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I got this guy,,,,

90k

90k

May 3, 2005
342
8
Arizona
#1
I am looking at a local builder to build me a custom bass. Granted he has excellent examples of his work.and his work is breath taking.
He talks a great game, has a wonderful supply of old hard rock maple and other venners and yet all he will say to my request to listen to what I want, is a nod of acknowledgment and then moves on to totting his own horn.
should I walk away? thanks for your thoughts and opinions.
I should add that I think he has motor mouth disease. I have a few friends with this and cut them slack.
 
#4
mikeyswood said:
Is he giving you money for your work? If so sit there and listen to his BS. Should you be giving your money for his work, then he should be listening to you.
Click to expand...

This is very true^^^

Egocentrism is a flaw of many in our society, but understand that you can't change someone who is constantly trying to sell themselves and their work to get your business. In this business we encounter 100 tire kickers to every "real" customer, and sometimes yoiu get so used to the tire kickers that you don't pay as much attention as you should. Cut him some slack, but talk real dollars and deposit, and when this could start, along with your ideas. When a builder knows the contract is going to happen, they become very singularly minded with you and your idea. So take the time, and ask some pro's about his reputation, this can also give you more peace of mind. Good Luck with it.
 
#5
He's a builder for the star's if I may coin a phrase. He has just moved into the area and it is filled with well to do types. He does have great tools and he explains his technical process quick well. I like his work and attention to detail. I only hope he can deliver on what I am after for tone and response of the instrument.
Thanks all for your response. I have invited him over to my place which is on the river and a rare experience for
Arizona.. I like him and I think we can benefit from each other.
 
#6
If he has grey hair and came from California, and his son is an integral part of his shop, There is a NM in his moniker, I know who you speak of, and that is the way he is. Of course, I could be off the mark, but I'm guessing at who I know has moved there recently.
 
#10
Some guys just like to talk about what they do.

It's impossible to gauge whether he will build you your dream bass without any detail about what he says when he goes on and on (I am not suggesting this is the proper place to go into detail). It's up to you to figure out whether he will take your specs seriously. Write up a specification on paper. When he visits, show it to him. Say "this is my dream bass, can you build it for me?" Maybe you will be convinced, maybe not.

He probably won't build it for you if you act like you deserve to be paid for listening to him.
 

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