D'Angelico Guitars – Vintage Inspired Musical Instruments

Founded in 1932 at 40 Kenmare Street in New York City’s Little Italy, D’Angelico Guitars began as a humble workshop where John D’Angelico hand-crafted each instrument with meticulous care, producing roughly 35 guitars per year. As New York City surged with renewed energy in the post–World War II era, these archtop guitars quickly became the choice for rising jazz stars, establishing D’Angelico as the definitive voice in refined craftsmanship and exceptional tone.

Golden Innovations and Transition (Late 1950s – 1964)

The late 1950s ushered in a ‘Golden Era’ marked by daring experimentation with burst finishes, intricate binding, and exquisite inlay work that set D’Angelico instruments apart. In 1952, a young James D’Aquisto was inspired by a visit to the workshop and joined as an apprentice, eventually playing a pivotal role in the evolution of the brand. When John D’Angelico passed away in 1964, D’Aquisto assumed control, ensuring that the master’s legacy continued to thrive even as the guitar-making landscape evolved.

Modern Resurgence and Global Legacy (2011 – Today)

A major turning point arrived in 2011 with a landmark exhibition at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, which rekindled global interest in D’Angelico’s storied past. Energized by renewed passion and supported by state-of-the-art manufacturing, the brand revamped its product line—introducing both reissues and innovative new models. Today, D’Angelico Guitars continues to inspire musicians around the world, merging a 90-year legacy of craftsmanship with modern design excellence.

The D’Angelico Experience: A Series for Every Sound

Inspired by unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, the D’Angelico lineup is thoughtfully divided into three distinct series, each tailored to elevate your musical expression. The Premier Series offers our core models and popular variations at the most accessible price point—featuring solid-bodies, semi-hollows, and acoustics that introduce you to the legendary D’Angelico tone. The Excel Series, rooted in our original vintage-inspired designs, showcases premium tonewoods and select components to deliver the warm, rich sounds of semi-hollows, hollowbodies, and acoustics. For the discerning musician seeking exclusivity, the Deluxe Series presents the most celebrated models and limited-edition creations, complete with custom features and available in both solid-body and semi-hollow configurations. Each series is a testament to the timeless spirit of D’Angelico, crafted to inspire creativity and redefine your performance.

Masterfully Crafted, Iconically Designed

Whether you’re captivated by the refined elegance of the D'Angelico Premier Series, the dynamic versatility of the Excel Series, or the unique sophistication of the Deluxe collection, each guitar is meticulously crafted to elevate your musical journey. The lineup includes standout models like the EXL-1, a classic jazz box for which the brand has become legend, as well as modern semi-hollows, bold solid-bodies and versatile acoustic guitars. Inspired by and designed in collaboration with both legendary and rising artists, every model is a testament to passion, precision, and lasting quality.

Where Art Meets Innovation

At D’Angelico, every guitar is more than just an instrument, it’s a work of art built with premium tone woods, industry-leading components, and an uncompromising commitment to excellence. Designed in the heart of New York City, D'Angelico guitars capture the city’s vibrant energy and Art Deco aesthetics, ready to inspire your performance time and time again.

Who plays D'Angelico guitars?

D’Angelico guitars resonate with a diverse range of musicians. Renowned jazz legends, seasoned professionals, and emerging talents alike choose D’Angelico for its perfect blend of vintage allure and modern performance. These instruments are the go-to for those who demand impeccable tone, refined craftsmanship, and a piece of New York City’s rich musical heritage.

From the soulful warmth of semi-hollow models to the crisp clarity of our acoustic guitars, every D’Angelico is built to inspire creativity on stages big and small. Whether you're lighting up an intimate jazz club or recording in a state-of-the-art studio, a D’Angelico guitar is your trusted partner in musical expression.

Esteemed artists such as Kurt Rosenwinkel, Isaiah Sharkey, Mark Whitfield, Jeff "Skunk" Baxter, Melissa Etheridge, Russel Malone, Josh Turner, Eric Krasno, Elliot Easton, Matt Schofield, and Bob Weir have all embraced D’Angelico as the instrument that defines their signature sound.