Starr Guitars, LLC
Starr Guitars, LLC
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      • Why Starr Guitars
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  • Home
  • Finishing
  • Colors
    • Solid Colors
    • Metallics
    • Sparkles
  • About Us
    • Why Starr Guitars
    • Our Team
    • Policies
  • Contact
GET TO KNOW US

Our Fearless Crew

We are more than just skilled finishers. We are a team of dedicated musicians and music enthusiasts, driven by our dedication to craftsmanship and the art of lutherie. We work hard everyday to provide our customers with finishes that inspire awe and creativity every-time they pick up their instrument.

Kip Elder

OWNER / LUTHIER / GUITARIST


I started Starr Guitars with the belief that the simplest things, when crafted with care and passion, can become the greatest sources of inspiration. Also, killer looking guitars just ROCK harder, louder, and better!!! Those ideas are what drive my meticulous approach to instrument finishing. 


Having spent the formative years of my career scratching my “rockstar” itch, I developed a profound understanding of how craftsmanship and aesthetics significantly elevates the performance, quality, and connection with an instrument. I personally realized that instruments were much more than tools; they became an extension of my creative identity. 


More than anything, I want to inspire people through the work that I do to be creative and feel pride in their work.

From the day I first held a guitar in my hands, I was hooked forever.


Kip Elder

Ken Hountz

OWNER / CFO / GUITARIST


Business partner, musician, listener, consultant, financial advisor to Starr and to hundreds of clients for a large firm, Ken's financial and business background are a solid compliment to Kip's craftwork. 


Since 2006, working together as friends and colleagues, they have built a solid foundation for Starr Guitars to stand on.


Ken is both a music lover and a passionate guitar player and his love of the guitar itself is what brought him to the fold.

Work hard, Be Your Best, and Strive For Excellence. Success will follow.


Ken Hountz

Justin Martin

PAINT MANAGER / AUDIO ENGINEER / BASSIST


Justin, otherwise known as "Afro Thunder", came to us in 2017 as a fantastic professional bass player who was interested in learning our part of making instruments. 


In the years since, he has grown to become an extremely skilled painter and has been able to take control of the paint department. We are truly grateful to have him on our team. 


Outside of work, Justin enjoys creating music and honing his audio engineering skills. When there's not a guitar or bass in his hands, he's either practicing photography, working on 3D modeling/printing, or playing video games.


Learn new skills, experience new things. Life shouldn't be a bogus journey.


Justin Martin

Frank Pena

OFFICE MANAGER / DESIGNER / GUITARIST


Officially becoming a part of the company in 2023, Frank has been a friend and creative force for us behind the scenes for quite some time. With a background in creative design, a head for business, and a compulsion for organization, he keeps the shop running safely and smoothly. 


Outside of work, Frank enjoys spending time on his creative talents, such as designing musical instruments, playing guitar, and graphic design. Above all, his favorite thing to do is spend time with his children.



All the good quotes were taken? Well, I guess all that's left to say is: Party on, dudes!


Frank Pena

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Starr Guitars, LLC.

(689) 231-4566

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