadowsky Electric Nylon is an excellent fusion of traditional nylon-string character and modern electric design. Having worked with Roger Sadowsky during this model's development in the 1980s, I've seen it evolve into what many consider the benchmark electric nylon-string guitar.
"The strength of this instrument lies in its versatility. It bridges musical worlds effectively, with players ranging from Keith Richards to Pat Metheny to Lee Ritenour to Earl Klugh...'" - Craig
Featured: Bill Tippin DST 12 Brazilian Rosewood, 2003
"The Bill Tippin DST 12-string is truly extraordinary. The rare and unique red birdseye Brazilian rosewood back and sides are not just visually stunning, but contribute to an absolutely magical voice that sets this 12-string apart. Paired with a master grade Adirondack red spruce top, the tone is remarkably rich and full-bodied, with a luscious quality that makes every chord shimmer and sustain beautifully.
"Having been recently refreshed by Bill Tippin with new frets and finish, this 2003 instrument plays and looks like it just left Bill's bench for the first time. The elegant mother of pearl and blue abalone neck inlay, along with the matching Martin torch headstock inlay, showcase the refined artistic touches that make Tippin's work so special...'" - Craig
Featured: James Tyler Dann Huff Original Classic
"This Dann Huff Original Classic is more than just a remarkable piece of guitar history - it's a testament to why Jim Tyler's instruments have been the choice of so many legendary musicians. Rich Renken, Jim's longtime collaborator and now general manager of Tyler guitars, spearheaded the creation of this latest model alongside Dann Huff himself, bringing the same sensibilities that drove James Tyler to create such amazing instruments. This meticulous recreation of Dann's legendary modded '64 that helped shape the sound of countless hit records shows that commitment to excellence. The attention to detail in capturing every nuance of Dann's original guitar is simply extraordinary..." - Craig
Featured: Sadowsky LS-13 Broadway
"When I opened Sadowsky's LS-13s case, I knew I was in for something special. Roger Sadowsky's reputation in the guitar world is well-established, with an impressive client list to back it up. Face to face with his latest electric guitar build, I was impressed by his take on the S-style design. The flame maple chambered body with its transparent black finish, paired with a maple neck and morado fingerboard, clearly demonstrated high-level craftsmanship and attention to detail..." - Craig
Featured: Michi Matsuda 7 String Acoustic, 2012
"The 2012 Michi Matsuda 7 string acoustic is a remarkable instrument that showcases Michi Matsuda's exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design skills. This special-order guitar combines traditional elements with modern features, creating a unique and inspiring instrument.
"The M1 body shape’s cutaway offers excellent playability, while the 7-string configuration with a low B significantly expands its tonal range. The fanned fret design (25 1/4" to 26 1/4" scale) optimizes string tension and intonation across all strings..." - Craig
Featured: Kraut OMC Nouveau
"Something remarkable happened when Ray Kraut created this fabulous guitar - in the way it looks (which you can see in the photos) and its stunning sound. Ray has stepped up and created a next-level build for me, a modern OMC monster of a guitar. This beauty is a guitar that enhances whatever you play without limits. Strum like a madman, and it will erupt with every strike. Brush with your fingers, and she'll whisper in your ear. Sonically, it's a 3-D experience. The unique and elegant sound port surrounds the player with an honest and woody tonal mist..." - Craig
News:
CRG is Now the Exclusive Dealer for Sadowsky Electric Guitars
Exciting news from Roger Sadowsky: "I am proud to announce that Craig Snyder of CR Guitars in Rhinebeck NY is now the exclusive dealer for Sadowsky Electric Guitars. I have known Craig for 50 years and he was instrumental in getting me to start my shop in NYC back in 1979. As one of the top session guitarists in NYC at that time, he was invaluable in helping me develop the sound and feel of what would become Sadowsky Guitars. His knowledge of guitars, from a players perspective, makes him an exceptional advisor to players looking to acquire an exceptional instrument." - Roger Sadowsky, January, 2025
Authorized Dealer Corner: Tyler Guitars, a note from Craig
I'm proud to say that I've been an authorized Tyler Guitars dealer since the day I opened CR Guitars. But my history with James Tyler goes back much further - I've been an avid fan for 30 years, and James made many guitars for me even before I dreamed of opening CR Guitars. As a studio musician, I owned some of his early guitars, and when I opened CR Guitars in 2011, Tyler was one of the first luthiers I partnered with...
...Read MoreAuthorized Dealer Corner: Collings Guitars, a note from Craig
As an authorized Collings dealer since opening CR Guitars in 2011, I've had the privilege of working with one of the finest guitar manufacturers in the world. But my connection to Collings goes back even further – as a touring and studio guitarist, I was already a devoted fan of Bill Collings' extraordinary instruments before opening my shop. My relationship with Collings Guitars runs deep, and over the years, I've developed a close personal connection with the entire crew...
...Read MorePinnacle Level Acoustics
Currently, we have an absolutely stunning array of acoustics that any acoustic guitar enthusiast would love to experience. At CR Guitars we are known for our careful selection process and this certainly applies to acoustic guitars. From meticulous hand crafted appointments to tone-that-stops-time we are constantly amazed at the incredible level of workmanship and innovation being produced, particularly in the acoustic realm. The phrase golden age of lutherie can perhaps sound hyperbolic, but when you step inside our shop or our website that term applies in full force.
...Read MoreFender Diamond Collection Now Available
An alert from CR Guitars owner Craig Snyder:
"A very special collection of Fender guitars is up for sale at the Music Gallery (musicgalleryinc.com). The Music Gallery is owned by my good friend Frank Glionna. I've known Frank for many years, even before I opened CR Guitars, and he is the guy I've always turned to when I need a guitar with an "F" on the headstock. He is also a Fender Diamond Dealer and gets the very best of the best. I don't usually tout other shops in news entries, but this Diamond Collection is so special that I felt it worthy of a special mention and a heads up for any interested parties..."
Friends of CR Guitars: Adam Levy
Adam Levy is widely respected as a "musician’s musician" — with many featured turns to his credit. His memorable solos on Norah Jones' album Come Away with Me are shining examples of his handiwork. His bluesy lines on Tracy Chapman's hit "Give Me One Reason" tell a juicy story, with not a single note wasted. He's a nuanced accompanist as well, as can be heard on Allen Toussaint's recording of "American Tune." He's also featured on recordings by Vulfpeck, Anaïs Mitchell (composer of Hadestown), Meshell Ndegeocello, Ani DiFranco, and Amos Lee...
...Read MoreThe Yanuziello Milano Series - Interview w/ Joe
Like every artist Joe Yanuziello is always looking for new territory to conquer, the next mountain to climb. Enter the first in a 10 piece Limited Edition Series called the Milano, what Joe considers his next level instrument. It's that great. So great we decided to interview Joe for a feature on his new Milano Series. Joe's insatiable curiosity has taken him off the beaten path to a line of unique guitars that harken back to the European electrics of the early '60s, particularly Italian makers, that over the years have become quite collectible in the vintage market. Read on to find out about the truly remarkable Milano Series...
...Read MoreFriends of CR Guitars: Jostein Gulbrandsen
Jostein Gulbrandsen, who has done many product videos for CR Guitars and is a longtime friend of CR Guitars owner Craig Snyder is originally from Norway. Since 2001 he has been based in New York where he received his master's degree in jazz guitar from the Manhattan School of Music in 2003. Gulbrandsen has played at Kongsberg Jazz Festival, Blue Note, Birdland, BB. Kings, Cornelia Street Cafe, Smalls, Smoke, Blues Alley, The Kennedy Center and many other places. He has toured in Norway and Scotland and also held master classes at Agder College of Music and Hobart and William Smith Colleges...
...Read MoreRecent Arrivals:
Sadowsky NYC Custom Buckeye Burl S-Style
This is a guitar that manages to blend traditional S-Style DNA with unique modern refinements in an absolutely captivating way. Its three P90 pickups serve up a remarkable tonal palette, from classic Strat sounds to snarling P90 powerhouse punch...
Roger Sadowsky NYC Custom LS13 Broadway
This LS-13 Broadway is a perfect example of why Roger Sadowsky is considered one of the finest builders working today. That dark cherry burst over flame maple is simply gorgeous...
Roger Sadowsky NYC Custom S-Style
The Tiger Eye Burst finish over the mastergrade quilted maple top is stunning. Roger's choice of an Amazon rosewood fingerboard perfectly complements the maple neck, delivering that coveted Brazilian rosewood-like character and response...
Roger Sadowsky Electric Nylon
The Sadowsky Electric Nylon is an excellent fusion of traditional nylon-string character and modern electric design. The strength of this instrument lies in its versatility. It bridges musical worlds effectively...
Collings CJ45 T, 2022
With its solid fundamentals, thick trebles, and balanced bass, this CJ45 T is the perfect acoustic to accompany a singer for recording or just plain inspiration. This sunburst beauty is Collings' tip of the hat to pre-war Gibsons, and man, did they nail it...
Bill Tippin DST 12 Brazilian Rosewood, 2003
The Bill Tippin DST 12-string is truly extraordinary. The rare and unique red birdseye Brazilian rosewood back and sides are not just visually stunning, but contribute to an absolutely magical voice that sets this 12-string apart...
Anderson T Model, 2008
This Anderson stands out even among its peers. At just 5.8 lbs, it's remarkably light, and the alder-on-alder body produces a wonderful woody resonance...
PRS McCarty 594 Artist Package, 2016
Whether you are looking for rich, authentic, vintage humbucking tones or nuanced, sweet single coil sounds, the McCarty 594 can seamlessly master both sonic territories thanks to the 58/15 LT pickups and push/pull coil taps on the tone controls...
Gagnon Composer Archtop, circa 2005
Currently in excellent plus condition with minimal playing wear, this exceptional archtop delivers both acoustically and amplified through its well-placed Kent Armstrong pickup. The warm, woody voice maintains pristine clarity across the entire range...
Gibson Frank Zappa Roxy SG, 2013
Being one of only 400 produced, this guitar represents a piece of rock history that's been played and enjoyed. The genuine holly veneer (Gibson USA's first use since 1969) and grade-A mahogany body still deliver that distinctive tonal character that made Frank's original so special....
James Tyler Dann Huff Original Classic
This Dann Huff Original Classic is more than just a remarkable piece of guitar history - it's a testament to why Jim Tyler's instruments have been the choice of so many legendary musicians...
Michi Matsuda 7 String Acoustic, 2012
The 2012 Michi Matsuda 7 string acoustic is a remarkable instrument that showcases Michi Matsuda's exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design skills. This special-order guitar combines traditional elements with modern features...
D’Arcy Blake Custom 16 Archtop
Our current offering, the D'Arcy's Custom 16' model, is a testament to D'Arcy's extraordinary vision and craftsmanship. It proudly carries the lineage of D’Aquisto — Monteleone heritage, with its uniquely carved top, precise geometry, and pleasing aesthetics...
Stephen Marchione OMC African Ebony, 2017
Putting it together, this exceptional OMC is a beautiful sounding guitar, rich and spacious, with a woody midrange presence characteristic of Stephen's fine acoustics. Sonically, African ebony reminds of Brazilian rosewood with its rich and balanced presence...
Stephen Marchione Uni-Body Carve Top, 2018
Stephen's Uni-body guitar model is an extraordinary piece of guitar craftsmanship. It is not something that can be custom-ordered. The reason is that Marchione only builds this rare model when he finds a perfect piece of wood...
Jason Kostal MDW Cocobolo, 2020
This particular MDW is a stunning example of Jason's commitment to excellence and is an instrument that certainly would satisfy the yearning of both a player and a collector...
Steve Klein Custom Electric
We are fortunate to offer a unique electric built by the legendary luthier Steve Klein. This ergonomic headless wonder — serial number 029 — was custom-made for virtuosic guitarist Matte Henderson in 1990...