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“Like Fenders on steroids” is how some players describe Roger Sadowsky’s electric guitars and basses. And it’s easy to see (and hear) why: Since 1979, he’s been making beautiful, pitch-perfect instruments that have become the industry standard in New York and around the world. Sadowsky’s active electronics use battery-powered circuitry within the instrument itself, as well as new methods in reducing unwanted electronic noise. Over time, he learned that different woods used to build an instrument, acoustic or electric, could change its overall sound. As a result, the guitars and basses each come in three basic body styles but can be endlessly customized with different finishes, electronic tweakings and different woods; most are built from some combination of alder, swamp ash, maple, rosewood, and ebony. With a tool room, stacks of wood, and diligent staff working away, the studio is more workshop than store; there’s also a private, sound-proofed room for test-driving the wares. While his list of celebrity clients goes on and on, Sadowsky says he’s really in it for the Broadway pit players, the studio musicians, the guys playing club gigs and the students, all of whom rely on his unique creations. — Andrew Sessa