Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Ferguson.
Hi Michael, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I”ve been playing guitar and other stringed instruments since I was 13. I absolutely love everything about them and am delighted that I can work with them everyday and help other people get greater enjoyment from their instruments. I’ve always heard that one of the keys to happiness is finding something you love and make it your job.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The biggest struggle has just been getting the word out. I’ve done a lot of business by simple word of mouth and referrals, but have just started a larger marketing campaign this year. It’s definitely helped and I hope it continues to grow.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Tone Lab Setups?
At Tone Lab Setups, we’re passionate about unlocking the full potential of your guitar. Based in Lee’s Summit, we specialize in premium guitar and bass setup services, offering meticulous craftsmanship to ensure every instrument plays and sounds its absolute best.
What makes Tone Lab Setups stand out is our blend of technical precision and artistic intuition. We don’t just adjust guitars; we treat every instrument as a unique voice, fine-tuning it to resonate with your musical vision. Our team combines years of experience with a deep understanding of tone-chasing, ensuring your gear performs flawlessly on stage, in the studio, or at home. Unlike larger repair shops, we offer personalized service, taking the time to understand your goals and delivering results that exceed expectations. Plus, we use top-tier tools and components to ensure every job is done right.
Brand-wise, we’re most proud of our reputation for trust and excellence among musicians. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a player’s face light up when they strum their freshly setup guitar and hear their tone come alive. We’re also proud of our commitment to education—we love empowering our clients with knowledge about their instruments, from maintenance tips to understanding how setup tweaks impact sound. Our brand is built on passion, precision, and community, connecting musicians with the tools they need to create.
Our motto says it all: Perfect Sound, Every Time
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
The ongoing decline of local, independent brick-and-mortar music stores—down roughly 30% since 2010 due to online retail and economic pressures—will reshape the landscape for a local guitar setup business like Tone Lab Setups. The industry has consolidated around large national chains and online giants, but fewer local music stores mean fewer natural hubs where musicians gather.
As independent stores vanish, musicians lose trusted local experts. Tone Lab can position itself as the go-to community setup and repair experts, offering services like consultations, workshops, or even pop-up clinics at venues or festivals.
With fewer physical stores, online visibility has been critical for us and will continue to be our main marketing push moving forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tonelabsetups.com
- Instagram: @tonelabsetups
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToneLabSetups
