|
The recently introduced ‘Ellipse’ guitar by Edward Klein elegantly integrates form and function into a contemporary instrument that is a work of art. Although playful in appearance, advanced features are thoughtfully engineered into this unique asymmetrical design.
Immediately apparent is the fanned fret fingerboard which takes advantage of the characteristics of long vs. short scale lengths, essentially getting the best of both worlds. The string scale is an important parameter that influences the tone and playability of a guitar to a great degree. The harmonic content of a longer vibrating string favours bass adding sonority, power and fullness to its timbre. Comparatively, shorter scale lengths are treble oriented with a tendency to sound more pointed and less resonant. But the longer scale length guitars are better suited to players with strong, large hands capable of dealing with a higher action and greater fret to fret distances. Conversely, the shorter scale length instruments are easier and faster to play in this regard, especially for those with smaller hands. Spanning the lengths of 640 to 660 mm, this subtle fanning is very comfortable and natural to play. For more information on this subject please refer to the link on Ralph Novak.
A pinless bridge fitted with individual bone saddles encourage good string to string separation bringing clarity to the voice of this guitar. Amplification is achieved by mounting a sensitive transducer under the soundboard in the bridge area. Onboard active electronics with preamp and battery are easily accessible via the removable panel (elliptical in shape of course!) An outboard preamp/DI box with passive pickup is a better alternative should one require more control over tailoring the sound desired.
Absence of a traditional heel where the neck meets the guitar body, in addition to a tilted upper bout ellipse and an elevated fingerboard, allows easier reach to the higher frets.
Shown here is the crossover steel string prototype in Spruce and Curly Maple. Playability reminds one of a classical with a wider 12 fret neck, slightly radiused fingerboard and low tension (~94 lbs.) strings. This easy finger picking hybrid guitar has a vibrant, evenly balanced voice that puts it in a class all its own. Special transparent dyes are added to the lacquer, and several stages of application are necessary to achieve the desired surface effect. The resulting finish allows the natural beauty of the wood to show through the graphics. A range of colours are available. Please contact the maker for those wishing a nylon or higher tension steel string variation on this theme.
Appointed with Steinberger tuning machines and supplied with a custom fitted hard shell case.
Price available upon request. See ordering page for further details.
‘Edward Klein’s Ellipse is a pleasure to play. The string tension, neck width and other dimensions are very similar to those of a standard nylon strung guitar. These features, including the 12 fret neck, allow the classical guitarist to make an effortless transition to an acoustic steel string. This instrument is very sensitive and responsive to subtle changes in technique. It has beautiful tone and plenty of sustain. The 6 strings are evenly balanced making the Ellipse ideal for both recording and live performance.’
Wooded Cathedral
Daniel LaBrash, Guitarist /Composer
|
