Frequently Asked Questions

Questions about repairs, setups, necks, and shipping to the shop. Still have a question? Call (804) 790-1705 or email richie@acousticbox.com.

How do I book a repair or setup? What are your hours?

Call us at (804) 790-1705 and we’ll get you in. We work by appointment only, so please call before you visit.

How much does a setup or repair cost?

Our shop rate is $90 an hour. Every instrument is different, so call or email for a quote before we start.

How long will my repair take?

Fretwork and simple setups usually take about two weeks. Other repairs vary, and we’ll give you an estimate at drop-off.

How long is the wait for a conversion neck?

The wait for a conversion neck is 12 to 14 months.

How do I get a price on a neck or conversion?

Describe the build and send pictures. We’ll write up an estimate and email it to you. Once you accept it, you’re on the wait list. Details that don’t change the price, like bridge height and string spacing, get settled later.

How should I pack and ship my banjo to you?

Ship it to Acoustic Box LLC, 1811 Huguenot Rd Suite 201, Midlothian, VA 23113, and put Richie’s name on the label.

• Use a hard shell case, and slack the strings, but not all the way.
• Remove the bridge, or lay it face down on the head.
• Pack the resonator and the voids around the neck, heel, and headstock so nothing can move. It should be firm, not stuffed.
• Use a box with room for packing material on every side.
• Insure it, and put a second label inside the case.
• Use UPS or FedEx, not USPS.

Customer-supplied tuners and hardware are fine. We ship finished work back by UPS Ground and email you the tracking. Our full guide is at How to Safely Ship a Banjo.

Do you need a deposit, and how do I pay?

We don’t require a deposit for repairs, but you’re welcome to leave one if you’d like. Payment is due when the work is done. We take cash, checks payable to Acoustic Box LLC, or cards, which carry a 3.5% fee.

Where can I buy parts and bridges?

Parts and bridges are sold at BanjoMart.

Can you replace a missing inlay or make one from my design?

Often, yes. We have very good luck digitizing inlays and matching them as closely as we can to the rest of the board, so send it in. For a custom inlay from your own design, send us a digital file, a DXF if you have one.

Do you work on guitars?

We’re primarily a banjo shop. On guitars, we do nut, saddle, and fret work, but no structural work. We aren’t an authorized Martin warranty center.

Do you do appraisals?

We appraise instruments in person only, for personal records or insurance. Photos can be included if you’d like.

Do you do neck resets on banjos?

Yes, we do neck resets. Most drop-in conversion rings we’ve seen have needed one.

Is a banjo you have listed for sale still available?

If it’s listed, it’s available. Pickup is by appointment.