Business Details
Expert Guitar Repair & Custom Craftsmanship in Costa Mesa
For over four decades, our team has dedicated itself to the meticulous care, repair, and handcrafting of guitars and other stringed instruments. Our expertise spans electric and acoustic guitars, basses, dobros, banjos, mandolins, ukuleles, and lap steels, with a focus on preserving each instrument's original character and value. As both luthiers and musicians, we combine technical precision with a deep understanding of musical needs, having served artists worldwide and maintained relationships with legendary figures in guitar history.Our facility in Costa Mesa reflects this legacy, housing instruments from iconic brands alongside custom Pittillo guitars crafted with the same attention to detail. We approach every repair with respect for the instrument's integrity, ensuring only necessary interventions are performed to maintain its authenticity and performance quality.
Services
Guitar Repair
Instrument Restoration
Custom Guitar Building
Bass Guitar Maintenance
Mandolin Repair
Dobro Restoration
Ukulele Repair
Lap Steel Maintenance
Banjo Restoration
Vintage Instrument Preservation
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of specialized guitar repair experience
- Master luthier with direct ties to guitar industry pioneers
- Custom craftsmanship informed by musical expertise
- Preservation-focused restoration techniques
- Proven track record with high-value instruments
What people say
Amazing craftsmanship
Exceptional service
Deep musical insight
Trusted with valuable instruments
Unmatched experience
Services
Guitar Repair
Comprehensive electric and acoustic guitar repair services addressing structural issues, electronics, and playability concerns. Our technicians handle setups, fretwork, and finish restoration while maintaining original specifications. Every repair considers the instrument's history and intended use to ensure optimal performance outcomes.
Vintage Restoration
Specialized restoration techniques for valuable vintage instruments that maintain authenticity while improving functionality. We use period-correct materials and methods to preserve historical integrity. Our approach balances modern playability requirements with original construction principles for collectible instruments.
Custom Building
Creation of bespoke Pittillo guitars using traditional woodworking techniques combined with modern acoustic engineering. Each instrument receives individual attention to tonal qualities and ergonomic design. Our custom builds reflect decades of luthier experience and musical insight for professional-grade instruments.
Bass Guitar Service
Precision repairs and setup services for electric and acoustic bass guitars focusing on intonation and string action. We address neck stability and electronics while maintaining tonal clarity. Our experience with touring musicians' instruments ensures reliable performance under demanding conditions.
Stringed Instrument Care
Specialized maintenance for mandolins, ukuleles, dobros, and other stringed instruments requiring unique construction knowledge. Our technicians handle specialized setups and repairs for alternative instruments. This service preserves each instrument's distinct tonal characteristics through appropriate repair methods.
People
Doc Pittillo
Master Luthier
Master Luthier with 40+ years of experience building and repairing guitars. Former apprentice to aerospace engineer Zell Tate. Recognized by major guitar brands and professional musicians for exceptional craftsmanship. Developed deep understanding of instrument acoustics through both building and performance experience.
Questions
What types of instruments do you repair?
We repair electric/acoustic guitars, basses, dobros, banjos, mandolins, ukuleles, lap steels, and specialty stringed instruments.
How long has The Guitar Doctor been in business?
Over 40 years serving musicians in Orange County and worldwide clients with specialized repair needs.
Do you build custom guitars?
Yes, Master Luthier Doc Pittillo creates custom handcrafted Pittillo guitars available for trial in our shop.
Is an appointment necessary for repairs?
Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments ensure dedicated time for complex instrument evaluations.
What makes your repair service unique?
Our combination of luthier expertise, musical experience, and historical knowledge ensures authentic, performance-focused repairs.
What's your turnaround time for repairs?
Typical repairs take 1-2 weeks, with complex restorations requiring additional time discussed upfront.
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