Home / Instruments /Accessories / Ordering / Tips / Friends
archtop.com
1987 Andersen 15 Cutaway
Status: Pricing and hold status for all instruments currently available is shown on our Instruments page here. If this instrument does not appear on the Instruments page it has been sold, and is no longer available. Photos and descriptions of Previously Sold instruments may by found here. To be notified of examples of this model or similar instruments in the future, please contact [email protected],. Please be specific on which instrument(s) you're looking for, and we'll be happy to contact you as soon as they become available.
Serial #: 98, signed by the maker
Body size at lower bout: 15" Body depth: 4" Scale length: 251/2" Nut width: 1 3/4"
Finish: Cremona sunburst finish, nitrocellulose lacquer type
Materials: Solid handcarved bookmatched quartersawn spruce top; handcarved solid flame maple back with matching sides; flame maple neck; ebony fingerboard, ebony headstock veneer, triple bound body.
Hardware: Gold Schaller 16X1 tuners; handcarved Macassar ebony pickguard, tailpiece and compensated bridge.
Notes: The Pacific Northwest has long been known as a source for the finest tonewoods, and some of the world's most celebrated builders. Having produced top-notch acoustic instruments for over 20 years, Steve Andersen was first famed for his mandolins and flattops. Over the last decade, Steve has focused his international reputation on his extensive line of world-class archtop guitars. Andersen players now range from recording star Bill Frisell, to Dan Faehnle, former stringman with Diana Krall.
The Model 15 Cutaway is one Andersen's rarest models, made on special order in a single batch of three instruments. The top is hand carved of solid quartersawn, bookmatched spruce, with back and sides and neck of fiddleback maple with unusually tight symmetrical figure. Deightful to hold the compact 15" body makes an excellent travel companion as well. The extra depth of the 4" body adds bass response unexpected in an instrument of this size, and combines to produce a voice notable for its warmth, sustain and sonority. Upmarket touches include the triple bound Macassar ebony pickguard, bridge and tailpiece, all hand crafted. With a clean, elegant design, and Andersen's ultra-meticulous fit and finish, the result is an instrument of surpassing acoustical quality, great looks, and a surprisingly affordable price.
This example is in 100% original condition, without cracks, pick, buckle or thumbwear, and only a single small lacquer ding near the treble soundhole. At a mere 5lb. 5oz, the instrument is notably lightweight, and has a comfy gentle D neck profile with smooth low action. In a world mushrooming with wannabe builders, Andersen has for years been among the tiny handful of truly thriving workshops, with many loyal clients and substantial backorders. It's no accident that when his guitars do surface for resale, it's always cause for celebration hereabouts. If you've been looking for high performance in a small package, don't let this little wonder get away.
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: Original black plush hardshell case.
Home / Instruments /Accessories / Ordering / Tips / Friends