I’ve not put it down since I got it

James Dawson and his Ruby Red Conti Equity Archtop

My name is James Dawson. I’ve been playing for over 50 years. Studied with Hank Mackie, Jimmy Foster, (who also built me 7 seven string guitars” They are unreal.) Emily Remler, and several more wonderful teachers. I’ve looked for one and could not find one. Long story short, mike called me back and they had found one “RUBY RED”. It looks like I could have gotten the last one
that could be made.

I do setups for a good many players in town. NEVER have I got a guitar in the mail that I didn’t have to reface some frets, etc.. This guitar came perfect. 4/64 on 12 fret and perfect. It has one of the very best feeling necks I’ve ever felt. Has a ebony fingerboard with a flat radius. The neck is very smooth and plays very fast. I’ve waited to write so I can really give you my thoughts. I’ve not put it down since I got it. I’ve played 7 jobs with it and it looks like it could become my “go to” guitar.

One other thing, the thickness of the body is perfect, the 17” body really surprised me. One of the most balanced guitars you will ever find. I GOT mine as a miracle to get the last one. I do hope Mr. Conti continues to produce this guitar.  THE PRICE: outstanding for a solid guitar of the stature would cost at least $3,000. If you have one I know you will agree with me about the quality and the FUN playing. The new guitar really gave me a spark. That’s worth the price!

James Dawson – Baton Rouge, LA

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1 thought on “I’ve not put it down since I got it”

  1. Hello James,

    Great pic! My wife and I lived in New Orleans a few years back 1982 ouch! Anyway I had the pleasure of studying with Hank Mackie.

    What a super nice person and wonderful teacher. I am trying to get in touch with Hank and wondered if you may have any contact info.

    all the best,

    Pete Cavano

    Reply

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Melvin Freeman – Canby, OR

As I write this, I can see my new Conti, natural blonde, single pickup, guitar sitting in its guitar stand. I’m at a loss for words in telling you how beautiful it is. For me, the 17″ body is the right size for a jazz guitar. The scale length, 24.6 inches, fits my hand better than the 25.5 inch, and the neck joining at the 16th fret is great. The Conti Guitar is a real joy to play, and I’m looking forward to connecting it to the Henriksen JazzAmp 112. Then I can really begin my new venture in electric

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September 20, 2012
Peppino stands proudly with his TWO left handed Conti Entrada archtop jazz guitars!

Finest guitar I’ve played in all the years…

My Conti Entrada archtop will most likely be the finest guitar I’ve played in all the years I’ve been playing. Left handed guitars are a scarce commodity; I’ve had my Gibsons, D’Angelicos, Epiphones, etc etc,… but NONE play better than my Robert Conti Entrada right out of the box, I’ve never set it up – it’s “perfect” as it is. No need to get technical, I’m just enjoying to play it. They play and sound as beautiful as they are crafted. Grazii mille mille signore Conti! Ottima chitarra questa è!  (Thank you very much Mr. Conti! This is a great

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October 13, 2023
Paul Leithold of famed Leithold Music on the gig with his gorgeous new Sunburst Conti Entrada!

Feel like I am their most important client!

What a great guitar! I have bought a lot of guitars, and I have to say I have never encountered a seller/manufacturer who cares this much about satisfying their customer. I feel like I am their most important client! Thank you!  This jazz club is up 20+ stairs. Nice to finally be able to bring a single guitar to play the gig – standards, funk, blues. Love the guitar! Paul Leithold – La Crosse, WI Leithold Music Store

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February 6, 2023

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