Luthier Ed Schaefer studied classical guitar in college while working as a guitar tech at R.B.I. in the early 1970s. The Rhythm Band Instrument Company was a sister company of I.M.C. (International Music Corporation - See Hondo or Charvel/Jackson). Schaefer started producing his own guitars shortly thereafter and has been producing guitars ever since. Schaefer has produced in Texas for many years, except for a brief stint in Duluth, MN between 2003 and 2006.
In April 2008, Schaefer stopped taking commissions for new guitars except for building a few high-end models per year. Due to customer's requests and popular demand, Schaefer began taking limited commissions again in March 2009 and in June 2009, he opened a new shop in Austin, TX. Along with building guitars, Schaefer also offers guitar repairs and a luthier school. Schaefer reminds the customer that each model is only the starting point and several custom options are available. For more information or specific options, visit Schaefer's website or contact him directly.
Instruments currently built in Austin, TX since 2009. Previously built in Hillsboro, TX and Fort Worth, TX until 2003, in Duluth, MN between 2003 and 2006, and in Bastrop, TX between 2007 and 2008.