KUBICKI

product types: 

  • acoustic guitars
  • bass guitars
  • electric guitars

Information: 

Phil Kubicki began making classical guitars while still in high school. In 1964, while attending Fullerton Junior College, close to Fender Musical Instruments, Kubicki took a factory tour, filled out an application, and was hired by Roger Rossmeisl to work with him in his Acoustic Guitar Division. Roger Rossmeisl then became head of the Research & Development for acoustic and electric guitars and asked Phil to be his assistant. In late 1973, Kubicki left Fender to start his own business. Although Kubicki made some instruments during this period up 1985 he focused on guitar-making supplies, including Fender style necks and bodies. He did make around 275 short-scale guitars called the "Arrow" and "Express" during this period.

Kubicki's idea for a line of original instruments began in 1983 and became the Factor bass. John Taylor of Duran Duran played his Ex Factor bass in the band’s appearance on Saturday Night Live in the early 1980s which boosted interest in the instrument. The first production model was sold in January 1985. Stuart Hamm, winner of the Bass Players’ Best Bassist in both jazz and rock gave more credence to the instrument.  Production of the Factor bass could not meet demand. In 1988, a licensing agreement between Kubicki and Fender Musical Instruments was established for the manufacture and sale of the Factor bass by Fender that lasted until 1991. During this period, the main emphasis was on the development of the Key Factor 4 and 5 string basses as well as other prototypes. As soon as the Fender contract ended Kubicki was immediately back in production selling its Factor bass line. Until recently, Phil Kubicki was concentrating on filling special orders making custom Ex Factor basses with deluxe wood veneers. As always, the Factor basses are made in America and sold factory direct.

Philip Kubicki was a renowned guitar designer and builder who was active in the musical-instrument industry for more than 50 years. He died March 18, 2013 at his home in Laconia, New Hampshire. He was 69 years old and had been diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer.

Source: wikipedia - factor bass

Location

726 Bond Ave.
93103 Santa Barbara , CA
United States
California US