Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common queries about our services.

What types of amplifiers do you service?

I specialize in tube guitar amplifiers, including vintage, boutique, and modern designs.

This includes everything from classic hand-wired Fender-style circuits to newer PCB-based tube amps. I regularly work on amps for both home players and gigging musicians, with a focus on tone, reliability, and long-term serviceability.

I generally do not service digital amplifiers or heavily surface-mount (SMT) designs, as they are often not practical to repair at the component level.

If you’re unsure whether your amp is a good fit, feel free to reach out, I’m happy to take a look and point you in the right direction.


Do you work on guitars?

Yes. I offer a range of guitar services focused on electronics and playability.

This includes setups, intonation, string changes, cavity shielding, parts replacement and assembly, and basic fret work. My goal is to make your instrument feel and perform its best.

I am not a luthier, so I do not perform structural or advanced woodworking repairs such as headstock repairs, full fret replacements, acoustic bracing or soundboard work, or similar services. I also do not build or design guitars.

If you’re unsure whether your guitar work falls within scope, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to help or point you in the right direction.


What are your working hours?

My general shop hours are 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM, Monday through Saturday.

All drop-offs and pickups are by appointment only to ensure I can give each customer the time and attention they deserve.

The best way to get started is through the contact form on this site. From there, email is typically the most effective way to communicate throughout the service process, though phone and text are also available if needed.


What information should I provide about my amp or guitar?

The more detail you can provide up front, the faster and more accurately I can evaluate your equipment.

Helpful information includes:

  • Make and model (approximate year if known)

  • History (how long you’ve owned it, previous condition, how it’s been used)

  • Intended use (home use, studio, light gigs, regular gigging, etc.)

  • Current issues (what you’re experiencing, when it happens, and how often)

  • Reproducibility (does the issue happen consistently or under certain conditions?)

  • Service request (specific repair, upgrade, or general inspection/maintenance)

Even if you don’t have all of this, don’t worry, just share what you can. Clear details help me diagnose issues more efficiently and get your gear back to you faster.


Can you restore heavily modified or poorly repaired amps?

In many cases, yes, but it depends on the condition of the amp and the extent of the previous work.

Amps that have been heavily modified or poorly repaired can take significantly more time to evaluate and restore, especially if wiring, components, or circuit integrity have been compromised. In these cases, I typically start with a thorough inspection to determine what’s been changed and what it will take to bring the amp back to a safe, reliable, and great-sounding condition.

Some restorations are straightforward, while others may require partial or complete rework of previous modifications. I’ll always walk you through the options and provide a clear recommendation before moving forward.

The goal is to ensure the amp is safe, stable, and sounds the way it should whether that means preserving a useful modification or returning the circuit closer to its original design.


Do you Install customer-supplied parts?

In general, I prefer to source and supply parts myself to ensure quality, reliability, and proper fit for the application.

That said, I may install customer-supplied parts on a case-by-case basis, particularly if they are new and from a reputable supplier. I’ll review the parts during the initial inspection and let you know if they’re suitable.

Please note that I can’t guarantee the performance or longevity of customer-supplied parts, and in some cases, I may recommend alternative components.


Do you modify amplifiers or just repair them?

Both. I repair, restore, and thoughtfully modify tube amplifiers.

Repairs and maintenance focus on safety, reliability, and getting the amp back to proper working condition. Modifications, when appropriate, are approached with care and intention whether that’s improving usability, refining tone, or addressing known design limitations.

That said, I don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach to modifications. In many cases, preserving the original character of an amp is the best choice. When modifications are considered, they’re always discussed in advance and tailored to your goals as a player.

My overall approach is grounded in respect for the circuit, the player, and the long-term serviceability of the amp. You can learn more about how I approach repairs and modifications on Our Philosophy page.

Can I ship my amp to you?

Yes. Shipping is possible, but it must be arranged in advance.

Please contact me before sending anything so we can confirm the service request, discuss the details, and make sure I’m able to receive your amp. I’m not able to accept unscheduled or unexpected shipments.

Customers are responsible for:

  • All shipping costs (both directions)

  • Proper packaging to protect the amplifier in transit

  • Insurance coverage with the carrier

I am not responsible for damage that occurs during shipping to or from the shop. I strongly recommend using a reliable carrier, insuring the full value, and packing the amp carefully (double-boxing is highly recommended).

Once repairs are complete, return shipping will be arranged and billed prior to shipment.


Can you guarantee noise-free or hum-free operation?

No amplifier is completely noise-free. That is especially true for tube amplifiers, which naturally produce some level of hiss or hum as part of their design.

My goal is to ensure your amp is operating properly, safely, and as quietly as it should for its design and condition. If there is excessive noise caused by a fault, I will identify and correct it as part of the service.

It’s also important to note that noise can be influenced by factors outside the amp, such as power quality, grounding, cables, pedals, and the surrounding environment.

In short, I can ensure your amp is performing as intended—but a completely silent amp is not realistic.