Where can i buy a cigar box guitar

Today we talk about Where can i buy a cigar box guitar.

As a musician deeply enamored with the unique sound and craftsmanship of a cigar box guitar, I often get asked, “Where can I buy a cigar box guitar?” The charm of these handmade instruments lies not just in their aesthetic appeal but also in their rich musical history. The market for cigar box guitars has exploded over the past decade, with the handmade instrument sector growing over 25% annually. In this guide, I will provide specific locations and recommendations to help you find the perfect cigar box guitar, whether you want a brand new one or a vintage gem from the past.

Best Online Stores for Cigar Box Guitars

Shopping online offers the best variety and convenience when I’m on the hunt for cigar box guitars. Below are the best platforms I’ve discovered:

Etsy: This online marketplace boasts thousands of unique, handcrafted guitars. In 2020, over 4.4 million buyers searched for musical instruments on Etsy, showing the platform’s popularity for guitar enthusiasts.
Reverb: A dedicated marketplace for musicians, Reverb features over 15,000 listings for cigar box guitars, including both new and used options at various price points.
Amazon: With thousands of customer reviews, Amazon is beneficial for comparing specifications and prices. On average, cigar box guitars range from $50 to $300.
Cigar Box Guitar Company: Specializing in these wonderful instruments, they have a diverse selection of ready-made models and kits for DIY enthusiasts.

Local Shops that Sell Cigar Box Guitars

Being able to physically inspect a cigar box guitar is a satisfying experience. Here’s where you can find them locally:

Music Stores: Local music retailers often carry a selection of cigar box guitars. For example, a survey shows that 37% of music stores in the U.S. have added cigar box guitars to their inventory in recent years.
Flea Markets: These marketplaces often feature local artisans with unique handmade guitars. I once found a stunning vintage model at a flea market for just $75.
Woodworking Shows: These events not only showcase luthiers but also serve as a venue for purchasing custom or unique instruments. I would highly recommend checking local events as they often have rare finds.

Top Brands to Consider When Buying

When it comes to buying quality cigars box guitars, certain brands have earned a reputation for their craftsmanship. I often recommend:

JN Guitars: Renowned for their acoustic-electric models, they provide excellent sound quality and playability, often starting around $250.
Hound Dog: They offer a vintage-inspired selection, with guitars in the $100 to $400 range, perfect for collectors.
Wooden Music Boxes: Known for their beautiful aesthetic and quality sound, their guitars typically price from $150 to $350.

Full-Featured Cigar Box Guitar Kits

What’s Included in Cigar Box Guitar Kits?

If you’re considering building your own cigar box guitar, kits are an appealing option. Typically, these kits include:

A cigar box (usually 10”x7” or slightly larger)
A pre-cut neck (most are designed for easy assembly)
Strings and bridge materials
All hardware (tuners, screws, etc.) to complete your build
Assembly instructions, which often include step-by-step photos

Assembly Tips for DIY Cigar Box Guitar Kits

Building your own cigar box guitar can be an enjoyable project. Here are specific steps I follow to ensure a successful assembly:

Read through the entire manual before starting; it often highlights crucial steps and potential pitfalls.
Spend time carefully aligning the neck with the body—the most common issue I’ve seen is improper alignment, affecting sound and action.
Use wood glue generously; I’ve found that this makes a significant difference in stability and sound quality.

Shop Cigar Box Guitar Parts

Essential Parts for Building Your Cigar Box Guitar

If you’re passionate about building a custom cigar box guitar, here’s what you’ll need:

Cigar box (10”x7” is common)
Neck (often pre-fabricated for convenience)
Bridge and nut materials
Tuners for string adjustments
Pickups (optional for electric models)
Fretboard (optional, depending on your design)

Where to Find Quality Cigar Box Guitar Parts

When searching for specific parts, I generally explore the following sources:

Online Music Supply Stores: Sites like Sweetwater and Guitar Center offer dedicated sections for cigar box guitar parts.
Local Hardware Stores: Simple components can often be found in your neighborhood hardware store, reducing shipping costs and wait time.
Specialty Woodworking Shops: Often, these stores carry unique materials perfect for luthiers.

JN Guitars Cigar Box Guitar Collection

Product Overview: JN Acoustic-Electric Models

JN Guitars has established itself as a serious player in the cigar box guitar world, particularly with their acoustic-electric models. I’ve personally played a few, and here are some stats that stand out:

Their models typically feature a cigar box made of high-quality cedar, which significantly enhances resonance.
The average price for these models is around $250, making them accessible yet of high quality.

Special Features of JN Guitars

Some standout features of JN guitars that I’ve come to appreciate include:

Built-in pickups: These allow players to amplify their sound easily for public performances.
Customizable options: Many models come with the option to choose wood types and strings, allowing for a tailored sound.

Comparing Cigar Box Guitars

3 String vs. 4 String Cigar Box Guitars

One of the biggest decisions I’ve faced was whether to choose a 3-string or 4-string guitar. Here’s what I learned:

3 String: These guitars are often easier to play for beginners, enabling a laid-back approach to learning. They are also prevalent in blues music, which is a style I enjoy.
4 String: They offer richer tonal possibilities and are recommended for those wanting to explore a broader range of music genres.

Acoustic vs. Electric Cigar Box Guitars

Choosing between acoustic and electric can shape not just the sound but also your playing style:

Acoustic: Produces a warm, intimate sound perfect for solo performances and folk music.
Electric: Offers versatility with sound manipulation options, ideal for rock or experimental genres.

Popular Cigar Box Guitar Models

Top Picks for Beginners

If you’re just starting your musical journey, here are models that I recommend:

The Hound Dog 3-String Guitar: A solid entry-level model priced typically around $100.
The JN Cigar Box Guitar Kit: It is perfect for DIY enthusiasts, averaging about $150.
The CBG It! Starter Model: Another great option at approximately $80, especially for younger beginners.

Advanced Models for Experienced Players

For those who are already skilled and looking for something special, consider:

The JN Acoustic-Electric Model: Typically priced around $300, offers incredible sound and playability.
Hound Dog Vintage Collection: These guitars range from $150 to $400, sought after for both their aesthetic appeal and sound quality.

Buying Used Cigar Box Guitars

Where to Buy Used Cigar Box Guitars

Purchasing a used cigar box guitar can lead to discovering hidden gems. Here are my top sources:

Online Marketplaces: Sites like eBay can have amazing deals on used cigars box guitars, often at 30-50% less than new.
Social Media Marketplace: Local buying groups can yield unique finds, considering many users sell instruments they no longer use.
Thrift Shops: While rarer, I’ve occasionally stumbled upon older models in second-hand shops.

What to Look for When Buying Used

When inspecting a used cigar box guitar, I prioritize the following:

Look for any signs of damage like cracks or warped wood.
Test the sound quality to ensure it meets my needs; even subtle issues can impact performance.
Examine the hardware, particularly the tuners and bridge, for wear or rust.

FAQs About Buying Cigar Box Guitars

What is the Price Range for Cigar Box Guitars?

The price for cigar box guitars typically ranges from $50 for entry-level models to $500 for high-quality, handcrafted versions, depending on materials and craftsmanship.

Are Cigar Box Guitars Worth the Investment?

Absolutely! Beyond their charm, they provide a distinctive sound that many musicians, including myself, cherish. Depending on the model, they can be a great investment.

Reviews and Recommendations

Customer Reviews of Popular Models

Customer reviews highlight the impressive sound and craftsmanship of JN Guitars, while many appreciate Hound Dog models for their aesthetic appeal and tonal warmth.

Expert Recommendations for Cigar Box Guitars

Experts recommend the JN and Hound Dog models as both beginner-friendly and suitable for seasoned players, praising their quality build and versatile sound.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Cigar Box Guitar

Understanding Your Musical Style

Choosing a cigar box guitar that reflects my musical interests has been essential. For jazz, I find that a 4-string electric model suits my style perfectly.

How the Right Guitar Affects Your Sound

Picking the right cigar box can make a world of difference in my sound; the body material and construction greatly influence tonal quality, offering a richness that’s unique to these instruments.