Since 2002 Tonedevil Guitars has helped set a new standard for the design, tone and play-ability of the modern acoustic harp guitar. Founded by brothers Anthony and David Powell, they keep their focus on traditional guitar making and modern innovations in the manufacturing industry and are creating a new culture from some of America’s forgotten artistic and musical history. Their attention to detail and practicality is paramount, ensuring a quality piece of American history.
With a degree in commercial photography and an affinity for tools and woodworking Anthony Powell began stringed instrument construction and repair in 1999, eventually working for a well known violin maker and repairman from Spokane Washington. He set up his own shop in a 2 car garage in North Idaho near his home town of Sandpoint where he constructed over 30 custom stringed instruments. Spurred by interest in early American makers such as Orville Gibson, the Larson Brothers and Chris Knutsen, he began building his own modernized designs based on their well known classics. Taking a special interest in the harp guitar he was adopted into the international Harp Guitar community and continued refining his designs and methods for this specialized instrument.
David Powell, a trained computer technician and software tester, was employed at the Adobe software company in Seattle Washington, custom computer manufacturing and the private sector. He studied classical and steel string guitar, and has had a long time involvement with the international Harp Guitar society. He is featured on the 2011 compilation CD series of Harp Guitar compositions; “Further Beyond Six Strings“. Using his skills in 3D design and CAD programs he has been able to refine designs of the modern Harp Guitar to exact specifications and consistency with laser engraving and CNC technology.
Together Anthony and David spent time in Nashville Tn. with legendary guitarists and Harp Guitarists such as Muriel Anderson, Stephen Bennet and Andy McKee. They extensively toured the shops of Gibson and Gruhn's Guitars. They also attended the NAMM conferences there and in Anaheim California where they aided and consulted with a new import manufactured harp guitar company. They have also consulted with and toured the custom shops of Fred Carlson (Santa Cruz, Ca) and Mike Doolin (Portland, Or).
The currently own and operate the 3200 sq. ft. Tonedevil Guitars shop in their home town of Sandpoint, Idaho and are specializing in the construction of the American Symphony Harp Guitar with special interest in modern modifications for the consumer market. They have many happy customers around the world.
If you are having trouble, feel free to reach out to us at 208-660-9632 for assistance