Scharpach Guitars
Folk guitars
Octave Mandolin
This octave mandolin was especially made for Mark Cosgrove.
Although it cannot be seen very well on the shown pictures the topplate is extremely arched. The top however is not cut out as is traditionally done with Archtop guitars or mandolins. This method of arching the topplate follows the original method as is developed by Mario Maccaferrie in 40th and being followed by Selmer.
Theo Scharpach: I am impressed by the flat picking techniques of Mark; he is capable to play his amazing technique and create an emotional impact. Due to this engagement notes change into music.
The arching is however not achieved by gluing the top onto a heavily arched soundbracing system. In that case the curves of the top would be forced into the shape by the soundbracing system.
The topplate receives already it's arched form before the sound bracing system is glued to the top. As far as I know, this unique way of arching a topplate, is not done anymore by other guitarmakers.
Mark Cosgrove: My Scharpach octave mandolin is the finest I've ever played. It has fantastic depth and clarity and it is as beautiful a piece of luthiery as I've ever seen. I love it!
The brass tailpiece is cut of a massive block brass of 10cm³ with a special 3D cutter machine. The massive tailpiece is partly contributing to the volume and good sustain.
The sound quality of the octave mandolin is impressive and loud.
Specs
| Top: | European spruce |
|---|---|
| Sides and back: | Indian or Brazilian rosewood, Tigerstrap Maple |
| Fingerboard: | Ebony |
| Bridge: | Ebony |
| Neck: | Mahogany |
| Scale: | 580 mm |
| Width nut: | 37 mm |
| String spacing bridge: | 50 mm |