"Out of ivory palaces stringed instruments have made Thee glad." Psalm 45: 8

Monday, April 23, 2012

New Fan-Fret Baritone

Here is a new model from our shop. It uses an interesting concept, that of a multiple scale format. The nut is slanted upward, and the bridge is slanted downward. This in effect creates six different scale lengths, one for each string. The point is to optimize each string's mass in relation to its length: bass strings sound better if longer...treble strings sound better if shorter. And as you can see, fret placement becomes something of a challenge!



This guitar was built using Claro walnut back and sides, and a nicely figured bearclaw Sitka spruce top. Rosette and bindings are quilted Sapele, a mahogany-like wood from Africa.





This guitar sounds incredible--deep and thunderous. There is a richness and complexity to the sound we haven't heard from other guitars. It is tuned from B to B, a full 5 semitones lower than standard.
So, is the fan-fret arrangement hard to play? You might think so just looking at it. But it falls under the fingers nicely and feels just fine. If anything seems different it's the larger strings: .070" in the bass to .015" for the top string.
This instrument is currently at our dealer, Acoustic Pro Musician: www.acousticpromusician.com

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

New Cases

Here's the new case we offer as an option. It is made by Ameritage cases, and really is quite nice.
As a plus, they embroider our logo on the lid (2 color) so there is immediate name recognition.


On top of that, these cases come in several different colors, as well as interior fabric choices.
A nice compliment to your fine hand-built instrument.