Benoit Lavoite Guitars
ActiveOverview
Benoît Lavoie Guitars is a small-scale operation run by Canadian luthier Benoît Lavoie, specializing in custom flat-top and archtop acoustic guitars, as well as occasional baritone guitars, violins, cellos, and double basses. Instruments are handmade in his workshop using advanced acoustic analysis for consistent sound quality and balance.124
History
Benoît Lavoie has operated as an independent luthier from his workshop in Petit-Saguenay, Québec, for over 20 years, designing and building instruments primarily guitars.12 He specializes in flat-top and archtop models, employing an acoustic measurement system developed in partnership with a specialized company to ensure high sound quality.4 His guitars have been distributed to various cities in Canada and are sold through retailers like Dream Guitars in the US.3
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Flat-top Guitars | Custom acoustic steel-string guitars | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Archtop Guitars | Jazz-oriented hollowbody acoustics | $6,000 - $12,000 |
| Multiscale Guitars | Extended-range fanned-fret acoustics | $7,000 - $11,000 |
| Baritone Guitars | Low-tuned extended scale acoustics | $5,500 - $9,500 |
Manufacturing
All instruments are handmade by Benoît Lavoie in his personal workshop located at 55 rue Dumas, Petit-Saguenay, Québec, Canada.12 Production is fully in-house with no outsourcing mentioned.5
Notable Products
- #168 Handmade Acoustic (2017) - Ebony fingerboard flat-top guitar, 168th instrument built by Lavoie.
- Multiscale Ziricote/Adirondack (2017) - Fanned-fret flat-top with ziricote back and Adirondack spruce top.
- Custom Archtop Guitars - Hollowbody models focused on acoustic balance and power for jazz.
- Custom Flat-top Guitars - Steel-string acoustics using advanced acoustic analysis for tone.
Reputation
Enthusiasts value Benoît Lavoie's guitars for their aesthetic refinement, unique acoustic balance, power, and consistent high sound quality achieved through specialized measurement techniques.4 Professionals and collectors appreciate the handmade craftsmanship from a Québec-based luthier with over 20 years experience, as seen in resale on platforms like Reverb.5 No widespread criticisms noted in available sources; perception centers on custom, high-end boutique quality.3
Sources (5)
- https://www.benoitlavoie.com
- https://www.benoitlavoie.com/bio?lang=en
- https://www.dreamguitars.com/shop/instruments/guitars/steel-string-guitars/flattop/2017-benoit-lavoie-multiscale-ziricote-adirondack-163/
- https://www.guitar-list.com/brands/beno-t-lavoie
- https://reverb.com/item/14438977-benoit-lavoie-168-handmade-acoustic-guitar-2017-ebony-fingerboard-natural