My Bass Re-imagined! Part Two

And here is the finished re-modelled bass. Whilst I was researching the Guyatone LG50, I really got into some of the weird aesthetics of 60’s lesser-known electric guitars: hence that was the look that I was going for with this conversion. I know it won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but personally, I think I nailed it!

At the same time, I modified the bridge, which allowed me to lower the action and also added a pickup phase switch. It’s amazing the extra tonal variation that you can get by adding a two quid DPDT switch! Time to play!

My Bass Re-imagined! Part One

 I made this bass for myself in 2003 and basically it was inspired by the Rickenbacker 4005 bass. I also made a similar shaped 12-string version that can be seen in my archive.

So, in between applying the finish to the most recent Standard mandolin, I’ve decided to remake/remodel/recycle it into a more…….shall we say, user friendly instrument!

All the hardware is good, and I particularly like the sound of the EMG pickups. So, the central core of the bass will remain the same, but the body is going to lose some bulk.

First job, strip it down.

Then cut- I think that this is known as “the point of no return!”

And start to rebuild. As you can see the new body shape is an enlarged version of my electric mandolin!

At this point, I forgot to take photos!

Standard Mandolin XV video

 As promised here the video of the latest mandolin.

Standard Mandolin XV: now complete and available

The latest Standard mandolin is now complete and is available. Below are some photos for you. If you remember, my intention was for this instrument to be a celebration of walnut and I think the beauty of this wood is shown off nicely in this mandolin. Also, its sounds so good too! There will be a video soon.

The current price of my Standards is £925, which includes a Hiscox case: shipping is extra. If you’re interested in this one, please feel free to contact me via my website.

Guyatone LG50: postscript

So, to complete the story, the Guyatone LG50 now has a new home. I was extremely pleased that it was purchased by a player who had owned one in the 1960’s and had fond memories of it. The restoration was an enjoyable project and the icing on the cake is to know that it is now with someone who really appreciates it. 

Standard Mandolin XV Update 2

You can see in the photos below, that the mandolin is now together. The views of its back really highlight my celebration of walnut that I mentioned in the video.

Next stage is to attach the hardware, make the bridge and get it playing!

Standard Mandolin XV Update

Here’s a few photos for you, now that the mandolin’s body is fully bound. By using maple for the bindings, I’ve ensured that no tropical hardwoods will be used on this particular instrument. Looks good too!