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Podcast Episode

How Abasi Concepts is Redefining Guitar Design (CEO Tosin Abasi & COO Ivan Chopik)

Products of Music·Adam Wakeling·9 December 2025·1h 7m

About this episode

In this episode, host Adam Wakeling speaks with Tosin Abasi (CEO and Founder of Abasi Concepts), as well as Ivan Chopik (Founder of Guitar Messenger and COO of Abasi Concepts) about their journeys; the state of the guitar and pedal market; and their approach to product development and innovation. To learn more about Abasi Concepts, visit: https://abasiconcepts.com/ Many thanks to this episode's sponsor Chase Bliss. Check out Chase Bliss effects pedals here: https://www.chasebliss.com?utm_source=productsofmusic Chapters: 00:00 Preview 01:35 Intro 02:41 Abasi Concepts Origin Story 10:16 The First 7/8 Strings 17:00 Chase Bliss Sponsor Section 18:15 Compromises in Guitar Design 20:32 Abasi Concepts Product Development 25:16 Ideation to Production 31:30 Why Tosin Loves Analog Gear 34:40 Digital and the Young Generation 35:26 Where Abasi is Looking Next 38:32 Gibson Neck Heel Issues 39:37 Abasi Concepts Bass Guitars 40:00 Abasi Nylon String Guitars 42:05 Solving Problems for Guitarists 45:30 Leveraging Industry Collaborations 47:36 Guitar Market Concerns 50:00 Abasi Guitar Quality Issues 54:39 Entrepreneurial and Musician Advice 58:54 Quick Fire Questions 01:01:54 Reddit Community Questions 🌐 Subscribe for free on Substack 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts 🎧 Listen on Spotify 🌐 Follow the host on LinkedIn 🌐 Follow the host on X