Cigar Box Guitars and Amplifiers
with Handmade Details
Check out Scott McConnell
"Making awesome music on one of my CBG's!"
"Making awesome music on one of my CBG's!"
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Built right here in the Okanagan Valley of BC, each 3 string Cigar Box Guitar is handmade one at a time with a 25" scale, some with frets and some fretless to be used for slide. All come with Piezo pickups and are tuned to GDG for a raw bluesy sound. Magnetic pickups are also available. These are real instruments that are easy to play and sound great plugged into an amp or played acoustically.
Enjoy my site. Brent Christian |
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" Beautiful little instrument with big sound making me feel like a little superstar everytime I pick it up. It's sooo classy and bluesy, it takes my breath away every time I see it sitting there in its cute little copper stand. I'm going to name it because it's already getting lots of attention and causing some well deserved saucy jealousy. "
FAQ
WHAT IS A "CBG"?
The cigar box guitar or CBG is a simple chordophone that uses an empty cigar box as a resonator. The earliest had one or two strings; modern models typically have three or more. Generally, the strings are connected to the end of a broomstick or a 1 x 3 inch wood slate and to the cigar box resonator.
DO I NEED A SPECIAL AMPLIFIER?
No...in fact small inexpensive amps can help add to the character and vibe of your CBG.
I have a cigar box...would you make a cbg for me with it?
In most cases yes, unless it's a very strange size that is hard for me to attach a neck to.
WHAT STRINGS SHOULD I USE?
Typically I use the third, fourth and fifth strings from a package of "Electric Lights"
CAN I REPLACE THE STRINGS MYSELF?
Yes, usually string replacement is straightforward. If it is complicated I will send instructions with the CBG.
WHO DO YOU SHIP WITH? HOW MUCH TO SHIP?
I regularly use Canada Post or Fed Ex for shipping in Canada. I provide a firm quote before your CBG is shipped. All CBG's are sent with insurance (loss only) and a tracking number is provided.
HOW DO I CARE FOR MY CBG?
Your CBG is built to provide you with years of enjoyment. Bit of common sense will extend it's life. Treat it as you would a regular guitar.
WHAT IS THE TUNING OF A CBG?
The common tuning is GDG as there is an abundance of songs and tutorials offered on Youtube utilizing this tuning. That said there are endless alternative tunings that work great.
wHAT WOOD DO YOU USE for the necks?
The most common woods I like to work with are Maple, Mahogany, Knotty Alder, and sometimes Oak.
are the cigar boxes new?
No, all the cigar boxes I source have been used and retain various levels of patina and wear as some have travelled around the world.
What do they sound like?
I never know exactly how they'll sound until it's finished. The size of the box, type of pickup, internal bracing, and neck all contribute to making each CBG truly unique. Below are some links that offer easy lessons and will allow you to hear a variety of styles.
Justin Johnson - Slow Blues in the Mississippi Delta https://youtu.be/ykFaghWjvl4
Justin Johnson https://youtu.be/W-TmomYsuP4
Shane Speal https://youtu.be/zluOeR9uxUs
Nigel McTrusty https://youtu.be/r-7Wez2A7pI
Justin Johnson - Slow Blues in the Mississippi Delta https://youtu.be/ykFaghWjvl4
Justin Johnson https://youtu.be/W-TmomYsuP4
Shane Speal https://youtu.be/zluOeR9uxUs
Nigel McTrusty https://youtu.be/r-7Wez2A7pI
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