Kauer

Overview

Kauer Guitars is a boutique manufacturer of custom electric guitars based in Elk Grove, California. The brand produces high-end instruments known for innovative designs and handcrafted construction using premium woods, with models including the Banshee, Starliner, Super Chief, Korona, Electroliner, and Gripen. It occupies a niche in the boutique guitar market, serving professional musicians from bands such as No Doubt, Steely Dan, and Aerosmith.¹³⁵⁷

History

Kauer Guitars was established in 2007 by Doug Kauer after a lifetime of woodworking experience.⁵ The company operates from Elk Grove, California, initially building guitars in a Sacramento-area shop.³⁵ Over 17 years, it has developed a roster of world-renowned artists and introduced models like the Banshee, Korona, Electroliner, Starliner, Super Chief, and Gripen.⁵⁷

Product Lines

Manufacturing

All Kauer Guitars, including the Titan series, are hand-built in the company's shop in Elk Grove or Sacramento, California.¹³⁵ Production emphasizes premium woods and custom construction by Doug Kauer and his team.³⁵

Notable Products

• Banshee - Flagship offset electric guitar built to high standards with premium woods.
• Starliner - Single-cutaway model favored by professional musicians.
• Super Chief - Les Paul-style solidbody with innovative features.
• Gripen - Newest offset model highlighted on the brand's site.
• Korona - Headless electric guitar with modern design elements.
• Electroliner - Art deco-inspired model in the core lineup.

Reputation

Kauer Guitars is regarded as a leading boutique electric guitar maker, praised for handcrafted quality, innovative designs, and use by veteran professionals from major acts.⁵⁷ The brand maintains a select dealer network and direct sales model, with a focus on custom instruments.⁴ It is not BBB accredited, though no specific complaints are noted in available profiles.²