1991 Model 1 Brazilian
In 1991 I built a Model 1 guitar for my son Jason. Visiting him recently in Melbourne, Australia, I was interested to play it and find how the sound I’m looking for has changed over the intervening years.
At the time I built Jason’s Model 1, I had in mind the clear ringing sound of the Condal classical guitar I’d played in 60s folk clubs. It had an almost silvery sound, unlike most other classical guitars. I always loved the ring of steel treble strings so I strung it with nylon bass and steel trebles; not ideal for either intonation or structural longevity, but I loved it.
When I started building guitars, I was aiming for a steel string equivalent.
Jason’s guitar has the treble ring and clear bass of my guitars at this period. It’s a great sound, though despite a low action it feels rather stiff to play. But while the guitar is now 35 years old, it has hardly been played, and regular playing would surely have softened it somewhat.
The Brazilian rosewood is spectacular, and the sides match perfectly. I recall taking longer to bend these sides than any others ever; they put up an unusually tough fight.
.
However, these days I’m looking for a fatter treble and warmer bass, but without losing the clarity of earlier models. I’m using different woods, different soundboard bracing and thickness, and bridge and neck designs have all been modified and developed.
Recent guitars now played by Darrell Scott and Martin Simpson are good examples of my current designs; warmer and fuller sounding, but clear with great separation.
Darrell Scott with Definitive Series 2D
Martin Simpson with Anniversary Series MS model