Merrill % Co. New Information

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JimMerrill	Merrill % Co. New Information	Lead	[-]
(05/26/09 5:28 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	Tags : None Hi folks, Having just returned from our first vacation in over 13 years, I wanted you all to know that I did a lot of thinking out at the far end of Ocracoke Island with our friends, Ronnie and Sherry. Debbie has known them since she was 13 and we love spending time with them as they are our best friends in the world and we trust them completely. They are both hard working individuals who have a lion's share of life experiences and a capacity to love others that to us, is unequaled. Their good old-fashioned common sense always amazes me and I learn something new each time we can get together. We always discuss each others' jobs, families, kids, etc... We look at issues from every angle possible and openly talk about how to make our lives better ( when we aren't talking about Ronnie's ongoing sailboat restoration project ) and we hit upon something that for me, has been very difficult to face, even though it confirmed a decision I've had to make. Due to the increase in the cost of supplies and materials, I have been forced to work longer hours in the shop (hence no vacation in 13 years) and we haven't raised our prices in over two years. While talking with our friends about the various aspects of guitar making and the huge number of small shop and individual makers using CNC parts and bolt on necks, high-speed UV cured finishes with a couple of coats of lacquer on top, I became aware of what we really are doing and the light bulb appeared. We build guitars that come "standard" with features that other builders charge extra for. We don't upcharge for Adirondack spruce tops and bracing, Brazilian rosewood headplates, antique elephant ivory nuts and saddles, pure nitro-cellulose lacquer finish, thinly applied, and individually hand carved necks fitted to the body with a true dovetail joint. We have even had some customers call us and tell us that our prices are too low, that they are comparable to "factory" built instruments, and they don't represent the true value or quality of our individually hand built guitars. All that said, I have reached the decision for the need to increase our prices to reflect a 9% increase per year for the last two years where there was no price increase. While being sensitive to our customers, I very much realize that the timing for this is not great, but it is necessary nonetheless. Our son, Jordan, George, Debbie, and myself, work diligently to create the finest and most accurate replicas of the most desirable Pre War Dreadnought and Orchestra model guitars possessing the tone and volume sought by many players world wide. We wish to express our gratitude to all of you who support us and believe in what we are doing. Sincerely, Jim
Daniel Dorogusker		#1	[-]
(05/26/09 6:50 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	Good on you Jim. Even luthiers deserve to make a living! Seems like a long overdue and well deserved rise. Only wish I had gotten in an order earlier! Best, Daniel
fattdad		#2	[-]
(05/26/09 7:17 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	ah, the value of spending time on the Outer Banks. We're going in a few weeks to Waves and will likey have some awakening too! I may never afford one of your guitars, but I've made a note to myself to visit your shop next time I'm in Kilmarnock (sp), that is if you receive customers. I've heard nothing but great things about your guitars. Continued success! f-d Richmond, Virginia ¡papa gordo ain't no madre flaca! '20 A3, '29 L-1, '73 FG-180, '84 1N, '84 A5-1, '98 914-C, '06 000-15S, 000-28NB
tenjed2003		#3	[-]
(05/26/09 7:18 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	Daniel Dorogusker wrote: Good on you Jim. Even luthiers deserve to make a living! Seems like a long overdue and well deserved rise. Only wish I had gotten in an order earlier! Best, Daniel Second that.
Buck		#4	[-]
(05/26/09 8:02 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	If you don't value your work no one else will. I don't currently own a Merrill, but I've played several. You're doing good work. OK, now I want a Merrill - don't tell my wife. Todd
sugarinthegourd		#5	[-]
(05/26/09 8:53 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	You could raise prices 50% and they'd be better than just about anything else in their price range. My opinion, based on the few Merrills I have played. John "The good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge." - Bertrand Russell "Wisdom, compassion, and courage are the three universally recognized moral qualities of men." - Confucius
Imapickn		#6	[-]
(05/26/09 11:01 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	Jim, glad you had a nice rest and good trip to the Outer Banks, but we missed you up in Lively last Sat.. ima
kt66brooklyn		#7	[-]
(05/26/09 11:44 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	JimMerrill wrote: Hi folks, Having just returned from our first vacation in over 13 years, I wanted you all to know that I did a lot of thinking out at the far end of Ocracoke Island with our friends, Ronnie and Sherry. Debbie has known them since she was 13 and we love spending time with them as they are our best friends in the world and we trust them completely. They are both hard working individuals who have a lion's share of life experiences and a capacity to love others that to us, is unequaled. Their good old-fashioned common sense always amazes me and I learn something new each time we can get together. We always discuss each others' jobs, families, kids, etc... We look at issues from every angle possible and openly talk about how to make our lives better ( when we aren't talking about Ronnie's ongoing sailboat restoration project ) and we hit upon something that for me, has been very difficult to face, even though it confirmed a decision I've had to make. Due to the increase in the cost of supplies and materials, I have been forced to work longer hours in the shop (hence no vacation in 13 years) and we haven't raised our prices in over two years. While talking with our friends about the various aspects of guitar making and the huge number of small shop and individual makers using CNC parts and bolt on necks, high-speed UV cured finishes with a couple of coats of lacquer on top, I became aware of what we really are doing and the light bulb appeared. We build guitars that come "standard" with features that other builders charge extra for. We don't upcharge for Adirondack spruce tops and bracing, Brazilian rosewood headplates, antique elephant ivory nuts and saddles, pure nitro-cellulose lacquer finish, thinly applied, and individually hand carved necks fitted to the body with a true dovetail joint. We have even had some customers call us and tell us that our prices are too low, that they are comparable to "factory" built instruments, and they don't represent the true value or quality of our individually hand built guitars. All that said, I have reached the decision for the need to increase our prices to reflect a 9% increase per year for the last two years where there was no price increase. While being sensitive to our customers, I very much realize that the timing for this is not great, but it is necessary nonetheless. Our son, Jordan, George, Debbie, and myself, work diligently to create the finest and most accurate replicas of the most desirable Pre War Dreadnought and Orchestra model guitars possessing the tone and volume sought by many players world wide. We wish to express our gratitude to all of you who support us and believe in what we are doing. Sincerely, Jim I am not at a point in my life where I can afford a Merrill. However, and this is a really big however, I will one day be able to get a Merrill for myself. I am already long since sold on the brand. I am not particularly concerned about the price of that particular future guitar at this particular moment. I'm sure I will be able to afford a Merrill when I can afford a Merrill. I have only one worry. Will you still be building guitars when I reach the moment when I can afford one? Go ahead, charge a little more, your customers will follow because there are no other Merrill makers out there. Don't burn yourself out trying to compete for price. I've been there and I've done that myself. It doesn't end pretty. You are a good enough builder that you can now compete with the best makers on quality alone. Do so, and for god's sake, take a few more vacations!
MAF51		#8	[-]
(05/27/09 6:27 AM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	As one of the fortunate few who already owns a Merrill (an OM-18, purchased new in 2007), I can confirm that Jim's instruments are extraordinary and his prices, even with the increase, are competitive. How does one set a price for something like a Merrill guitar? If you compare prices among independent luthiers, you'll find wide variations. Setting a price is not an exact science. I paid more for my OM-18 than I would have for a factory guitar. But I didn't hesitate because I knew what I was getting was more than worth it. And I'd do it again at today's prices if I were in the market. The point is, when you buy a guitar from an independent luthier at the pinnacle of the craft (like Jim), you're getting something entirely special and rare. You simply cannot evaluate the purchase like something you might buy at WalMart (or Guitar Center). In other words, if you've made the decision that that that's what you want and you can afford it, the price ceases to be a factor. A few hundred dollars is not going to change your mind. Jim, I for one am grateful that you and your crew remain dedicated to the craft. If instituting a modest price increase means you'll get to take an annual vacation and recharge your batteries so you can continue to make these fantastic guitars, I'd say that's a win-win. Marshall
Sweet Tyrone		#9	[-]
(05/27/09 10:01 AM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	I have a Merrill Brothers OM-18K, I'd never have a Merrill if not for the original owner and his mis-adventures with his guitar and the Merrill Brothers. I'm guessing that's also why i can't get a call back from Jim when I've called him for some minor issues (only a couple of times) over the years since I've had the guitar, they must have a bad taste from the previous owner's (self inflicted finish issues). Too bad really, since I've only praised the instrument long before Merrills became the desired brand they are today. Anyway I feel orphaned and somewhat disconnected for the Merrill family although I'm an early fan. I guess this might be the place to vent. Love the guitar.
Sweet Tyrone		#10	[-]
(05/27/09 10:54 AM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	Great to hear from you Jim and I know it stays busy in your world,... thanks for the PM and I'm no longer a Merrill orphan folks, today I feel whole.
MAF51		#11	[-]
(05/27/09 10:58 AM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	Great to hear from you Jim No surprise. Marshall
scarab100		#12	[-]
(05/27/09 8:39 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	I have a Merrill OM-28 that I purchased used and have called Jim a number of times with questions. I cannot imagine any being more helpful than Jim has been. He's a great guy and makes wonderful guitars. The new prices are well-deserved... and so are the vacations! Warren
WaveRay		#13	[-]
(05/27/09 10:01 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	I've never seen, in life, a Merrill. I have been hearing good things about them since I've joined this forum. I guess Jim knows that. It's the probable reason he made the original post. It is one of the guitars I hope to hold and play someday to see what the hubub is all about. Ocracoke is a fine place. I went there as a child with the family many years for a week each summer. We stayed in Friscobut loved the ferries over to the quiet place. If the horse flies weren't biting, it was paradise. The harbor is as picturesque as it gets and the beaches are as crowded or as empty as you want. The OP seemed a little like a press release but I think the reasoning is sound. (Pamlico, maybe?) Good luck continuing what you obviously do so well. I wish you well and look forward to the day I can pick out something rediculously simple on one of your guitars. After all, it's all I know how to do. Ray Page 63 in the introduction thread 05 HD-28V 03 Taylor 455ce 12er (dealer custom rosewood) 05 M3M 71 D-18 00X1 2/3 of my hair
JimMerrill		#14	[-]
(05/29/09 6:46 AM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	Hi to all! I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and the kind words expressed by so many... I am encouraged and heartened to know that people believe in my guitars and are so understanding for the plight of one of the "little guys". My most sincere and heartfelt thanks to all. Jim
Bruce Sexauer		#15	[-]
(05/29/09 8:01 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	It's about time, Jim! Your quality to price ratio has had me squirming the last couple of years. I know what the real costs are, and I don't know what you were thinking. I played one of your hide glued Mahogany guitars at Schoenberg's this last year and would have been proud to have had my name on it. You could double your price. . . please do.
MAF51		#16	[-]
(05/29/09 9:49 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	Fellas, take a moment to stop and consider the sacred ground we're on here. We've been joined by Jim Merrill and Bruce Sexauer, two of the finest luthiers producing acoustic guitars today. Gentlemen, thanks for contributing your light to our little forum. We're honored by your presence (not to mention delighted by your guitars). And guys, by all means sample a Merrill or a Sexauer (or a Sexauer-built Schoenberg) if you get the chance. Even if you never have the dough to actually buy it, your life will be enriched by having visited with it for a short while. They're that good. Marshall
Davids Harp		#17	[-]
(05/29/09 10:09 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	+1 on what Marshall just said. David They said, "You have a blue guitar, you do not play things as they are." The man replied, "Things as they are, are changed upon the blue guitar." -Wallace Stevens Last Edited By: Davids Harp 05/29/09 10:17 PM. Edited 1 times.
RICKRN		#18	[-]
(05/29/09 10:50 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	Wow, Bruce Sexauer, and Jim Merrill, I do love this forum! Jim I was visiting my son in Tenn. recently, and stopped in at Smoky Mountain Guitars. I had the chance and extreme pleasure to play several of your incredible instruments there. I do hope one day to get one for myself. They are legitimate works of art. Good luck to you and Bruce in your determination to provide some of the best instruments on the planet. RickRN
nightmeetslight		#19	[-]
(05/29/09 11:43 PM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	I have to chime in here. I know this forum is Martin-centric, as it should be, but I will also pay tribute to luthiers like Jim Merrill and Bruce Sexauer, both of whom craft such amazing instruments. I'm fortunate to have two of Jim's guitars and unless misfortune heads my way I will leave them to people in my Will. As far as Bruce Sexauer is concerned, one of the finest guitars I have ever played was an asymmetrical, fan fret Brazilian guitar that I played in Miami a year ago. When everyone discusses the differences between woods I can tell you from experience that it isn't a massive difference in tone; but when you play a great Brazilian like Bruce's you encounter the softly spoken but obvious difference. Thanks to both of you for your fine work. Jim
Dario57		#20	[-]
(05/30/09 11:48 AM) Reply Quote More My Recent Posts Message Me Connection Blocking Invite Ignore User's Posts	I fully understand, and support, Jim's well argumented decision to increase prices. And this is valid for all luthiers who are building fine instruments. I have received few weeks ago an OM-18 amberburst and pyramid bridge from Merrill guitars (via Eric Schoenberg). I will just copy below my post from the Merrill trip thread : "I'm VERY impressed ! First new guitar I own in mahogany and looks like definitely it's a winner. This guitar is LIGHT ! Balanced, resonant, responsive, powerful. Beautiful voice, sustain and neck profile ... and the amber burst is amazing. Great tone dynamics too, even played softly the notes jump out of the guitar with a delicious presence. I am a believer in hide glue's properties, but most of all in the builder's talent. Jim Merrill has got it ! Thanks, Jim !" Definitely a very fine guitar and thanks Jim for building it ! Like said by other members I am happy that we have several luthiers on this Forum posting and sharing their knowledge and passion. I have still to play one of your guitars Bruce, but I will one day ! I have only to decide what to do with the pickguard on the Merrill ...... with .... or without ... best, Dario

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