SOLD
(NEW) It’s always a thrill to be able to introduce something new to the world, and here we have an instrument unlike anything else in our shop. Of course, we sell a small number of travel and fractional guitars, but nothing that delivers the boutique looks, feel and playability of the new Baleno Travel Model. Chuck designed these from the ground up to play just like their bigger cousins, and it’s uncanny how well he succeeded.
The body size is approximately the same as a baritone ukulele, so the compact Travel Model serves its namesake purpose exceedingly well. It has a 23″ scale, and holds standard pitch and intonates perfectly with light gauge or medium-light strings. This particular instrument has a AAA-grade Sitka spruce top, Indian rosewood back and sides, and Beech body bindings. The neck is a comfortable modified V shape, with 1 3/4″ nut and 2 1/4″ string spacing at the saddle. The ebony fingerboard has a compound radius and stainless steel frets that should last a lifetime. The tuners are Gotoh Stealth, a very fine lightweight machine. The finish is nitrocellulose lacquer and Mr. Baleno’s attention to fit and finish are legendary around our shop.
The sound could be described as bigger than a ukulele and a little quieter and more compressed than a typical (boutique) parlor guitar. These instruments really dazzle us with their playability, the fact that the neck feels exactly the same as it does on a full size guitar… yet the whole instrument maintains a light weight and excellent physical balance. With such even response and great intonation, it goes far beyond most tiny guitars and we’ve never heard a 6-string uke that could touch it.
Make no mistake, we realize that a handcrafted, high end travel guitar is a luxury by any measure… but we think you’ve earned it! Little guitar, big fun!
We’ve included a picture with a full-size Baleno dreadnought for scale. Demo videos coming soon (if they last long enought!) Travel Model Includes hardshell case.
AMW Price: $1,799 (Online checkout)
For more information, email info@acousticmusicworks or call (412) 422-0710