BilT Guitars: Innovation Meets Craftsmanship

Anyone who has played a BilT guitar knows that it represents a perfect blend of innovation and craftsmanship. Founded by friends and coworkers Tim Thelen and Bill Henss in Des Moines, Iowa, BilT Guitars was born out of a creative spirit to change what you can because you can. Initially specializing in creating highly customized, effects-laden guitars, BilT has carved a niche for itself by producing instruments that are both visually striking and completely hand-made.

I first became aware of BilT after seeing Nels Cline of Wilco with one, and what immediately caught my eye was the Fender Starcaster-inspired headstocks, which most BilTs feature.

I bought a prototype Corvaire because I could not resist it, and was impressed with the quality and playability.  I then bought a Volaire, thinking it was an inexpensive way to get a Fender Starcaster - prices for BilTs have gone up since then, so my timing was right.  I then found a 'too cheap' Merc and that makes three.  I have my sights on the Mastery guitars made by BilT next...!

Check out BilT's web-site - they're a total custom shop - they'll make you whatever.  Very cool, resulting in (for the most part) no two alike!

Long live BilT!!

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Bilt Guitars