Business Details
48 Years
experience
Your Trusted Guitar Store in New York Since 1978
Founded in 1978 by Rudy Pensa on New York City's iconic 48th Street, Rudy's Music has grown from a small guitar shop into a globally recognized destination for musicians. Our expertise stems from decades of hands-on experience in guitar craftsmanship, repair, and retail. The Pensa Custom Shop, established in-house, creates handcrafted instruments sought after by professionals worldwide, including collaborations with artists like Mark Knopfler. We maintain a curated selection of vintage and modern guitars, basses, amps, and accessories, serving everyone from beginners to platinum-selling artists.Our team of specialists brings deep technical knowledge and passion to every customer interaction, whether you're seeking a first instrument or a rare collectible. With a second location in Scarsdale, we continue expanding our commitment to musical excellence while preserving the personal service that defined our early years.
Services
Guitar Sales
Bass Sales
Amp Sales
Guitar Repairs
Custom Builds
Vintage Instruments
Online Store
Trade-In Program
Case Sales
Pickup Installation
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- We offer over 45 years of guitar expertise and craftsmanship
- Our Pensa Custom Shop builds instruments for global music icons
- Expert technicians provide professional guitar repair services
- Family-owned business with personalized customer service
- Extensive inventory of rare vintage and modern instruments
What people say
Amazing staff
Top of the line gear
Legendary service
Contagious enthusiasm
World-class instruments
Services
Guitar Sales
We offer the most comprehensive selection of electric and acoustic guitars in New York, featuring both modern and vintage models from premier brands. Our inventory includes Fender Custom Shop masterpieces, rare collectibles, and exclusive Pensa Custom builds. Every instrument undergoes rigorous inspection by our expert technicians before reaching customers.
Custom Guitar Building
The Pensa Custom Shop creates handcrafted instruments to exact specifications, combining traditional techniques with innovative designs. With over 30 years of experience, our master builders have crafted guitars for international touring artists and studio professionals. Each instrument receives personalized attention from initial design to final finish.
Guitar Repair
Our experienced repair technicians handle everything from basic setups to complex restorations using professional-grade tools and materials. We specialize in vintage instrument preservation while maintaining modern playability standards. Services include fretwork, neck adjustments, and electronics upgrades for all guitar types.
Bass Guitar Sales
We carry the most extensive selection of bass guitars in the Northeast, featuring top brands like Fender, Music Man, and custom Pensa models. Our inventory ranges from vintage Precision Basses to modern active electronics-equipped instruments. Every bass undergoes professional setup before customer delivery.
Amp Sales
Our amplifier selection includes boutique and vintage models from Aguilar, Fender, and other premium brands. We specialize in matching players with appropriate tone-shaping solutions for studio and stage applications. The inventory features both modern digital and classic analog amplification technologies.
People
Rudy Pensa
Founder
Argentinian-born Rudy Pensa opened the store in 1978 after developing his craft through decades of guitar building experience. His vision created the Pensa Custom Shop and established the store's legendary reputation among musicians worldwide.
Steph Pensa
Scarsdale Store Manager
Rudy's daughter Steph leads the Scarsdale location with deep industry knowledge gained through 8+ years of retail experience. She specializes in acoustic instruments and maintains the family's commitment to personalized service.
Dave Polakoff
SoHo Store Manager
With over 15 years in the industry, Dave brings extensive expertise in vintage instruments and player development. He specializes in connecting customers with instruments matching their technical and stylistic requirements.
Makoto Noguchi
Pensa Custom Builder
Master luthier Makoto Noguchi has built over 900 Pensa Custom instruments since joining in 2000. His craftsmanship contributes to the line's reputation for professional-grade playability and tonal excellence.
Zeke Schein
C.F. Martin Showroom Manager
With 32 years in guitar sales, Zeke manages the Martin showroom while serving both celebrity clients and first-time buyers. His expertise spans acoustic instrument history and modern performance requirements.
Questions
What types of guitars do you specialize in?
We specialize in vintage and modern electric guitars, with particular expertise in Fender, Martin, and Pensa Custom instruments.
Do you offer guitar repair services?
Yes, our experienced technicians provide professional repair and maintenance services for all guitar types.
Can I trade in my current instrument?
We offer competitive trade-in values toward new purchases through our ongoing trade program.
Do you sell bass guitars?
Yes, we maintain one of the largest bass guitar inventories in the Northeast, including vintage and modern models.
Are Pensa Custom guitars available for order?
Yes, we offer full custom builds through our Pensa Custom Shop with personalized specifications.
Do you ship instruments internationally?
We provide secure international shipping for all instruments through trusted carriers.
