Rating of the best Russian guitar manufacturers for 2022

What could be more romantic than guitar songs? This instrument in skillful hands can convey any mood. Heavy rock with powerful riffs or a bard song with unobtrusive string plucking, rhythmic marching music or a romantic serenade, jazz or classical music - any genre suits it.

Excursion into history

The guitar got its name as a result of the merger of two words: "sangita" - music and "tar" - string. The stringed musical instruments to which it refers date back to ancient times. In its usual form, its prototype, which was called the Latin guitar, appeared in the middle of the 6th century in Spain. But scientists argue that the roots of its occurrence should be sought in the Middle East, since it is close to the lute popular in those days.

Initially, they were equipped with four strings and no more than ten frets. Then the Italians created a five-string copy, and the number of frets increased to twelve. In the 7th century, six-string acoustic guitars appeared, and those that began to be produced at the end of the 19th century were practically no different from modern ones.

Electric guitars appeared much later, in the 20th century. According to one version, Paul H. Tutmar was the first to create it. The main purpose of creation was to enhance the sound.

In documentary sources, the first mention of the guitar dates back to the 13th century. Despite the past centuries, it does not become obsolete. Its popularity is just as high, which encourages manufacturers to improve the design and improve the sound performance, using the latest achievements and developments in a wide variety of industries.

Types of guitars

The desire to create instruments suitable for any musical style has led to their great variety. All models can be grouped into four large groups:

• classic;
• acoustic;
• electroacoustic;
• electrical.

Classics have a wider neck and increased string spacing, making them the most suitable for playing academic parts. The strings are made of nylon. They have a soft timbre and perfectly complement the sound of the orchestra. They are also suitable for performing ballads, romances, flamenco.

Acoustic - the most popular variety. It allows you to play any music, from rock to hip-hop. In addition to versatility, it is distinguished by ease of setup, convenient structure and good volume.

Electro-acoustic instruments are a kind of hybrid in which acoustic sound is amplified with the help of special electronic devices. In addition, the sound becomes more interesting due to the various effects that the built-in electronic device also creates.

Electric have varieties that differ in character and pitch. Bass guitar stands out from their row. It has fewer strings (usually four), which are thicker than on electric guitars. The neck and scale length are also different - they are longer. But since the way they sound is the same, a bassist can easily master the electric guitar, and an experienced guitarist will quickly learn to play the bass.

Differences between acoustic and electric guitars

Despite the fact that the electric guitar originated from acoustic prototypes, the difference between them is noticeable both in appearance and in sound production.

The main parts are the body, also called the soundboard, neck and strings. There are differences in all these parts and are as follows.

1. The body of an acoustic guitar is hollow and wide, and due to this cavity, as well as a special hole-socket, sound arises.The electric guitar has a solid narrow body, and the sound is generated by the operation of magnetic pickups, which transmit vibrations of metal strings to the reproducing equipment.
2. The number of frets in electric and acoustic instruments is different. If the maximum number of frets on the neck of a classical guitar is 21, then on an electric guitar there can be 27. This leads to the need to make the neck longer, reinforcing it with a special anchor, but since the body is narrower, getting even to the extreme frets is not difficult.
3. In acoustic models, the strings are attached using a tailpiece. In the electric guitar, an additional bridge is installed, which is used to adjust the pitch and the degree of string tension. Another feature of the bridge is that this device allows you to reproduce a characteristic vibrating sound.

The best foreign manufacturers

Many musicians know the brands of the most popular manufacturers. Among the manufacturers of acoustic models are Yamaha, Phil Pro, Flight, Veston, Terris. Among the electro-acoustic options, products from Sigma Guitars, Norman Protege, LAG GLA, Cort, Takamine are of interest. Most fans of electric guitars will immediately remember the legendary Gibson and Fender brands. In addition to them, Schecter, Epiphone and Fernandes Guitars are distinguished by high-quality sound. In the world of basses, brands such as Warwick, Fujigen, DBZ, Squier Affinity and the already mentioned Yamaha are in the lead.

Expensive models can be equipped with a large number of devices.Among them may be lighting and sound equipment, including those used when recording in a studio, additional pedals that allow you to control the electronic filling, microphones that best transmit sound when playing, etc.

Production in Russia

This stringed plucked instrument won the hearts of Russian musicians long ago, but the mass production of guitars began only in the middle of the 20th century. Prior to that, they were produced by relatively small, handicraft workshops. But models from manufacturers such as Zimmerman and Krasnoshchekov sounded great and were the dream of many.

Serial production began with an artel located in Shikhovo, near Moscow, and then the Lunacharka factory began operating in Leningrad. With the end of the Soviet era, this production, like other industries, fell into decline, but did not completely disappear. Currently, they are produced by both relatively large firms and single artisans.

Rating of the best Russian manufacturers

The list includes Russian manufacturers producing both acoustic and electric guitars. The absence of customs duties makes the prices of goods more affordable in comparison with foreign counterparts, so they are in great demand among musicians.

Rating of the best Russian manufacturers of classical and acoustic guitars

This instrument will brighten up your leisure time at home, harmoniously merge into the sound of the orchestra, decorate gatherings by the fire or on the seashore. It is also needed by pupils of music schools. Therefore, despite the triumphant march of electric guitars, acoustic models continue to be popular among the widest range of consumers.

Amistar

Website: https://amistar59.tb.ru/

Price - from 5000 rubles.

The enterprise, located in the city of Kungur in the Perm Territory, has a long history. Since 1937, it has been in the form of an artel that produced piece goods, and since 1979, production has been put on stream. Classic and acoustic models are available with both six and seven strings.

• the quality is not inferior to foreign analogues;
• work experience;
• range;
• large price range.

• not found.

Doff Guitars

Website: https://doffguitar.com/

Price - from 14200 rubles.

The main distinguishing feature of this enterprise is the careful attitude to the traditions of creating stringed instruments and the production of models that are close to vintage guitars not only in design, but also in sound. Ivan Batov, Ivan Krasnoshchekov and Julius Zimmerman became the ideological inspirers of modern masters who create six- and seven-string models that stand out among others with their unique sound.

• production of analogues of old copies based on the developments of Russian masters of the late 19th century;
• application of modern technologies;
• the possibility of an individual order.

• overpriced.

MiLena Music

Website: https://milena-music.ru/

Price - from 7500 rubles.

This company is located in the city of Syzran, Samara region. She began by selling finished goods, along the way performing restoration and repair work. This allowed us to gain experience in order to open our own production. Models of this manufacturer have a number of innovative technological solutions. These include a custom dovetail neck mount that makes it strong and durable, fan-shaped spring mounts, porous wood finishes, and more.

• application of innovative technical solutions;
• production of not only classical and acoustic, but also electro-acoustic models, as well as electric guitars;
• quality assembly;
• great sound.

• not found.

Newtone Guitars

Website: http://www.newtoneguitars.com/

Price - from 38,000 rubles.

This enterprise is located in Kaluga and specializes in the production of classical and acoustic models. The assortment includes covers and other accessories necessary for musicians. The decks are made from solid wood, which gives a first-class sound.

• the use of natural wood for the body;
• three years warranty;
• discounts and promotions;
• delivery to any region of Russia;
• musician recommendations.

• the price is higher than that of analogues.

Chord

Website: missing

Price - from 3000 rubles.

This company, located in the city of Bobrov, has been producing acoustic guitars for over 40 years. Its range includes models with six, seven and twelve strings, in total there are more than 25 types. Many models come with hand painted decks. The top of the body is made from resonant spruce, while the other parts—sides, neck, bridge, and back—are made from birch, birch veneer, beech, or aircraft plywood.

• affordable cost;
• interesting deck design;
• work to order.

• there are complaints about the quality of gluing the case;
• average sound quality;
• The neck is screwed on, not glued.

Izhevsk plant T.I.M.

Website: http://tim-izh.ru/

Price - from 3800 rubles.

This enterprise is the legal successor of the Izhevsk Piano Factory. P.I. Tchaikovsky. The release of guitars began in 1980.Now there are more than 30 types of acoustics with 6, 7 and 12 strings in the assortment, for the production of which components produced in-house are used, with the exception of strings. The company even has a sewing workshop where covers are sewn.

• extensive work experience;
• assembly from components of own production;
• guarantee for all goods.

• in terms of sound quality they are inferior to analogues.

Rating of the best Russian manufacturers of electric guitars and basses

Electric guitars are in demand not only among rock musicians. Due to the large number of varieties, they can be used in any style of music, bringing novelty to familiar compositions.

Inspector Guitars

Website: https://inspectorguitars.ru/

Price - from 23650 rubles.

Despite the relative youth, this company quickly won a place in the sun by producing models with a unique design and many additional settings. When choosing, the buyer can model the copy on his own by choosing the color and type of deck cover, adding switches and adjusting a number of parameters.

• unique design of own models;
• release of classic copies;
• cooperation with famous rock musicians;
• delivery of goods around the world;
• warranty is one year.

• not found.

Khmelevskiy Guitars

Website: https://khmelevskyguitars.com/

Price - from 60,000 rubles.

Located in Rostov-on-Don, the company was founded by Oleg Khmelevsky, who fell in love with this instrument from his school years. Despite its youth, this company relies on uniqueness and quality, and not on a large release of average models.Experienced craftsmen are not afraid of difficulties and are ready to take on any order.

• Beautiful design;
• quality assembly;
• production of models in both classical and modern style.

• little work experience.

Lepsky Guitars

Website: https://lepskyguitars.com/

Price - from 70,000 rubles.

Based in Krasnodar, the firm produces custom-made instruments, but also offers a small range of ready-made electric guitars with six or seven strings. The personal touch and the use of first class materials justifies the cost of their products, but the quality is just right. Heat-set maple necks are resistant to changes in temperature and humidity, and can be used in any conditions.

• creation of unique models;
• experienced employees;
• recommended by professional rock musicians.

• high price.

Padalka Guitars

Website: http://padalka-guitars.com/

Price - from 150,000 rubles.

Electric guitars and basses under this brand are made with their own hands by master Semyon Padalka, who lives in Krasnodar. The main difference is a luxurious, unique design. The tools are assembled by hand, with careful control over each operation.

• unique design;
• unique color scheme;
• quality.

• high price;
• production time from 4 to 9 months.

Shamray

Website: https://shamray.ru/

Price - from 25,000 rubles.

The company, which has been operating for 20 years, offers Custom Shop level products. The range includes a variety of electric guitars and basses. The Shamray Rybka model is especially popular.The company works with the most famous rock musicians of the country, making unique models for individual orders. Electric violins, balalaikas and a number of other stringed instruments are also assembled here.

• combining work on individual orders and the sale of finished goods;
• maintenance, repair and restoration services;
• selection of related products;
• acceptance of goods for commission;
• sale of used prestigious models;
• delivery to any region of the country.

• not found.

SLESARENKO GUITARS

Website: https://vk.com/slesarenko_guitars

Price - negotiable

Krasnoyarsk master Alexander Slesarenko produces electric and bass guitars according to individual orders. The best materials and components are used in the work, which ensures durability and high-quality sound. On his website, the master shows the intermediate stages of production, which may be of interest to music lovers.

• production of models that have no analogues;
• fast feedback;
• quality materials;
• good feedback.

• long production time.

FireBear Workshop

Website: https://vk.com/firebearworkshop

Price - from 90,000 rubles.

A small group of craftsmen from the city of Tomsk specializes in the production of basses and electric guitars with an outstanding design and excellent sound characteristics. In terms of volume and beauty of sound, their models are not inferior to expensive imported analogues. Orders are accepted both for classic models and for individual projects.

• interesting lineup;
• quality components;
• fast feedback;
• good feedback.

• long production time.
• showing the stages of production.

How to choose

A large number of types and varieties of these musical instruments can confuse even an experienced musician, not to mention beginners. In order to choose the right one, you need to decide on the following selection criteria.

1. Type of. Acoustic, electro-acoustic and electric guitars have different sounds and different purposes. Acoustic and classical, with external similarity, also have differences, primarily in the type of musical material that can be performed on them. The bass has its own characteristics, unlike all the others. Therefore, the choice of type is the first and important step.
2. Age and physical features of the musician. When choosing for a beginner, it is better to stop at a classic copy with nylon strings, which are softer than metal ones, and will allow you to quickly master the playing technique without unnecessary injury to your fingers. If the model is selected for a child, it is necessary to take into account the height and age. They are produced in different sizes, and a full-fledged adult version will be inconvenient.
3. Body material. The quality of the extracted sound is directly related to this indicator. Decks are made from plywood, MDF or wood, and the latter option is preferred.
4. Orientation. Although most models are made for right-handers, there are also options for left-handers.
5. The number of strings. The most saturated sound among the acoustic gives a copy with 12 strings, but for a beginner it will not be easy to master it. With zero or little playing experience, it is better to opt for models with six or seven strings. The same rule applies to electric guitars: the more strings, the more difficult it is to play.
6. Price. At the initial stages of training, models made of veneer are suitable.For professional performances, it is better to choose a product made of wood, which gives it a pleasant sound.
7. Brand. This question is not fundamental. An important role can be played by personal preferences or the desire to have a thing, like a celebrity.

When choosing, you need to examine the product for cracks and chips, as well as the quality of the lacquered coating. It should be uniform, without swelling and damage. The neck is perfectly straight, with the strings directly above it. The pegs for adjusting the tension of the strings should turn without visible effort and sharp sounds.

Strings can be made from nylon, brass, bronze, and even silver. Since they need to be changed from time to time, it is better to purchase a spare set right away. In addition, you need to take care of the purchase of the following items:

• tuner for tuning;
• cover or case;
• deck care polishes;
• several mediators;
• belt, which is useful when playing while standing.

You can buy a guitar both in a regular store and online. In the first case, it is possible to immediately try it out, evaluate the sound quality and ease of play. The second option allows you to save time and money, since the prices of goods in virtual stores are cheaper than in conventional ones. You can resort to it if you know what tool is needed and the store has a good reputation. It does not hurt to have a guarantee for the goods and the possibility of a return in case of marriage.

The guitar can be purchased for a variety of purposes. But regardless of whether it will sound in an ordinary gateway or on the stage of a prestigious concert hall, the game will bring a lot of positive emotions and make life brighter and more interesting.