Business Details
37 Years
experience
Your Trusted Guitar & Amp Repair Center in San Diego
James Hood Guitar Repair has been serving musicians since 1989 with expert guitar and amplifier repair services. Founded by James Hood, a certified luthier with decades of experience, we specialize in professional setups, fretwork, electronics repair, and custom guitar finishing. Our team of skilled technicians is certified by leading brands including Martin, Taylor, and Fender, ensuring top-quality service for every instrument. We pride ourselves on combining technical expertise with personalized attention to meet the unique needs of each client. From vintage restorations to modern modifications, our commitment to excellence has made us the premier repair center in North County San Diego.We offer same-day setups, competitive pricing, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all work performed. Our facility includes a dedicated guitar finishing shop and a manufacturing partner for custom builds. With decades of combined experience, our technicians approach every repair with the precision and passion of fellow musicians. We serve players of all levels, from beginners to touring professionals, and maintain strong relationships with local music communities. Our mission remains to exceed expectations through superior craftsmanship, transparent communication, and continuous innovation in guitar technology.
Services
Guitar Setup
Amplifier Repair
Guitar Finishing
Pickup Swaps
Fret Services
Warranty Repair
Vintage Restorations
Nut Replacement
Neck Resets
Electronics Repair
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of guitar repair expertise since 1989
- Certified technicians by major guitar brands
- Same-day setup service with limited bench time
- Custom guitar finishing with multiple technologies
- 100% satisfaction guarantee on all repairs
Associations and certifications
- C.F. Martin
- Taylor Guitars
- Guild Guitars
- Cordoba
- Fender
What people say
Expert repairs
Quick turnaround
Knowledgeable staff
Quality setups
Custom finishes
Services
Guitar Setup
Professional guitar setups optimize playability by adjusting neck tension, action, intonation, and nut slots. Our technicians address weather changes, string gauge modifications, and playing style requirements. Every setup ensures smooth performance for electric, acoustic, and bass guitars.
Amplifier Repair
We repair tube and solid-state amplifiers from major brands like Fender, Marshall, and Vox. Services include diagnostics, component replacement, and tone optimization. Our technicians handle vintage restorations and modern modifications for consistent amplifier performance.
Guitar Finishing
Custom guitar finishing services using nitrocellulose lacquer, urethane, and UV technologies. We match vintage specs or create custom designs for set-neck and bolt-on guitars. Refinishing restores value while maintaining original instrument integrity.
Fret Services
Fret dressing, leveling, and full refrets for worn guitar necks. We address buzzing, intonation issues, and playability problems using precision tools. Services range from partial repairs to complete ebony or maple fretboard replacements.
Pickup Swaps
Professional pickup installations for tone customization. We handle single-coil replacements, humbucker upgrades, and active electronics installations. Services include wiring modifications and sound optimization for Stratocaster, Les Paul, and archtop guitars.
People
James Hood
Owner & Master Luthier
Certified guitar repair expert with 30+ years experience. Apprentice at Jackstraw Guitars, founder of JHG Guitar Repair. Specializes in vintage restorations and guitar finishing techniques.
Holland Morgan
Guitar Technician
Specializes in archtop construction and precision guitar setups. Provides expert service for touring musicians needing stage-ready instruments with meticulous attention to detail.
John Heaney
Amp Repair Specialist
Talented musician and electronics expert handling amplifier diagnostics and repairs. Maintains vintage tube amps while optimizing modern solid-state equipment performance.
Tucker Bancroft
Repair Operations Manager
Oversees daily repair operations and complex guitar restoration projects. Combines technical expertise with customer service to ensure quality repairs meet musician requirements.
Bob Ryan
Sales & Consultation
Front-end sales specialist with deep product knowledge. Assists customers with repair consultations while sharing practical guitar playing tips during service visits.
Questions
What guitar brands do you repair?
We repair all major brands including Fender, Martin, Taylor, Guild, and custom instruments. Certified service center for Martin Guitars and authorized repair for multiple manufacturers.
Do you offer same-day guitar setups?
Yes, we offer same-day setups with limited bench time availability. Reserve your spot early for priority service with our experienced technicians.
What guitar finishing options are available?
We use nitrocellulose lacquer, urethane, and UV polyester finishes. Services include vintage spec refinishing, custom color matching, and modern protective coatings for all guitar types.
Can you repair vintage guitar electronics?
Yes, we specialize in vintage electronics repair using period-correct components. Our technicians handle complex wiring, pickup replacements, and tone circuit restorations for classic instruments.
What areas do you serve?
Primarily serving North County San Diego with local pickup/drop-off. We also accept instruments from surrounding areas through our discounted shipping arrangements for repair services.
Do you buy or sell used guitars?
We offer consignment services for vintage and used guitars. Our online listings reach international buyers while maintaining transparent pricing and authentication for sellers.
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