FAQs
Your Questions, Answered Honestly
Everything you need to know about guitar setup, mobile repair, pricing, and services in Toronto and the GTA. If your question isn't here, just ask.
Setup & Service
Why does my guitar need a setup?
Guitars, like all precision instruments, need ongoing care and regular maintenance to perform excellently. Strings lose their tune, parts break or wear out, woods move and shift, surfaces get dirty and metals corrode. If your guitar hasn’t been setup in years, that’s a problem — you’ll only play your guitar if it’s a joy to play! A setup will optimize your guitar’s playability, tuning stability, and overall performance. Playing a well-sorted guitar is arguably the best feeling in the world! I can certainly help you determine whether your guitar needs a setup.
When does my guitar need a setup?
A guitar is “setup-ready” when it’s free of major damage, deficiencies, or malfunctions. Before a proper setup can be performed, any significant issues — like broken parts, severe cracks, warped necks, or faulty electronics — must be addressed and repaired. Once these problems are rectified, your instrument is ready to receive a setup that will optimize its playability, tuning stability, and overall performance. If you’re unsure whether your guitar is setup-ready, I can inspect it and provide an honest assessment, along with recommendations for any necessary repairs before proceeding.
What does a guitar setup include?
A full MrGuitar setup includes restringing, string stretching and tuning, truss rod adjustment, action and intonation calibration, pickup balancing, fret inspection and polishing, hardware tightening, electronics cleaning, full body cleaning, and a complete play test. Every setup is personalized to how you play — your style, your preferences, your hands.
How long does a guitar setup take?
A standard setup typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours depending on the guitar’s condition and what’s needed. I’ll give you a time estimate after the initial inspection.
Do you work on all types of guitars?
Yes! I work on acoustic, electric, classical, bass, 12-string, vintage, left-handed guitars, and everything in between. I dabble in ukuleles and could be convinced to investigate a desperate banjo, too! From a beginner’s first guitar to a vintage collector’s piece, every instrument gets the same level of care and attention. No guitar is too humble or too fancy.
Do I need an expensive guitar to benefit from your services?
Not at all. Any guitar — regardless of price — can play and sound great with the right setup and attention.
Can you do fretwork on-site?
Light fret polishing can sometimes be done on-site. Fret leveling/crowning, heavy polishing, gluing/replacing frets, and other time-intensive fretwork is performed at the Rabbit Hole for best results.
What if my guitar needs parts or a major repair?
If your instrument needs new parts or more extensive work, I’ll discuss options with you and provide honest recommendations, including sourcing quality parts when needed. I can also take the guitar with me and work on it at the MrGuitar shop instead of completing the repair on-site. I would then charge a $75 delivery fee to return it (for North York, Toronto, Scarborough, Etobicoke, and Richmond Hill; longer distances quoted individually), on top of the cost to complete the repair. If your guitar needs work beyond my expertise — like a broken set-neck repair or a full refinish — I’ll let you know upfront and recommend a specialist who can help.
Do you offer repairs beyond what’s listed?
If you need a service not listed, just ask! Custom quotes are always available.
Pricing & Payment
How much does a guitar setup cost?
On-Site Service Call: $200 flat — covers travel to your location and the first hour of hands-on service, anywhere in Toronto, North York, Scarborough, Etobicoke, and Richmond Hill. After the first hour, billed at $125/hr in 15-minute increments ($31.25 per 15 min). Locations further out are quoted individually, with the fee increasing the further from North York the client is located. At the Rabbit Hole shop, a standard setup starts at $105. Strings and parts are quoted separately. Use the contact form to describe your guitar and what you’re looking for — I’ll provide an accurate estimate.
How do I pay for guitar setup or repair?
I currently accept cash and e-Transfer. All prices are in CAD. Additional payment options are coming soon.
Do you offer a Community & Education rate?
Yes! Schools, churches, and community music programs qualify for a reduced rate: $160 flat, covering travel and the first hour of hands-on service. After the first hour, billed at $100/hr in 15-minute increments ($25 per 15 min). Get in touch for details.
Do you have a referral program?
Yes! Refer a friend who books a guitar setup or repair, and you’ll receive a free set of strings on your next visit.
Mobile Service & Coverage
Do you travel outside Toronto?
Yes. I provide mobile service across Toronto and the GTA. On-Site Service Call: $200 flat — covers travel and the first hour of hands-on service, anywhere in Toronto, North York, Scarborough, Etobicoke, and Richmond Hill. After the first hour, billed at $125/hr in 15-minute increments ($31.25 per 15 min). Locations further out are quoted individually, with the fee increasing the further from North York the client is located. Example: Caledon, ON (approx. 1-hour drive) = $250 flat, covering travel and the first hour on-site. $125/hr after that, same as the core zone.
How does mobile service work?
I come to your location with all the necessary tools. Most setups and repairs can be completed on-site, saving you time and hassle. Sweet! If you wish, I can pick up your guitar, perform the work at my shop, and get it back to you. Bonus! If you prefer, you can deliver your guitar to me and retrieve it when it’s ready. Spectacular!
Do you offer mobile guitar repair in Toronto and the GTA?
Yes — mobile at-home guitar repair is my specialty. I come to your home, studio, rehearsal space, business, or office anywhere in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. All I need is a table as a workspace. No need to pack up your gear or drive across town.
What areas does MrGuitar serve?
The base service area includes Toronto, North York, Scarborough, Etobicoke, and Richmond Hill — covered by the $200 flat On-Site Service Call, which includes travel and the first hour of hands-on service. After the first hour, billed at $125/hr in 15-minute increments ($31.25 per 15 min). Service is also available throughout the broader GTA — locations outside the base zone are quoted individually, with the fee increasing the further from North York the client is located.
Are all services performed on-site, or are there limitations to mobile service?
While most standard maintenance and setup services can be performed at your location, some advanced work — like fret leveling and heavy polishing — requires specialized tools and a controlled environment for the best results. For these services, I’m happy to pick up your guitar, complete the work at the Rabbit Hole shop, and deliver it back to you. This approach ensures your guitar gets the attention it deserves without compromise. If you have questions about what can be done on-site, just ask!
Can you pick up and deliver my guitar for shop work?
Yes. If your guitar needs off-site work at the Rabbit Hole shop, I can pick it up from your location for $75 and deliver it back to you for $75 once the work is complete (applies to North York, Toronto, Scarborough, Etobicoke, and Richmond Hill; longer distances quoted individually). Shop work is billed at Rabbit Hole rates.
Booking & Process
How do I book a service appointment?
The easiest way to get started is through the contact form on this website, or email me directly at [email protected]. Due to limited availability to receive or place phone calls, email and the contact form are the best ways to reach MrGuitar for all initial inquiries. Once you’ve booked a service or consultation, you’ll receive a direct phone number for follow-up as needed.
Can you help me find a new or used guitar?
Absolutely. My brokerage service includes sourcing, vetting, and setting up guitars to match your needs, budget, and playing style. Whether you’re looking for your first guitar or hunting for something specific, I’ll make sure you end up with the right instrument.
Do you offer lessons or consultations?
Yes! I provide both in-person and virtual consultations covering playing technique, instrument care, and all things guitar. In-person lessons are 45 minutes: 15 minutes of music training, 15 minutes of practical exercises, and 15 minutes of Q&A and jamming. Virtual consultations are available at $100/hour or $25 per 15-minute block — great for setup guidance, technique questions, or instrument care advice.
About MrGuitar
Is MrGuitar insured?
Absolutely. I carry $2M in commercial general liability, $2M in professional liability, cyber liability coverage, and vehicle business insurance. Your instruments are fully protected while in my care.
Do you guarantee your work?
All work is performed to the highest standards. I ensure you’re completely satisfied with the work at the time of completion. Parts and materials are covered by their manufacturer warranty. If something doesn’t feel right when I’m done, we’ll address it on the spot.
Does MrGuitar document the work done on my guitar?
Yes. With your consent, I take 1080p photos and video before, during, and after every job. You’ll have a complete record of what was done and why. I also provide a written check sheet for every service.
What about live performance?
While my main focus is helping you play your best, I also offer live music for special events. Performing has always been a core part of my relationship with the guitar — and that experience informs my technical work. If you’re looking to add live ambiance to your gathering, I’d be happy to be part of it.
Still Have Questions?
Tell me what's going on with your guitar and I'll point you in the right direction — no obligation.