Gittler Guitars

Overview

Gittler Instruments produces experimental electric guitars and related string instruments emphasizing minimalist design principles. The brand is known for the Gittler Guitar, which reduces the instrument to essential functional elements like frets, strings, nut, and bridge, constructed from aircraft-grade titanium. It occupies a niche in the high-end custom instrument market, appealing to players interested in unconventional ergonomics and electronics including active pickups, MIDI capability, and LED fret lighting.

History

The Gittler Guitar was invented by Allan Gittler (later Avraham Bar Rashi, 1928–2002) in the 1970s, with around 60 units handbuilt in New York from the mid-1970s to mid-1980s. Several hundred more were licensed and produced in Israel by Astron in 1986–1987, though Bar Rashi disassociated from them due to quality issues. After Bar Rashi's passing in 2003, his son Yonatan partnered with Gittler Instruments LLC, which resumed production under president Russ Rubman, expanding to basses and violins.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured by Gittler Instruments LLC using 6AL-4V aircraft-grade titanium, with machining originally in New York. Current production details indicate specialized fabrication for the minimalist designs, likely in the United States.

Notable Products

• Gittler Guitar - Titanium electric guitar with 31 cylindrical frets, headless design, active electronics, and bridge-end tuning.
• Gittler Bass - Minimalist titanium bass, one of three originals made in New York, with similar design principles.
• Gittler Violin - Titanium violin applying Gittler minimalist aesthetics and electronics.

Reputation

Enthusiasts and professionals regard Gittler instruments as innovative for their radical minimalism and ergonomic features, earning cult status among experimental musicians. Criticisms focus on the high price and unconventional playability that may not suit traditionalists. The design's functionality is praised, though production history includes quality variances from licensed Israeli models.