[Rufus]

Now then.

I have a good friend who is a luthier. I probably said so before.
Anyway, he tells me, that if one wants a real cheapo guitar or bass, that AXL are the axes of choice.
He enthuses about their quality, (for the price), and playability.
I'd never heard of them. Have you?

[Rufus]

http://www.projectguitarparts.co.uk/

Here's my friend Alan.

And here:

http://www.thisisworcestershire.co.uk/wo...010ZM.html

[adam]

I have not heard about them, but I'd just trust the word of your good friend luthier, just because he's been doing it for a long time, been working for those famous bands like Led Zeppelin and is your good friend - and good friends wouldn't lie ~

but I'm not in need of another guitar at the moment.
Maybe if I take up bass.

[de_axeman]

I just checked out their website. AXL is a US company that manufactures their gear in China and hence enjoying the benefits of the cheaper labour costs there.

They also manufacture other brands like Johnson and Lucinda, and they make everything from amps, to drums to pro-audio gear. Now THAT is a company I would LOVE to own!!

Their guitars look quite well made and their components seem to be of decent quality (EMG pickups, maple/alder bodies and mahogany/rosewood necks). Don't know how much they cost though - no prices on their site as expected.

If I see them at the shops I'll be sure to give them a go!

You friend sounds cool Roo. One of my goals in life is to build my own guitar one day, just so I can say I've done it. (sorta like writing a book) So I have nothing but the utmost respect for luthiers. Yes sirree!