I own in excess of 100 guitars. Ben has worked on every one and can make world class guitar from wood slabs. And Mick Donner was one of the head designers of the Wolfgang.
Great guys, and won't upsell you.
Dave, thats an easy one.....
Go see Ben and Mick. None better. Near Tampa international airport.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Guitar-R ... 92?sk=wall
Find a used Fender Hot Rod tele. Should be able to find one for about a grand. Awesome neck, bigger frets, 9,5 radius, light, and will twang it up or rip your head off....And only Fender makes a Telecaster.
Or, if you are going to get spendy, many other options..
Congrats from a guy that may have a few pointies laying around....The pointies are now custom order only, and are actually climbing back up. As to comparing it to the Pro-mod....Forget it. All 05-06-07 Charvels were custom shop. Shannon, WIlson, or any of those guys may have built it.
I am sure...
Al's not well known to be a nice guy. Did a clinic here 15 or so ago, and treated the shop owner like he was his personal slave. Wouldnt even sign a shop poster for him.
Many famous guys are superb people, Vai included.