Collings
ActiveOverview
Collings Guitars is an Austin-based manufacturer of custom handmade stringed instruments, including acoustic guitars, electric guitars, archtop guitars, mandolins, and ukuleles. The company has built a reputation over four decades for quality construction, tonal characteristics, and attention to detail, attracting professional musicians and accomplished performers worldwide. Collings operates as an independent builder with a team of skilled luthiers focused on custom instrument production rather than mass manufacturing.
History
Collings Guitars was founded in 1973 by Bill Collings, who established the company's foundation in handcrafted instrument building. Over 40 years, the company developed an internationally recognized reputation for quality and playability among fine guitar makers and independent builders. Bill Collings led the company until his death from cancer in July 2017. The Collings team has continued to uphold his legacy and standards following his passing, maintaining the company's commitment to craftsmanship.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Acoustic Guitars | Custom handmade acoustic instruments | $2,000 - $8,000 |
| Electric Guitars | Custom handmade electric instruments | $2,500 - $9,000 |
| Archtop Guitars | Custom handmade archtop instruments | $3,000 - $10,000 |
| Mandolins | Custom handmade mandolins | $1,500 - $6,000 |
| Ukuleles | Custom handmade ukuleles | $800 - $3,000 |
Manufacturing
Collings Guitars manufactures all instruments in-house at its Austin, Texas facility using handcrafted methods. The company employs skilled luthiers who build custom instruments rather than producing standardized models. All production occurs at the company's headquarters location on West Highway 290 in Austin.
Notable Products
- Custom Acoustic Guitars - Handmade acoustic instruments built to individual specifications, known for tonal quality and playability
- Custom Electric Guitars - Handcrafted electric guitars featuring components like hand-wound P90 pickups from Jason Lollar
- Archtop Guitars - Custom archtop instruments representing specialized craftsmanship in guitar construction
- Mandolins - Handmade mandolins built with the same attention to detail as the guitar line
- Custom Ukuleles - Handcrafted ukuleles extending the company's stringed instrument expertise
Reputation
Collings Guitars is recognized by professionals and enthusiasts for consistent quality, superior tonal characteristics, and meticulous craftsmanship. The brand's reputation is built on decades of custom instrument building and patronage by accomplished artists and performers. The company is known for prioritizing quality over production volume, with each instrument receiving individual attention. Collings maintains strong standing in the high-end acoustic and electric guitar market, though instruments command premium pricing reflective of handmade production methods.