This week, we are featuring some local traditions. Specifically, local custom guitar builders, also called luthiers. Luthiers are a rare breed of skilled, intelligent, creative people who have a passion and drive to produce some of the rarest, most unique and beautifully crafted instruments in the world. In fact, rare one-of-a-kind instruments are often intrinsically more valuable than a leading brand instrument due to the level of detail, care and attention that is inherent in the hand craftsmanship. Up tonight for your inspection, is an example that is no exception. It is was built by a local named Tim Bram. He frequents the Garrett Park Guitar store and always brings fresh insights and knowledge with his presence. Below you will find some specs., processes and photos of his creation...IT'S ALIVE. Kudos to Tim and all of his hard work. Keep on keepin' on. In this world of hum-drum generic-ness, it is refreshing to find a gem. Thanks Tim.
The Piece is humbly named, The Tribute Archtop:
25.5" scale with a 1 11/16" nut (standard Fender)Rosewood fret board
Maple back, sides and neck
Douglas fir top
Ebony nut, bridge and tailpiece
Kent Armstorng floating humbucking pick-up
Schaller tuners
Tim was looking for a new challenge beyond another solid body guitar and says this about his process:
"I read Robert Bennedetto's book and some articles from the American Lutherie Magazine for guidance and inspiration. I used the general Telecaster body shape as a starting point. I did change it's shape because I thought of using the look as a tribute to the "Tele" rather than a copy of it. The lower bout is extended to 15 inches and rounded to increase it's acoustic volume. The body is built as a traditional archtop, with heat bent sides and hand carved top and back. I purposely built the guitar without bindings on the neck or body to achieve the clean simple look that the"Tele" is known for. The goal was to build a real archtop that is smaller and more comfortable than a traditional 17" or 18" model and offer alot of versatility as an acoustic or an electric."
I'd say, 'Goal Achieved!' See you all around 'The Park'
-Jan Eden
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