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2014 Andersen Model 16
Price and Status: For pricing and hold status of this instrument, please check here. If this instrument does not appear on the Instruments page it has been sold. To be notified of examples of this or any other model in the future, please email your specific requests to [email protected].
Serial #: 515
Body size at lower bout: 16" Body depth: 3" Scale length: 24 3/4" Nut width: 1 3/4" Neck depth, 1st/10th frets: .80/.90
Materials: Solid hand-graduated tap tuned Adirondack spruce top; handcarved solid Euro flame maple back with matching sides and neck; Macassar ebony headstock facing; grained ivoroid binding, truss rod cover and heel cap.
Hardware: All original gold hardware includes Waverly 16:1 open back tuners with ebony keys; Macassar ebony tailpiece grained ivoroid pickguard and volume knob; Kent Armstrong floating Johnny Smith pickup; 1/4" endpin jack.
Notes: Steve Andersen is a legend here in the Pacific Northwest, having produced top-notch acoustic instruments for over 40 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.
His Model 16 is designed for the gigging player, with a comfortable 16" body, responsive Adirondack top, and a Kent Armstrong floating Johnny Smith pickup. The tonal brilliance of the instrument is accentuated with a soundboard of solid handcarved tap-tuned spruce, and back and sides of highly figured Bigleaf maple, all finished in a lustrous violin toned lacquer finish. 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.
At barely 5lb even, the instrument is phenomenally lightweight, with excellent balance and a lively acoustic voice, from the meticulously graduated X-braced soundboard. The tight fiddleback figure of the maple is particularly noteworthy, as it is bookmatched with uncommon skill, resulting in a highly symmetrical chevron pattern.
Upscale touches include the Macassar ebony headplates, with matching tailpiece, and grained ivoroid pickguard, binding, heel cap, and truss rod cover. This example has been fitted with a Kent Armstrong Johnny Smith pickup, for a smooth classic jazz tone, and the neck is a slim gentle D profile, very comfy in the palm. The voice is warm and open, with a sweet, woody tone and excellent sustain.
Lovingly maintained in showroom condition, the guitar remains free of pick, buckle, thumb, fret, or fingerboard wear. A rare bird indeed, the Andersen 16 is scarcely seen on the vintage market, and has been unavailable from the maker for some years now. We understand that at this writing, the maker has indicated his immanent retirement, so sadly, there won't be another one of these striking instruments available from this renowned builder. One only, call now.
Setup: This instrument is strung with medium gauge nickel strings (.012-.054). 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.
Case: Deluxe original fitted black plush arched hardshell case.
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