Suhr

Est. 1997 Website ↗

About

Suhr Guitars builds high-end electric guitars and basses known for exceptional playability, versatile electronics, and manufacturing precision that blends hand-craftsmanship with modern CNC technology. Founded by luthier John Suhr, the company is also well known on the guitar-effects side for its pedals and amplifiers.

History

John Suhr began repairing and building guitars in the mid-1970s and built his first full custom guitar in 1984. After moving to Los Angeles in 1991 to work with rig builder Bob Bradshaw, he spent several years as Senior Master Builder at Fender's Custom Shop. In 1997 Suhr left Fender to found JS Technologies with business partner Steve Smith, combining Suhr's guitar-building expertise with Smith's background in management, software, and CNC programming — the company would go on to do business as Suhr Guitars from its Lake Elsinore, California facility. Suhr expanded into amplifiers in 2004 and introduced its Silent Single Coil noise-cancelling pickup system in 2005. Beyond guitars, the company built a strong reputation in the pedal and amp world as well, with players across genres using Suhr instruments for both hard-driving modern tones and vintage-inspired classics.