Do you ever find yourself wondering where your prized guitar was crafted? If you’re on the hunt for a top-of-the-line electric guitar, you’ve likely stumbled across the name Duesenberg. But where are Duesenberg guitars built, you may ask? The answer might surprise you.
Duesenberg guitars have been turning heads in the music industry ever since they first hit the market in Germany in the late 1990s. Since then, they’ve become a go-to choice for some of the biggest names in the business, thanks to their unparalleled quality and unique sound. But it might surprise you to learn that they’re not all built in the same location.
Unlike most guitar brands, Duesenberg actually has two manufacturing locations: one in Germany and one in Korea. You might assume that the German-made models are the cream of the crop, but that’s not necessarily true. While the German location has been crafting guitars and basses for over 15 years, their counterparts in Korea are no less skilled. Both locations adhere to strict quality standards and produce exceptional instruments – so whether you’re looking for a high-end model or something more affordable, Duesenberg has you covered.
The History of Duesenberg Guitars
Duesenberg is a German brand known all over the world for crafting some of the finest and most innovative guitars. The company is committed to producing high-end instruments that meet the demands of discerning musicians and guitar enthusiasts. The history of Duesenberg Guitars dates back to the year 1986 when brothers Dieter and Peter Duesenberg founded the company. The two individuals shared a deep passion for guitars that drove them to create a brand that would honor the traditional guitar making craft while also defying convention with innovative designs.
From its inception, Duesenberg sought to create guitars that would epitomize excellence in all aspects, including design, craftsmanship, and user-friendliness. The company quickly earned a reputation for making guitars that combined the best of vintage and modern design. The Duesenberg brothers were the brains behind many of the company’s iconic designs, such as the Starplayer TV and the Fullerton Hollow series. These models incorporate unique design elements such as open steam punk designed tuners and unique pickup systems that have become popular among guitar enthusiasts.
Aside from offering high-quality guitars, Duesenberg has also been committed to growing a community of guitarists and enthusiasts through its events and collaborations. The company holds an annual guitar festival where musicians across the world can come together to celebrate and showcase their skills. Duesenberg has collaborated with renowned musicians such as Joe Walsh, Johnny Depp, and Ron Wood, who have all used Duesenberg guitars extensively in their music.
The Design and Specifications of Duesenberg Guitars
When it comes to Duesenberg guitars, they are renowned for their unique and iconic design. The guitars have a vintage look with modern functionality, which is why they appeal to many guitar enthusiasts. One of the main features of a Duesenberg guitar is the distinctive headstock that has a diagonal design, which gives it a classy and elegant look. The guitar body has a streamlined build with edges that are smooth and well-defined. The Duesenberg guitars are crafted meticulously to the highest standards resulting in beautiful pieces of art that function as musical instruments.
- The Neck: The neck of Duesenberg guitars is often made of either maple or mahogany, which is then paired with an ebony or rosewood fingerboard. This combination gives the guitar a warm and rich tone. The frets are medium jumbo, and the neck is finished with a satin lacquer, which adds to the guitar’s vintage aesthetic.
- The Pickups: Duesenberg guitars often come with humbucker pickups that offer a wide range of tonal varieties. The pickups are hand-wound in-house with high-quality components, making them some of the best pickups available. The Duesenberg guitars are also equipped with a multi-tone pot that allows players to switch between single-coil and humbucker sounds with ease.
- The Vibrato System: One of the most recognizable aspects of Duesenberg guitars is their unique vibrato system. The company’s Radiator Tremolo is a hybrid between a Bigsby and a Floyd Rose. The tremolo is top-mounted and has a unique design that allows for smooth and accurate tuning.
Duesenberg guitars also come with several specifications that make them stand out among other guitar brands. Here are some of the key specifications:
- Scale Length: Duesenberg Guitars typically have a scale length of 25.5 inches, which is the same as Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters.
- Body: The body of a Duesenberg guitar is typically made of either American alder or maple with a spruce top that results in a full and well-rounded tone.
- Hardware: Duesenberg guitars come with Gotoh hardware, which is renowned for its quality and durability. The tuners are also designed in-house by Duesenberg and have a unique look that complements the guitar’s aesthetic.
- Pickup Selector: The pickup selector on a Duesenberg guitar is located just below the volume and tone knobs and has a unique design that compliments the guitar’s overall look. The selector allows players to switch between the humbucker and single-coil sounds seamlessly.
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Neck Shape | C-shaped |
| Neck Radius | 12 inches |
| Frets | 22 medium jumbo frets |
| Bridge | Duesenberg Radiator Tremolo |
| Pickups | Duesenberg Domino P90 and Grand Vintage Humbucker |
| Controls | 1 Master Volume, 1 Master Tone, 3-way pickup selector |
| Body Material | Alder with a spruce top |
| Scale Length | 25.5 inches |
Overall, Duesenberg guitars are a blend of art and practicality. The company’s guitars have a unique design with high-quality components and specifications, which make them a top choice for guitar enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a guitar that not only looks great but also plays great, then a Duesenberg guitar might be the perfect fit for you.
Duesenberg Guitar Models and Custom Options
When it comes to Duesenberg guitar models, the company offers a range of options to suit various playing styles and preferences. Here’s a look at some of their most popular models:
- Starplayer TV: This model is a classic that has been around since 2002. It features a semi-hollow body, humbucker pickups, and a set neck. The Starplayer TV is a versatile guitar that can be used for a range of genres, from rock to blues to jazz.
- Fullerton: This model is a solid-body guitar with a unique, offset design. It also has a set neck and humbucker pickups, but offers a different tonal character than the Starplayer TV. The Fullerton is a good option for players who want a more modern sound and feel.
- Paloma: The Paloma is a semi-hollow guitar with P90 pickups and a tremolo system. It’s a great choice for players who want a vintage-inspired sound and feel.
- Starpower: The Starpower is a solid-body guitar that offers a range of custom options, from wood choices to pickup configurations. It’s a guitar that’s built for players who want to create their own unique sound.
In addition to their standard models, Duesenberg guitars offers a range of custom options. Players can choose from a variety of woods, finishes, and pickup configurations to create a guitar that’s tailored to their specific needs. The company also offers a number of unique features, such as their Radiator tremolo system and the D-Tuners, which allow players to quickly switch between standard and drop-D tuning.
Overall, Duesenberg guitars are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner, there’s a Duesenberg guitar model that can meet your needs.
| Model | Body Type | Pickups | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starplayer TV | Semi-Hollow | Humbucker | Set Neck |
| Fullerton | Solid | Humbucker | Offset Design |
| Paloma | Semi-Hollow | P90 | Tremolo System |
| Starpower | Solid | Customizable | Radiator Tremolo, D-Tuners |
If you’re in the market for a new guitar, be sure to consider a Duesenberg. With their range of models and custom options, there’s a guitar that can meet your needs and help you create your own unique sound.
The Sound and Tone of Duesenberg Guitars
When it comes to the sound and tone of Duesenberg guitars, it’s worth noting that the company is committed to producing high-quality instruments with a unique sonic signature. Here are some key factors that contribute to Duesenberg’s distinctive sound:
- Pickups: Duesenberg guitars often feature their own hand-wound pickups, which are designed to capture the nuances of the guitar’s wood and construction. These pickups are often described as having a warm and clear tone that’s great for a range of styles.
- Bridges: Many Duesenberg guitars feature their own innovative bridges, which are designed to enhance sustain and intonation. These bridges are often made from high-quality materials like brass or German silver.
- Body Shape and Construction: Duesenberg guitars often have distinctive body shapes, like the Starplayer and Fullerton models, which are designed to produce a specific tone. In addition, many Duesenberg guitars are made from high-quality tonewoods like spruce and maple, which contribute to their unique sound.
Of course, at the end of the day, tone is subjective, and what sounds great to one player may not work for another. That being said, Duesenberg guitars have won over a lot of players with their unique sound and quality construction.
If you’re interested in a more detailed breakdown of Duesenberg’s sound and tone, take a look at the following table, which outlines some basic specs of some popular models:
| Model | Scale Length | Pickup Configuration | Body Wood | Top Wood | Bridge Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starplayer TV | 25.5″ | Humbucker / P90 | Flamed Maple | Spruce | Trapeze / Tremolo |
| Fullerton Elite | 25.5″ | Single Coil / Humbucker | Alder | n/a | Les Trem II |
| Paloma | 25.5″ | Humbucker / P90 / Single Coil | Alder | n/a | Les Trem II |
As you can see, each model has its own unique specs that contribute to its overall tone. If you’re in the market for a new guitar and are interested in something that’s a bit different from the norm, a Duesenberg guitar might be just what you’re looking for.
The Craftsmanship and Artistry of Duesenberg Guitars
Duesenberg guitars are considered some of the best electric guitars ever made. Their outstanding craftsmanship and artistry have made them popular among professional musicians worldwide. Every aspect of a Duesenberg guitar is carefully crafted with absolute precision, with an emphasis on the highest quality of materials. The following are five factors that contribute to their superior design and build quality.
- Handmade Finish: Each guitar is hand-finished with multiple layers of lacquer, allowing it to breathe and resonate like a vintage instrument. This process ensures that every guitar has a unique look and feel that stands out from the rest.
- Superior Electrical Wiring: The electrical components in Duesenberg guitars are top-of-the-line. The wiring is designed to minimize unwanted noise, and the pickups are powerful and responsive, allowing for a wide range of tonal options.
- Exquisite Hardware: The hardware on a Duesenberg guitar is handcrafted to ensure that it is sturdy and reliable. The bridge, tuners, and Bigsby vibratos are all built with precision and designed to last a lifetime.
- Unmatchable Design: Duesenberg guitars are unlike any other electric guitar on the market. The unique blending of traditional and modern design gives the guitar an unmatched presence, both visually and sonically.
- Expert Craftsmanship: Duesenberg guitars are built by experienced luthiers who take the time and care to ensure that each guitar is built to perfection. Every detail is considered, from the shape of the neck to the thickness of the finish, to create a guitar that plays and sounds like no other.
Overall, Duesenberg guitars are superior electric guitars that offer musicians unparalleled playability, sound, and style. They are a testament to the power of expert craftsmanship and artistry in the world of musical instruments.
Duesenberg Guitars as a Collector’s Item
Duesenberg Guitars are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and unique designs, making them a coveted item for collectors around the world. Here are six reasons why Duesenberg Guitars are such sought-after collectibles:
- The Design – The distinct Art Deco design of Duesenberg Guitars is one of the main reasons why collectors are drawn to them. The combination of modern and retro styles make them stand out among other guitars.
- The Sound – With their unique sound and tone, Duesenberg Guitars have gained popularity among musicians. Known for their rich, warm notes, they are believed to be among the best sounding guitars in the industry.
- The Production – Duesenberg Guitars are handmade in Germany, where skilled artisans use only the finest woods and parts to craft each guitar. This attention to detail and commitment to quality is reflected in their price tag, making them an exclusive collector’s item.
- The Limited Availability – As a small boutique guitar manufacturer, Duesenberg only produces a limited number of guitars each year. When a new design is released, collectors often scramble to get their hands on one, making them even more valuable.
- The Heritage – Duesenberg Guitars has a rich history in the music industry, having been used by legendary artists such as Johnny Depp and Joe Walsh. As a result, their guitars are often seen as a piece of rock and roll history, adding to their allure as collectibles.
- The Investment – With their quality craftsmanship and limited production, Duesenberg Guitars have shown to appreciate in value over time. For collectors looking for a unique investment opportunity, Duesenberg Guitars may be a wise choice.
Overall, Duesenberg Guitars are more than just a musical instrument – they are an exclusive piece of art that collectors around the world covet. With their unique design, sound, production, heritage, and investment potential, it’s no wonder why they are a prized jewel in many collections.
If you are considering starting your own Duesenberg Guitar collection, be prepared to spend some serious cash – but also know that you will be investing in a piece of high-quality craftsmanship that will stand the test of time.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unique and exclusive designs | Very expensive |
| High-quality craftsmanship | Only produced in limited quantities |
| Appreciates in value over time | May not be accessible to all collectors |
| Rich heritage and history |
As with any collector’s item, there are pros and cons when it comes to investing in Duesenberg Guitars. While they are undoubtedly expensive and not accessible to all collectors, their unique designs, high-quality craftsmanship, and potential for appreciation in value make them a wise choice for those passionate about music and investing.
The Future of Duesenberg Guitars
Duesenberg Guitars has been in the guitar manufacturing business since the late 1990s and has gained a significant following among guitarists. The brand has grown and expanded its line of products over the years. So, what does the future hold for Duesenberg Guitars? Here are some possibilities:
- Expansion of the product line: Duesenberg Guitars has a range of products that cater to different types of musicians. However, they can continue to expand the line to include more models or variations of their existing models to attract a wider audience.
- Exploring new materials: There is always room for innovation in the materials used in guitar manufacturing. Duesenberg Guitars can explore new materials that could improve their sound or overall quality.
- Going digital: With the advent of digital technology, guitar manufacturers can explore incorporating digital components into their products. Duesenberg Guitars may consider this option to cater to the modern-day guitarist.
Whatever the future holds for Duesenberg Guitars, one thing is for sure: their commitment to quality and unique design will remain unchanged. They have built a reputation for themselves among guitar enthusiasts, and that is something that will not disappear anytime soon.
If you are looking for a guitar that is a bit different from the standard models available in the market, a Duesenberg guitar might be worth checking out.
FAQs: Where are Duesenberg Guitars built?
1. Where are Duesenberg Guitars made?
Duesenberg Guitars are made in Hannover, Germany.
2. Are Duesenberg Guitars manufactured solely in Germany?
Yes, Duesenberg Guitars are exclusively manufactured in Hannover, Germany.
3. Who makes Duesenberg Guitars?
Duesenberg Guitars are made by the small team of experienced craftsmen at the Duesenberg factory in Hannover, Germany.
4. Can I buy authentic Duesenberg Guitars outside Germany?
Yes, Duesenberg Guitars are available for purchase from authorized dealers and distributors worldwide.
5. Are there any benefits or drawbacks to buying a Duesenberg Guitar made in Germany?
The benefit of buying a guitar made in Hannover, Germany is that you get the authentic Duesenberg experience. Drawbacks would be the cost of shipping and import taxes if you’re purchasing from outside of Germany.
6. How long has Duesenberg been making guitars in Germany?
Duesenberg has been making guitars in Germany since its founding in 1995.
7. Can I visit the Duesenberg factory in Hannover, Germany?
Yes, Duesenberg offers factory visits by appointment only for customers who want to see firsthand how their guitars are made.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading through these frequently asked questions about where Duesenberg Guitars are built. Hannover is the birthplace of countless legendary guitar-makers and Duesenberg Guitars’ workshop is a testament to that legacy of quality and craftsmanship. Remember to come back and check out more articles on all things guitar-related.