The world of guitars is filled with fascinating variations, but few are as captivating and sonically rich as the 14-string guitar. Imagine the depth of a 7-string jazz guitar, further expanded with doubled courses, creating an instrument that offers an unparalleled tonal palette. In 1998, the visionary luthier John Buscarino crafted such a marvel – a 14-string archtop guitar commissioned by the respected teacher and music writer, Robert Yelin. This Buscarino creation, built with exquisite 5A Bigleaf Maple and Sitka Spruce, stands as a testament to innovation and masterful guitar making.
Exploring the Sonic Landscape of a 14-String Guitar
What exactly is a 14-string guitar, and what makes it so special? At its heart, it’s an evolution of the 7-string jazz guitar concept. Instead of adding a single low string, the 14-string guitar employs double courses for each of the seven pitches. This means each string you would find on a 7-string guitar is paired with another, often tuned in octaves or unison, creating a chorus-like effect and significantly enriching the instrument’s sound.
This particular Buscarino 14-string guitar takes this concept to breathtaking heights. The doubled strings add an incredible dimension, especially in the lower registers. Imagine playing chord shapes rooted on the 5th string, and suddenly having a booming, resonant bass foundation thanks to the octave pairing on the lower strings. This opens up exciting new possibilities for harmonic exploration and bass lines, offering a fullness and complexity rarely found in standard guitars.
Crafted with Excellence: Materials and Design
John Buscarino is renowned for his exceptional archtop guitars, and this 14-string is no exception. It showcases a meticulous selection of premium materials and thoughtful design choices.
The body is constructed with 5A Bigleaf Maple for the back and sides, prized for its stunning figure and contribution to bright, articulate tones. The top is made of Sitka Spruce, a classic choice for acoustic instruments, known for its balanced resonance and dynamic range. This combination of woods provides a foundation for a sound that is both powerful and nuanced.
Close up view of the Buscarino 14 string guitar headstock featuring the builder logo inlay.
The aesthetic details further enhance the guitar’s appeal. Maple bindings elegantly frame the body, while violin lines add a touch of classic sophistication to the top. The ebony fingerboard is adorned with a delicate floral and vine inlay, extending to the tailpiece, showcasing the artistry and attention to detail inherent in Buscarino’s work. Gold tuners with ebony buttons and a gloss finish complete the luxurious feel of this instrument.
Playability and Sound: A Player’s Dream
Beyond its visual beauty, this 14-string guitar is designed for exceptional playability and sonic performance. The maple neck features a comfortable, wide, and shallow “U” profile, inviting for extended playing sessions. The setup is meticulously crafted, providing the signature “silk smooth feel” that Buscarino guitars are celebrated for.
The Buscarino pickup ensures that the rich acoustic tones translate beautifully when amplified, making it stage and studio-ready. Whether you’re exploring complex jazz harmonies or crafting walking bass lines, this 14-string offers a versatile and inspiring platform.
Full body shot of the 1998 Buscarino 14 string guitar showing the archtop design and maple body.
Listen to the audio sample provided, and you’ll immediately grasp the unique sonic character of this instrument. The added strings create a lush, almost orchestral quality, while retaining the clarity and articulation needed for intricate musical passages.
A Rare Opportunity to Own a Piece of Guitar History
This 1998 Buscarino 14-string guitar is more than just an instrument; it’s a piece of guitar history. Commissioned by Robert Yelin, a respected figure in music education, and crafted by John Buscarino, a master luthier, this guitar represents a unique confluence of vision and skill. It’s a rare opportunity to own a truly one-of-a-kind instrument that pushes the boundaries of guitar design and sonic possibilities.
While this particular guitar has been sold, its existence highlights the fascinating world of 14-string guitars and the artistry of luthiers like John Buscarino. If you’re intrigued by extended range instruments and the unique sounds they offer, exploring the realm of 14-string guitars is an adventure worth taking.
If you are interested in exploring custom-built guitars and potentially commissioning your own unique instrument, we encourage you to connect with Dream Guitars to discuss your vision and explore the possibilities with skilled luthiers.
SCHEDULE A LIVE DEMO
GET STARTED
