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Welcome to Circle Strings
Circle Strings is my sandbox, a place where curiosity, creativity, and craftsmanship come together. I’ve brought together some of the most talented luthiers in the business to build a wide range of world-class instruments we’re truly proud of.
As I look back on more than 30 years in the guitar and music industry, I’m honestly in awe that we get to put these instruments into the world - and into the hands of players and collectors who appreciate them. Whether you choose a Circle Strings, Fairbanks or Iris guitar, you’re investing in something made to inspire for generations. We’d love to build something that becomes part of your story.
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Explore our family of brands
Every one of our guitars is hand-built by skilled luthiers in our Burlington workshop. We combine the finest tonewoods with time-honored techniques and modern precision to create instruments that are as inspiring to play as they are to behold. Explore the distinct voices of Circle, Fairbanks, and Iris — each crafted with the same dedication, yet made to tell a different story.
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Precision Craft. Personal Sound.
Master-built instruments crafted from the finest tonewoods and materials available, with meticulous attention to every detail. Options from parlor to jumbo, solid-body to archtop and everything in between. Each Circle guitar is a custom piece, where quality is the only constant - a collaborative process that brings your unique musical vision to life.
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Vintage Soul, Modern Craft.
For players who want vintage soul without losing tone or playability, Fairbanks brings together master grade tonewoods and time-tested designs. Each Fairbanks is a new classic — delivering warmth, character, and authenticity that resonates across generations of players.
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Circle Strings and Languedoc Collaboration
Introducing the Circle Strings/Languedoc G4 — designed by Paul Languedoc and built in our Burlington facility under his oversight and guidance. It’s truly a dream come true to collaborate side by side with Paul on this project, and we’re proud to breathe new life into this iconic archtop electric guitar.
The Languedoc G4 Project
Read MoreThe Circle Story:
What started as one luthier’s journey has grown into something much bigger — a team, a workshop, and a shared commitment to the craft. Adam Buchwald’s story began in his father’s machine shop in Mount Vernon, NY, where he first learned the beauty of precision and the value of working with his hands. That early foundation shaped not only his love for guitars, but also his embrace of the tools and technology that help bring them to life.
Over the years, Adam’s vision evolved into a full-scale workshop and a family of brands — Circle, Fairbanks, and Iris — each with its own identity, but all grounded in the same dedication to tone, quality, and integrity.
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Premium tonewoods and luthier supplies
Allied Lutherie has been a trusted resource for luthiers since the 1970s, supplying high-quality tonewood and materials to builders around the world. Now part of Circle Strings, Allied continues its legacy with a curated selection of aged and responsibly sourced wood, much of it acquired from retiring luthiers and longtime collectors. Whether you’re looking for raw materials or custom CNC services, we’re here to support your next build.