The Genesis of West Valley Guitars
West Valley Guitars is a relatively new brand, but its roots run deep in the world of music. Josh Stopford, the founder, has been working with guitars for over two decades. His journey began as a repair shop owner, where he honed his skills in guitar setup and repair. As his reputation grew, so did his passion for creating high-quality instruments. Over the years, Stopford experimented with various designs, testing different prototypes and refining his craft. This iterative process allowed him to develop a unique aesthetic and sound that sets West Valley Guitars apart from other brands. The result is a line of guitars that exudes a distinct character, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovations.
Key Features and Design Elements
The Sound and Playability
The top is a thin matt nitrocellulose. The bolt-on sapele neck, body, sides and back retain a woody vibe. The Fijian mahogany body is also chambered.
The Tahitian Coral: A Guitar with a Rich History
The Tahitian Coral is a highly sought-after electric guitar model, known for its unique blend of traditional and modern design elements. With its rich history and distinctive features, this guitar has captured the hearts of many musicians and collectors alike.
Design and Construction
The Tahitian Coral boasts a striking appearance, with a thin matt nitrocellulose top colour that gives it a distinctive look. The bolt-on sapele neck, body, sides, and back retain a woody vibe, evoking the classic designs of the past. The Fijian mahogany body is also chambered, adding to the guitar’s unique character. Key features of the Tahitian Coral’s design include: + Thin matt nitrocellulose top colour + Bolt-on sapele neck, body, sides, and back + Fijian mahogany body + Chambered body
Sound and Playability
The Tahitian Coral is renowned for its exceptional sound quality, thanks to its carefully crafted design. The guitar’s mahogany body provides a warm and rich tone, while the nitrocellulose top colour adds a touch of brightness and clarity.
He’s also a fan of the new Fender American Professional series.
Josh’s Guitar Setup
Choosing the Right Pickups
Josh’s guitar setup is a reflection of his eclectic taste in music and his passion for experimentation. He has experimented with various pickup configurations, often combining different brands and models to create unique sounds.
Skilled hands shape the sound of music.
The Art of Custom Guitar Making
Custom guitar making is a highly skilled and labor-intensive process that requires a deep understanding of music, materials, and craftsmanship. West Valley Custom guitars are a testament to this art form, with each instrument carefully crafted to produce evocative sounds that resonate with musicians and music lovers alike.
The Craftsmanship Behind West Valley Custom Guitars
The process of creating a custom guitar begins with the selection of the finest materials. West Valley Custom guitars are made from a variety of woods, each chosen for its unique tonal characteristics and aesthetic appeal.