So I recently had a conversation with another call maker about this. I made the statement that not all premium calls are custom. In my opinion premium is defined by sound quality and playability. Being cosmetically right such as fit and finish is expected as premium but embellishments are not. I like to think of myself as being in this crowd. I'll tell you first thing I'm not building custom calls with the exception of custom diaphragms.
Now custom is something different. It's hand made regardless of method. No CNC products, but built one at a time or in very very small batches and extra time is taken to be sure it's nothing short of right.
I want to hear what others think of premium calls that aren't necessarily custom, and any flattering words for custom makers as well. There's a lot of guys who over the years who've standardized production and even some mass production calls that have met the premium status.
