Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for Musical Instruments in Berkeley
Since 1974, we have been dedicated to crafting, repairing, and selling musical instruments of exceptional quality. Our team brings over 80 collective years of experience in designing, building, and providing instruments tailored to musicians of all ages and skill levels. We specialize in creating high-performance instruments rooted in American, Latin, and Hawaiian traditions, including classical and flamenco guitars, tres Cubano, and Hawaiian lap steel guitars.Our partnerships with master craftsmen in Mexico, China, and Spain ensure authentic craftsmanship. We prioritize customer satisfaction, welcoming feedback to enhance our service, and remain committed to our Berkeley community as a trusted local institution.
Services
Instrument Sales
Repairs
Consignment
Classical Guitars
Flamenco Guitars
Steel-String Instruments
Ukuleles
Tres Cubano
Hawaiian Lap Steel
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We offer over 80 years of collective experience in instrument design and craftsmanship.
- Our Montalvo and Superior Brand lines partner with global master craftsmen.
- We provide expert repair services for all instrument types.
- New instruments include hard cases for protection and durability.
- We specialize in culturally specific instruments like tres Cubano and requintos.
What people say
Exceptional craftsmanship
Knowledgeable staff
Unique instrument selection
Services
Flamenco Guitars
Montalvo flamenco guitars are handcrafted in Mexico, inspired by master designs like Torres and Ramirez. Each instrument combines traditional techniques with modern playability for professionals and enthusiasts. Every purchase includes a hard case for protection.
Instrument Repairs
We offer expert repair services for all guitar types, including classical, flamenco, and steel-string instruments. Our technicians address structural issues, electronic components, and finish restoration to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Tres Cubano
Superior Brand tres Cubano instruments are crafted using techniques from Latin American traditions. These steel-string guitars deliver vibrant tones perfect for Caribbean and folk music, available with hard cases for durability.
Hawaiian Lap Steel
Our lap steel guitars merge American and Hawaiian craftsmanship, offering smooth resonance and portability. Designed for both beginners and professionals, these instruments include pickups for amplified performance and come with protective cases.
Consignment Sales
We facilitate consignment sales for used instruments, connecting sellers with buyers while ensuring quality standards. This service provides a platform for musicians to upgrade or downsize their gear efficiently.
Questions
What types of instruments do you specialize in?
We specialize in classical and flamenco guitars, tres Cubano, Hawaiian lap steel guitars, and ukuleles, both new and used.
Do you offer instrument repair services?
Yes, we provide expert repair services for all guitar types, including structural fixes, electronics, and finish restoration.
Are your instruments suitable for beginners?
Yes, we offer instruments for all skill levels, from student models to professional-grade options.
Can I consign an instrument with you?
Yes, we accept consignment instruments after evaluating their quality and marketability.
Do you ship instruments internationally?
Yes, we offer shipping worldwide; contact us for details and rates.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards and bank transfers; inquire for specific details.
Reviews (6)
Jm E.
Nov 18, 2021
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Just bought two guitars, a Montalvo flamenco and acoustic Guild. Love the friendly service and low key atmosphere. Not many choices but great quality.
Adam Drescher
Sep 15, 2021
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Very honest and knowledgable, quality instruments and strong sense of community. Convenient access and parking for store. Get there and invest in your musical talents.
Aj Schaerer
May 24, 2021
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Best guitar shop in the East Bay. William, the shop owner, is straightforward and goes out of his way to ensure that you find the best guitar for you. Fair prices and you can tell he isn't just trying to sell you an instrument that isn't the right fit. Very willing to support with repairs or adjustments, even months after a sale. Highly recommend!
Scott Cockrell
Feb 04, 2021
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Helpful, friendly, newbie-positive. My inherited instrument is 1000x easier to play than when I brought it in, and for a reasonable price. Thanks!
Craig Thomas
Oct 31, 2017
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This is the best Musical Instrument shop for miles around. The are guitars, Cuban tres, a string bass, accordions, marimbulas, classical guitar, flamenco guitar, repairs, knowledge, and warm people.
David Lopez-White
Apr 28, 2017
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Great acoustic instruments, I own 2 of their Flamenco Guitars. Super helpful and friendly store staffed by a Berkeley family.
