This is an incredible-sounding instrument; quick, responsive, and
powerful, very similar to my last double top (description of that one
here). The basses are very firm, almost
aggressive, and provide a great counterpoint to the lush, singing
trebles. Sustain is long, and there is a vast array of tonal colors
available to the player with the slightest change in technique. Double
top construction offers great volume, sustain, and "surround sound" tone
as well, but the easily accessible wide range of tonal colors is one of
the most exciting aspects of this type of construction.
Tuners on this instrument are Rodgers of my design, which is based on
a Torres tuner replacement I did (see those
here, illustration 29 at bottom of page). The rosette and headstock
and butt ornamentation are handmade by me after designs by Simplicio and
Torres. Headstock and bindings are
ebony; the back of the headstock is quilted mahogany. The bridge has a
12-hole tie block. The scale is 650 mm with a 20th fret, and both nut
and saddle intonation are compensated at each string with the Byers
method. The frets are a new gold alloy which is much harder and
longer-wearing than the traditional nickel silver fretwire and does not
tarnish.
 The neck is cedar with my Moorish arch heel cap, and the entire
guitar is French polished to a high gloss. This instrument plays very
easily and is set up with a low saddle; an additional medium-action
saddle can be made upon request.
A double-arched TKL 9100 case is included; shipping is extra and
billed at cost. The usual five-day approval policy applies; details
here.
Scroll down for more photos. Click on most
photos for enlargements and details. |
