R. Ray Guitars
Hi, I'm Russell! Your Orange County Guitar, Bass, and Stringed Instrument Setup & Repair Specialist!
I've been working on guitars, basses, and other fretted instruments for more than 25 years, and I'm a Fender Certified Professional. That includes setups, repairs, mods, fretwork, electronics, and plenty of vintage pieces that need a careful touch.
I work out of Newport Beach, CA, and every appointment is one-on-one. When you bring me an instrument, you and I talk about how you play, what feels off, what sound you are chasing, and what is getting in the way. That part matters just as much as the actual work itself.
I handle everything from restrings and setups to fretwork, pickup swaps, wiring work, structural repairs, and vintage work that respects what should stay original. If your guitar is buzzing, fretting out, not returning to pitch, or just not feeling right in your hands, I will sort out what is going on and get it dialed in!
Services
I work by appointment in Newport Beach and regularly see clients from all over Orange County. View all services →
Electric Guitar
Setups, fretwork, electronics, pickup installs, and wiring mods.
Acoustic Guitar
Playability, intonation, saddle and nut work, structural repairs.
Bass Guitar
Low-end setup, active/passive electronics, fretwork, and upgrades.
Mandolin & Ukulele
Bridge fitting, intonation, action, and careful structural work.How It Works
1.Get in Touch
Call, text, or use the contact form. Tell me what you are noticing, what you want the instrument to do better, and I will help you find a time that works.
2.Assessment
I check the instrument in person, talk through the problem with you, and explain what I think it needs before I do any work.
3.The Work & Pickup
I do the work carefully, then walk you through what I changed when you pick it up so you know exactly what was done and why.
Service Area
My workshop is located on the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, and I regularly work with clients from Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Laguna Beach, and the rest of Orange County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment?
Yes. I work by appointment only so I can give your instrument my full attention.
What instruments do you work on?
Electric guitars, acoustic guitars, basses, mandolins, and ukuleles. If you play something else in the fretted family, ask me about it.
How long does a typical setup take?
Most setups are done within a few days. Bigger repairs can take longer, but I will give you a clear timeline up front.
Where are you located?
Newport Beach, CA 92663. I work with clients from all over Orange County.