Features and benefits of the 10x GuitarViol
The worlds first high-tech Arpeggione!
For those of you joining us, this particular model is the state of the art TogaMan GuitarViol! It is a layered backstory spanning 30-40 years. (Actually, centuries). For those interested, you can read my earlier article Fits and Starts ; bringing a failed 19th century instrument into the 21st-century! (*an introduction to the rabbit hole). Or, jump right in..
So, what are the features and benefits of this long awaited composite 10x model?
From a production standpoint, (benefit/best outcome) being made from composites, it is possible to be consistent and precise. It allows for some (comfort/performance) design geometry that is otherwise not possible with wood. We can now make the impossible repeatable. Though presently limited in production, these can be ramped up if the capital is there. (In this Bolshevik crazed Green Ghetto world of our present time? I digress…). It otherwise means that composite technicians who would otherwise work at Tesla or Space-X could make the parts. This also eliminates the problems associated with climates and fickle woods. But, there is some wood involved! (read on). It means that climates and inconsistent organics are no longer a variable bottleneck to production; assuming the supplies/materials are there. The main bottleneck is yours truly (until set up technicians who also play the instrument well enough to replace me can be trained). Otherwise, all go through my hands to be shipped.
The player experience: The design/patterns (features) of this model are a “best of” culmination of the first (almost) 400 hand built prototypes (90% + owned by active Film/TV composers!). Those earlier models are essentially now jettisoned rocket stages. This present model is all about the best possible comfort, high performance and sound! (benefit). This is the answer to the question: “If I made only only ONE model, what would it be?”
The curvaceous hull (back, sides, neck, one piece carbon fiber) blend unhindered comfort absent the typical neck heel (speed bump) to the second octave! The body provides a bell like forward projection! The luscious neck feel invites and encourages the player to really “bring it”. There is no reason to be afraid to play this thing! (No fragile French Polish here!) The response is immediate and dynamic range goes from feather soft to full Viola bark! In 2019, I abandoned the old snail box unislot peghead and returned to the Austrian Stauffer design (By the way, Stauffer invented the original Arpeggione in 1823, soon it is it’s 200th anniversary!). The Stauffer pattern optimizes the string lengths. Also, the look of the black hull is a nod to Austrian builders of the day. The Pegs are actual planetary gears (Wittner German precision pegs), and a joy to use!
Each part of this instrument has it’s own story! The top (soundboard/speaker) is a recent development of the last couple of years and has been tested well on otherwise wooden models. Having a comprehensive knowledge of the mechanics and physics of violin/cello tops, I applied that to a vacuum lamination/infusion process that results in a gorgeous use of outer veneer, balsa, flax, carbon fiber. The sound? It really holds its own! (It even stunned long time GV players at a recent meet-up - see videos below). Traditional spruce is wonderful but prone to climate issues and cracking. These have a built in resin finish with minimal resin content. This allows for bridge nudge adjustments without marring the top! (An inherent aspect of this instrument: occasional position correction for intonation of a floating bridge). The bridge is still hand carved roasted quartersawn maple. So, that is an effective, efficient, and strategic use of woods! Maintence? Just wipe it off! Play the heck out of it! That’s it!
By itself (unplugged) the 10x is a force to be reckoned with! The optional internal bass bar mounted LR Baggs pickup adds a compelling plugged in/live sound that is perfect for looping performances and as a second mic for the mix in the studio.
In summary:
The uni-hull design makes for the most comfortable and durable playing experience.
The carbon fiber construction makes for durable life in all climates and is low maintenance! *The best maintenance is frequent playing!
The top (soundboard/speaker) is engineered for best strategic use of wood and composites. Sounds as beautiful as it looks!
The ViolGlide fingerboard provides a smooth zero friction playing surface that also ensures long string life. It’s optimized geometry is unmatched in the world!
The 10x TogaMan GuitarViol may cause uncontrollable fits of musical expression and productivity! No known cure but to create music daily!
We can go on and on! (Sure, I missed some bullet points in my excitement!) I invite you to the Valencia CA shop for a test drive! The high performance sports car of Arpeggiones! The TogaMan GuitarViol!
Yes, there is the usual backlog! (for now). Find out more about the process and the model. Reach out for a Facetime or Zoom meeting! Follow on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube.
Have an exceedingly awesome day and stay inspired!
J
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*Note: this is abridged to article form. Stay tuned for later amplified versions for my documentary/book!