Dingwall Guitars, specializing in bass guitars, was founded in 1987 by luthier Sheldon Dingwall in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, initially as a repair shop before evolving into custom instrument building. The brand gained prominence in the 1990s for pioneering the Novax fanned-fret system, a multi-scale design that optimizes string tension and intonation for extended-range basses, making them ideal for modern playing techniques. Starting with high-end custom models, Dingwall expanded into production lines like the Combustion and NG series in the 2000s, earning a reputation among professional bassists for their ergonomic innovation, tonal clarity, and build quality, particularly in progressive rock, metal, and session work.
Notable Artists Who Have Used Dingwall Bass Guitars
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Leland "Lee" Sklar (Session bassist for artists like Phil Collins and Toto): A legendary studio musician, Sklar has a signature Dingwall Z3 bass model, praised for its versatility in recording sessions and live performances across genres.
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Adam "Nolly" Getgood (Periphery, producer): As a bassist and producer in the djent/metal scene, Getgood collaborated on the NG signature series, using Dingwall basses for their precise low-end response in complex, heavy music.
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Abraham Laboriel (Session bassist for artists like Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder): Renowned for his fusion and jazz work, Laboriel endorses Dingwall basses for their innovative fanned frets, which enhance playability on extended-range instruments.
