I have recently devised a new design where the transverse braces north and south of the sound hole are arched to allow the lattice bracing to extend into the upper bout. As the sound of the guitar is mainly radiated from it’s vibrating surface then permitting this vibrating surface to extend upwards into the upper bout will allow the guitar to generate more volume.
I have pared this new bracing design with a double top and an ultra lightweight bridge and initial frequency spectrum tests show an improvement in the standard lattice braced double top… which in itself is a marked improvement on a fan braced top and produces a powerful and sweet tone with remarkable sustain.
I am in the latter stages of the build getting ready to fix the fingerboard and finalising the carve of the neck.
Finally, I am able to take up residence within my new workshop overlooking the fells in Cumbria.
The space is split between a clean room and dirty room for the machinery. Whilst the clean space is somewhat smaller than my last workshop, it has at least encouraged me to be more creative in how I use the height of the space. 10 shelves within two bespoke racking systems have magically created 13 metres of equivalent worksurface !
In recent years, I have focussed mainly on making and playing classical guitars (52mm at nut). This has resulted in some wonderful instruments languishing in their cases . Given their beauty and quality this is a great shame and they deserve far better. I am therefore looking to re-home the following ……………
- Ralph Bown OMX style 2007. Mexican Rosewood (Bocote) back and sides. Cedar Top. Maple neck. Gotoh 510 tuners. LR Baggs undersaddle LR12 pick up. Guitar displayed on page 12 of the book …..” Hand Made Hand Played – The Art and Craft of Contemporary Guitars “. 48mm at nut. Scale 650mm. Calton case included. Email for photos. £3750 + shipping or collection from Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria.
NOW SOLD
Current guitars available for demonstration are…
- 1. African Blackwood 2 piece back. Master Grade spruce top with asymmetric fan bracing
- 2. Beautiful Madagascan Rosewood back and sides with Master grade red spruce top with asymmetric fan bracing
- 3. African blackwood 3 piece back with beautifully figured red spruce top and asymmetric fan bracing
- 4.Stunning straight grained Indian Rosewood back and sides with nomex double top master grade cedar and lattice bracing. A truly exceptional instrument with great projection and a sweet sound.
I keep a small number of guitars available for demonstration. Occasionally I can be persuaded to release these for immediate sale thereby avoiding the waiting list. Such sales are often at a favourable price giving the customer a dual benefit.
