Eight String
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21 Fret extended fingerboard
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Concert Model 2003
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Kellaway Classical Guitars
are produced with a particular sound in mind — a combination
of sweetness and clarity, even response and high volume, without sacrificing
an inherently traditional tonality
in the Spanish style.
These instruments are produced with meticulous attention to detail,
using traditional design parameters with weight,
traditional but unique rosette and headstock design, aesthetic heel carving and neck shaping, set up for ease of playing without sacrificing clarity and volume.
To achieve this sound a number of modern techniques are used while the choice of certain timbers plays a crucial role in tone production.
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The back and sides are usually Brazilian Rosewood , but other timbers such as French Walnut, Queensland Maple and Tasmanian Myrtle have been introduced with no alteration to the tone. Finish is French Polish with a final coat of nitrocellulose lacquer for durability
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Necks are either Mahogany or Cuban Cedar. They are fitted to the body with a tapered dovetail joint similar to a Fleta, allowing total control over neck angle and making repair work possible in future decades. The neck shape has been developed for pleasure and ease of playing . The heel was inspired by Fleta and is carved for maximum access. Finish is as for back and sides. Fingerboards are Black Ebony, with Jim Dunlop 6230 frets.
BridgesBridges are Light Brazilian Rosewood, utilising a 12-hole tie block which increases the break angle over the saddle, while allowing a low saddle. This method also makes string changing very quick and easy. The tie block is faced on both sides with bone for longevity.
The heart of the instrument, the soundboard, is European Spruce,
and is braced with a lattice of European Spruce. In the lower bout
the thickness is graduated to the edge and the lattice is likewise
scalloped around the perimeter. The lattice is pre-assembled and
then pre-stressed into a mould during the gluing to the top, creating
a domed final shape. This resists the deflection caused by the twisting
motion of the bridge under tension and allows vibration to occur
around the edge, thereby pumping the air as a diaphragm, similar
to the action of a loud speaker, when energised by plucking of the
strings.
Linings are currently made of a type of Big Leaf Maple, laminated in two strips,
making an exceptionally stiff outer edge while not adding excessive weight.
The soundboard is finished in three fine coats of fine satin lacquer for maximum
sound response and ease of repair. A french polish with high gloss can be done to order.
The headstock is the personal design of the maker, inspired by Torres with a touch of the woodturner. Schaller machine heads are used. The rosette was also designed by the maker.
Standard scale length is 650mm. A short scale at 630mm is available to order which has equal characteristics to the normal scale in terms of volume and tone.
