McCARTEN LTD.

"The Bostonian"
18" Acoustic
Archtop Guitar

This is a "big box"  full hollow body Archtop Guitar slated for upcoming development.
This guitar measures 18 inches across the lower bout and is largest practical size that acoustic archtop guitars were historically made. (Some 20 inch models where made in much smaller quantities but were found to be rather unwieldly)
Standard scale length is 25.50 inches with other scales available on a special order basis.
Full bodies or cutaways are options.
Bracing options are "parallel" braced for a punchy traditional big band type sound or "X" bracing which is a more modern type providing a warmer and more even response.

Maple is typically used for necks, back, and sides while spruce is used on the top. Other species of tone woods can be used as well which is a variable that affects esthetic as well as tonal characteristics of the guitar.

The top and back are both individually carved and graduated by hand for the optimum voice.

One version is styled like a traditional instrument with metal "trapeze tailpiece, adjustable bridge, plastic binding (in simple or elaborate styles.

Another version is more modern having wooden tailpiece and one piece bridge. Binding made of figured or contrasting woods provide a natural conterpoint to the traditional plastic.

All these details are variable on a case by case basis.