Tom Chippindall

[phil39]

Hi All,
I've got the buy-another-instrument-bug (again). Lately I've been thinking about Octave Mandolins. I know this feeling and I know it won't go away. The only cure is to buy one. I've been searching, and found a maker in my part of the world. His instruments seem reasonably priced without being cheap. I'm just wondering if anyone here has had any experience with Tom Chippindall. I've tried searching these forums but with zero results.

[luthierseye]

I have not heard of Tom Chippindall but after perusing his website, I wish I had known of him before I bought my OM. It would be intriguing to see how his techniques flavor the sound especially the carbon fibre bracing and the blackwood/spruce option. And as you mentioned, the price does not scare one away. If you decide on it, please let us know your impressions.

[otterly2k]

I'm not familiar with Tom Chippindall, but his instruments look very nice. There are a couple of other builders in your neck of the woods that might be worth exploring. Jack Spira makes LOVELY instruments... I've had the privilege of trying out a couple over here on this side of the pond, and will vouch for their quality both in construction and sound. The OM I tried, in particular, was just stunning, and Jamie Stanek has a lovely mando of his as well. He uses woods native to Australia and generally uses a fixed (guitar style) bridge. Also, I believe Davy Stuart is Australian (someone correct me if I'm wrong) and his instruments are very well reputed. I have no direct experience with them myself. He has a variety of body dimensions that he will use, that offer a range of different types of sounds.

good luck in your quest!
KE

[ptritz]

Davy Stuart is in Christchurch, New Zealand. But his instruments are certainly very well-regarded.

[Nick Gellie]

I would highly recommend Joe Gallacher in Albury, not that far from you. I live in Stanley, Victoria. Joe is a lovely bloke to work with and builds a 22.75" pin-bridged octave mandolin. Here are two photos of one he made for me recently - mahoganyy back and sides and a wide grained sitka spruce top.

His website and contact details are:

www.gallacherguitars.com

and phone number: 02 60411735

Here are some photographs:

[Nick Gellie]

His website and contact details are:

www.gallacherguitars.com

and phone number: 02 60411735

Phone number was wrong. It should be 02 6040 1735

[Nick Gellie]

Two more photographs. I was not happy with the fist one showing the front.

[Graham McDonald]

I met Tom some years ago when he was just starting to work with Dan Brauchli in Tasmania and have heard some positive reports since. Working with Dan, one of the most innovative luthiers around, would be an excellent grounding in the craft.

At the same time Jack and Joe are doing great work as well.

cheers

graham