Construction
The construction has its simplicity based on classical guitars with the emphasis placed on rigidity of the neck/body joint. The guitars are built on a solera board with the neck playing an integral part. The ribs are fed into the extended foot of the neck and rigidly glued with tapered wedges. Akin to Martin guitars (prior to 1985) I employ the use of a fixed tubular truss-rod. To acheive an active soundboard it is slightly domed with either conventional 'X' bracing or a variation with radial struts which are individually scalloped to maximise sensitivity. The ribs are further supported internally with vertical struts.
Headstock
In keeping with tradition, I make the slotted headstock with a 'V' or volute joint, fitted with Waverly precision machine heads, these can be ordered with different buttons as required (at extra cost).
Neck
The neck is usually made from mahogany, however I have had interesting results from sycamore and other hard woods with their influence on the sound. A simple 12 fret to body fingerboard is essential to the sound of these instruments. Nut widths can be typically between 43-48mm to accommodate individual requirements.
Back and Sides
The individual 'voice' of the guitar is greatly influenced by the choice of woods for back and sides. I like to experiment with a wide range of hardwoods in order to create that special lilt to the sound but have a preference for lighter woods for these smaller bodied instruments which allows the sound to radiate from the body.
Tops
Spruce or cedar is normall used to compliment the sounds and visual appearance of the guitar.
The choice of hardwoods for both fingerboard and bridge are usually matched and are typically between ebony and rosewood. The density of the hardwood is also a factor in tailoring the sound. Fingerboards may also be bound to match the body depending on the individual needs.
Bridge Pins
I mostly use boxwood with abalone dots for the bridge pins but have used ebony on occasion, chosen mainly for aesthetic appeal but also adding to the woody tone.
Nut and Saddle
Bone is used for making the saddle, transmitting the active string vibration through to the soundboard. Bone is also used for the nut but I have been trying brass with good results.
Rosette
Olivewood is used with its distinctive grain patterns, also influencing the parlour name.
Dimensions
There are two basic model sizes 00/12 and 0/12.
00/12 is the more standard size, dimensions are: overall length 980mm, lower bout 355mm, upper bout 250mm, body length 500mm, depth at heel 83mm, depth at base 103mm.
0/12 the smaller size, dimensions are: overall length 965mm, lower bout 340mm, upper bout 240mm, body length 495mm, depth at heel 86mm, depth at base 106mm.
Scale length is 630mm.
Prices
£1,800 starting price depending on the choice of woods and hardware used. An initial deposit of 15% of the total cost would be required on commissioned instruments. Left hand models would be considered at no extra cost. Guitar price includes a hard case.