"I’ve admired and followed Matt’s work for a while but never had the chance to try one of this guitars, so when I purchased my New Horizon 3, I had no little to no idea as to what to suspect.
First off, the thing just looks frigging cool and the work is beautiful. The neck is a perfect shape and the materials are flawless. The balance is perfect and the handmade pickups are versatile, airy and even have a bit of chime. Surprisingly, the neck pickup is my go to with it’s amazing range and dirt is taken beautifully. To sum it up, I am no stranger to boutique guitars. I have and have had Taos, Ronins, Tausch, and a Heatley. This is a different type of guitar than those. This one feels slightly more organic and whimsical. It is both inspiring and a joy to play-a real keeper. "
Sam Sullivan
"You can sense truth in Matt’s work, a purity rare in these times. He is a skilled luthier who takes chances, pushes boundaries and follows his vision.
There is a daring in his design and approach, a playful elegance. He loves colour and texture but will let a spectacular grain show through too. He is sensitive yet strong, committed while responsive, honest, clear thinking and spoken."
Scott Eave - zenguitartrading.com
"I have just purchased my second handmade Instrument from Matt Maranger. It is precise and refined in a way I have never known an instrument to be, but make no mistake, it is all character.
It has a smell that makes me remember working with my father as a child, the smell of oil, of machines, of a working mans hands. For the first time in my personal musical life I feel I have something to live up to, inspiration like that doesn't come along often."
Pat O'Leary
"Frankly, the entire process was a joy to be a part of and the bass has impressed me deeply (and trust me, that is NOT an easy thing to do). I think that your care in the build, the woods and overall design has resulted in something unique."
Grant Duncan
"I’ve had the pleasure to deal with Matt on 3 builds and on each build he’s managed to exceed my expectations. I’m very fortunate to have been given the privilege to have such an in-depth view of the guitar building process and to have an intimate interaction with the luthier.
Not only did Matt build me 3 incredibly sounding guitars but has also managed to gift me 3 incredible pieces of art. Every time I play them, I stop to admire the beauty behind the craftsmanship. Having owned many guitars in my life, they are easily 3 of my most prized possessions."
Dan Losier
“I met Matt through another Matt to get my Martin neck reset. He did a great job but while I was at his shop I saw all the hand tools and slabs of wood (as well as a couple of guitars!). Something clicked. I saw the Mars Rover and thought it was a unique idea to slightly offset a OO-18 and make it electric! Plus no volume or tone to make you create your sound with your fingers.The ambrosia top is gorgeous. Needless to say, it has a new home!
While watching The Last Waltz, Robbie Robertson was playing this double neck with a mandola. It was so slick I decided I was going to find one. I researched the ems-1235 and not too many were made. So,the synapses in my brain started firing! Give Matt a call and discuss if it’s possible to recreate a version of this piece of history. An all Manitoulin guitar with Maple/Walnut and Shipwreck Oak is the result! I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Great sound, good action and smooth necks. The mandola is a joy. Thanks Matt!”
Andy Kozachanko
"Matt’s respect for classic aesthetics combined with his unique brand of ingenuity creates a balance of tone and playability that feels old quick, in all the right ways.""
Jamie Ward
"Matt, this instrument is incredible! You did an amazing job! Got it yesterday and still can't stop playing it. Thank you so, so much! I look forward to ordering a guitar from you in the future. Matt is the man! The guitar is like gold! It's absolutely incredible in every way!"