Yesterday, I took my acoustic-electric to Dave to figure out why the pickup system didn't seem to be working. I was greeted with a friendly smile and he asked me to put my guitar on the work bench to check it out right then and there. After some diagnostics, it came down to user error (mine). He was so kind and friendly and even caught a few little anomalies with the current setup. I'll take it back to him when the strings deaden for a full setup. Great customer service and fixed my problem within a few minutes. I highly recommend Dave. read more

Super nice guy! I came in with one of my tuners broken I walked in and he fixed it and gave me a new one free of charge!

Once again...David Neely to the rescue! I bought a used Martin D28, not the HD, but a standard model. It already had the Fishman Matrix Infinity pickup that I like. The guitar was in nice condition overall when I bought it, but it had a buzz which was driving me crazy, seemed like the volume was a little low both acoustically and plugged in, and had a couple of cosmetic issues. I just couldn't get it all sorted myself. So...off to Neely Guitars! The guitar now looks and plays great with what he calls "the Nashville Setup"! Low action but no buzz, much louder, very well balanced, and all the cosmetics fixed nicely! I couldn't be happier! read more

Neely Guitar Repairs - Guitar Stores Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Truly a class act. Came in with a vintage guitar and thought it needed a restring. Instead of going along with a full restring, he fixed it on the spot free of charge. I insisted on tipping, because the conversation was a delight. Sounds good as new! Highly recommend. read more

Recently, an airline broke one of my favorite guitars. A somewhat rare Gibson SG Deluxe that's been one of my main guitars for 20+ years. The neck was cracked near the headstock, but not a complete break and the flight case was badly damaged. Neely's guitars were recommended to me by a good friend. So I called and arranged to have it assessed. It was a tedious job that required heating and bending the neck to get the glue in and clamping it until it set. Not surprisingly, it took a few weeks. When it was done I was really impressed by how good it looked. My guitar was back and the repair buffed out almost completely. Mr. Neely was pleasant and calm and took the time to explain the repair process to me. It was clear that he's been doing this for a long time and knows his craft. I'm never taking my guitars anywhere else. And bonus: the airline paid for the repair and replaced my vintage Gibson Protector case! If you need guitar repairs, look no further and head to Hollywood right across from Guitar Center. You'll be glad you did. A+ 10/10. read more

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David is an absolute angel, he has a real passion for what he does. He's very knowledgeable, practical, and fast. What a blessing to find this place! BRING YOUR GUITARS HERE read more

David corrected the very sharp fret ends, performed the set-up with new strings and replaced the cheap piece of junk Gibson Hummingbird pickguard. The pickguard came undone days later but the issue was resolved. I took the Gibson back to Dave and I suggested to him do the 3M double adhesive trick, It worked! It's been several weeks now and the pickguard is firm in it's place! I'm satisfied and would recommend his service to all that need their instruments worked on! August 7, 2024 read more

Neely Guitar Repairs - Guitar Stores Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I recently purchased used Les Paul that needed a setup. David did an amazing job and the guitar plays brilliantly. David has seen it all, and I wouldn't even think about taking my guitars anywhere else for service. read more

As others have mentioned, David is well known as an expert in his field. I have a 15 year old Taylor acoustic with a previously repaired crack in the top that had re-opened. Taylor recommended David to me and I'm more than glad that I took their recommendation - crack is now sealed and the top is back to being intact! He takes the time to explain the repair to you. read more

I have a Taylor acoustic-electric that's about 20 years old that badly needed it's electronics looked at. She also needed a setup after getting a lot use over the years from bands I played in and general wear and tear. David removed the old pickups because they were so old, and Taylor doesn't even make parts or support it. He installed Taylor's most current pickup system and gave her a great setup. She looks and sounds brand new, like the day I got her. read more

Neely Guitar Repairs - Guitar Stores Near Me - Los Angeles, California

David is a gentleman and a scholar of guitar. The best. He reset and glued a broken neck on a treasured electric and you would never know it had a flaw. He's a joy to speak with and to work with. A sage of the instrument. read more

Very helpful! Gave us free of charge tips and helped my buddy not be a dumbass lol! Respects guitars and did a proper job

David came highly recommended by Taylor to look at some action/neck/saddle issues I had been dealing with on a '01 614CE. The day I brought it in, I also brought along my '80 Les Paul to see if he could give some insight on buzzing/worn frets/grooved nut slots and general issues that compounded over the years leading to the guitar becoming a chore to even pick up and play. In a matter of 15 minutes with tools out and a tweak here and there, he was able to pinpoint the exact issues plaguing each guitar then checked them in for repair. Fast forward a few weeks to today when he called to let me know they were ready for pickup. He took both guitars out of their cases, pulled up a stool and asked me to play to see how they felt. Now I've had both of these guitars for more than half my lifetime and I have to say they have NEVER been as playable as they are today. I am in complete awe at the quality of David's work, of his operation and his character. I could have spent an entire day with him in his shop talking guitars and as I was leaving, I thought to myself that this was some of the best money I've ever spent. I came to the sudden realization that playing several hours/day on an instrument that isn't playing at its greatest potential is time wasted. My only regret is not bringing them to David sooner and I absolutely won't hesitate to bring him any guitar of mine in the future. Thank you, David. If you're not familiar with the area, there is ample metered street parking and I was able to park right out front on both a Wednesday and Saturday afternoon. read more

I brought my Taylor acoustic to David; my guitar was in need of a setup. He worked on my guitar over the winter holidays and left me a voicemail once it was ready for pick up. When I arrived back at his shop, I noodled on my guitar to hear and feel the difference. My jaw dropped at my guitar's newfound playability - all the while maintaining that signature Taylor tone. David made adjustments based on Taylor's specs, and his work really shined through on account of how much easier it was to play on the guitar. My guitar left the factory in questionable condition, but David set it up to how it was meant to be. I'm more in love with my guitar now. David's now my go-to guy for all things guitar. read more

David just finished a setup as well as a refinish on the back of a 1967 ES-330 for me, and it came out awesome. As others have mentioned, he is the best! read more

Neely Guitar Repairs - refin on the back - Guitar Stores Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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I can't say enough good things about Neely Guitars. Every time I visit, I receive exceptional service and the highest quality repairs for my guitars David Neely is a true professional with a wealth of experience, and his attention to detail is second to none. Not only does he consistently deliver flawless work, but his friendly and positive attitude makes every visit enjoyable. Plus, the turnaround time is always fast--I'm never waiting long to pick up my guitar in perfect condition. If you're looking for top-notch guitar repair and a great overall experience, this is the place to go! read more

David is one of the best in the business. There's a reason so many working musicians and collectors rely on David for his knowledge and expertise. read more

David is a consummate professional, who values integrity and clear communication. He is passionate and exacting in his work and takes personally delivering the best to his clients. There is a BASIC concept of earn and honor rank... David has earned his rank as a top luthier and expert - old school craftsmanship. Approach accordingly and that is what you'll get... read more

Are you really going to let the kids at Guitar Center wrench on your '63 Explorer? David is clearly a man who has spent a lifetime building and maintaining guitars. He cares a lot about his work, and about doing well by his clients. He's cool af and has amazing knowledge and stories to share. David's rates reflect all of the above, and his client list speaks for itself. read more

Dropped off my Sterling Stingray Bass for its first set up after buying it with terrible action. Couple weeks later with a set of new Ernie Ball strings and a touch of Neely's magic, he had it sounding like a whole new instrument. Very happy with the outcome. Thanks Dave! read more

David Neely is the best! End of story. Trust your guitar with him but remember, quality takes time. read more

Neely Guitar Repairs - Guitar Stores Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Competent repair tech but he would not let me use the restroom in his building, telling me to go across the street to Guitar Center instead. Lost me as a customer with that. read more

David is master craftsman, and his attention to detail is impeccable. He took on my guitar that had a blemish and scratches that I thought were unfixable, and he happily took on the challenge without hesitation. He maintains the aesthetic of the old while making it feel new. What's most important is that he puts so much love into his work, and you can feel it in the final product. He's an artist, and the guitar is his canvas. I'd give this review a six out of five, but a five out of five will simply have to suffice. read more

Neely Guitar Repairs - Guitar Stores Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I just bought my daughter a guitar and a string broke off. Took it to Neely Guitar Repairs and he took such good care of me. The guy is simply amazing. Thank you so much for such amazing service. I'll definitely be returning. read more

Amazing!!! Top notch service, great repair.. good price.. Worth the drive!! He helped fix my takamine acoustic nylon tuning pegs and also does set ups for electrics and all guitars. Will definitely come back! read more

I took my new Taylor to David to get the string action to spec. I was out of there in 15 minutes with a guitar that plays amazingly.

I came to David Neely with a guitar in need of a fix that was not something I could perform without making things worse! David fixed it while I waited, at no charge. A knowledgeable and generous man, indeed. read more

This guy is an imposter. A month went by and he actually thought I didnt notice that he didnt do squat to my instrument. Super basic setup for $200 and no attention to originally described problems. Im actually glad to see that im a better professional in my line of work than this dude. read more

I was in need of warrantee work on a Martin Guitar and Martin directed me to David. I live in Huntington Beach and wasn't looking forward to the drive to Hollywood. I decided to bring in a '72 Martin D28 to have David take a look at while I was there. I have had this guitar for 45 years and the action was high. No repair shop could help without a neck reset. David is a miracle worker! My D28 is better than it has ever been, it plays perfect and sounds perfect. David, thank you, thank you, thank you! I am thrilled... I will drive here for all of my guitars! read more

Phenomenal service - can't even tell where the repair was done - my guitar looks brand new! Thank you, David!

I can't say enough good things about David! I brought him my Limited Edition 1965 Lennon Epiphone Casino. It's the historically accurate model used on the Rooftop concert and Revolution video. It had an "S" in the neck near the 14th fret, where the neck attached to the body. This caused pretty bad string buzz all over the neck. I had taken it to 2 other highly-rated shops, and neither of them could fix it. One suggested that I would have to remove the frets and re-plane the neck. So I decided to give it one more chance with David. I got it back and I'm blown away. It's amazing! He truly saved this guitar. The neck is nearly perfect, the intonation is great all over the neck, and NO BUZZ! It's really fun to play. The fretwork is beautiful and it looks like new. David was a great guy to talk with, and he really inspired confidence. After figuring out I was a huge Beatles fan, he suggested that I put flatwound strings on, since that's what Lennon used. I've never used flatwounds on a guitar before, and I usually use .009's. So the heavier .011's are giving my fingers a good workout - in a good way. If you're playing songs that need epic bends on lower frets, this might not be the best setup. But it's so cool to pick up that guitar and have the authentic experience and the different feeling. I'm really happy that we went flatwound. One funny part.... One of the volume knobs is black instead of amber. David told me it was a shame that he didn't have an amber knob to replace it with. But Lennon's guitar had the same black volume knob, so so the black knob was intentional. It was a feature, not a bug :). We got a good laugh over that. Anyway, if your special guitars need TLC, David is the man. Thanks, David! read more

Neely Guitar Repairs - Better than new :) - Guitar Stores Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I asked David to do a set up on my PRS guitar. I thought it was sounding pretty good since I purchased it from PRS over a year ago so I didn't bother having a professional set-up. However, after David worked his magic, it is now sounding better than ever. I should have brought it into David after I purchased it initially. Thank you David. Marc B. read more

So good to know there is at least one remaining skilled and passionate old school shop owner that not only genuinely gives a shit but is a walking history book of personal and professional stories. I had a grounding issue with my 1960 Reissue Les Paul, walked in cold turkey and I was in and out in a half hour. I will never give my guitars to anyone else. read more

Neely is as pro as it gets. Upfront on pricing, Just got mine back and it sounds fantastic. Neely Rocks!

David does great work, and is a very cool guy! He's worked on my guitars for years and highly recommend him ! read more

Neely Guitar Repairs - Guitar Stores Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Another home run! I'm just sharing the word here again, just in case you're in need like I was: my 5 string bass (Music Man) really needed (and deserved!) a great setup. Whoa. David did such a stellar job on this! Plays amaaaazing, beautifully in tune, sounds fantastico. read more

David Neely is a sorcerer, and I suspect some of his dark art must be illegal. 2-for-2, I've brought him lifeless instruments that were not much fun to play or love, and the instruments he returned to me had an ease and vibrancy that made them a sheer joy to play. The first was a 1991 PRS CE-24, and the second was a museum-quality 1968 ES-355, diametrically opposed guitars, both of which have been given a new lease on life. They absolutely sing in a way I wouldn't have believed when I dropped them off. This guy is the real deal. read more

All the great things you've read about David Neely are true: he's an absolute expert at what he does (and he's been doing it a long time), he's honest and knowledgeable, and he's a great person. When I met him -- knowing his clientele of professionals -- he could have been as snooty as the people at the other shops, but that's not who he is. After another well-known L.A. guitar shop didn't properly repair my 40-plus-year-old guitar (again), I found Neely Guitar Repairs. I described the issue on the phone and brought it in. David got me squared away quickly but was very careful and deliberate in his approach. I could not be happier. He's a guitarist, and he knows how much our guitars mean to us. I left a new guitar with him for a setup, and I have every bit of faith that I will be just as happy with that result. In today's world, there are no more relationships in business, just commodities. David takes his time to know who you are, what your guitar needs, and how he can best apply his experience to help you. With me, he has a customer for life. read more

I went into Neely Guitars yesterday to get my new pick guard mounted to my guitar and David not only did it right then and there, but he also refused to charge me for the mount. He knows what he's doing and he's a lovely guy. I'll be bringing my guitar here anytime I need anything. David, you've earned a loyal customer for life. read more

One of the benefits of living in LA is getting access to some of the best musician services in the country. And David Neely is the best of the best. I first started coming to him after a botched setup job by another tech on a PRS Custom. He fixed that issue and now I've been going to Neely for years. Not only is he the best tech in the business, but he's a good person. No attitude, always takes the time to explain what he's doing--I always have faith that he will do right by me. My biggest fear is that he'll retire one day! Haha. Can't recommend Neely enough. read more