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 February 13, 2009 | New Clark Octave Mandolin to Wintergrass
We released some sneak previews of Idaho premier builder Austin Clark's new 2-point mandola last November (see New at Clark Mandolins), and alluded to a brand new Octave Mandolin design. These and a bevy of new mandolins Austin has been frantically preparing the last 10 months are all headed for Tacoma, Washington for his exhibit the annual Wintergrass festival. We had hoped to send our research correspondent crew there as well, but they were unable to attend personally. However, we have been able to ship the flagship Clark JM signature model for you to get a glimpse if you're attending. This instrument sparkles sonically, and has had a year to get some maturity mojo in its grains. Stop by the booth and take it for a spin.
We also have exclusive pictures for you to drool over, his new Bigleaf Maple, Engelmann Spruce 20" scale (14.245" at the bout) Octave Mandolin. Joined at the 12th fret with "S" holes, the form is its own unique take on the classic archtop form. According to Austin, "The design is loosely based on the body of the D'Angelico New Yorker, but I was looking for a more feminine, sexy version than the hunky masculinity that the New Yorker has. I originally drew it as a 22" scale but I wanted to put the bridge in a different place than that allowed and still join the neck/body at the 12th fret. Plus, the smaller scale length just appealed to me. After some string experimentation, I think it works pretty well. I am not above trying the longer scale length in a future model. He notes the compromise here was to achieve better playability with the shorter neck, but still retain the sonority of a longer length. No doubt this is going to be one comfortable critter to play, and if it sings as well as the JM, this instrument is going to be a force to contend with.
The artist also dreams of a cutaway 5-course version, and rumors abound of a yet-to-be determined fanned fret 5-course mandola (the "Fandola") for a premier jazz mandolin author.
We'll see...
Meantime check out these amazing shots (click for closeup):
 
 
Event details: Wintergrass
Builder's Website: Clark Mandolins
Read up on the Clark JM
Posted by Ted at February 13, 2009 5:19 AM
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