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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Mike Setunsky – Woodbridge, VA

I received my Conti Guitar the day before yesterday. I had to break away to write this because I’m having a hard time putting it down. The guitar is “as advertised” and much, much more. I was a little hesitant about buying a guitar sight unseen, but Mike was very helpful and took the time to answer all my questions to my satisfaction. Thanks Mike! I tweaked the tuning and it was ready to go right out of the box. The guitar is flawless, plays like a dream and far exceeds my expectations. The action on this guitar is unbelievable.

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August 13, 2013
Gabriel Anfosso, Blonde Heirloom Archtop

Best guitar I’ve ever owned!

“Oh please let me say a few words….I’m SO happy because of you, you are like a father, it’s a real present, a real chance to know you. I don’t want people think I exaggerate. I’m a Professional jazz player and singer, one year and a half I began to work on your material, more and more…..and more. A private Lesson with you, a real gift, hours of pleasure and joyfulness. I work and I work again, my buddy players: “oh you play so nice things now it’s incredible.” To thank you and because I knew it would be great,

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January 28, 2019

Jess Johnson – Salem, OR

Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy the new Conti Guitar. Somehow you managed to create a little “masterpiece” of an instrument. This is amazing in so many ways. Also wanted to ask that you not change anything in this model. The sustain is absolutely amazing. This may have been accidental but if so it’s a wonderful accident! I did an experiment with a delay pedal and the result was: it’s not necessary with this guitar. The sustain is there so much I didn’t notice the delay effect hardly at all. Matter of fact I felt it

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June 9, 2010

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