Latest build

[Jeff Pittel]

Here's a pic of my latest build (No. 4).

Jeff Pittel

[Ryan Mazzocco]

Looks really nice from here. More pics? Details?

[Bryan Bear]

Looks like nice clean work. I too would like to see more pics and details. How does she sound? I like that round bottom, let's see a straight on shot of the shape. What outline is it, or did you draw it yourself?

[Jeff Pittel]

The body shape was drawn by me. Somewhat of a jumbo, or even super jumbo. The top is W.R.C., the sides are mahogany and the back is sapele (yeah, somewhat of a mongrel, but the side and back do work together visually). I forward shifted the X brace (about 1/2"-5/8"), due to Martin offering that on some of their models, for a more 'vintage' tone. I think it works. String height is low, less than 3/32". Sounds much brighter than the older one on the right, even though they are rough;y the same in woods. Saddle is 3/32" instead of 1/8". Didn't polish the top, left it a satin finish, I like it, but some may not. Lower bout is 17", waist is 11 3/8" and the upper bout is 13".

Jeff

[Jeff Pittel]

I use a Bridgeport mill to cut the trussrod slot, about 17/32" deep. This is the first guitar I've built that used a compression rod. The rod was not covered in plastic sheathing. A very tight fit was achieved using an end mill. The slot was cut straight, but the maple spline is curved. The older guitar was finished with Duracryl, an automotive acrylic lacquer, the newer build, Behlen. I'm surprised how dark the cedar has gotten over an 8 year period, but the guitar isn't stored in a case.

Jeff

[Jeff Pittel]

Here's a pic of the Bridgeport being used for the slot. Whoops, this pic is too large.

[Patrick Hanna]

Ooooh, Jeff, those are pretty guitars. I love that round body shape! I don't know if you've ever toyed with this concept, but let me put a bug in your ear: You could make a mighty tasty arch top with that same construction mold!

Patrick

[Ed Haney]

Jeff,
I 'd like to see more of your guitar. May I suggest that you not use any flash to take the pictures. You could go outside if necessary to get good actual color without the glare of flash. Several shots including the top, back, sides, butt, peghead, neck and close ups, etc. will allow us to really see the guitar in enough detail to make meaningful comments.

Just some suggestions.

Ed

[Jeff Pittel]

Here is a picture without the flash.

Jeff