Client Testimonials

Canadian virtuoso Gary Cain is one of Austin's best guitarists. If you haven't heard him play, be sure to check him out below.

"I don’t hesitate to take my guitar to Danny when it needs work, nor do I hesitate to recommend him to others, because I know he’ll get it done right, and done on time. As a musician himself, he understands how important it is, especially to gigging pros, that their guitars are as playable and dependable as possible. Whether you know exactly what the issue is with your guitar and you just want someone who has the skill to fix it, or you aren’t sure what’s causing the problem and need someone who has the knowledge and experience to diagnose it, Danny’s your man."

To hear Gary shred, click on his image below.
“Mr. Shoemaker has worked on several of my instruments, including a rare Grosh, a vintage Gibson jazzbox and a PRS Custom; all of which needed serious fret care and fundamental tweaking, at minimum. I've had a bridge updated, new saddles cut on two bridges, tuning machines replaced, two guitars refretted, frets leveled and finishes buffed on each under the care of Danny Shoemaker. To say that I trust him with all of my cherished instruments is an understatement. He is a serious professional, a craftsmen and an excellent guitarist, as well. He understands that the term "playability" means something different to every player. His reputation for repairs of very high end classical guitars is well documented, but his care for my variety of respectable electrics is equally thoughtful, detailed and, just as important, fairly priced. In Mr. Shoemaker I have found a guitar tech who goes beyond the simple philosophy of "setups" and basic, necessary repairs to deliver truly personalized care for my hard working guitars. I am a professional, touring and recording musician who, respectfully, demands a higher level of care for my instruments because they are directly connected to the functionality of my business. His repairs, upgrades and finish work revitalized my guitars beyond the original build quality of the instruments. I don't make recommendations lightly, but I can, without hype, recommend Danny Shoemaker, owner/operator of Straight Frets, as a top-shelf craftsman in a city that desperately needs the standard of service his exceptional work meets."

To hear Woody's amazing talent, click on his image below for a video link:
Danny and the entire staff at Straight Frets are some of the best in the business for setups and guitar repair. The vibe in the shop is friendly and professional. With each visit, I walk out with a little more knowledge and a guitar that plays better than ever. Austin Tx is a guitar town, and Straight Frets fits right in.”

Check out Jeremy's playing every Wednesday evening at the Continental Club or his solo performances on his calendar. Click on the image below for a sample:
"When you take your guitar to Danny he doesn't just wipe it down and tune it up, he transforms it into an instrument that looks and plays better than the day it rolled off the assembly line or out of the luthier's workshop. He has proved himself time and again as a highly skilled craftsman who takes great pride in his work and who goes above and beyond with every job he takes on. In the several years that I've known Danny, I've been impressed by his continued effort to grow his skills, tools, and capabilities... a sign of someone who is truly passionate about what he does. I will always recommend Straight Frets to all of my fellow players, knowing from my own personal experience that Danny is someone they can rely on to give their most prized possessions the care and attention they need."
Mark Anthony Cruz is not only an accomplished classical player, teacher (at Texas State), and composer, but also well versed in jazz playing.

"I’ve always been able to count on the team at Straight Frets to keep my guitars working properly and sounding great. They’ve repaired many a guitar for me and I highly recommend that everyone experience their service."

To check out Mark's jazz playing with our friend Season Ammons, click on the image below:
"I met Danny several years ago at the Dallas Guitar Show. It was then I was introduced to the benefits of having a guitar “Plek’d”. I first visited the Austin based “Straight Frets” shop and entrusted a couple of my guitars to Danny and his crew. I was blown away at the difference in playability after playing these instruments had been Plek’d and set up properly. In addition, I had new Bone nuts created which I am partial to for the tone I prefer. Since our first meeting a few years ago, I have been building my own brand of Tele’s and Strats, and have taken all of these guitars, ( approximately 20 total, including one bass) to Straight Frets to be fitted with bone nuts, Plek’d, and set up. I am completely satisfied, as are my Crum Custom’s customers, at the workmanship and detailed care provided by Danny and crew. Also, many suggestions have been offered by Danny on how to improve my builds that have generated great results! Thanks Danny!"
Don Crum