Featured: Mike Bowes MB ‘59-S Hardtail, 2024

"There's something genuinely special about playing a guitar by a maker whose work you've admired from afar but never actually experienced firsthand. Mike Bowes has been quietly earning a remarkable reputation in the vintage replica world. After spending time with this '59-S hardtail, I understand why players who own actual vintage Fenders are choosing to add MB guitars to their arsenal..." - Craig

Featured: M-Tone River, 2022

"This M-Tone River feels like holding a piece of art that happens to be a well-made guitar. To me, it's like a modern artistic take on a small body archtop design. Matt Proctor spent 15 years as a sculptor before building guitars, and you can see it in every curve and detail. Working out of Portland, he hand-builds each guitar one at a time with his "No Robots No Plastic" approach, and each M-Tone is a one-of-a-kind design..." - Craig

Featured: Harvey Citron Baritone Electric Guitar

JOHN SEBASTIAN'S GUITAR!

"I've always been fascinated by Harvey Citron's work, but this baritone represents something truly special in his catalog. The fact that it was extensively played by John Sebastian himself adds a layer of musical history that you can actually feel when you pick up the instrument.

"The story behind this guitar is as fascinating as the instrument itself. Harvey Citron and Joe Veillette built the first production baritone for John Sebastian back in the Veillette-Citron days, pioneering what would become an entirely new category of stringed instrument. John had been playing a Fender 6-string bass capoed at the second fret, tuned down to A, and wanted something purpose-built for that sonic territory. What Harvey created was revolutionary...." - Craig

Featured: Maegen Wells 2017 16” Archtop

"Maegen Wells has carved out a distinctive place among today's archtop builders, and this 2017 16" model perfectly showcases why she's earned such a devoted following. There's an adventurous spirit in her work that honors the legendary builders who came before while charting her own course, particularly in her exploration of smaller-bodied instruments that feel wonderfully intimate to play.

"What immediately strikes me about this guitar is how the 23" scale length transforms the playing experience. We're venturing into Gibson Byrdland territory here, where you don't have to work so hard to play difficult chord stretches. The reduced string tension creates this remarkably fluid feel under your fingers that's genuinely addictive..." - Craig

Featured: Daniel Slaman Jim Hall Project 175, 2017

"When Daniel Slaman sets out to honor a jazz legend, he captures the soul of what made that player's sound so distinctive. This DS-175 "Jim Hall Project" represents something truly special: a deep study of one of jazz guitar's most influential voices, translated through the hands of one of today's most thoughtful luthiers.

"What makes this particular instrument fascinating is Daniel's decision to honor Jim Hall's original sound. While most builders focus on recreating Hall's famous Guild humbucker setup, Daniel went back to the beginning, to that warm, woody P90 voice that defined Hall's early recordings. The early '60s P90 single coil pickup captures that sweet, singing quality that made Hall's playing so distinctive..." - Craig

Featured: Brian Applegate SJ Acoustic, Zirocote

"This preowned Applegate SJ is in excellent condition and showcases exactly why this builder has earned such respect in the acoustic guitar world. From the moment you pick it up, you can feel the passion and craftsmanship that goes into every Applegate instrument.

"The neck has a really nice low-profile contour that just feels right in your hand. It's clear that every detail has been thoughtfully considered, from the comfort of the neck profile to the precise execution of the inlay work..." - Craig

Featured: Collings 290 V Custom TV Yellow, 2023

"This custom 290 was built at my request using specs from the I35 LC Vintage model. It combines the straightforward Collings 290 platform with vintage-inspired details that elevate it beyond the standard model. The TV Yellow finish with aged nitrocellulose lacquer captures that classic vintage vibe perfectly with its warm, creamy tone and authentic, slightly worn-in feel.

"The ThroBak KZ90 pickups are the real standout here. They deliver serious power and sustain while keeping things clear and articulate. Whether you're playing clean or driving an amp hard, these pickups respond beautifully and give you plenty of tonal range..." - Craig

Featured: Artinger Quilted Maple & Sapele Hollow Body

"When an Artinger Quilted Maple and Sapele Hollow Body arrived at the shop, I knew we were in for something extraordinary. Built specifically for the 2025 Artisan Guitar Show, this instrument represents the pinnacle of Matt Artinger's vision and craftsmanship. The moment you hold this guitar, you realize you're experiencing a masterpiece that transcends mere instrument making – this is functional art at its finest.

"The highly quilted maple top immediately draws you in with its mesmerizing depth and three-dimensional quality, perfectly complemented by the flamed maple binding that frames it like a precious painting. But the visual journey has just begun..." - Craig

Featured: Circa 12 Fret 0028

"I commissioned this breathtaking 0028 directly from John Slobod, widely regarded as one of the country's premier builders of Martin-style guitars. As a dealer for Circa guitars, I'm particularly proud to offer this spellbinding instrument that represents John's mastery at its finest. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a pristine, master-grade instrument without the typical wait time associated with Slobod's sought-after builds.

This Circa 0028 represents the pinnacle of modern acoustic guitar craftsmanship while paying homage to what we most appreciate in fine vintage guitars..." - Craig

News:

John Sebastian: A Musical Journey, A Magical Guitar

If you came of age in the 1960s, John Sebastian's voice was the soundtrack to your summer afternoons. As the founding member and primary songwriter of The Lovin' Spoonful, Sebastian helped define the jug band revival that brought a warmly American folk-rock sound to the British Invasion era. And now, at CR Guitars, we have a special instrument, owned and lovingly played by John Sebastian himself...

Exciting News from Roger Sadowsky

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...

Authorized 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...

Pinnacle 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.

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...

The 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...

Friends 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...

Recent Arrivals:

Mike Bowes MB ‘59-S Hardtail, 2024

Where many builders treat hardtails as simply "Strats without tremolos," Mike Bowes understands these guitars have their own unique voice. The increased coupling between strings and body creates focused resonance...

M-Tone River, 2022

This M-Tone River feels like holding a piece of art that happens to be a well-made guitar. It's like a modern artistic take on a small body archtop design. Matt Proctor spent 15 years as a sculptor before building guitars, and you can see it in every curve and detail...

Daniel Slaman Jim Hall Project 175, 2017

When Daniel Slaman sets out to honor a jazz legend, he captures the soul of what made that player's sound so distinctive. This DS-175 "Jim Hall Project" represents something truly special: a deep study of one of jazz guitar's most influential voices...

Maegen Wells 2017 16” Archtop

Maegen Wells has carved out a distinctive place among today's archtop builders, and this 2017 16" model perfectly showcases why she's earned such a devoted following. There's an adventurous spirit in her work, particularly in her exploration of smaller-bodied instruments....

Harvey Citron Baritone Electric Guitar

The story behind this guitar is as fascinating as the instrument itself. Harvey Citron and Joe Veillette built the first production baritone for John Sebastian back in the Veillette-Citron days, pioneering what would become an entirely new category of stringed instrument...

Gibson 1974 Les Paul Custom, 20th Anniversary

Gibson guitars from the 1970s have a reputation for being inconsistent. But every once in a while, you come across a '70s Gibson that defies expectations. This 1974 Les Paul Custom 20th Anniversary is one of those exceptions.

Knaggs Choptank T-Trem

This gorgeous butterscotch Choptank T-Trem represents everything brilliant about Joe Knaggs' hybrid vision – Stratocaster versatility meets Telecaster soul in one exceptional instrument...

Gibson Wildwood Spec 1964 ES-335, 2023

Gibson is crafting some of its best "golden era" guitars right now, and this Wildwood spec ’64 ES-335 demonstrates that they're serious about getting the details right. Those period-correct specs significantly impact how the guitar feels and plays, making a noticeable difference...

Collings City Limits “New Aged”, 2015

This 2015 Collings CL represents everything there is to love about the New Aged series—it's a guitar that immediately feels like an old friend while delivering the precision and reliability of modern craftsmanship...

Brian Applegate SJ Acoustic, Zirocote

This preowned Applegate SJ is in excellent condition and showcases exactly why this builder has earned such respect in the acoustic guitar world. From the moment you pick it up, you can feel the passion and craftsmanship...

Collings 290 V Custom TV Yellow, 2023

This custom 290 was built using specs from the I35 LC Vintage model. It combines the straightforward Collings 290 platform with vintage-inspired details that elevate it beyond the standard model...

Sadowsky T-Style Custom

Here's the thing about most T-style electrics: they're fantastic at what they do, but they can corner you stylistically. Not this Sadowsky. The HH pickup configuration paired with Roger's proprietary preamp system creates a sonic chameleon...

Daniel Slaman Pauletta “Charlize”

Daniel Slaman's Pauletta offers jazz players what many have sought: the sound of an archtop in a feedback-resistant solid body. Made from resonant redwood and Spanish cedar, this guitar delivers exceptional tonal quality with minimal weight...

James Tyler Studio Elite HD

What elevates Tyler's instruments is their distinct personalities combined with his legendary quality standards. The lightweight alder body paired with a quartersawn maple neck delivers a tonal foundation that feels familiar yet uniquely Tyler...

Artinger Quilted Maple & Sapele Hollow Body

Built specifically for the 2025 Artisan Guitar Show, this instrument represents the pinnacle of Matt Artinger's vision and craftsmanship. The moment you hold this guitar, you realize you're experiencing a masterpiece that transcends mere instrument making – this is functional art at its finest...

Sadowsky S-Style Custom

What truly sets this guitar apart is the thoughtfully selected wood combination — roasted maple neck paired with a Brazilian rosewood fingerboard. This marriage delivers exceptional stability, comfort, and a playing experience that feels both familiar and elevated...

Artinger 25th Anniversary Hollow Body Custom

This isn't just a guitar; it's a culmination of a quarter-century of visionary lutherie, brought to life in Matt's most personal statement piece to date. The quilted maple top is simply breathtaking, with its undulating figure dancing beneath the finish like frozen waves...

Sadowsky T-Style

Roger Sadowsky has long been revered as one of the premier guitar builders in the industry, crafting instruments that blend vintage inspiration with modern innovation. This T-Style model exemplifies that philosophy perfectly. The chambered okoume body delivers exceptional resonance while maintaining a comfortable, lightweight feel that players will appreciate during long sessions...

Ken Parker Inner Peace Archtop, 2012

What distinguishes this guitar is its voice. The bass notes resonate with depth and substance, while the highs shimmer with bell-like clarity. Ken's innovative sound port design surrounds you with tone as you play...

Circa 12 Fret 0028

This Circa 0028 represents the pinnacle of modern acoustic guitar craftsmanship while paying homage to what we most appreciate in fine vintage guitars. The master-grade red spruce top is exceptionally responsive and articulate...

Nik Forster Semi Acoustic Archtop Charlie, 2012

This preowned 2012 Nik Forster archtop guitar. "Charlie" (as the model is known) is a uniquely designed, hand-carved hollow body archtop. Nik is a great builder, and this Charlie is beautifully made. Every part of this guitar is imbued with Nik's thinking and execution...

Dantzig Tulsa Korina G-90, 2022

This Dantzig Tulsa Korina G-90 brilliantly captures what makes the Tulsa model so special—the perfect blend of long-scale shimmer and short-scale grunt. The 2-piece korina body, combined with the 25.5” scale, delivers a remarkable tonal palette that feels familiar yet fresh...

Sadowsky S-Style Mango

This is precisely the kind of instrument that showcases why Sadowsky guitars are sought after by the world's most discriminating players. It takes everything we love about an S-style guitar and elevates it to new heights...

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 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...

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...

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 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...