Welcome

J.W. Murphy Custom Archtop Guitars are built by James Murphy in his temperature and humidity-contolled shop in Fenton Michigan. Each instrument is handmade from start to finish. Due to this time investment, th ere are a limited number of guitars made each year. However, the result is apparent in the quality craftsmanship and tone.

 

J.W. Murphy in his own words:

In my prior career, I was an architectural woodworker- woodcarver, designing, fabricating and installing high-end interiors. I always felt fortunate to have that ability and the opportunity to work with wood for a living, but something seemed to be missing. That something turned out to be of a sonic nature. Guitars add the dimension of sound that intrigues and inspires me. I started out building archtops out of curiosity and for the challenge. Now I am fully engaged in the process.

Each instrument is meticulously handcrafted using only the finest materials. You can choose a guitar from my standard models or request a guitar built to your exact specifications and choice of materials. To me, it is all about meeting your needs as a player. The guitar must look, sound and feel right before I will let it leave my shop. I look forward to the challenge of exceeding your expectations.