The Dragon's Den Update
On November 2nd, 2011 and again on Feb 15th 2012 the CBC program Dragon's Den aired an update of the original January 2010 MacKenzie & Marr Guitars episode in which John Marr and Jonathan MacKenzie presented their idea of importing and selling hand crafted guitars over the Internet. Kevin O'Leary, Jim Treleving and W. Brett Wilson invested in the company and 18 hours after the show aired MacKenzie & Marr Guitars was sold out of stock.
The update featured John Marr and Ian Tyson, the iconic Canadian musician examining the Ian Tyson Limited Edition guitar. John also commented on the success MacKenzie & Marr Guitars had enjoyed since the original Dragon's Den episode. The MacKenzie & Marr web site (www.macmarr.com) was immediately flooded with visitors. A new round of orders followed. This time the company had inventory to support the demand.
A significant number of email enquiries highlighted the difference between the update and the original episode. The original business plan featured in January of 2010 was not part of the update. As a result some visitors were unsure of how to purchase a MacKenzie & Marr guitar. Here is what you need to know:
We do not distribute our guitars through music stores. The only place you can buy a MacKenzie & Marr guitar is on line through our web site. The only place you can try a MacKenzie & Marr guitar is in the comfort of your own home. Were we to sell our guitars in stores the prices would be significantly higher. Buying on-line (even with our 7 day "Love it or Leave it" money-back guarantee) is not for everyone but for musicians (or budding musicians) looking to acquire a solid wood hand crafted acoustic guitar for less than other companies price their laminated instruments that's a pretty sweet deal.
Tofino and Dionisio are in stock for immediate delivery. The final production run of Ian Tyson Limited Edition will be available for shipping late May. Preference will be given to pre-paid orders. Available stock is very limited.
Shipping costs within Canada are $35 except for pre-ordered and pre-paid Ian Tyson Ltd guitars where the shipping is free of charge.
Comments
Tofino 462
I saw the recent Dragon's Den show and heard about MacKenzie and Marr guitars for the first time. I was immediately curious. My wife thought I was quite mad to order a guitar over the net. I did anyway. Felt reassured after talking to John on the phone. The Tofino came within a few days.
The hard case was attractive and of good quality. The guitar was in perfect condition and beautifully finished. I played it right away. Couldn't help smiling to myself. What an amazing guitar. Sat and played it all evening in the dark. Didn't even move to get up and turn the lights on.
The sound is rich and true. It compares favourably to my 1941 Martin. The Tofino will become my everyday guitar.
I can't recommend this guitar enough. You have to hear it for yourself. Take a chance. You'll be glad you did. You're in for a pleasant surprise.
Brian MacDonald
Kingston,Ontario