"I
started wondering if I could create an instrument that
would be designed exclusively for my needs... and as
you can imagine... I eventually decided to build an
electric guitar. My first prototype was made out of
Izombé wood and used a neck from my first guitar
(Van Halen's Frankenstein replica - Vester). I was so
excited when I started to build the guitar, that I didn't
have the patience to sand it down well and ended up
painting it with a brush [finish: varnish]. It sounded
great, especially the clean sounds and felt that I was
on to something... diferent.
So I made another one but this time it was for my co-guitarist
in Penishmen [Vasco Marques]. I used Bubinga for the
body and a Warmoth neck. It sounded even better!!! The
sound was deep and strong... the wood resonated with
quality and the sustain was perfect... so... I built
my first real guitar, designed a new model to match
my needs [note: it is the one represented on the photos
to your right]. I usually draw the ouline of the model
on paper and include the axis for wood orientation.
I glue the paper to the chunk of wood, and then start
cutting the part out [note: I am fortunate enough to
find whole pieces for the body... I guess it should
make it sound more consistent].
Next, I start making measurements for the neck and bridge...
after that I draw placeholders for the pickups, volume
pots and all the rest that make up the electronic package.
I route everything... snap everything together for a
final checkup and corrections. If everything is ok...
I start the sanding and finishes... and then I can't
wait 'till I plug it in, because the finish(es) takes
a lot of time to set.
Now, I'm working on 3 new variations of this model:
1 Baritone Guitar (27' 1/2), 1 normal electric guitar
with 2 humbuckers and a single coil, fixed bridge with
a transducer for acoustic sound; and 1 plexi-glass guitar
for wild midi sounds combined with 2 humbuckers.
I usually buy parts from Stewart MacDonald in the U.S.
Anyone who might be interested in this art should consult
these fine suppliers [http://www.stewmac.com].
So... don't be afraid to experiment... just please don't
hurt yourself..."
[click here
for photos of guitars...]
Good Luck,
JCM |
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