Optional Features and Appointments
Custom Nut and Saddle Widths
Non-commissioned instruments normally go out with a 1 3/4" nut width and 2.25" string spacing at the saddle. If you have moderate to large hands, you might consider a 1 13/16" nut width. I find this a makes for a very comfortable fingerstyle neck. Custom nut and saddle widths are no cost options.
Custom Neck Profile
My standard neck is the approximate shape and thickness of a Taylor neck. I do add a small amount in thickness as the neck moves towards the heel. Ultimately, I would classify the neck as a C-shaped profile of moderate thickness. If you have a specific neck profile in mind, I can make an exact copy if you provide a template with dimensions -- contact me for "How to" details. A custom neck profile is a no cost option.
Mitred Back Centerstrip
I love the classical appeal of a matching tailblock and back centerseam. The look is timeless, elegant, and sophisticated. In most cases, I find this appointment greatly enhances the beauty of an instrument.
Headstock Backstrap
I use a 3-layer veneer for my headstock backstraps. I will often recommend having the top and bottom layers be the same wood as the binding and that the middle layer be Honduran Mahogany (the same as the neck). This is a beautiful appointment that gives the headstock strong visual interest and artistry while also highlighting the curved volute.
Soundport
In many ways, I am a traditionalist when it comes to the shape and function of the guitar. However, I have consistently found that a soundport slightly increases the response, volume, and projection of my guitars. Moreover, the dual openings (the port and soundhole) give added dimension to the sound that I find pleasing.
Florentine Cutaway
This cutaway was a long time in the making. Like the body shape, I wanted the aesthetics to have classical symmetry but with a clean, modern edge. I think this is a sophisticated design that truly complements the body shape and enhances the overall look of my instruments. All points of the Florentine cutaway feature complete mitres.
Ryan Style Bevel
Bevels are a fairly recent phenomenon in the lutherie community and there are two individuals credited for this innovation in its current form. Grit Laskin (a Canadian builder noted for his extraordinary inlay work) first pioneered the bevel many years ago. His design stylishly interrupts the binding/purfling on the lower bout at the bevel transition. Kevin Ryan, inspired by the Laskin bevel, came up with his own design that features a smooth transition between the bevel and the binding/purfling. I offer my own take on the Ryan Style Bevel that is aesthetically coherent with the rest of my design.
Calton Cases
Calton cases are high-end flight cases and they are well worth the investment if you do a lot of traveling with your instrument. I have them custom made for my instruments and they are available in many different exterior and interior color choices.
Pickups
I can install just about any pickup system in my guitars. However, the most popular pickup installation is the very natural sounding KK Western Mini. This is a passive soundboard transducer system that has enough signal strength to be plugged directly into an amp.. The second most popular installation is the KK Trinity which is a dual-source of the Western Mini and a soundhole mic. While it isn't the most economically priced option, it is one of the very best at authentic sound reproduction.