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Problem with Jim Reed Pickups - 1 year, 7 months, 19 days since ordering!

Will I ever receive my bought and paid for pickups?

  • Yes, good things come to those who wait.

    Votes: 9 20.5%
  • No, you are not the first nor that last person to be taken for a ride.

    Votes: 35 79.5%

  • Total voters
    44
Hi all,

I have always found something to help me out whilst lurking the endless posts here on TB so I would like to use the open forum aspect of Talk Bass that has helped me through my career as a bass player for over 10 years as a last resort for adjudication and to serve as a warning for other potential customers.

To cut to the chase I have been had by James Reed pickups, the issue is not that I want to seek vengeance on a deal gone wrong but for my experience to serve as a cautionary tale for those that may choose to do business with James Reed Pickups in the future.

Now the reason I ordered from him in the first place was because I first read over the many threads posted here on TB about James Reed Pickups - and whilst all of them stated at least one gripe about the transaction they all seemed pleased with the final product. Most were about the inexplicable actions of James Reed himself and the shortcomings of his ability to deliver on his orders - the most profound of which stated something along the lines of 'he's never made anyone wait over a year for delivery'. I am glad to announce a new record has been established as I have been waiting for a year and seven months for my order!

Below you can find the full transcript of our back and forth over the course of this exchange - you will witness me going through a full range of human emotion - hopefulness, anxiety, denial, anger, reasoning, and acceptance (well not fully maybe).

Finally, if anybody would like to help me out I'd be willing to spring for shipping if someone could get the pickups in hand for me. I'd still like to know how they sound.

This is what I ordered (a photoshop mockup by yours truly)
UA-Pickups1.jpg


This is the full transcript: From Email to Facebook Chat

Lakland Pickups


41 messages

Ugur Akin Tue, Oct 1, 2013 at 6:34 PM


To: [email protected], [email protected]


Hi, I had contacted you earlier about getting a pair of pickups for my Lakland 5502 like the ones in the Zarey

Rodriguez youtube video. I really liked the tone as I have always found the fundamental of the Lakland dark even after having Lakland make me a set of passive Hanson pickups. So if could you quote me a set without the wooden covers - I would prefer them to be plastic I'd really appreciate it. Thanks again.


Jim <[email protected]> Tue, Oct 1, 2013 at 10:20 PM


Hi for the A5 set like on solos bass with out exposed poles black plastic

$250 with exposed poles $275 it wlil take 15 to 30 days to complete them.

send me back the ok and ill send you a paypal invoice to get started

Thanks

Jim Reed

Reed James Engineering


Ugur Akin Wed, Oct 2, 2013 at 9:41 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


Gmail - Lakland Pickups Gmail

1 of 8 2/17/2014 10:10 AM

Thanks for the quick turnaround,

I do have a few questions however; firstly, do you ship outside the US? I would need these shipped to Turkey. What tonal differences have you experienced between the exposed pole pieces and the closed covers? Also would the exposed set be staggered according to radius or flat as Fender have been making them lately? Are these neodymium magnets? What payment options are available outside of Paypal. So if it would be at all possible could I trouble you for an estimation on shipping.

Thanks Again,

ua


Jim <[email protected]> Wed, Oct 2, 2013 at 11:10 AM


Hi

The pickups in Rodriguez you tube are ALNICO and with the lakeland bass

its bust to have flat pole's No need for stagger poles on modern Basses,

there is no tonal difference from exposed are hidden, I do make a RJ NEO

set for the same $275 that are neodymium they have a clear modern tone

very articulate and harmonically dynamic. the shipping is $35 for USPS and

$ 50 for express .Pay pal is the best method of payment although i do take

credit card through Pay pal that works well. also you can wire money

through money gram are western union Thanks

Jim Reed

Reed James engineering



Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 9:30 AM

To: Ugur Akin


I have a set of RJ NEO's for that bass in stock


Ugur Akin Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:01 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


I think I'll go with the pickups that Rodriguez had - I found those pickups had more growl and clarity in the videos - Ijust can't be sure about the neos. These are noiseless right? That's how I remember them but I'd like to be sure. Also, they sound like the output is quite high - this is a good thing - as I use the bass in passive mode. I would like the passive output to be as high as possible - the bartolinis currently use the maximum setting of the internal preamp

control. Again to be sure these won't require any routing or anything will they as I have found that the lakland single + musicman pickups are rather shallow in comparison to lets say a set of stock fender pickups. Finally, my bass is a 5 string as in the video I hope you quoted me for the 5 sting version. thanks again.


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:08 AM

To: Ugur Akin


I did indeed quote you for a five sting ALNICO 5 set and they will have

all the power you need passive, also they will be a direct replacement no

routing I can invoice you through paypal and get your order started


Ugur Akin Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:09 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


Ok lets pull the trigger on this!


Ugur Akin Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:10 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


These are black plastic with exposed pole pieces - so we are agreed


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:14 AM

To: Ugur Akin


yes that's perfect to help with the shipping ill do the same price as the

$250 + $35 for international USPS


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:17 AM

To: Ugur Akin


invoice sent thank you very much ill have your pickups out 10-15 day's


Ugur Akin Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:37 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


Jim,

I've just made the payment - but I was wondering if you could label the transaction as "replacement" or something along those lines in order to by pass any customs issues.


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:49 AM

To: Ugur Akin


parts and repair $35


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:53 AM

To: Ugur Akin


If you have face book please join me

James Patrick Reed | Facebook


Ugur Akin Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:56 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


Thanks Jim you did me a solid on this.


Ugur Akin Sat, Oct 5, 2013 at 3:04 PM

To: Jim <[email protected]>

Final question/ reassurance email; I was pretty sure that Rodriguez mentioned that all of the pickups under the hood were jazz style so I am envisioning my set like in the attached photoshop I slapped together - cause if the bridge is in musicman large pole setup I would prefer closed covers. Thanks again and sorry for any inconvenience.


UA-Pickups.jpg


Ugur Akin Tue, Oct 8, 2013 at 4:14 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Hi Jim,

Did my email get through could you let me know if my expectation and reality match?


Jim <[email protected]> Tue, Oct 8, 2013 at 7:47 PM

To: Ugur Akin


the pickup in the bass solo was playing had .375 magnets in the MM pickup


Ugur Akin Tue, Oct 8, 2013 at 11:35 PM

To: Jim <[email protected]>

Thanks,

Do you think the version I was thinking of, which the actual configuration of the original pickups from Bartolini and Hanson rather than a true MM pup, is possible for you to do? If not then I guess then we ought to go with the closed covers, but my heart was kind of set on the double jazz style MM humbucker. I was thinking they should sound similar regardless but the split front and bridge(back pickup on the MM) configuration via the on board switch on the 5502 would really nail that Jazz bass vibe. What do you think; how do you think it would sound - doable or no?

Again thank you for your time,

ua


Jim <[email protected]> Wed, Oct 9, 2013 at 2:34 AM

To: Ugur Akin


Ok ill make the duble jazz but it will not sound like the pickup in solos bass


Ugur Akin Wed, Oct 9, 2013 at 9:46 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


Ok thanks alot - I'm feeling adventurous and if it doesn't work out I'll place an order for the .357 version.


Ugur Akin Tue, Oct 22, 2013 at 3:20 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Hi James,

Can I trouble you for a heads up on how the process is going? I'm really excited to see how they turned out!


Ugur Akin Sat, Oct 26, 2013 at 11:28 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Hey just realized that your name is Jim, I was so sure it was james sorry about that. Anyway just checking in to find out when I can expect the pickups and if you can forward me the tracking info when they are sent. Thanks.


Jim <[email protected]> Sat, Oct 26, 2013 at 11:52 PM

To: Ugur Akin


hi yes there going good i had some difficulty with the bridge pickup but they came out perfect will be shipping middle of this next week


Ugur Akin Sat, Oct 26, 2013 at 11:55 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Thanks man sorry for the bridge pup being a hassle for you I'm sure they'll shine.


Jim <[email protected]> Sun, Oct 27, 2013 at 12:42 AM

To: Ugur Akin


OH YEA


Ugur Akin Wed, Oct 30, 2013 at 3:52 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Jim could you snap a picture of the set before you send them out so that I can prove that they were not damaged before they were sent. I learned this lesson the hard way. Thanks!


Ugur Akin Fri, Nov 1, 2013 at 3:35 PM

To: Jim <[email protected]>


Is everything alright?

Please let me know when you will be shipping my pickups - also please remember to send me a picture of the pickups as I mentioned in my previous email. I'm holding up a recording session for them so the quicker the better on my end.


Thanks,

ua


Ugur Akin Tue, Nov 5, 2013 at 2:43 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Hi,

I just reviewed our email chain and have realized that we are a little behind schedule in terms of shipping - as I assume you were going to ship the pickups on the 30th of last month as you had mentioned on the 26th. I hope you are OK and can give me a heads up as soon as possible.


Jim <[email protected]> Tue, Nov 5, 2013 at 7:52 PM

To: Ugur Akin


Yes there was a delay but there going out this week I need to take photos

and final QC


Ugur Akin Tue, Nov 5, 2013 at 7:56 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Thanks again sorry for the jitters


Ugur Akin Wed, Nov 27, 2013 at 3:41 PM

To: Jim <[email protected]>


Jim,

In four days we will be hitting the 2 month mark from the day of payment - you had promised me a 15~30 day

production time. I would have assumed I would wait another week or two for the pickups to arrive. However, it seems something is amiss. As you can understand I am quite worried about my investment - this is a two fold issue; firstly, it is an issue of trust, secondly, it is an issue of inconvenience as I have been delaying a recording session explicitly so that I can use these new pickups during the session.

I would like you to put my mind at ease as soon as possible and urgently send me my pickups. Also, if there is a manufacturing bottle neck that is holding you up be it technical or logistic I would like to be in the know. I still see this transaction as a builder - musician collaboration and not an impersonal run of the mill business exchange. Please keep in mind that 2 months is a very late delivery regardless of context and that I would like to see my pickups in hand in a couple of weeks.

Take care,

ua


Ugur Akin Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 11:49 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


Hi,

Here we are a month and a half from the last time we talked on the phone. You had assured me that my pickups would be shipping out that week. Since I have not received a tracking number nor photographic proof that my pickups actually exist I am assuming that they have not been shipped. 4 months is a really long time to wait for an order. You gotta give me a heads up and a reasonable explanation as to why I don't have my pickups. You could have sent me out an email since your mail issues have been revolved. It really isn't too much to ask is it? I think we have breached the barrier of reasonable customer service and are sailing strong into restitution territory - in this case I'll settle for express shipment of goods; this will guarantee that I get my pickups in and around 3 business days. I'll bet you would expect the same. What do you have for me? Let me know as soon as possible. On a lighter note you can tell if the technical task was too hard to overcome, I would be willing to settle for a redesign. Maybe the alnico setup we had made balancing the rear and front pickups difficult; maybe they actually needed to be neodymium magnets for the project to work. Something, anything, rather than months of me waiting patiently.


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Jan 23, 2014 at 11:09 PM

To: Ugur Akin


Ok ill get on it find out what happened


Ugur Akin Thu, Jan 23, 2014 at 11:10 PM

To: Jim <[email protected]>


Hi,

Was just writing this:

We just spoke on the phone and you assured me that my pickups had probably got lost in the mail. Whatever the case I just want to get those pups mounted. So any information regarding the whereabouts of the pickups is greatly appreciated.


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Jan 23, 2014 at 11:14 PM

To: Ugur Akin


got it if i have to ill work this weekend to ship you a new set on Monday


Ugur Akin Thu, Jan 30, 2014 at 3:25 PM

To: Jim <[email protected]>


Jim,

Any updates on the situation? Any pictures on hand as I requested earlier? Also, I hope we're squared away on the express shipment option.


Jim <[email protected]> Fri, Jan 31, 2014 at 12:52 AM

To: Ugur Akin


still working on the replacement set should have them out in the next day

are so ill take photos before they go out yes ill send them priority

express


Ugur Akin Fri, Jan 31, 2014 at 1:04 AM

To: Jim <[email protected]>


No pressure man. Do your QA, get them tested so they meet your specs and are pleasing to your ears. I've waited this long no need to rush anything at this point. Thanks for the express treatment it goes a long way.


Ugur Akin Thu, Feb 13, 2014 at 10:38 AM

To: Jim <[email protected]>

An update if you will Jim. How are things am I getting my pickups this week?


  • Conversation started 8 April 2014
08/04/2014 21:43

Ugur Akın

Hi again I was wonder if you got around to speaking to the post office about my shipment yesterday?

/wondering


08/04/2014 22:29

James Patrick Reed

i got a call in today but i going to get a new set out if i do not hear from them


  • 9 April 2014
09/04/2014 14:20

Ugur Akın

Ok great I'm waiting on a heads up then


  • 11 April 2014
11/04/2014 19:01

James Patrick Reed

no word i am working on a new set ill have to sumit a clame at the post office in the morning


  • 17 April 2014
17/04/2014 16:10

Ugur Akın

Ok great, do we have a shipping date guesstimate?


  • 24 April 2014
24/04/2014 10:38

Ugur Akın

Any news as of yet in terms of production and shipping?


  • 29 April 2014
29/04/2014 00:34

James Patrick Reed

wraping them up befor the end of the week will post photos on facebook


  • 29 April 2014
29/04/2014 10:47

Ugur Akın

Thanks, I just got a new gig and have been touting my new pickups so It'd be great if I they arrived before the recording date.


  • 4 May 2014
04/05/2014 15:21

Ugur Akın

Ok so I see that you have completed the Bridge pickup - I guess you will be pairing that up with a neck single from your current stock. Also, just as a reminder the leads that go to the preamp are in lakland configuration as you have made in the past I am sure - but its been a while and I just wanted to remind you the Lakland MM is splittable. Thanks again


  • 4 May 2014
04/05/2014 19:22

James Patrick Reed

yes it has 4 lead conductor


  • 8 May 2014
08/05/2014 00:03

Ugur Akın

Hi - How is the shipping going now that the build is complete? I hope we can swing the express shipping soon so that I can use your pickups on the recording date next week. Thanks again...


  • 12 May 2014
12/05/2014 15:56

Ugur Akın

Hi, do you have shipping number for me this week?


  • 20 May 2014
20/05/2014 15:48

Ugur Akın

James this this the 20th you haven't gotten back to me - you posted the pictures but no shipping number or information. What's the hold up? You had promised to get them out 2~3 weeks ago. Come on I'm counting on you.


  • 20 May 2014
20/05/2014 18:56

James Patrick Reed

there going out his week ill post a traking number


  • 21 May 2014
21/05/2014 01:08

Ugur Akın

Great! Thanks.


  • 28 May 2014
28/05/2014 23:27

Ugur Akın

A quick update check just in case you got side tracked. How are things going?


  • 2 June 2014
02/06/2014 11:19

Ugur Akın

Hello! It been another 10 days or so since you said they'd be going out; do we have a tracking number yet?


  • 10 June 2014
10/06/2014 10:39

Ugur Akın

James anymore of the silent treatment and I'm going to start questioning your integrity - you didn't come off like that on the phone - just send the pickups out already! How much longer are you going to string me along; would you like to be treated like this? You mention a 4~8 week turn over time, hell I have been waiting patiently for 8 months! 8 MONTHS! Let that sink in - I wouldn't put my worst enemy through this I wouldn't pussy foot around and drag out the suffering - man up and get this done; come on!


10/06/2014 11:09

James Patrick Reed

sorry it must be due to my childish behavior shoot me your address here and ill make sure they go out next pickup you will have tracking asap


  • 11 June 2014
11/06/2014 01:12

Ugur Akın

Thanks I truly appreciate the honesty - this is my work address:Triodor Türkiye Araştırma ve Geliştirme Ltd. Girne Mahallesi, Elif Sokak, Bay Plaza 27 34852 Maltepe/Istanbul

It should be addressed to UGUR AKIN - and as we had spoken about earlier, as a favor you could label it as refurbishment so that I don't have to deal with customs. Thanks again all the best.


11/06/2014 03:14

James Patrick Reed

you asking me to brake the law and falsify legal government documentation


  • 12 June 2014
12/06/2014 00:06

Ugur Akın

no you said you would do it for me - here is the exact quote: Jim <[email protected]> 10/3/13 to me yes that's perfect to help with the shipping ill do the same price as the $250 + $35 for international USPS Jim <[email protected]> 10/3/13 to me invoice sent thank you very much ill have your pickups out 10-15 day's Ugur Akin 10/3/13 to Jim Jim,

I've just made the payment - but I was wondering if you could label the transaction as "replacement" or something along those lines in order to by pass any customs issues. Jim <[email protected]> 10/3/13 to me parts and repair $35 Jim <[email protected]> 10/3/13 to me If you have face book please join me https://www.facebook.com/james.p.reed Ugur Akin 10/3/13 to Jim

Thanks Jim you did me a solid on this.


12/06/2014 00:09

Ugur Akın

So nothing you have already agreed to - of course 8 months is a long time I guess but then again the exact email transaction is all I have to help you jog your memory. Do it or not I am sadly not inclined to take you for a man of your word at the moment.


12/06/2014 00:39

James Patrick Reed

your pickups are packed and will be going out next pickup you trashed me on talk bass and expect me to brake the law for you I must insure the package for the value of the merchandise, if not if something happens no way to get compensated, if i insure for the value of the package and clam customs at a lower value i am braking federal laws and can be penalized are the package can be seized , all i can do is claim the value of the cost to remake the product and not include my labor , need to make sure there is no problems getting the package over there this time ,


12/06/2014 00:44

James Patrick Reed

lets make sure you get them this time i am shipping a higher class shipping method this time aswell


12/06/2014 00:52

James Patrick Reed

also at that time i did not know it was a unlawful act to state a lower value on international custom forms but it was brought to my attention that it .was


  • 12 June 2014
12/06/2014 11:00

Ugur Akın

Ok cool no problem - I was just asking as sometimes builders do the favor - its OK though no problem I'll deal with it if you are not comfortable. About trash talking you on talk bass - I have two posts - I haven't said anything there that wasn't true or that I had not said to you over the phone - also I express that I am hopeful that you will send my pickups as your quality is inherent in other peoples reviews. Finally, I say trash talking occurs when someone gets their due and are not happy with it - I had been waiting for 5 months, endless emails and several telephone conversations that all pointed to you deceiving me. It was a concerned rant from a customer - there are others like me; I am not the only case. Some introspection is required here. I'm looking forward to closing our business interaction - don't be sore over your short comings we can still end this amicably and with a positive out look. Thanks again.


  • 20 June 2014
20/06/2014 18:16

Ugur Akın

So now I'm supposed to be placated because we chatted over facebook? No! Where is my tracking number? Am I going to wait another month? Have you even finished the set? I mean you built the Bridge Pickup why not pair it and send it out: unless you just sold that one to someone else because it was convenient. Work with me here no one should cause this much aggravation to another human being - what do you tell yourself at night?


  • 24 June 2014
24/06/2014 04:37

James Patrick Reed

no way i would sell your custom pickups there was some shipping delays last week not just you holistically. there picking up the packages on Wednesday yours is going out with them


  • 24 June 2014
24/06/2014 14:00

Ugur Akın

Thank god! I'll believe it when I see it.


  • 8 July 2014
08/07/2014 11:22

Ugur Akın

Where are my pickups? - Day 278 - 9 months, 5 days


  • 10 July 2014
10/07/2014 13:05

Ugur Akın

Where are my pickups? - Day 278 - 9 months, 5 days +2


  • 21 July 2014
21/07/2014 17:38

Ugur Akın

Did they go out on Wednesday? Wednesday almost a month ago? I still don't have a tracking number btw.


  • 7 August 2014
07/08/2014 09:59

Ugur Akın

Hey? Anything - you have stop responding to me have you noticed that? I could have had a child by this this time you realize.


  • 13 August 2014
13/08/2014 23:20

James Patrick Reed

not again they went out a few months ago for the second time ill dig up the label number .and get back with you ASAP


  • 14 August 2014
14/08/2014 19:01

Ugur Akın

Great I was waiting on a tracking number so that I could do my part to make sure the pups got to me, I'd like to go ahead and try to find my parcel on this end if you can get me the tracking no.


  • 18 August 2014
18/08/2014 16:16

Ugur Akın

Well? Have you gotten around to calling the post office?


  • 18 August 2014
18/08/2014 21:54

James Patrick Reed

I am going there today they got this whack job new Muslim manager now that dose not know his ass from a hole in the ground


  • 19 August 2014
19/08/2014 13:42

Ugur Akın

Yeah, great just try to get my tracking number - if you don't have the time I'll call them if I have to.


  • 22 August 2014
22/08/2014 12:00

Ugur Akın

Hey! Come on you must have gone out to the post office by now!


  • 28 August 2014
28/08/2014 11:53

Ugur Akın

[email protected] REED JAMES ENG. [email protected] Invoice number 0818 Date payment is due Oct 3, 2013 Amount $285.00 USD

Here is my polite invoice number reminder once again - we have a month to go before we reach a full year you have been in possession of 285 dollars that have not made it my way via the delivery of my pickups

Am I ever going to get these? Is a tracking number this hard to come by?


  • 4 September 2014
04/09/2014 22:45

Ugur Akın

I left you a voice message - I need those pickups it not right that I haven't gotten them in a whole year from when I ordered them: Amazon sent me a pair of shoes in 3 days I’m sure you can swing that also.


  • 8 September 2014
08/09/2014 10:02

James Patrick Reed

I got you pickups here i need a good address to ship them too please they will go back out ASAP


08/09/2014 11:50

Ugur Akın

ok here it is:

Your order will be sent to: Ugur Akin Triodor Ar-Ge Yazilim ve Bilisim Girne Mahallesi Elif Sokak No:27 Bay Plaza, Maltepe Istanbul Istanbul, Istanbul 34852 Turkey


08/09/2014 11:52

Ugur Akın

This is the exact listing given to Amazon.com - this order got here with no problems - I just would also like a tracking number so that I can follow up here. thanks. O btw they were sent AmazonGlobal Priority Shipping so anything in the same ballpark will get them here in a timely manner.


08/09/2014 12:00

James Patrick Reed

i do not have any affiliation with Amazon USPS is the only option i have


08/09/2014 12:16

James Patrick Reed

I will never take an order from turkey again its a problem country


08/09/2014 14:09

Ugur Akın

No there are no problems - you have failed time and again to send me a tracking number the simplest common denominator in an postal transaction - if you had then I would have been able to corroborate your claim that Turkey is a problem destination however, having failed to do so you are in no position to claim anything in terms of the issues that pertain to a destination. A destination that I might add has completed hundreds of by mail interactions with - Bestbassgear.com, Amazon.com, Music123.com, Basscenteral, and Rudy's Music in NYC. So before we make any claims either way lets try again but do it right this time - btw: obviously you are not affiliated with amazon that was an example - try this [Invalid or Expired Link Removed] - it will get here and if as you claim there is a problem with the destination then with the tracking number you will have provided I will be able to track my package and be informed in real time of any issues that have cropped up upon your shipment date. Lets give it a shot shall we. Oh and please do not raise any issues on relative price as the interest on 280+ dollars over a years time together with the buyers aggravation I have personally suffered more than covers any price they are asking for shipping the parcel express. Thanks


08/09/2014 14:16

James Patrick Reed

turkey is on my poopie list

i ship USPS are fist class not globe express


  • 8 September 2014
08/09/2014 17:41

Ugur Akın

Great since you have no explanation for sitting on my pickups for over a year and have no intention of making amends by at least by paying for my choice of international shipping I urge you to get me a tracking number so that we can be done with each other and go our merry ways. Just to give something to mull over does it not occur to you to at least tell me why the Postal Service sent back the package I guess its the same reason you shipped the pickups twice without a tracking number, like that's possible, right?


  • 9 September 2014
09/09/2014 15:06

Ugur Akın

So another day has passes us by on our record breaking business transaction - we are 23 days away from 1 year! Anything?


  • 10 September 2014
10/09/2014 19:34

Ugur Akın

A tracking number? Do you have one? It should be on the slip you got from the post office.


  • 11 September 2014
11/09/2014 12:57

James Patrick Reed

LJ158047636US

all i ask for was a correct address not your pussy ass bitching ,you got horrible service because you are rude


  • 11 September 2014
11/09/2014 18:14

Ugur Akın

You as a human being can you not understand that a person can become exasperated by someone who has waited close to a year for a set of pickups someone was glad to take the money for but failed ship. I sent you the correct address twice check your records. I strongly recommend you watch your tone as name calling is the pinnacle of rudeness. See "pussy ass bitching"; if asking for my due from a man who by incompetence or malice had failed time and again to deliver on his word is bitching then so be it but I would take this opportunity to look at yourself and what you've become as a person. Also, just look through our communiques over this past year I have been nothing but courteous until you stopped responding and started blowing me off - I was in my right to let you know how I felt without resorting to petty name calling as you have deconstructed yourself to here today. I feel sorry for you - over step your bounds again and our total conversation history will get published I guarantee it. Nonetheless I will be fair in judgement of your work and let as many channels as I know what I think - an apology for your crass behavior will warrant an omission of your choice words on this post. I am not in the business of fostering ill feelings as I understand your plight; let's do the right thing here.


  • 30 October 2014
30/10/2014 14:26

Ugur Akın

You supposedly shipped it out on Sept 11 2014 it is now October 30th - the site says: The U.S. Postal Service was electronically notified on September 11, 2014 to expect this package for mailing. So I'm beginning to doubt you actually sent this thing out at all as no one can verify that it was shipped - are you planning on stealing from me? If not you can reimburse me if that suits you better than delivering on my purchase or you could do the right thing and find a way to ship me my pickups - as it stands I have been without 285 dollars for over a year that's dishonest money you've got on your conscience anyway you rationalize it. Anyway I could give you an address in the US to ship the damn things but that's an inconvenience to me but what the hell anything to end this business transaction from hell at this point.


  • 30 October 2014
30/10/2014 22:20

James Patrick Reed

ill see whats going on there where shipped


  • 1 November 2014
01/11/2014 08:27

James Patrick Reed

I am talking with a friend of mine in BULGARIA and discussing the problem. i going to post office Monday to locate the package looks like it has not moved, ill get this resolved ASAP ,working on setting up an distribution for Turkiye, Greece, Bulgaria.


  • 3 November 2014
03/11/2014 19:03

Ugur Akın

Thanks looking forward to an update


  • 25 November 2014
25/11/2014 18:26

Ugur Akın

Can you please ship the pickups to (alternative address I edited out) - I'll handle the international shipping from there thanks.


  • 3 December 2014
03/12/2014 17:51

Ugur Akın

Have you gotten around to shipping the pickups yet?


  • 12 December 2014
12/12/2014 16:35

Ugur Akın

Another month goes by - I even made it simple for you just ship it to an address in the good old US of A. This can't be that hard unless you don't have pickups to ship - what is going on its been over a year.


  • 12 May
12/05/2015 14:53

Ugur Akın

James I'd like to be reimbursed as you have failed to ship me my pickups it has been 1 year and 7 months since I placed my order on Oct 3, 2013. You have the paypal receipt - please do so in a timely manner.
 
Last edited:
Update! So that everything is handled with full disclosure I sent James Reed the link to this post. Eloquent as he is my message was immediately followed up with these choice remarks:

James Patrick Reed
22 May 17:21
your pickups where sent out you are talk bass cock sucker i sent you two sets as a mater of fact

James Patrick Reed
22 May 17:35
going to go on your little post the tracking number

Well James it would behoove you to share the tracking numbers for both of these shipments. You will notice that the second time you happened to send out the pickups and did actually present a tracking number after much cancerous dialogue back and forth (see above text) it turned out there was no shipment as US post could not validate if the package was delivered for shipment. Now as you know I presented you with another address in the US so that it would be easier for you to ship the pickups but you failed to do that also. Finally, what are the odds that a postal system would lose two separate packages sent on different dates; makes you wonder how anything is shipped at all in this country doesn't it? If you had just sent them out express as you promised you would to make good on your previous shortcomings we wouldn't be here today. Also about your filthy mouth - stop, it does not reflect well on you.
 
Update! So that everything is handled with full disclosure I sent James Reed the link to this post. Eloquent as he is my message was immediately followed up with these choice remarks:

James Patrick Reed
22 May 17:21
your pickups where sent out you are talk bass cock sucker i sent you two sets as a mater of fact

James Patrick Reed
22 May 17:35
going to go on your little post the tracking number

Well James it would behoove you to share the tracking numbers for both of these shipments. You will notice that the second time you happened to send out the pickups and did actually present a tracking number after much cancerous dialogue back and forth (see above text) it turned out there was no shipment as US post could not validate if the package was delivered for shipment. Now as you know I presented you with another address in the US so that it would be easier for you to ship the pickups but you failed to do that also. Finally, what are the odds that a postal system would lose two separate packages sent on different dates; makes you wonder how anything is shipped at all in this country doesn't it? If you had just sent them out express as you promised you would to make good on your previous shortcomings we wouldn't be here today. Also about your filthy mouth - stop, it does not reflect well on you.
 
I don't mind the non-interest I just wanted this out there because I worked hard for the money I spent on the pickups - I can't express the frustration I went through during this time: so as long as this serves as a waring to all other would be buyers I'm placated. Furthermore, if James Reed decides to make amends by realizing that he has spent money that isn't his by failing to make good on a run of the mill business transaction and get me my pickups I will post the results here and offer an honest review on the quality of the goods delivered.
 
Is it only me, or this sentence sounds a little prejudged and r...?
"I am going there today they got this whack job new Muslim manager now that dose not know his ass from a hole in the ground"
What's to do with the religion of the new manager? What if he was worshiping toast machine? Have you ever heard something like:
"I am going there today they got this whack job new Presbyterian manager now that dose not know his ass from a hole in the ground"?
 
Hi all,

I have always found something to help me out whilst lurking the endless posts here on TB so I would like to use the open forum aspect of Talk Bass that has helped me through my career as a bass player for over 10 years as a last resort for adjudication and to serve as a warning for other potential customers.

To cut to the chase I have been had by James Reed pickups, the issue is not that I want to seek vengeance on a deal gone wrong but for my experience to serve as a cautionary tale for those that may choose to do business with James Reed Pickups in the future.

Now the reason I ordered from him in the first place was because I first read over the many threads posted here on TB about James Reed Pickups - and whilst all of them stated at least one gripe about the transaction they all seemed pleased with the final product. Most were about the inexplicable actions of James Reed himself and the shortcomings of his ability to deliver on his orders - the most profound of which stated something along the lines of 'he's never made anyone wait over a year for delivery'. I am glad to announce a new record has been established as I have been waiting for a year and seven months for my order!

Below you can find the full transcript of our back and forth over the course of this exchange - you will witness me going through a full range of human emotion - hopefulness, anxiety, denial, anger, reasoning, and acceptance (well not fully maybe).

Finally, if anybody would like to help me out I'd be willing to spring for shipping if someone could get the pickups in hand for me. I'd still like to know how they sound.

This is what I ordered (a photoshop mockup by yours truly)
UA-Pickups1.jpg


This is the full transcript: From Email to Facebook Chat

Lakland Pickups


41 messages

Ugur Akin Tue, Oct 1, 2013 at 6:34 PM


To: [email protected], [email protected]


Hi, I had contacted you earlier about getting a pair of pickups for my Lakland 5502 like the ones in the Zarey

Rodriguez youtube video. I really liked the tone as I have always found the fundamental of the Lakland dark even after having Lakland make me a set of passive Hanson pickups. So if could you quote me a set without the wooden covers - I would prefer them to be plastic I'd really appreciate it. Thanks again.


Jim <[email protected]> Tue, Oct 1, 2013 at 10:20 PM


Hi for the A5 set like on solos bass with out exposed poles black plastic

$250 with exposed poles $275 it wlil take 15 to 30 days to complete them.

send me back the ok and ill send you a paypal invoice to get started

Thanks

Jim Reed

Reed James Engineering


Ugur Akin Wed, Oct 2, 2013 at 9:41 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


Gmail - Lakland Pickups Gmail

1 of 8 2/17/2014 10:10 AM

Thanks for the quick turnaround,

I do have a few questions however; firstly, do you ship outside the US? I would need these shipped to Turkey. What tonal differences have you experienced between the exposed pole pieces and the closed covers? Also would the exposed set be staggered according to radius or flat as Fender have been making them lately? Are these neodymium magnets? What payment options are available outside of Paypal. So if it would be at all possible could I trouble you for an estimation on shipping.

Thanks Again,

ua


Jim <[email protected]> Wed, Oct 2, 2013 at 11:10 AM


Hi

The pickups in Rodriguez you tube are ALNICO and with the lakeland bass

its bust to have flat pole's No need for stagger poles on modern Basses,

there is no tonal difference from exposed are hidden, I do make a RJ NEO

set for the same $275 that are neodymium they have a clear modern tone

very articulate and harmonically dynamic. the shipping is $35 for USPS and

$ 50 for express .Pay pal is the best method of payment although i do take

credit card through Pay pal that works well. also you can wire money

through money gram are western union Thanks

Jim Reed

Reed James engineering



Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 9:30 AM

To: Ugur Akin


I have a set of RJ NEO's for that bass in stock


Ugur Akin Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:01 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


I think I'll go with the pickups that Rodriguez had - I found those pickups had more growl and clarity in the videos - Ijust can't be sure about the neos. These are noiseless right? That's how I remember them but I'd like to be sure. Also, they sound like the output is quite high - this is a good thing - as I use the bass in passive mode. I would like the passive output to be as high as possible - the bartolinis currently use the maximum setting of the internal preamp

control. Again to be sure these won't require any routing or anything will they as I have found that the lakland single + musicman pickups are rather shallow in comparison to lets say a set of stock fender pickups. Finally, my bass is a 5 string as in the video I hope you quoted me for the 5 sting version. thanks again.


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:08 AM

To: Ugur Akin


I did indeed quote you for a five sting ALNICO 5 set and they will have

all the power you need passive, also they will be a direct replacement no

routing I can invoice you through paypal and get your order started


Ugur Akin Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:09 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


Ok lets pull the trigger on this!


Ugur Akin Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:10 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


These are black plastic with exposed pole pieces - so we are agreed


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:14 AM

To: Ugur Akin


yes that's perfect to help with the shipping ill do the same price as the

$250 + $35 for international USPS


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:17 AM

To: Ugur Akin


invoice sent thank you very much ill have your pickups out 10-15 day's


Ugur Akin Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:37 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


Jim,

I've just made the payment - but I was wondering if you could label the transaction as "replacement" or something along those lines in order to by pass any customs issues.


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:49 AM

To: Ugur Akin


parts and repair $35


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:53 AM

To: Ugur Akin


If you have face book please join me

James Patrick Reed | Facebook


Ugur Akin Thu, Oct 3, 2013 at 11:56 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


Thanks Jim you did me a solid on this.


Ugur Akin Sat, Oct 5, 2013 at 3:04 PM

To: Jim <[email protected]>

Final question/ reassurance email; I was pretty sure that Rodriguez mentioned that all of the pickups under the hood were jazz style so I am envisioning my set like in the attached photoshop I slapped together - cause if the bridge is in musicman large pole setup I would prefer closed covers. Thanks again and sorry for any inconvenience.


UA-Pickups.jpg


Ugur Akin Tue, Oct 8, 2013 at 4:14 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Hi Jim,

Did my email get through could you let me know if my expectation and reality match?


Jim <[email protected]> Tue, Oct 8, 2013 at 7:47 PM

To: Ugur Akin


the pickup in the bass solo was playing had .375 magnets in the MM pickup


Ugur Akin Tue, Oct 8, 2013 at 11:35 PM

To: Jim <[email protected]>

Thanks,

Do you think the version I was thinking of, which the actual configuration of the original pickups from Bartolini and Hanson rather than a true MM pup, is possible for you to do? If not then I guess then we ought to go with the closed covers, but my heart was kind of set on the double jazz style MM humbucker. I was thinking they should sound similar regardless but the split front and bridge(back pickup on the MM) configuration via the on board switch on the 5502 would really nail that Jazz bass vibe. What do you think; how do you think it would sound - doable or no?

Again thank you for your time,

ua


Jim <[email protected]> Wed, Oct 9, 2013 at 2:34 AM

To: Ugur Akin


Ok ill make the duble jazz but it will not sound like the pickup in solos bass


Ugur Akin Wed, Oct 9, 2013 at 9:46 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


Ok thanks alot - I'm feeling adventurous and if it doesn't work out I'll place an order for the .357 version.


Ugur Akin Tue, Oct 22, 2013 at 3:20 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Hi James,

Can I trouble you for a heads up on how the process is going? I'm really excited to see how they turned out!


Ugur Akin Sat, Oct 26, 2013 at 11:28 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Hey just realized that your name is Jim, I was so sure it was james sorry about that. Anyway just checking in to find out when I can expect the pickups and if you can forward me the tracking info when they are sent. Thanks.


Jim <[email protected]> Sat, Oct 26, 2013 at 11:52 PM

To: Ugur Akin


hi yes there going good i had some difficulty with the bridge pickup but they came out perfect will be shipping middle of this next week


Ugur Akin Sat, Oct 26, 2013 at 11:55 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Thanks man sorry for the bridge pup being a hassle for you I'm sure they'll shine.


Jim <[email protected]> Sun, Oct 27, 2013 at 12:42 AM

To: Ugur Akin


OH YEA


Ugur Akin Wed, Oct 30, 2013 at 3:52 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Jim could you snap a picture of the set before you send them out so that I can prove that they were not damaged before they were sent. I learned this lesson the hard way. Thanks!


Ugur Akin Fri, Nov 1, 2013 at 3:35 PM

To: Jim <[email protected]>


Is everything alright?

Please let me know when you will be shipping my pickups - also please remember to send me a picture of the pickups as I mentioned in my previous email. I'm holding up a recording session for them so the quicker the better on my end.


Thanks,

ua


Ugur Akin Tue, Nov 5, 2013 at 2:43 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Hi,

I just reviewed our email chain and have realized that we are a little behind schedule in terms of shipping - as I assume you were going to ship the pickups on the 30th of last month as you had mentioned on the 26th. I hope you are OK and can give me a heads up as soon as possible.


Jim <[email protected]> Tue, Nov 5, 2013 at 7:52 PM

To: Ugur Akin


Yes there was a delay but there going out this week I need to take photos

and final QC


Ugur Akin Tue, Nov 5, 2013 at 7:56 PM

To: Jim [email protected]


Thanks again sorry for the jitters


Ugur Akin Wed, Nov 27, 2013 at 3:41 PM

To: Jim <[email protected]>


Jim,

In four days we will be hitting the 2 month mark from the day of payment - you had promised me a 15~30 day

production time. I would have assumed I would wait another week or two for the pickups to arrive. However, it seems something is amiss. As you can understand I am quite worried about my investment - this is a two fold issue; firstly, it is an issue of trust, secondly, it is an issue of inconvenience as I have been delaying a recording session explicitly so that I can use these new pickups during the session.

I would like you to put my mind at ease as soon as possible and urgently send me my pickups. Also, if there is a manufacturing bottle neck that is holding you up be it technical or logistic I would like to be in the know. I still see this transaction as a builder - musician collaboration and not an impersonal run of the mill business exchange. Please keep in mind that 2 months is a very late delivery regardless of context and that I would like to see my pickups in hand in a couple of weeks.

Take care,

ua


Ugur Akin Tue, Jan 21, 2014 at 11:49 AM

To: Jim [email protected]


Hi,

Here we are a month and a half from the last time we talked on the phone. You had assured me that my pickups would be shipping out that week. Since I have not received a tracking number nor photographic proof that my pickups actually exist I am assuming that they have not been shipped. 4 months is a really long time to wait for an order. You gotta give me a heads up and a reasonable explanation as to why I don't have my pickups. You could have sent me out an email since your mail issues have been revolved. It really isn't too much to ask is it? I think we have breached the barrier of reasonable customer service and are sailing strong into restitution territory - in this case I'll settle for express shipment of goods; this will guarantee that I get my pickups in and around 3 business days. I'll bet you would expect the same. What do you have for me? Let me know as soon as possible. On a lighter note you can tell if the technical task was too hard to overcome, I would be willing to settle for a redesign. Maybe the alnico setup we had made balancing the rear and front pickups difficult; maybe they actually needed to be neodymium magnets for the project to work. Something, anything, rather than months of me waiting patiently.


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Jan 23, 2014 at 11:09 PM

To: Ugur Akin


Ok ill get on it find out what happened


Ugur Akin Thu, Jan 23, 2014 at 11:10 PM

To: Jim <[email protected]>


Hi,

Was just writing this:

We just spoke on the phone and you assured me that my pickups had probably got lost in the mail. Whatever the case I just want to get those pups mounted. So any information regarding the whereabouts of the pickups is greatly appreciated.


Jim <[email protected]> Thu, Jan 23, 2014 at 11:14 PM

To: Ugur Akin


got it if i have to ill work this weekend to ship you a new set on Monday


Ugur Akin Thu, Jan 30, 2014 at 3:25 PM

To: Jim <[email protected]>


Jim,

Any updates on the situation? Any pictures on hand as I requested earlier? Also, I hope we're squared away on the express shipment option.


Jim <[email protected]> Fri, Jan 31, 2014 at 12:52 AM

To: Ugur Akin


still working on the replacement set should have them out in the next day

are so ill take photos before they go out yes ill send them priority

express


Ugur Akin Fri, Jan 31, 2014 at 1:04 AM

To: Jim <[email protected]>


No pressure man. Do your QA, get them tested so they meet your specs and are pleasing to your ears. I've waited this long no need to rush anything at this point. Thanks for the express treatment it goes a long way.


Ugur Akin Thu, Feb 13, 2014 at 10:38 AM

To: Jim <[email protected]>

An update if you will Jim. How are things am I getting my pickups this week?


  • Conversation started 8 April 2014
08/04/2014 21:43

Ugur Akın

Hi again I was wonder if you got around to speaking to the post office about my shipment yesterday?

/wondering


08/04/2014 22:29

James Patrick Reed

i got a call in today but i going to get a new set out if i do not hear from them


  • 9 April 2014
09/04/2014 14:20

Ugur Akın

Ok great I'm waiting on a heads up then


  • 11 April 2014
11/04/2014 19:01

James Patrick Reed

no word i am working on a new set ill have to sumit a clame at the post office in the morning


  • 17 April 2014
17/04/2014 16:10

Ugur Akın

Ok great, do we have a shipping date guesstimate?


  • 24 April 2014
24/04/2014 10:38

Ugur Akın

Any news as of yet in terms of production and shipping?


  • 29 April 2014
29/04/2014 00:34

James Patrick Reed

wraping them up befor the end of the week will post photos on facebook


  • 29 April 2014
29/04/2014 10:47

Ugur Akın

Thanks, I just got a new gig and have been touting my new pickups so It'd be great if I they arrived before the recording date.


  • 4 May 2014
04/05/2014 15:21

Ugur Akın

Ok so I see that you have completed the Bridge pickup - I guess you will be pairing that up with a neck single from your current stock. Also, just as a reminder the leads that go to the preamp are in lakland configuration as you have made in the past I am sure - but its been a while and I just wanted to remind you the Lakland MM is splittable. Thanks again


  • 4 May 2014
04/05/2014 19:22

James Patrick Reed

yes it has 4 lead conductor


  • 8 May 2014
08/05/2014 00:03

Ugur Akın

Hi - How is the shipping going now that the build is complete? I hope we can swing the express shipping soon so that I can use your pickups on the recording date next week. Thanks again...


  • 12 May 2014
12/05/2014 15:56

Ugur Akın

Hi, do you have shipping number for me this week?


  • 20 May 2014
20/05/2014 15:48

Ugur Akın

James this this the 20th you haven't gotten back to me - you posted the pictures but no shipping number or information. What's the hold up? You had promised to get them out 2~3 weeks ago. Come on I'm counting on you.


  • 20 May 2014
20/05/2014 18:56

James Patrick Reed

there going out his week ill post a traking number


  • 21 May 2014
21/05/2014 01:08

Ugur Akın

Great! Thanks.


  • 28 May 2014
28/05/2014 23:27

Ugur Akın

A quick update check just in case you got side tracked. How are things going?


  • 2 June 2014
02/06/2014 11:19

Ugur Akın

Hello! It been another 10 days or so since you said they'd be going out; do we have a tracking number yet?


  • 10 June 2014
10/06/2014 10:39

Ugur Akın

James anymore of the silent treatment and I'm going to start questioning your integrity - you didn't come off like that on the phone - just send the pickups out already! How much longer are you going to string me along; would you like to be treated like this? You mention a 4~8 week turn over time, hell I have been waiting patiently for 8 months! 8 MONTHS! Let that sink in - I wouldn't put my worst enemy through this I wouldn't pussy foot around and drag out the suffering - man up and get this done; come on!


10/06/2014 11:09

James Patrick Reed

sorry it must be due to my childish behavior shoot me your address here and ill make sure they go out next pickup you will have tracking asap


  • 11 June 2014
11/06/2014 01:12

Ugur Akın

Thanks I truly appreciate the honesty - this is my work address:Triodor Türkiye Araştırma ve Geliştirme Ltd. Girne Mahallesi, Elif Sokak, Bay Plaza 27 34852 Maltepe/Istanbul

It should be addressed to UGUR AKIN - and as we had spoken about earlier, as a favor you could label it as refurbishment so that I don't have to deal with customs. Thanks again all the best.


11/06/2014 03:14

James Patrick Reed

you asking me to brake the law and falsify legal government documentation


  • 12 June 2014
12/06/2014 00:06

Ugur Akın

no you said you would do it for me - here is the exact quote: Jim <[email protected]> 10/3/13 to me yes that's perfect to help with the shipping ill do the same price as the $250 + $35 for international USPS Jim <[email protected]> 10/3/13 to me invoice sent thank you very much ill have your pickups out 10-15 day's Ugur Akin 10/3/13 to Jim Jim,

I've just made the payment - but I was wondering if you could label the transaction as "replacement" or something along those lines in order to by pass any customs issues. Jim <[email protected]> 10/3/13 to me parts and repair $35 Jim <[email protected]> 10/3/13 to me If you have face book please join me https://www.facebook.com/james.p.reed Ugur Akin 10/3/13 to Jim

Thanks Jim you did me a solid on this.


12/06/2014 00:09

Ugur Akın

So nothing you have already agreed to - of course 8 months is a long time I guess but then again the exact email transaction is all I have to help you jog your memory. Do it or not I am sadly not inclined to take you for a man of your word at the moment.


12/06/2014 00:39

James Patrick Reed

your pickups are packed and will be going out next pickup you trashed me on talk bass and expect me to brake the law for you I must insure the package for the value of the merchandise, if not if something happens no way to get compensated, if i insure for the value of the package and clam customs at a lower value i am braking federal laws and can be penalized are the package can be seized , all i can do is claim the value of the cost to remake the product and not include my labor , need to make sure there is no problems getting the package over there this time ,


12/06/2014 00:44

James Patrick Reed

lets make sure you get them this time i am shipping a higher class shipping method this time aswell


12/06/2014 00:52

James Patrick Reed

also at that time i did not know it was a unlawful act to state a lower value on international custom forms but it was brought to my attention that it .was


  • 12 June 2014
12/06/2014 11:00

Ugur Akın

Ok cool no problem - I was just asking as sometimes builders do the favor - its OK though no problem I'll deal with it if you are not comfortable. About trash talking you on talk bass - I have two posts - I haven't said anything there that wasn't true or that I had not said to you over the phone - also I express that I am hopeful that you will send my pickups as your quality is inherent in other peoples reviews. Finally, I say trash talking occurs when someone gets their due and are not happy with it - I had been waiting for 5 months, endless emails and several telephone conversations that all pointed to you deceiving me. It was a concerned rant from a customer - there are others like me; I am not the only case. Some introspection is required here. I'm looking forward to closing our business interaction - don't be sore over your short comings we can still end this amicably and with a positive out look. Thanks again.


  • 20 June 2014
20/06/2014 18:16

Ugur Akın

So now I'm supposed to be placated because we chatted over facebook? No! Where is my tracking number? Am I going to wait another month? Have you even finished the set? I mean you built the Bridge Pickup why not pair it and send it out: unless you just sold that one to someone else because it was convenient. Work with me here no one should cause this much aggravation to another human being - what do you tell yourself at night?


  • 24 June 2014
24/06/2014 04:37

James Patrick Reed

no way i would sell your custom pickups there was some shipping delays last week not just you holistically. there picking up the packages on Wednesday yours is going out with them


  • 24 June 2014
24/06/2014 14:00

Ugur Akın

Thank god! I'll believe it when I see it.


  • 8 July 2014
08/07/2014 11:22

Ugur Akın

Where are my pickups? - Day 278 - 9 months, 5 days


  • 10 July 2014
10/07/2014 13:05

Ugur Akın

Where are my pickups? - Day 278 - 9 months, 5 days +2


  • 21 July 2014
21/07/2014 17:38

Ugur Akın

Did they go out on Wednesday? Wednesday almost a month ago? I still don't have a tracking number btw.


  • 7 August 2014
07/08/2014 09:59

Ugur Akın

Hey? Anything - you have stop responding to me have you noticed that? I could have had a child by this this time you realize.


  • 13 August 2014
13/08/2014 23:20

James Patrick Reed

not again they went out a few months ago for the second time ill dig up the label number .and get back with you ASAP


  • 14 August 2014
14/08/2014 19:01

Ugur Akın

Great I was waiting on a tracking number so that I could do my part to make sure the pups got to me, I'd like to go ahead and try to find my parcel on this end if you can get me the tracking no.


  • 18 August 2014
18/08/2014 16:16

Ugur Akın

Well? Have you gotten around to calling the post office?


  • 18 August 2014
18/08/2014 21:54

James Patrick Reed

I am going there today they got this whack job new Muslim manager now that dose not know his ass from a hole in the ground


  • 19 August 2014
19/08/2014 13:42

Ugur Akın

Yeah, great just try to get my tracking number - if you don't have the time I'll call them if I have to.


  • 22 August 2014
22/08/2014 12:00

Ugur Akın

Hey! Come on you must have gone out to the post office by now!


  • 28 August 2014
28/08/2014 11:53

Ugur Akın

[email protected] REED JAMES ENG. [email protected] Invoice number 0818 Date payment is due Oct 3, 2013 Amount $285.00 USD

Here is my polite invoice number reminder once again - we have a month to go before we reach a full year you have been in possession of 285 dollars that have not made it my way via the delivery of my pickups

Am I ever going to get these? Is a tracking number this hard to come by?


  • 4 September 2014
04/09/2014 22:45

Ugur Akın

I left you a voice message - I need those pickups it not right that I haven't gotten them in a whole year from when I ordered them: Amazon sent me a pair of shoes in 3 days I’m sure you can swing that also.


  • 8 September 2014
08/09/2014 10:02

James Patrick Reed

I got you pickups here i need a good address to ship them too please they will go back out ASAP


08/09/2014 11:50

Ugur Akın

ok here it is:

Your order will be sent to: Ugur Akin Triodor Ar-Ge Yazilim ve Bilisim Girne Mahallesi Elif Sokak No:27 Bay Plaza, Maltepe Istanbul Istanbul, Istanbul 34852 Turkey


08/09/2014 11:52

Ugur Akın

This is the exact listing given to Amazon.com - this order got here with no problems - I just would also like a tracking number so that I can follow up here. thanks. O btw they were sent AmazonGlobal Priority Shipping so anything in the same ballpark will get them here in a timely manner.


08/09/2014 12:00

James Patrick Reed

i do not have any affiliation with Amazon USPS is the only option i have


08/09/2014 12:16

James Patrick Reed

I will never take an order from turkey again its a problem country


08/09/2014 14:09

Ugur Akın

No there are no problems - you have failed time and again to send me a tracking number the simplest common denominator in an postal transaction - if you had then I would have been able to corroborate your claim that Turkey is a problem destination however, having failed to do so you are in no position to claim anything in terms of the issues that pertain to a destination. A destination that I might add has completed hundreds of by mail interactions with - Bestbassgear.com, Amazon.com, Music123.com, Basscenteral, and Rudy's Music in NYC. So before we make any claims either way lets try again but do it right this time - btw: obviously you are not affiliated with amazon that was an example - try this [Invalid or Expired Link Removed] - it will get here and if as you claim there is a problem with the destination then with the tracking number you will have provided I will be able to track my package and be informed in real time of any issues that have cropped up upon your shipment date. Lets give it a shot shall we. Oh and please do not raise any issues on relative price as the interest on 280+ dollars over a years time together with the buyers aggravation I have personally suffered more than covers any price they are asking for shipping the parcel express. Thanks


08/09/2014 14:16

James Patrick Reed

turkey is on my poopie list

i ship USPS are fist class not globe express


  • 8 September 2014
08/09/2014 17:41

Ugur Akın

Great since you have no explanation for sitting on my pickups for over a year and have no intention of making amends by at least by paying for my choice of international shipping I urge you to get me a tracking number so that we can be done with each other and go our merry ways. Just to give something to mull over does it not occur to you to at least tell me why the Postal Service sent back the package I guess its the same reason you shipped the pickups twice without a tracking number, like that's possible, right?


  • 9 September 2014
09/09/2014 15:06

Ugur Akın

So another day has passes us by on our record breaking business transaction - we are 23 days away from 1 year! Anything?


  • 10 September 2014
10/09/2014 19:34

Ugur Akın

A tracking number? Do you have one? It should be on the slip you got from the post office.


  • 11 September 2014
11/09/2014 12:57

James Patrick Reed

LJ158047636US

all i ask for was a correct address not your pussy ass bitching ,you got horrible service because you are rude


  • 11 September 2014
11/09/2014 18:14

Ugur Akın

You as a human being can you not understand that a person can become exasperated by someone who has waited close to a year for a set of pickups someone was glad to take the money for but failed ship. I sent you the correct address twice check your records. I strongly recommend you watch your tone as name calling is the pinnacle of rudeness. See "pussy ass bitching"; if asking for my due from a man who by incompetence or malice had failed time and again to deliver on his word is bitching then so be it but I would take this opportunity to look at yourself and what you've become as a person. Also, just look through our communiques over this past year I have been nothing but courteous until you stopped responding and started blowing me off - I was in my right to let you know how I felt without resorting to petty name calling as you have deconstructed yourself to here today. I feel sorry for you - over step your bounds again and our total conversation history will get published I guarantee it. Nonetheless I will be fair in judgement of your work and let as many channels as I know what I think - an apology for your crass behavior will warrant an omission of your choice words on this post. I am not in the business of fostering ill feelings as I understand your plight; let's do the right thing here.


  • 30 October 2014
30/10/2014 14:26

Ugur Akın

You supposedly shipped it out on Sept 11 2014 it is now October 30th - the site says: The U.S. Postal Service was electronically notified on September 11, 2014 to expect this package for mailing. So I'm beginning to doubt you actually sent this thing out at all as no one can verify that it was shipped - are you planning on stealing from me? If not you can reimburse me if that suits you better than delivering on my purchase or you could do the right thing and find a way to ship me my pickups - as it stands I have been without 285 dollars for over a year that's dishonest money you've got on your conscience anyway you rationalize it. Anyway I could give you an address in the US to ship the damn things but that's an inconvenience to me but what the hell anything to end this business transaction from hell at this point.


  • 30 October 2014
30/10/2014 22:20

James Patrick Reed

ill see whats going on there where shipped


  • 1 November 2014
01/11/2014 08:27

James Patrick Reed

I am talking with a friend of mine in BULGARIA and discussing the problem. i going to post office Monday to locate the package looks like it has not moved, ill get this resolved ASAP ,working on setting up an distribution for Turkiye, Greece, Bulgaria.


  • 3 November 2014
03/11/2014 19:03

Ugur Akın

Thanks looking forward to an update


  • 25 November 2014
25/11/2014 18:26

Ugur Akın

Can you please ship the pickups to (alternative address I edited out) - I'll handle the international shipping from there thanks.


  • 3 December 2014
03/12/2014 17:51

Ugur Akın

Have you gotten around to shipping the pickups yet?


  • 12 December 2014
12/12/2014 16:35

Ugur Akın

Another month goes by - I even made it simple for you just ship it to an address in the good old US of A. This can't be that hard unless you don't have pickups to ship - what is going on its been over a year.


  • 12 May
12/05/2015 14:53

Ugur Akın

James I'd like to be reimbursed as you have failed to ship me my pickups it has been 1 year and 7 months since I placed my order on Oct 3, 2013. You have the paypal receipt - please do so in a timely manner.

Wow, SGD redux, with a hefty dose of racism just to keep things interesting.

So sorry man, if this is David Schwab recapitulated, chances are that money is gone and you are totally out of luck.

This is so sad to have legitimate and ethical boutique manufacturers of anything having their business compromised by criminals like this. Thank goodness for the Nordtrands and Aguilars and Fralins of the world that still provide excellent aftermarket pickups, but it is a real shame for people (like me) who really enjoy putting money in the hands of small businesses who do custom work but end up being hesitant because you never know when you'll run into a thief.
 
You know, I could buy into the idea that his illness is what's causing his problems...if he wasn't such a jerk in his replies to people and stopped telling them he's shipping product when he's not. It's kind of sad...I'd like to feel bad for him because of his illness, but he's handling it so poorly and with so little grace that I don't.
 
You know, I could buy into the idea that his illness is what's causing his problems...if he wasn't such a jerk in his replies to people and stopped telling them he's shipping product when he's not. It's kind of sad...I'd like to feel bad for him because of his illness, but he's handling it so poorly and with so little grace that I don't.
Having been in small-scale manufacturing for almost all of my working life, I understand when things like this happen - it's how you handle them that is the issue. I'm sure RJ wouldn't like if his magnet suppliers repeatedly delay shipments, break promises, etc... and if that is actually the case, he needs new suppliers - but we can pretty safe in guessing that's not the problem here.

In a previous life, I was in the sign business and would occasionally bite off more than I could chew, or some customer would drag out payment (or rip me off) and that caused a chain reaction with other work I had coming in and needed that money for... small companies are just have a more precarious existence in that respect. I learned the hard way - being one of those guys who didn't handle it properly (because it was a new experience and something to be embarassed over) - that you're better off saying no to things you're unsure you can do, or in the case of a delay to refund money than to go making it worse with repeated promises, using that money to finish other stuff that is overdue, etc... it just screws the customer over on what they need.

In this case, Reed James does seem to have had some health issues (it's all there on his very public facebook page) and it's likely that he both A) had trouble doing the actual work on time and B) needed the money for things other than the pickups. Maybe he makes good, maybe not, but being a dick isn't going to help anyone, least of all yourself in this era of instant information.
 
Having been in small-scale manufacturing for almost all of my working life, I understand when things like this happen - it's how you handle them that is the issue. I'm sure RJ wouldn't like if his magnet suppliers repeatedly delay shipments, break promises, etc... and if that is actually the case, he needs new suppliers - but we can pretty safe in guessing that's not the problem here.

In a previous life, I was in the sign business and would occasionally bite off more than I could chew, or some customer would drag out payment (or rip me off) and that caused a chain reaction with other work I had coming in and needed that money for... small companies are just have a more precarious existence in that respect. I learned the hard way - being one of those guys who didn't handle it properly (because it was a new experience and something to be embarassed over) - that you're better off saying no to things you're unsure you can do, or in the case of a delay to refund money than to go making it worse with repeated promises, using that money to finish other stuff that is overdue, etc... it just screws the customer over on what they need.

In this case, Reed James does seem to have had some health issues (it's all there on his very public facebook page) and it's likely that he both A) had trouble doing the actual work on time and B) needed the money for things other than the pickups. Maybe he makes good, maybe not, but being a dick isn't going to help anyone, least of all yourself in this era of instant information.
Yep, and if someone ever dared call me a TB CS just because I complained that I didn't get my stuff in over a year's time, I wouldn't be nearly as civil as Nyarlothep.