James L. Mapson Guitars

West LA Jazz · #1 11-29-2011, 08:34 PM

has anyone tried one of these? Base model at least? Are they worth the $$$$$$?

James L. Mapson Guitars

I've read that Ron Eschete and Frank Potenza the Chair of USC'S Thornton school of Jazz guitar play them.

rpguitar · #2 11-29-2011, 08:49 PM

I know this is not what you're looking for, but it may not matter for awhile:

(From his website)

"Due to current time constraints and backlog, I have had to stop accepting orders for instruments. I apologize for this inconvenience, but as a dedicated one man shop, I really have no other alternative. Once the workload is caught up and manageable, I will post a notice."

West LA Jazz · #3 11-29-2011, 08:57 PM

Thanks! Yes. I read that. I am looking for someone who might have actually held one. I've emailed the company to see if they have one there available for auditioning.

Socalbill · #4 11-29-2011, 11:55 PM

Hi,
I used to play with his brother, and I have seen and held his guitars. It has been awhile, but he makes first rate instruments that are beautiful and are made with no compromises. Sorry, but it has been a long time and I don't remember too many details about Jim's instruments. His brother used to build as well and I have played those instruments for sure. He might have something to sell. His name is John Mapson. Good luck.
Bill

RK Sullivan · #5 01-25-2012, 10:15 AM

I have spoken with Jim Mapson a number of times, and, because of his engineering business, he is not presently making archtop guitars. Indeed, he has not done so for at least three or four years. I have also communicated with Mundell Lowe and Trefor Owen, who own Mapsons, and they have advised me that they know of no one who would sell a Mapson.

I have a number of guitars made by luthiers who were commissioned to take part in building archtops for Scott Chinery's "blue guitar" project, e.g., Benedetto, Grimes, Lacey and Megas. Because of certain health issues, I will be liquidating those guitars, but solely to persons who appreciate the wonderful instruments archtops are. I have no desire to make a profit on any of those instruments. Rather, I simply want to place those instruments (at my cost) into the hands of guitarists who will act as "keepers of the flame." If you would consider other than a Mapson, let me know.