Testimonials

“Hi out there in guitar land. I have two guitars Jesse custom built and they are amazing! The quality and craftsmanship is top notch. I own many high end guitars, Gibsons, Fenders, BC Rich, Rickenbacker, Gretsch, PRS and others and Jesse’s guitars, in my opinion, exceed the quality of these other companies. I totally love my Clay Ave Guitars. Jesse puts his heart and soul into every guitar he makes. He has also worked on many of my guitars doing modifications, setups etc. and has great skills. The tone and easy playability of Clay Ave Guitars are fantastic. I have played his guitars out and they get wonderful compliments on their looks and sound. I’d put Jesse’s guitars up against any other manufacturer out there for quality, playability, cool looks, awesome tones, and fair pricing. He makes every guitar with great pride and care to provide his customers with the best instrument you can buy. I highly recommend Clay Ave Guitars.”

Mitch D. - Grand Blanc, MI

“Jesse Hopkins does incredible work on anything he touches, and Clay Avenue Guitars are his flagship signature pieces. The attention to detail in the fit and finish is second to none. However, the most important thing to me as a player is the feel and the sound. I can feel Jesse’s experience with both vintage and modern guitars in every note I play. Love them all.”

Ken Haas - Toledo, OH

“Clay Avenue guitars are Detroit's best kept secret. Full Stop. I have been playing and collecting guitars for almost 30 years now (I know I'm getting very near old fart status). In my not so limited experience, Jesse makes some of the finest stringed instruments that the world has to offer. I've been dealing with him for over a decade, and I don't plan on stopping while we both draw breath. My first Clay Avenue was a custom hollowbody Boxer that I was super picky about. Jesse far over delivered. Not only is his craftsmanship impeccable, but his attention to detail is second to none. I was so impressed by the guitar that I have since purchased two more. They are the most comfortable guitars I have ever played, both in body shape and the feel of the neck. I actually witnessed a man tear up and give Jesse a hug one time because his fret work was so good.

 Every time I visit Clay Ave, I am greeted with an enthusiastic smile. Jesse is not only a great luthier, but one of my favorite human beings. He is equal parts guitar nerd, and mad genius, and I always have a pleasure sitting and rapping with him for a bit when I stop through the shop. His passion for his craft is evident in every new guitar I see him create. The single cut three pickup that he built is flat out the best "off the shelf" electric guitar I have ever played. I can honestly say that I don't see the point in buying another electric guitar that Jesse didn't build. I could not recommend this guitar brand enough for anyone who is interested in having a new favorite guitar. “

Noah W. - Romulus, MI