Ordering a Carvin: Use Builder or Call

[Bassmunnky]

Just looking to see the pros or cons.

In my mind, using the online bass builder, I know EXACTLY what I'm putting in...and I can do it anytime.

Any advantages to calling? Like requesting a "light weight" one, or anything like that.

Any sales person considered really great?

Thanks

 

[grinx]

The builder (phone in 94, web in 2011) has worked perfect for me on 2 builds over the last 20 years. If you have a custom request, get on the horn to 'em

 

[Corey Y]

I've used the builder twice in the last few years and had good experiences. I didn't have any special requests or considerations though, beyond specifying setup for alternate tunings.

 

[bravesaint5]

The builder worked great on my SB5000, but getting them on the phone can open up a few more options. Very nice folks at Carvin too, great with advice and are very interested in what you are trying to build/accomplish.

 

[Clef_de_fa]

I have used the builder 3 times now and I didn't have any problems. If you are looking for something not found on the builder or if you want a specific pattern for the quilt/flame maple etc

 

[Bassmunnky]

Great, thank you

 

[G On Bass]

I highly recommend calling. You can't sweet-talk the online-builder into 'extras' or discounts, and it doesn't answer questions.

I usually spec mine in the builder, then call (or go in since I'm near the Holloywood store ).

 

[Bassmunnky]

Anyone ask for a 'light' one...Im getting the SB4000..want to keep it 9lbs or under...without getting the chambers

 

[G On Bass]

Anyone ask for a 'light' one...Im getting the SB4000..want to keep it 9lbs or under...without getting the chambers

You can ask, they'll usually do it, but they will usually charge you ~$50-$100 for the option.

 

[Bassmunnky]

Thanks

 

[Bassist4Eris]

I've used the builder twice now without issues. Both basses are on the heavy side. If I end up ordering another one, I'll probably call to request a light piece of wood (and make clear that anything over 10 lbs is going back).

 

[Mystic Michael]

The online builder is fine for spec'ing out a new instrument, getting a sense of all the available options, and for getting a ball park price quote.

I would never actually place an order through the online builder, however. I always place the order by telephone. Always.

My sales guy is Keith Ighner. I don't know whether he's the best. But he's good. He knows his stuff.

MM

 

[Bassmunnky]

Love that info MM

 

[DerekMcC]

The online builder is fine for spec'ing out a new instrument, getting a sense of all the available options, and for getting a ball park price quote.

I would never actually place an order through the online builder, however. I always place the order by telephone. Always.

My sales guy is Keith Ighner. I don't know whether he's the best. But he's good. He knows his stuff.

MM

+1

I mess around with the builder but I think that every Carvin I have ordered had some form of option 50, so I have called them in. Eddie has made every request except one happen. Come to think of it. I can't even remember what that request was.

 

[G On Bass]

+1

I mess around with the builder but I think that every Carvin I have ordered had some form of option 50, so I have called them in. Eddie has made every request except one happen. Come to think of it. I can't even remember what that request was.

I know that they won't:

- Put a P/J set up in a B24/B25 (or any other 'signature model').
- Put a Piezo in a B25S (you have go pay for all the fancy wood tops, even if you want a plain, solid walnut one).

But even though those 2 are biggies for me, they are usually really good at making things happen.

 

[hrodbert696]

The online builder is fine for spec'ing out a new instrument, getting a sense of all the available options, and for getting a ball park price quote.

I would never actually place an order through the online builder, however. I always place the order by telephone. Always.

My sales guy is Keith Ighner. I don't know whether he's the best. But he's good. He knows his stuff.

MM

+1. Keith was great the one time I've ordered through Carvin. Very well-informed, plays the basses himself, and if you want something that's not offered on the builder he can often get it for you. I ordered an SB4000 (supposed to be done 11/20) but he was able to get the neck profile from the new PB4 on it (it's reportedly a shade slimmer).

 

[ole Jason]

Any of you guys have experience with walnut neck/body combos? I really want the claro walnut top and have toyed with the idea of having a "matching" body and neck.

 

[WoodyG3]

The online builder is fine for spec'ing out a new instrument, getting a sense of all the available options, and for getting a ball park price quote.

I would never actually place an order through the online builder, however. I always place the order by telephone. Always.

My sales guy is Keith Ighner. I don't know whether he's the best. But he's good. He knows his stuff.

MM

Yep. Keith is great. And I always call.

 

[two fingers]

I used the phone on both of mine. Those guys are great!

 

[Quackhead]

I've always called on my orders. The salesmen can really help you with details or options that aren't listed on the website.