Gilchrist
“For the past four decades I have been obsessed about building arch-top instruments,” says Steven Gilchrist.
“My goal is to be able to release the full acoustic potential of every piece of spruce and maple selected for each individual instrument. A lifetime challenge that begins anew each time at the workbench,”
Steven’s fascination with instrument began when he met local violin maker Johnny Johnson. “He encouraged me with books on the subject and made me the thumb plane that I use to this day,” he recalls.
Another inspiration was Giovanni ‘Jack’ Cera, an Italian-Australian mandolin/guitar maker in Melbourne.
“A real life-changing experience came in 1979 when I was offered a position in the repair department at Gruhn Guitars in Nashville,” says Steven.
Model 16 guitar
Gilchrist’s mandolins and guitars are designed for maximum acoustic volume and tonal response without compromise for pickups or light gauge strings.
The Model 16 has a red spruce soundboard with maple back sides and neck, spirit varnish finish withhand stained sunburst, Ivoroid binding and silver-plated hardware and Waverly tuners with pearl buttons. See here for a list of options.