Hello y'all!
I'm starting this thread because a guitar I commissioned summer of 2009 is finally underway and I'm very excited. I've never had a guitar built before and it's safe to say I won't do it again.
As a left handed guitarist, I wanted certain qualities and characteristics in a guitar that I simply couldn't find with production guitar manufacturers. My wife doesn't really get why I need more than 1 guitar and I would love to share this experience with folks here who appreciate the nuances that each guitar offers to the player.
If you have ever considered commissioning a guitar, following this thread is a great way to learn exactly what to expect from Green Mountain Guitars luthier Glen DeRusha. If you follow this thread, I encourage you to share feedback comments and suggestions.
Basic specs are a sloped dread with a wedge and a sound port, 12-fret, 1 3/4" nut, Italian spruce, black walnut b/s. Tonal Characteristics are specified to be; some low end boom, lots of headroom to drive real hard but also very responsive to the lightest touch, mahogany-like tone with more overtones than you would typically hear from mahogany but less than rosewood.
UPDATED SPECS
Neck wood Mahogany 12-Fret
Head cap Ebony
Head cap binding Maple binding, b/w purfling
Tuning machines Grover Sta-tites 18:1 open back
Nut Bone left handed
Finger board Ebony
Finger board binding Maple, b/w purfling
Heel cap Maple ebony maple ebony
Back stripe Ebony maple ebony maple ebony
Vertical strips mahogany
Kerfing mahogany
Neck and tail block mahogany
Butt wedge Ebony maple ebony
Body binding maple
Top purfling b/w/b
Back purfling ebony
Rosette Custom Walnut ebony/flamed maple/walnut/flamed maple/ebony
Bridge Ebony, left handed
Sound Port Helix, left handed
Wedge Left Hand
Bevel Maple, Left Hand
Scale Length Multi-Scale 24 3/4" - 25 3/4"
Nut Size 1 3/4"
Pics are starting to roll in so I'm going to post here as I get them.
Aha, so when building a guitar you start with the rosette, and work your way outward? I didn't know that.... :bgrin:
This is Green Mountain's first left handed build
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_4866.jpg)
Mahogany Neck Block
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_4828.jpg)
Black Walnut Sides
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_4855.jpg)
Wet sides, Nice!
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_4856.jpg)
Time to shape up!
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_4857.jpg)
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_4864.jpg)
Setting up for the wedge
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_4860.jpg)
Bracing pattern
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_4833.jpg)
:drool: :drool: :drool:
Nice looking walnut....she's going to be a stunner!
Blue
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/cb5aa2c2.jpg)
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/c84b39a9.jpg)
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/7e20ff53.jpg)
I've got a few pics to add today. It looks like this guitar is coming together nicely. Cross my fingers, maybe June is the month I'll get this gem in my mitts.
back bracing looking good
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_4923.jpg)
looking real good!
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_4925.jpg)
...and a little vertical bracing
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_4929.jpg)
...and the neck and tail blocks, reinforced side for sound port
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_4930.jpg)
SWEETNESS!
That IS looking good...
Nice looking guitar. Can't wait until she's done. As Penner said, "SWEETNESS"!
Joseph,
How are things coming along with this build? Is it finished? How's it look? How's it sound? How is it?
Inquiring minds wish to know?????????
As much as I would like to A/B our forum guitars when you visit later this summer, if this beauty is all finished up you have to bring it along.
Finally the Italian Spruce top is coming together! The rosette will be lined with ebony strips, a center ring of walnut, and flamed maple surrounding the walnut.
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_5134.jpg)
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_5136.jpg)
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_5133.jpg)
Here is the ebony fret board. It should look a little strange because this is going to be a multi-scale guitar! I'm very excited about this. I didn't originally care for the option because I didn't really understand it and it looked odd. Then I played one from Green Mountain and oh my, it's quite special. The multi-scale (fanned fret) balances the strings similar to a piano, each with a different length. The high E is a short-scale 23 3/4" and the low E is 24 3/4". I love what it does to the tone. With the frets fanned, I find it's a bit easier to play at the top and bottom of the neck because there's less torque on my wrist. The 7th fret is perpendicular and the G string is standard length.
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_5146.jpg)
Looking good Joseph...whats are you expecting for an ETA? Can you tell yet?
Gary,
I really don't have a completion date. I still have his SD walnut on loan and that's been keeping me pretty happy :wink:
Thanks for the update. How about a pic of the "loaner" walnut SD. Does it look like what yours will be when finished?
Man that multi scale stuff is something else.
:nice guitar:
I found a sound clip online for a walnut/spruce Jumbo. They sound very clean flat picked.
Oh man, but I LOVE build threads! It's looking good so far. How's the neck coming along?
Rosette with Walnut center ring, maple, then ebony
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5152.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5151.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5156.jpg)
that's a beautiful and tastefully done Rosette
nice piece of wood! That's gonna sound wonderful.
Thanks Jeff and Broken! I put a lot of thought into the rosette and he created just what I wanted and I love it!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5173.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5175.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5177.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5182.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5190.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5191.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5198.jpg)
Looks good. From what Jeremy tells us and others that's the shape you want in X braces for tone and strength.
After studying these pics, I wish I had the time and wherewithal to experiment on some bracing patterns. But alas, time is running out.
Quote from: broKen on September 03, 2010, 11:04:22 PM
After studying these pics, I wish I had the time and wherewithal to experiment on some bracing patterns. But alas, time is running out.
It sounds like you may have done some guitar building.
Working on the scallopedvbracing
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5200.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5199.jpg)
I like it. :thumbsup
Quote from: bluesman67 on September 04, 2010, 07:46:12 AM
It sounds like you may have done some guitar building.
No, never have. I have made some nuts and saddles and other minor fixes but never built one. I'd like to, but some really great guitars are available for just a little more than the price of materials, making it hard to justify the cost and time involved. The price of a used Larrivee is outrageous.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5204.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5206.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5208.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5210.jpg)
Joseph, it 's really starting to come together. I'ts gonna be very special when it's completed.
Question... I couldn't figure out why the bridge plate is at an angle as your pictures show and then it occurred to me that it's probably necessary to have it that way because of the multi-scale fanned fret arrangement ?? Is that right ?
Hello Lynn!
That's right, it's because the scale length ranges from 24 3/4" to 25 3/4". You can see this more clearly on the 1st page of the thread where I have a pic of a cocobolo Green Mountain lefty with a multi-scale ranging from 25-25 3/4".
These are great pics, really showing the detail that goes into a fine instrument, and the perfect response to someone that says "How can you spend $X,000 on a guitar?"
We are starting to look like a guitar here!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5213.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5212.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5215.jpg)
There we go!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5225.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5226.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5227.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5227.jpg)
Maple for the bevel
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5238.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5239.jpg)
Other binding clamped up in the mold!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5240.jpg)
Great pictures bluesman67 !
Your new baby already looks great.
I'm having a guitsr built too, and can't wait for it to be ready...
We're getting there! Some binding work...
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5267.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5268.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5264.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5265.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5269.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5270.jpg)
Bluesman, that looks really great, and deep. What does it measure at the bottom?
broKen,
It's about 5" deep, slightly less on the bevel side and slightly more on the side that sits on your knee when you play. It's got a wedge so that when you sit and play, it leans into your body a bit.
That's cool. It's a deep body that doesn't feel so deep. Comfort is cool.
Hey, Joseph, that is an awesome looking guitar. I can't wait to play it. And you worried about getting good looking woods! Given how nice that other one was, this one--even better--is bound to be the guitar of your dreams.
Quote from: leftync on October 27, 2010, 09:40:57 PM
Hey, Joseph, that is an awesome looking guitar. I can't wait to play it. And you worried about getting good looking woods! Given how nice that other one was, this one--even better--is bound to be the guitar of your dreams.
Thanks Dan, hopefully it won't be much longer!
Glen is working on the neck now...(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5280.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5282.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5283.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5285.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5286.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5287.jpg)
I am really enjoying this build. I like seeing some of the techniques used here, they give me tips to do repairs of my own.
Joseph, looking sweet! If I ordered from Glen, I'd be after you, which means I'd have something to look forward to for a few years!! :humour:
Too bad you didn't have the time recently to drive up & see the actual git when you were up north. Nothing like teasing yourself abit! :nice guitar:
Really like Glen's headstock, besides the binding work. Reminds me of a Gibbie?
Who's idea was that wedge? Have never seen one like that before. We both will have a one-of-a-kind IS/Walnut guitar, but different body styles. Mine is It. Walnut, so plays with an accent!
J
It might be worth a trip to your neck of the woods from Calif. just see and play that one; assuming you might be willing to let it out of your hands for a few minutes :bgrin: It's gonna be real nice that's for sure
t the p
Quote from: dependan on November 02, 2010, 04:58:44 PM
I am really enjoying this build. I like seeing some of the techniques used here, they give me tips to do repairs of my own.
Really? How so? What have you picked up from the pics? Now I'm curious.
Quote from: BluesMan1 on November 02, 2010, 07:13:29 PM
Joseph, looking sweet! If I ordered from Glen, I'd be after you, which means I'd have something to look forward to for a few years!! :humour:
Too bad you didn't have the time recently to drive up & see the actual git when you were up north. Nothing like teasing yourself abit! :nice guitar:
Really like Glen's headstock, besides the binding work. Reminds me of a Gibbie?
Who's idea was that wedge? Have never seen one like that before. We both will have a one-of-a-kind IS/Walnut guitar, but different body styles. Mine is It. Walnut, so plays with an accent!
J
Yeah the production pace is quite a bit slower than I expected but I'm fine with it, no rush. The wedge was his idea, he's done quite a few of them and when he sent me the prototype colobolo guitar, it had the wedge and I really liked it a lot. There's also a bevel, very cumfy. We might be mixing terms a little. The bevel is the slot for for your arm to rest when you play. The wedge, is where one side of the body is deeper than the other side, so when you sit, the guitar naturally leans up towards your head. Does that make sense? You can see examples if you google these terms.
Quote from: tuffythepug on November 02, 2010, 10:42:28 PM
It might be worth a trip to your neck of the woods from Calif. just see and play that one; assuming you might be willing to let it out of your hands for a few minutes :bgrin: It's gonna be real nice that's for sure
t the p
Anytime Lynn!
Quote from: bluesman67 on November 03, 2010, 09:00:59 AM
Really? How so? What have you picked up from the pics? Now I'm curious.
Well, I am no builder or even a decent repairmen. Though I am slowly accumulating the tools needed as well as proper supplies to rework/rebuild/refinish guitars.
I bought a Yamaha dread with a smashed lower side at the end pin a few days ago for $45. It has a TSB top and looks pretty decent. Anyway I removed the binding in the area with a heat gun, exacto knife and dental tools. Also removing splinters and relocating the end block properly. I made some fresh hide glue, filled a syringe an injected it into the area. Clamped it up using a wood block wrapped in wax paper.
Let it dry a day and now it plays fine. I'll put the binding back on now as well.
Too much info there I'm sure. But the tape used to hold/clamp the fretboard to the neck is something I never saw before. Since the parts have no finish though it shouldn't be a problem. Also just the simple way of marking out the 6 holes for the tuner pegs was a solution I just never thought of. I have a hand made neck that apparently was not marked in that way and the holes are maligned. When I make a new neck or peg head I will use that simple method. Sometimes a picture sticks with me so much better than reading how to do it in a book.
Very cool, it must be real fun to buy a guitar with potential and know how to fix it up and make it nice. I suppose there's a lot that can be learned from seeing the inside of a luthier's shop and looking around.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5295.jpg)
Great picture ! :nice guitar:
Routing the b/w
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5296.jpg)
Taping the b/w
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5297.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5298.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5299.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5301.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5303.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5300.jpg)
...getting ready for the sound port...
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5345.jpg)
:nice guitar:
:+1: :+1: :+1:
Joseph, awesome build man - you must be sooo exited!!
Can't wait to see the finished guitar.
:smile:
That does have a good clean look to it. Thanks again for all the pics from this build.
The MOP headstock inlay...
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5364.jpg)
Getting ready to glue
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5366.jpg)
The glue
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5367.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5368.jpg)
Looking good all sanded up
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5376.jpg)
I love that headstock. From the binding to the brilliant shimmer of the MOP logo - and of course the workmanship.
The subtle streaks in the ebony look so cool. Will the finish on the head plate be mat or gloss?
Quote from: Zohn on November 21, 2010, 11:05:21 PM
I love that headstock. From the binding to the brilliant shimmer of the MOP logo - and of course the workmanship.
The subtle streaks in the ebony look so cool. Will the finish on the head plate be mat or gloss?
Thanks Zohn. So do I, I think it's perfect, and of course the
gloss finish will be the icing on the cake.
COOL :thumb That is looking real good.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5378.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5380.jpg)
Glen's a friend of mine, and a neighbor sort of. I've owed one of his guitars....and he does a fine build.
Enjoying the photos.
Michael
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5389.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5391.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5392.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5403.jpg)
New neck carving pics!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5405.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5406.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5409.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5411.jpg)
:ohmy: that "Gibby" volute looks good too Joseph. This guy's attention to detail is in the class of a select few...
:+1:
I'm intrigued at how Glenn cut the channel for the purfling strip on the sound board over the bevel - how did he do that?? :doh
Quote from: bluesman67 on October 17, 2010, 08:03:33 PM
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5265.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5270.jpg)
Quote from: Zohn on December 01, 2010, 07:33:46 AM
I'm intrigued at how Glenn cut the channel for the purfling strip on the sound board over the bevel - how did he do that?? :doh
Intrigued, so am I. I haven't a clue but I'll ask him.
Setting the neck with a sharp hand chisel and a sanding block.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5413.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5415.jpg)
Almost there!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5416.jpg)
Quote from: Zohn on December 01, 2010, 07:33:46 AM
I'm intrigued at how Glenn cut the channel for the purfling strip on the sound board over the bevel - how did he do that?? :doh
Response from Glen DeRusha, Green Mountain GuitarsI cut the edges of the trench for the black/white/black purfling by the arm bevel by hand, with a utility knife. Then I chisel out the trench with that little screwdriver, that I sharpened into a chisel.
http://s88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/?action=view¤t=000_5263.jpg
I start out a little bit narrow and then widen it out until the black/white/black fits. Violin guys do it all the time. But they get to use one of these,
Ibex Purfling Goove Cutter #T11
And one of these,
Purfling Groove Cleaner #T12
From this place,
http://www.pilgrimsprojects.biz/vtools.html
Bluesman67, she is really gorgeous !!! :nice guitar:
Thanks Braxton! Now the soundport needs to be done and then the gloss finish!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5417.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5418.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5419.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5421.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5424.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5425.jpg)
This is going to be a one-of-a-kind instrument Joseph. I'll bet you are getting anxious !
Don't you know it Lynn! It's only been almost 2 years in the making.
Looks amazing. Can't wait to take it home...I mean, see it and play it.
Now that is neat! A little fan to cool you off when the heat is on. :thumbsup
Quote from: bluesman67 on December 03, 2010, 02:39:30 PM
Response from Glen DeRusha, Green Mountain Guitars
I start out a little bit narrow and then widen it out until the black/white/black fits. Violin guys do it all the time. But they get to use one of these,
Ibex Purfling Goove Cutter #T11
And one of these,
Purfling Groove Cleaner #T12
From this place,
http://www.pilgrimsprojects.biz/vtools.html[/color]
Wow, isn't the personal touch with hand tools just the best?
:+1:
I love that soundport, reminds me of Bretagne's triskel.
But it raises a question: isn't its center a weak point ? I mean, if hit or pressed is it solid enough to resist ?
It's all good, this soundport design is one of his more popular ones and it's reinforced. If this soundport breaks, it would be a bad enough accident that a broken soundport would be one of many things damaged.
...and the neck and tail blocks, reinforced side for sound port
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/Green%20Mountain/000_4930.jpg)
Cool,
I was sure, but just curious. I think I'll go for a soundport too when I'll order a new guitar :thumbsup
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5435.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5438.jpg)
Cool !
I'm always happy to see new pictures of your beauty ! :nice guitar:
That is a wonderful looking guitar! I have enjoyed looking at the pictures everytime I come on here. Can't wait to see it completed.
I have been so distracted by the pictures I am not sure if you have said it but I am curious of the reasoning behind that curved edge on top. Is it just for comfort while playing? Also I don't know if my eyes are deceiving me but some of the picture it looks like the frets are on an angle and the other ones or not. Is it just the angle of the picture?
Thanks again! Hopefully you have it to enjoy over the holidays!
Thanks Sandro and link.
Link, you can go back and look at the pics and there's some explanation I've given on the frets. You can see even how the top bracing changes. I don't know how clear I was describing what it does, it's called a fan fret or multi-scale guitar. I decided to copy a few descriptions that are better than I can give and put them here. In short though, a fuller bass response and crisper highs. It's like a piano, different string lengths to balance the tone and keep it clear, mine goes from 24.75" - 25.75" (short scale to long scale...or longer scale!). I find it is less strain on my wrist to bar chords at both ends of the fretboard, it's slightly easier to play.
Bruce Sexauer, Luthier sexauerluthier.com
Tonal balance is THIS luthiers primary consideration, and multiple scales is a terrific tool. Think about the difference between an long scale Martin OM, and a short scale Martin 000 14 fret, virtually the same guitar except for the scale length.
On average, OM's have the focused bass, but often have a somewhat strident treble. Not bad, just bit edgy.
And the 000 will have the sweetest of trebles (Eric Clapton's namesake Martin is a 000), but compared to an OM it is a rare example that has clear bass projection.
My goal is simply to get both qualities on one guitar.
I am not talking volume so much as tone in this equation. It's just 1/2" of difference, but I find it quite profound in my work, and nearly a third of my last 5 years commissioned work has been my version of Multi-Scale, with many repeat orders.
I play one myself.
MikeD from AGF
I have 3 of them, and love the concept of the fan fret...
What you gain in a fan fret is the benefits of a longer scale length on the bass strings for a more developed bass response and a shorter scale length on the treble strings for a sweet and crisp treble response...added string tension with the longer scale lengths which is typically preferred with dropped tunings...One of my fan frets (16" lower bout) has a scale lengths of 27 - 25.625, giving the benefits of a deep baritone bass response while maintaining the crisp clear and powerful trebles of a traditional guitar. I find that a standard baritone does not have a treble response that appeals to me, but I love the bass you get out of it. This guitar has the bass response I love from a baritone AND the trebles I love from a regular guitar. To me it's the best of both worlds! ...
All three of them are remarkably balanced considering they each have 6 different scale lengths across the fingerboard...
So Joseph, what 're you gonna do with the other guitars mate? :tongue:
This is a terrific guitar - love the bear claw - :rolleye: hey what's not to like on this guitar??
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5450.jpg)
Quote from: bluesman67 on December 16, 2010, 01:53:45 PM
Thanks Sandro and link.
Link, you can go back and look at the pics and there's some explanation I've given on the frets. You can see even how the top bracing changes. I don't know how clear I was describing what it does, it's called a fan fret or multi-scale guitar. I decided to copy a few descriptions that are better than I can give and put them here. In short though, a fuller bass response and crisper highs. It's like a piano, different string lengths to balance the tone and keep it clear, mine goes from 24.75" - 25.75" (short scale to long scale...or longer scale!). I find it is less strain on my wrist to bar chords at both ends of the fretboard, it's slightly easier to play.
Bruce Sexauer, Luthier sexauerluthier.com
Tonal balance is THIS luthiers primary consideration, and multiple scales is a terrific tool. Think about the difference between an long scale Martin OM, and a short scale Martin 000 14 fret, virtually the same guitar except for the scale length.
On average, OM's have the focused bass, but often have a somewhat strident treble. Not bad, just bit edgy.
And the 000 will have the sweetest of trebles (Eric Clapton's namesake Martin is a 000), but compared to an OM it is a rare example that has clear bass projection.
My goal is simply to get both qualities on one guitar.
I am not talking volume so much as tone in this equation. It's just 1/2" of difference, but I find it quite profound in my work, and nearly a third of my last 5 years commissioned work has been my version of Multi-Scale, with many repeat orders.
I play one myself.
MikeD from AGF
I have 3 of them, and love the concept of the fan fret...
What you gain in a fan fret is the benefits of a longer scale length on the bass strings for a more developed bass response and a shorter scale length on the treble strings for a sweet and crisp treble response...added string tension with the longer scale lengths which is typically preferred with dropped tunings...One of my fan frets (16" lower bout) has a scale lengths of 27 - 25.625, giving the benefits of a deep baritone bass response while maintaining the crisp clear and powerful trebles of a traditional guitar. I find that a standard baritone does not have a treble response that appeals to me, but I love the bass you get out of it. This guitar has the bass response I love from a baritone AND the trebles I love from a regular guitar. To me it's the best of both worlds! ...
All three of them are remarkably balanced considering they each have 6 different scale lengths across the fingerboard...
You really have something unique here and you already know this, but some of us are really into this project and observing all the details closely. Thanks so much, again for including us in this process and if you have more pics and information I think it's safe to say "the more the better".
I have a chance to build my first guitar under a luthier, here in Austin starting in January. Due to a major change inn my little business I may have to miss this opportunity for now. But someday all the ideas I have gleaned from this thread, the F-III build thread and Jeremy's build (as well as Jim Holler and others advice etc.) will allow me to make something unique of my own.
I also find it interesting that you acquired the Italian spruce top Larrivee recently. I think that was an excellent choice and you will have one of the most balanced collections of acoustics I know of very soon with this guitars completion and the others you now have.
I look forward to future comments on the differences and preferences you have for each of your guitars. btw I changed the color of your quoted comments to allow some to read it easier depending on their theme.
Very cool Danny, you will absolutely love going through the process and no doubt be prepared to make all the best choices for your special guitar. I'm glad there's been a few folks here that are enjoying my build thread, I wanted to share...it's been fun to share with folks that appreciate what's being done...but also I wanted to give folks a unique view of by build experience just for folks like you Danny. Someone who thought about building a guitar, or having on built that could use the info hear to someday form their own special guitar. Oh and I will post more pics when I get them...all of them!
:beer
Quote from: dependan on December 26, 2010, 10:27:24 AM
I have a chance to build my first guitar under a luthier, here in Austin starting in January.
HMMMMMMMMMMm, I seem to remember someone in another thread, on short scale guitars, pretty much scoffing at my suggestion to do just this..............just talking!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5452.jpg)
Quote from: GA-ME on December 27, 2010, 07:46:39 AM
HMMMMMMMMMMm, I seem to remember someone in another thread, on short scale guitars, pretty much scoffing at my suggestion to do just this..............just talking!
Didn't y'all know I have at least 2 personalities :wacko: :arrow One of them is a dreamer for sure.
Quote from: bluesman67 on December 27, 2010, 12:16:24 PM
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5452.jpg)
Back to your regularly scheduled program :nice guitar:
This Green Mountain dread is is soooooo gorgeous!! I love the concept of of the fan fret neck for the tonal character, intonation, and ergonomics. Congratulations Joseph. I hope you get it soon.
DAVE
Big updates, we are getting really close to the finish! Here's the bridge, 35g on the button!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5492.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5496.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5495.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5498.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5494.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5493.jpg)
The gloss finish still needs buffing but all very thin 14 coats have been applied and it's cured for over 2 weeks. MaGuires Nitro.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5500.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5502.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5503.jpg)
:+1: Veeery nice Joseph!
that is a beautiful and well designed bridge. The slope in the pins-area and the distance to the saddle will provide a great break angle for max pressure on the angled saddle.
I bet you're getting real restless now hey? - good on ye man!
:bgrin:
Looking very top shelf indeed. The bridge design is unique, I have never seen one done with an angle before. But it makes very good sense to do it that way.
Thanks fellas, I am getting very excited.
Ready for buffing, buffing pics soon!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5508.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5504.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5505.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5507.jpg)
BUFFING IS DONE!!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5515.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5513.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5512.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5511.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5510.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5509.jpg)
www.greenmountainguitars.com
The buffing really brought out the bear claw on the top, the whole guitar is just beautiful. If it sounds as good as it looks you'll have a real keeper. Conrats.
:+1: :+1: :+1: :+1:
Stunning...
so gorgeous.
Happy for you, Joe. I can't wait to see it, play it and take it home...I mean see it and play it.
Thanks everyone, here are some more beautiful pics!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5517.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5516.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5518.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5519.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5520.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5522.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5521.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5523.jpg)
What is the saddle material?
Phew :nice guitar:
The bridge looks slanted. is that the way its being built, or is that an optical illusion?
Slanted bridges, especially on the bass side helps with intonation and keeps the note more "true", adds more bass response too (longer string). I'd love to get me a fanned fret guitar with a slanted bridge. :nana_guitar
The low E scale is 25 3/4" and the high E is 24 3/4". The idea is to balance out the strings, the shorter delivering crisp and cutting highs, the longer giving a more pronouced focused bass. Multiscale or fanned fret instruments have been around for hundreds of years. Just like a piano where the optimal tone is achieved with longer length on bigger guaged strings and a shorter length on lighter strings. The frets are also fanned if u go back and look at some of the pics u will see this.
I've had the pleasure of playing a multiscale Green Mountain for several months now, although its not mine.Glen sent it to me to help make many of the final choices on specs for my guitar, its been invaluable.
The saddle in the pic is just a blank, when Glen makes one it will be bone.
Frets gettin' polished!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5526.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5525.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5524.jpg)
notes from Glen at GMG...I made this truss rod. I have tried to explain how these work before, to a few other folks, and I have not been very successful at it. There are the parts for yours and a sample rod. If you turn the nut clockwise, it bends the rod.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5527.jpg)
notes from Glen at GMG...At the end opposite of the nut, I put this little shim in there before I weld it. You don't need it but, I do it anyway.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5529.jpg)
notes from Glen at GMG...I put a little wooden shim in between the flat bar and the round rod. You don't need it but, I do it anyway.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5530.jpg)
notes from Glen at GMG...Put a little bit of tape on it so the shim does not fall out and the rod doesn't rattle.
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5531.jpg)
additional trussrod notes from Glen...I made this truss rod. I have tried to explain how these work before, to a few other folks, and I have not been very successful at it. There are the parts for yours and a sample rod. If you turn the nut clockwise, it bends the rod. I think that these are great. You can make them any length that you want. Some folks say not to use them because they are to heavy and they rattle. Here is yours. 106 grams. Martin's rod is 153 grams, Stew Mac double rod. 133 grams. I think mine is light enough.
HERE WE GOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5539.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5540.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5542.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5541.jpg)
:nana_guitar :nanadance
:donut :donut :donut :donut :donut :donut2 :donut2 :donut2 :donut2
Oh my word - I'm lost for words. That is such a beautiful and special guitar.
Thank you so much for sharing this journey Joseph, I hope and trust that you'll enjoy it.
I 'm certain you'll use it to its full potential
I know that special feeling of getting a custom made, the whole process of design, sharing of info, the build and the ultimate prize!
I'm so exited and glad for you - congratulations!!
I believe another shot of you playing it is in order, and of course some sound bites!
:smile:
Glen, your craft and the detailed sharing of your knowledge is commendable.
Your attention to detail is astounding - the mark of a true artist man.
Well done and congratulations!!
:wave
:+1:
:ohmy: :drool: nuff said.
Jpseph--
That is one gorgeous box! I'll bet it will take a good while before you stop grinnin'. Enjoy, and congratulations.
DAVE :wave
Can't wait to get my hands on our--I mean, your--new guitar! Looks fantastic! Can't wait for the final picture in this series--with the Green Mountain in your hands.
:nice guitar: turning out magnificient!
:beer
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5547.jpg)
(http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k167/gmg_03/000_5542.jpg)
!!!!
:drool: Oh boy oh boy! It's arrived at the UPS Store, 3 more hours until I get it!!!! :nana_guitar
Quote from: bluesman67 on February 24, 2011, 01:21:13 PM
:drool: Oh boy oh boy! It's arrived at the UPS Store, 3 more hours until I get it!!!! :nana_guitar
Make sure you let it set in the box a few days before you open it, don't want to crack that finish. :tongue:
SWEEEEEEEEEEEET :thumb
Honeymoon time! Don't expect to hear from Bluesman for a few days. :wink: Have fun :nanadance :nana_guitar :nanadance :nana_guitar
CONGRATS!
Hello hello! I wanted to post this message I sent to Glen @ Green Mountain. I try to articulate my thoughts better on another post and definitely I'll be adding some pics soon. Thanks for letting me share this experience with y'all, it's made it special for me to do that.
Hello Glen,
You are amazing! This guitar is nothing short of spectacular! It's perfect. Your attention to detail and craftsmanship is top notch and it's a wonderful sounding guitar. Very loud! Sustain goes on for ever, clear and clean tone with some overtones beyond say a sitka or even Italian spruce topped mahogany, but no where near as much overtones as I hear from the cocobolo guitar.
The feel is great, the neck is exactly what I wanted and the fan fret 1" difference in scale came out real nice. Love the tone, the inlay, and all the special feature you created.
I just wrote out a check this morning to send to you, I'm sorry for the delay. I will send a few pics your way sometime soon so you can see your guitar with its new owner, perhaps it will send a video as well.
Seems to me you have a players collection par excellence now. (Is that the right way to say you got the gits I like?)
Hey,
How deep is the body on your new guitar. Looks pretty deep. I LIKE!
Very nice guitar Joseph! Congrats!
:+1: Great guitar Joseph - I'm glad for you man!!!
Now for them sound clips ok?
:smile:
Hello Y'All!!
I have been enjoying this fine guitar and wanted to post a final review, sound bites, and pics.
So fun to play. Beautiful. Very easy-playing guitar, feels real good and the tone is tough to beat anywhere. Load, clear, a bit more complex than a mahogany/sikta but nothing like a rosewood/sitka. Bass is not exactly booming but very pronounced the notes are very well balanced up and down the scale. What else is there to say?
Here are some sound bites, first takes so excuse the rough playing on them and the terrible singing on the Blind Boy Fuller tune.
Green Day SD Walnut (http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/song_8330364)
Keb Mo' SD Walnut (http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/song_8330390)
Robert Johnson SD Walnut (http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/song_8330439)
JPiazza SD Walnut (http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/song_8330515)
Here are some pics:
That's me, my new Green Mountain SD Walnut, and my Bigalli summer lid!
SD Walnut Slideshow (http://s156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/SD%20Walnut/?albumview=slideshow)
(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t28/jpiazza67/SD%20Walnut/IMAG0310.jpg)
:+1: :+1: awesome Joseph!
I love the Robert Johnson clip - sounds great and some nice playing too man!!
Congrats again
:smile:
For some reason I always have problems playing ReverbNation files (it stops buffering at 0%). Anyway, great looking guitar. How do you like the soundport?
WileE
amazing.
Sounds great, Joe. Gotta get up there again.
Joseph-- You look so happy under that new lid. The Green Montain sounds great and so does your playing.
It looks like it's equipped with a pickup. I've read that black walnut can be a bit fussy with pickup preferences. What's your experience been?
DAVE :nice guitar:
I wouldn't know about a pickup, it doesn't haveone, Glen just uses that endpin so that if I add a p/u, the hole will be the right size. I gotta think that with a good pickup and amp though...most acoustics would sound pretty good no matter what they're made of :smile:
Well Joseph, you have "your guitar". It's a beauty, and thanks for sharing all the experience so far with us. :donut
A wonderful guitar, Giuseppe :winkin: !!! :nice guitar:
And she sounds good too. Great clips :+1:
Quote from: Braxton on May 04, 2011, 12:50:29 PM
A wonderful guitar, Giuseppe :winkin: !!! :nice guitar:
And she sounds good too. Great clips :+1:
Grazie Sando, Grazie! Good to hear from you!