About Us

    At AXB Tech, we bring together the worlds of artistry and technology to create revolutionary musical products. From handcrafted instruments and professional repair services to hand-wound guitar pickups and innovative guitar accessories, we strive to harmonize the fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation.

My Story

    Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, I grew up in a family deeply ingrained in the world of music. I was fortunate to have a mother who was a professional violinist and teacher, a father who was a skilled violin maker and luthier, and many other family members who were musicians, singers, producers, and music teachers. Music was not just a hobby or interest, it was and still is the heartbeat of my family.

Miles Shigemura - My Dad

    When I was 15 years old, I asked my Dad if he could buy me a guitar so I could learn to play. Instead of buying one off the shelf, my father offered me something far more valuable, the experience of building my own instrument from scratch. With his guidance, I crafted my first acoustic guitar. A prized possession I still hold to this day. This hands-on experience was my gateway into the world of instrument making and repair.

    I got my first job in the industry at age 17 when I started working at Harry’s Music Store in Kaimuki. For nearly 15 years, I honed my skills there alongside my Dad. In the meantime, I began making ukuleles that my Dad taught me how to build, and I started Ho'okani Music Company. I also became actively involved with Oahu Makerspace. Volunteering in their woodshop, I taught woodworking and instrument making classes while gaining invaluable skills in laser technology, 3D printing, and CNC machining.

    In recent years, I’ve been working at Dan’s Guitars in Honolulu, serving customers and repairing instruments while also working on Axebuilder, a brand I started back in 2005 but put on hiatus to pursue other ventures. Then came 2020, the year of the pandemic. With some extra time on my hands, I was able to bring together all the skills and knowledge I've acquired over the years and breathe new life into Axebuilder, launching a line of world-class guitar pickups.

    So here we are, at AXB Tech—a culmination of my life's work, my family’s legacy, and my never ending pursuit to create musical instruments and experiences that bring joy, inspiration, and a sense of community to musicians near and far.

Mahalo!
   Reid Shigemura