Thomas V. “TV” Jones

Thomas V. “TV” Jones is a renowned pickup designer, luthier, and founder of TV Jones, Inc., recognized worldwide for advancing the art and science of electric guitar tone. Born and raised in Southern California, not far from where his NAMM Oral History interview was recorded in Anaheim, Tom’s fascination with guitars began at age 13 when his parents bought him a used instrument. Curious about how it worked, he immediately took it apart — a moment that sparked a lifelong career in repairing, building, and designing guitars. Inspired by The Beatles’ White Album and a desire to understand the sounds he heard on records, Tom became a self-taught musician and craftsman. In 1990 he joined the guitar department at the World of Strings in Long Beach, learning under owner John Peterson and becoming a trusted technician for players worldwide. There he met guitarist Brian Setzer, beginning a collaboration that led to Tom’s celebrated Filter’Tron-style pickup designs. Founded in 1993, TV Jones, Inc. grew from a repair shop into an industry leader in boutique pickups, consulting with Gretsch and Fender while continuing Tom’s mission to help musicians discover their ideal sound.