Featured Luthier Interview

Dale Unger -Bio

Dale Unger - (From Dale's site)

I was born September 16, 1954, raised in Nazareth, PA, home of Martin Guitar. In my teens I became inspired by meeting some of the world's finest guitar builders. This led me to play guitar and become a builder. Visiting the shop of one of Martin's craftsmen encouraged me to buy one of his guitars. I was overwhelmed by the craftsmanship and ease of playing. At that point I knew I wanted to build an instrument of that quality. I started building acoustic guitars in 1977 in collaboration with friend Dick Boak.

In 1993 I began an apprentice with Archtop guitar builder, Robert Benedetto. Working for Bob for several years was an experience of a lifetime. Teaching me his secrets and passions for the Archtop guitar that has taken him some 30 years to master. Together we built some of the worlds finest Archtop guitars.

Gradually, I started incorporating Bob’s secrets with my own ideas. In 1996, inspired by Bob and Cindy Benedetto, I began offering my own handmade Archtop guitars under the American Archtop Brand, for which I have received critical acclaim. American Archtop Guitars are built for the player. Guitars are custom ordered and I am always available to discuss your personal preferences. I am president and owner of American Archtop Guitars. My world- famous instruments are built in my home in Stroudsburg, Pa. All guitars are designed and constructed by me from start to finish. Despite the substantial demands for my instruments. I rarely handcraft more than 20 per year.

I also offer several workshops varying from design to the actual construction of an Archtop Guitar. I have also produced a CD under my own label with several of my players demonstrating the unique sounds of my guitars.

I now introduce you to my line of American Archtop Guitars. They are one of the finest guitars handcrafted today.

Please feel free to call or email any questions you might have pertaining to my guitars or classes. I will personally answer all questions.