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2003 Andersen Vanguard
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Serial #: 366
Body size at lower bout: 16" Body depth: 3" Scale length: 25" Nut width: 1 11/16"
Finish: Violin finish, nitrocellulose lacquer type
Materials: Solid handcarved bookmatched quartersawn Englemann spruce top; handcarved solid flame maple back with matching sides and neck; ebony headstock facing; Macassar ebony headstock back facing; ebony truss rod cover; rosewood bound body and heel cap.
Hardware: Black Schaller 16X1 mini-tuners; solid ebony pickguard, tailpiece, knobs and compensated bridge. Seymour Duncan humbucking pickup, endpin jack.
Notes: Steve Andersen is a legend here in the Pacific Northwest, having produced top-notch acoustic instruments for over 30 years. First famed for his mandolins and flattops, Steve has built an international reputation on his extensive line of world-class archtop guitars, with endorsers including recording star Bill Frisell, and a host of working players coast to coast.
The Vanguard is designed for the gigging player, with a comfortable 16" body, and a built-in pickup for greter sustain and feedback resistance in club or combo settings. The tonal brilliance of the instrument is accentuated with a soundboard of solid handcarved bookmatched Englemann spruce of unusually fine grain. The extravagantly flamed woods, a simple, elegant design, and Andersen's ultra-meticulous fit and finish, result in an instrument of surpassing visual quality, and strong clean lines.
This example is in immaculate condition, without pick, buckle, thumb or fingerboard wear. At just 5lb 9oz the Vanguard is unusually lightweight and well balanced, with a lively acoustic resonance rivalling many non-electric models. The tight fiddleback figure of the maple is particularly noteworthy, as it is bookmatched with uncommon skill, resulting in a highly symmetrical chevron pattern. This example has been fitted with a Seymour Duncan humbucking pickup in the neck position, for a fat classic jazz tone, and the neck is a slim gentle D profile, very comfy in the palm. The base price on this model is $7700 at this writing, with a substantial wait. One only, call now.
Setup: This instrument is strung with medium gauge bronze strings (.013-.056). The guitar will accommodate lighter or heavier gauge strings, according to preference. String action is set at 5/64" to 6/64" at the 12th fret, with moderate relief for acoustic playing with medium strings. The action may be lowered or raised to your requirements with the adjustable bridge.
Case: Deluxe fitted black plush arched hardshell case.
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