Chapman Guitars
Community-Driven Modern Guitar Manufacturer
History & Philosophy
Founded in 2009 by British guitarist and YouTube personality Rob Chapman, Chapman Guitars emerged as a disruptive force in the instrument industry by pioneering a "collaborative design" process. Rather than relying on traditional corporate product development, the company utilized online polls, forums, and YouTube to allow the public to vote on the shapes, hardware, specifications, and finishes of upcoming models.
The brand launched with an initial limited run of 500 units of the ML1, an S-style guitar that combined modern specifications with an accessible price point. Leveraging Chapman's massive digital following and his close partnership with Lee "The Captain" Anderton of Andertons Music Co., the company largely bypassed traditional magazine advertising in favor of social media engagement and viral video demonstrations. What began as a player-driven YouTube experiment has since evolved into a globally recognized brand, offering tiered product lines tailored to both vintage enthusiasts and progressive metal players.
Key Series & Notable Models
- The ML1
- The original flagship model that launched the company, featuring a familiar S-style body. It has since evolved into numerous configurations, acting as a versatile platform for both standard runs and artist signature models.
- The ML2
- Chapman's modern take on the classic single-cutaway (LP-style) design, typically equipped with dual humbuckers and geared toward heavy rock while retaining a classic aesthetic.
- The ML3 (Traditional & Modern)
- A T-style guitar split into two distinct variations based on community voting. The "Traditional" features single-coil pickups and brass saddles, while the "Modern" is built for heavier playing with humbuckers and carved tops.
- Standard Series
- Manufactured in Indonesia, this tier provides high playability and excellent value for newer players and working musicians. These models typically feature bolt-on maple necks, gloss finishes, and proprietary Chapman pickups.
- Pro Series
- The brand's higher-specification line, manufactured in South Korea. Pro models come equipped with premium upgrades such as stainless steel frets, neck-through construction, locking tuners, solid carved tops, and satin finishes.
- Signature Series
- Custom instruments developed closely with prominent digital and touring musicians. Notable past and present releases include the ML1 CAP10 for Lee Anderton, the ML1 BEA for Rabea Massaad, and multi-scale/extended-range models for YouTuber Rob Scallon.
What Happened to Chapman Guitars ?