The process through which a new model is developped is, as you may guess, quite lengthy. As a case in point, the Oval Mac shown to the right is my second prototype of what could become a "design to keep". Luthiers usually don't show these first attempts as they are often riddled with imperfections due to either the less than Master Grade wood selection or whatever last minute changes to the prototype as it is being built. So, I thought it would be inetresting for you to see you what it looks like in the first development stages.
Here, I've started with the fairly well-known Maccaferri design, with its steep cutaway, and played with a few parameters. I first decided to get away with the pliage of the top (which I think is the "wrong" way to force a top into shape). Secondly, I reduced the scale to a more mainstream 25.5", and came up with the instrument to the right. The bridge layout is an attempt at keeping the "moustache style" bridge without using a separate tailpiece. I'm not too sure it's very succesful aestetically but soundwise, it definitely works. Finally, I've modified the sound hole to be on a 45 degree oval axis. Quite efficient from the stylistic point of view I think, but this "minor" modification lead to a significant challenge when it came time to brace and voice the top.
To make a long story short, I'm quite happy with the way it sounds so far. There's a good separation of the lows, mids, and highs, but I still find the overall tone a bit on the "dry" side. My gut feeling is that scalloping the braces and switching to mahogany back and sides will bring in the warmth I'm after. One more prototype is definitely in order...More on that in the next few months.
(For more pics and info, click on guitar)
