Custom crafted instruments from Don't Fret Instruments

Josh Pope of Charlotte, NC: "Incredible sounds!"

This one of a kind piece of art produces incredible sounds both electric (with the EMG pickup) and acoustically. Jack is a true genius at his craft from selecting the cypress wood himself out of the river to putting the time, dedication, and hard work to make this SRS angel sing such sweet melodies. If you’re looking for a custom instrument that will never let you down. Look no further! This man is the Best!

Thanks again,

Josh Pope, Charlotte NC

Jeff King of Trussville Alabama "I had to have one."

I first saw Jack demonstrating the “Swamp Monster” in a segment on the local news. I knew immediately I had to have one. I contacted him, and two months later I became the proud owner of a custom-made Sipsey River Steel lap guitar. The attention to detail is instantly apparent. The cypress wood is heart-breakingly beautiful and the tone is crisp, clear, warm and articulate. Even though I am new to playing lap steel, Jack’s fine craftsmanship elicits compliments every time I pick it up and play. I am honored to own a Sipsey River Steel and strongly encourage others to do the same. You won’t be disappointed!

Thanks again,

Jeff King , Trussville, Alabama

Randy Stone on his recent purchase of a Sipsey River Steel

I am writing to say THANK You for my SRS. This guitar is simply beautiful! You have out done yourself in the craftsmanship and design. Although I have only been playing lap steel for 8 months, I have been invited to play in two separate bands, one is country/gospel and the other is, of course, Blues. I really have gotten my hands on a one of a kind work of art.

Thanks again,

Randy Stone , Fayette, Maine

John Toombs, in an email to Jack

I've been enjoying my SRS, getting more amp time in with it. I am impressed with the sounds I can get with it. The EMG pickup is a great match for the instrument. I love the tone variations it makes possible.

It was nice to be able to pick the slab of wood my SRS was made from, and the completed instrument is a work of art. I really like the look of the cypress knee with the finish on it. It will always be one-of-a-kind. It's beautiful to look at, fun to play, and it sounds great!

Thanks for building such a beautiful, unique lap steel. The gig bag is very nice, a perfect fit and it works great!

John Toombs

"Rarely have I seen such amazing detail"

I first discovered the Sipsey River Steel on YouTube while searching for clips of dobro music, the sound of Jacks guitars stood out and grabbed my ear instantly even after comparing it to many other high end electric lap steels. Several months later I contacted Jack and we got together. After jamming with my Dobro and testing four of his guitars in his studio I decided on the spot that I had to have one.

The visual attraction to this instrument is immediate. Rarely have I seen such amazing detail and hand craftsmanship in anything let alone an instrument. The sound through my Fender tube amp is extremely warm and even all up and down the guitar. It is an awesome backup instrument to a high end Resophonic guitar for creating ambient tones but instantly transforms into a rock and roll or blues monster by changing a few knob settings. I have even played some bluegrass on it. Jack did his homework on this one and it shows.

Colin Spencer

From Robert Read on his recent purchase:,

Thanks so much for not selling #14 to the piranhas at the guitar show and sending it my way! It is truly an amazing instrument.

It is perfect for playing acoustically when you want to practice quietly but the real magic is when you plug it into a fine tube amp! That EMG setup produces a killer sound to go along with the swamp log vibe. I am really happy with this instrument and fear that my Hawaiian Koa lap will be on Ebay soon. Mahalo once again.

Robert Read

Jean Campbell of Birmingham, Alabama writes:,

I met Jack Dudley at a Starbucks about 30 miles south of Birmingham, a halfway point between our homes, to make the much-anticipated acquisition of my custom-made lap steel. Jack arrived right on time. I waited outside the door and figured I'd take the instrument, put it in the back of the car and head home. I didn't want to keep these folks out on a weeknight, but Jack insisted on going inside so he could show me all the bells and whistles.

Jack pulled the 'Witches Broom' (as he had named and signed it) out of the leather gig bag I later learned his wife had developed and sewn - a totally unexpected perk. Jack showed me the guitar and explained to me how it was made and how I should care for it.

I can't tell you how delighted I am with this amazing instrument, from the way it feels to -- mostly important -- the way it sounds. It is excellent. You hardly even have to know how to play. No lie, you just strum this thing and people turn their heads to listen because the tone is rich, silky, and delicious.

It was obvious from that first meeting the man takes great pride in his work and he is a master craftsman. I have no qualms about saying I believe this is the finest instrument I have ever had the privilege to own and play.

Jean Campbell

Joe Wittmeier, commenting on Premiere guitar magazine article

I actually own a SRS; she's amazing. The craftsmanship alone is beautiful, but then you hear that sweet honey sound and wow!

And behind that is such a nice, down to earth man.

Way to go, Jack!

Joe Wittmeier

Read what folks say about Don't Fret Instruments!

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Don't Fret Instruments!