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2018 Buscarino Rhapsody
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Serial #: LW05121918
Body size at lower bout: 16" Scale length: 25 1/2" Nut width: 1 3/4" Body depth: 3 3/4" to 4 18" neck to endpin. Neck depth: .84/.93, 1st/10th frets
Materials: Master grade tonewoods include Euro Moon bearclaw spruce top; intensely figured mahogany back and sides; three-piece mahogany neck with curly maple centerstripe; figured snakewood fingerboard; 5-ply bound body; figured lacewod headstock with abalone script logo. James May Ultra Tonic soundboard pickup; gold Gotoh Delta Series 21:1 tuners.
Notes: Archtop or flat top? Why choose?
John Buscarino is one of the names you'll hear on virtually every short list of the premier contemporary archtop builders. Having worked closely with luthiery legend Bob Benedetto for a number of years, John also studied with the great Augie LoPrizi of classical and flat top fame. His artist list includes George Benson, Russell Malone, Ron Affif, Gene Bertoncini and many more, all keeping Buscarino's handmade instruments in considerable demand.
This spectacular guitar is hand crafted of mahogany figured in staggering intensity. The sides, binding, pickguard and peghead facing are all fitted with wood from the same stunningly figured tropical wood as well. Not to be outdone, the soundboard is bookmatched of European Moon spruce, interlaced with particularly vivid bearclaw figure. The bridge and heelcap are gorgeous Brazilian rosewood, and the fingerboard and soundhole rosette are both highly figured curly snakewood. Aren't they all?
A crossover design, the guitar combines flat-top bass and sustain with archtop projection, enhanced by the fully carved back, which is gently arched and hand graduated. The acoustic voice is clear and vibrant, with remarkable detail and resonance, and a graceful fleur-de-lis side soundport offers instant acoustic monitoring to the ear. The neck profile is a smoothly rounded D, with easy low action over a fresh high precision setup, and a generous 1 3/4" nut, ideal for either pick or fingerstyle play. And finally, the Gotoh Delta Series tuners are as smooth as they come, with an unsurpassed 21:1 gearing.
This example is in 100% original showroom condition, and appears virtually unplayed. A special bonus is the James May Ultra Tonic soundboard pickup system: an innovative, highly accurate five pickup sensor and endpin preamp, specifically designed for maximum fidelity and superior feedback rejection. A true masterwork, this model would exceed $12K new today, with a considerable lead time.
With breathtaking looks, and tone to match, this rare find is an exceptionally versatile choice for the serious player. One only, call now.
Setup: This instrument is strung with medium gauge roundwound phosphor bronze 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.
Case: Original deluxe black arched plush lined hardshell case.
