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2011 Sadowsky LS-17
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Serial #: A-1850, signed by the maker
Body size at lower bout: 17" Scale length: 25 1/2" Nut width: 1 3/4" Body depth: 2 3/4" Neck depth: .80/.90, 1st/10th frets
Materials: Arched flamed maple top, back and sides; solid mahogany neck with adjustable truss rod; solid ebony fingerboard; 5-ply bound body; triple bound headstock; bound fingerboard
Hardware: Solid ebony hardware includes Sadowsky True-Ttone compensated bridges, pickguard, and tailpiece; black Schaller tuners with ebony buttons. Gold Kent Armstrong Handwound PAF pickup installed, original black Sadowsky DiMarzio pickup included.
Notes: Now out of production for some years, LS-17 was Sadowsky's rarest archtop model. The firm's only 17" inch archtop, it was also the only Sadowsky with the extended L-5 scale. Like the legendary Gibson ES-350 and Tal Farlow models, the LS-17 is constructed of highly flamed 5-ply arched maple, specifically crafted to optimize amplified tone while suppressing feedback. With a body depth slimmed to a comfy 2 3/4" depth, the guitar is easy under the arm, and its generous 17" body delivers a rich, warm voice, with the snap and articulation of the longer 25 1/2" scale.
The gentle D neck profile is particularly inviting, and the 1 3/4" solid ebony fingerboard, combined with the immaculately dressed fretwork, make for an exceptionally nimble playing experience. The Sadowsky True-Tone ebony bridge is supplied with two saddles, for accurate intonation with both wound and plain G strings. And a thoughtful touch is the placement of the jack, which is located near the tailpiece, well away from the player's knee.
At just over 6lb, the guitar is nicely lightweight, and nimbly balanced on the lap or strap. Beneath the lustrous Violin Burst finish, the body shows particularly vivid bookmatched fiddleback flame maple throughout. Carefully maintained, this fine example is 100% original condition, and without apparent playwear. A special plus, the instrument is fitted with a Kent Armstrong Handwound PAF pickup, the gold standard of jazz humbuckers, with the original black Sadowsky DiMarzio pickup included in the case.
With its classic full sized body, this rare bird is the ideal companion for the working player, or weekend warrior. One only, call now.
Setup: This instrument is strung with medium gauge halfwound nickel strings. The guitar will accommodate lighter or heavier gauge strings, according to preference. String action is set at 4/64" to 5/64" 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.