What players are saying about Koenke Guitars

Every guitar has a story—and so do the musicians who play them.

We're grateful to have earned consistent 5-star reviews from players who trusted Koenke Guitars with their instruments. From local bands and recording artists to church musicians and weekend players, every review reflects our commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and honest communication.

Read what customers are saying about their experience with Koenke Guitars.

“Can't say enough about Koenke Guitars. Did full setups and some fret replacements on two of my Taylor acoustics. Was very happy with the results! Great work and great people and only place I take my instruments to now.”

— Jeff Taylor, Musician

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“Couldn't be happier. I run a studio in Fort Mill and need guitars set up and adjusted often and Steve is my go-to luthier. The first time he worked on my guitar, I had a hard time adjusting to such a well playing guitar. I didn't have to fight it at all, it was just effortless. He's so knowledgeable and down to earth. Highly highly recommend him.”

— Chris Suter, Musician

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Check out Ginger Cat Sounds

Tom Demartino from PUSHH plugged in one of our Strat-style Koenke originals and experienced the comfort and playability, and made it sing with the help of Koenke hand-wound pickups.

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“Exceptional job on refretting and setting my used guitar and provided excellent customer service. Highly recommend!”

— Adam Daniels, Musician

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“Awesome job installing a pickup in my Martin authentic! Had a great time chatting about guitars. Only guy I’m bringing my guitars to moving forward!”

— Cody Branham

“I had been looking for someone local that would be willing to take on a binding issue I had been having with a Martin guitar. Since I played it too much and often to be waiting on warrantying it with the factory, I needed someone that would do excellent work. Boy did I hit a home run. It was a more extensive process than what it appeared to be, but Koenke killed it. There was great communication throughout the whole process. I will Absolutly take more instruments to him in the future and I highly recommend his work to anyone wanting quality work done by a trusted individual. The best part was he kept me and my interest in mind the entire process. Thanks Steve. Till next time.”

— Matthew Morgan

“I met Steve from a guitar player I play with. My friend knew the Taylor guitar that needed attention and set up the appointment for me. I record and specialize in acoustic and percussive instruments, I was eager to have one of my guitars worked on. So the journey begin! Steve's education and spot on detail for his passion was immediately noticeable after listening to him talk about the guitar. Steve's passion for the art of a Luthier, was very direct and professional as he delicately handled the instrument, with word and skills I've not seen in this area. I'll not take another guitar or bass to anyone else other than Steve, as his interest and passion was amazing. Great man to speak with and you really need to just hang out with him to understand his passion for this very technical work. I found Steve to not try and up sale you on something but just tell you his thoughts on the instrument in hand. I've already recommended him to my repeat clients and of course this instrument records so nice, like a new guitar. which it was, but needed his work Steve Koenke will have my repeat business. Just hanging out with him is a nice time and man a good player. Over all he is educated, driven and honest.”

— Keith Oliver

“I could not be more happy with the quality of workmanship my Gibson J200 received in Steve's shop. He took the time necessary to educate me on what on what my guitar needed over and above what I wanted done. He made a new bone saddle from scratch, removed the failed Aura, and installed the new LR Baggs pickup, and shimmed the nut. Plus performed an entire setup. Pricing is reasonable, quality of the work done is second to none.”

— Alan Tucker

“Steve did an amazing job setting up my guitars, I am a beginner so my knowledge is limited but he patiently explained what was needed to make my guitar its best! I instantly felt the difference after he lowered the action on my acoustic, my playing got so much easier, especially that pesky F chord. Steve is an all around awesome guy as well as extremely professional, thorough, and fair. If I need a setup or a repair he will be my first call. He also makes beautiful custom guitars!”

— Angelique M

“Steve is clearly an expert in his field and it shows in his work. He did a phenomenal job setting up (2) of my PRS guitars, both with trems, they both play like butter. His guitar builds are equally stunning as they play and sound amazing. He will definitely be building me my next Strat!!”

— Brian Yurkins

“Steve really knows his craft and cares about his customers. I brought my neglected Martin acoustic to him. He fixed a split in the seam of the body, replaced the first five frets which were quite worn from my "cowboy chords", and tweaked the bridge and the neck to eliminate a buzz. My guitar has never sounded better, and I feel better playing it knowing it is in the very best possible condition. I'm never bringing my guitars anywhere else. If I could give him six stars, I would.”