ralexander -> RE: Resident Luthiers - ever built a steel string? (Oct. 5 2012 16:53:15)
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I've made three steel strung guitars in recent years, all Martin types: a OOO, an OM type and an OM cutaway. All three were commissions and I was very pleased with them, as were their owners, but the thing is, I have no desire to make any more. It's a very different instrument, more heavily built because of the higher tensions, different construction method and of course the diffent musical culture it comes from. They always feel to me, like the design is essentially for factory production, whereas the Spanish guitar is from an artisan, hand made tradition, which is much more appealing. I know that is something of an over-simplification because both types of guitar can, and are, made in both ways, but for me, the Spanish guitar and its method of construction are much more beautiful and thats what motivates me. Interesting, Kevin - thanks for your input. I love lightly built guitars, but have also played a few heavier ones that knocked my socks off (ie Greenfield). Of course, you build what you want to build - fair play to ya! Gimar - the top purfling adds a lot to the look IMO. I think when it's not there, people miss it but they don't always know why. I agree with Anders, Sitka can be so beautiful and it's neat how it changes over time. I think Lutz has to be my favorite top for a steel string. It seems to share characteristics of Sitka and Englemann. I've never seen a flamenco with Lutz, that would be interesting.
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