Featured in our New Model Mandolin Spotlight section is premium veteran builder Rolfe Gerhardt's answer the stage dilemma of many mandolinists seeking pure unadulterated acoustic tone. Microphones are authentic, but often logistically unwieldy (even clip-on), fighting optimal positioning and annoying feedback. Piezo pickups translate vibrations well but don't always capture the "essence" of mandolin tone, especially if not attached to the best point. Magnetic pickups offer best feedback-free playing, but rarely give dimensionally genuine acoustic character.

It's a perpetual problem, but Rolfe's combination is a solid approach, a blending of the latter two technologies and the opportunity to dial into a mix that responds to a multitude of environments. In a more intimate setting, the McIntyre internal piezo can do it's thing. In a competitively louder, large ensemble environment, the Kent Armstrong custom pickup allows the player to up the decibel ante and project. It doesn't hurt that this unique system supports a well-engineered body, strategically placed graphite-epoxy laminations in the internal tone bars give the ergonomic "stealth" body its sonority, and lighter-than-air feel. (It plays like a million bucks, too!)

It calls for a special 1/4" stereo cable, but two years of stage experience with this instrument, and we are sold on its capability. If you're interested in this, contact Rolfe about having one made, or check on the one currently in stock at Acoustic Vibes Music premier music store in Arizona.

If you're interested in a used Phoenix, contact us; we have a lead on one, too!


Click pic for reveiw

Posted by Ted at January 2, 2008 05:32 AM