Don Ross' Custom 7-string

Don Ross' 7-String guitar is a good example of my approach to custom building. He had asked for a 7-string guitar that could reach a low -A-. First we defined the scale length and string gauge and settled on 65cm, the same as his other guitars, and a medium gauge set,( .013-.056) with a .066 gauge seventh string. (to give the string optimal tension at the lowest pitch.)

I enlarged the body size to enhance the bass resonance, but also considered the size of Don's main performance guitar. The strong grained quarter-cut German spruce top was selected for its power and resilience, the curly koa back and sides to add a warmer tone. The special 'pull through' bridge was Don's request as it allows faster string changes, and as many other features, is a 'one of a kind' design.

 

Custom 7-string headstockDetail view of the 7-string bridge