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Thread: Thoughts on Bill Bussman Octave in classifieds?

  1. #1

    Default Thoughts on Bill Bussman Octave in classifieds?

    Looking for opinions on the Bussman Octave in the classifieds.

    Has anyone owned/played a similar one and what did you think of it? Playability, tone, any insights would be appreciated.

    Thanks!

  2. #2
    I may be old but I'm ugly billhay4's Avatar
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    Default Re: Thoughts on Bill Bussman Octave in classifieds?

    Bill has built over 500 mandolin class instruments. He does it right. Great guy, too.
    Bill
    IM(NS)HO

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  4. #3
    Registered User Frank Russell's Avatar
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    Default Re: Thoughts on Bill Bussman Octave in classifieds?

    Played a friend's very similar model several times, which began my interest in Bill's instruments. For me, his ovals are tonally like old Gibsons, but with better playability. He's got this down to a science. As mentioned, also a great, funny guy. If I needed an octave, I'd buy this with zero hesitation.
    FJ Russell


    Es mejor morir de pie que vivir de rodillas. E. Zapata

  5. #4

    Default Re: Thoughts on Bill Bussman Octave in classifieds?

    I had one very similar to that one about 13 years or so ago. Mine was a blond with the prettiest maple back I've ever seen. It was a really nice playing, sounding instrument. Selling it was a mistake. I wanted to get a mandola for the shorter scale, at the time.

    Recently, I have been looking for a Bouzouki. I wanted a longer scale instrument with a bigger body. There wasn't much available at the time, so I considered the Old Wave octave currently in classifieds several times, but stuck it out for a full-blown bouzouki.

    If I wanted an octave, I would grab that Old Wave in a second, especially at the price it was last listed. I know the "SH" is an issue, but like all the Bussman instruments I've seen, the wood is beautiful and I bet it plays/sounds great. You might find a few insignificant imperfections, but I bet there are not many and none that really matter. If you can get it with a few days inspection, I think you will like it a lot.

    The one I had was new and came well setup.

  6. #5
    My Florida is scooped pheffernan's Avatar
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    Default Re: Thoughts on Bill Bussman Octave in classifieds?

    Quote Originally Posted by WoodyCTA102 View Post
    I know the "SH" is an issue
    My late mother's initials. I've always wanted to try an Old Wave and have never owned an octave with an oval hole...
    1924 Gibson A Snakehead
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  7. #6

    Default Re: Thoughts on Bill Bussman Octave in classifieds?

    That one is perfect for you then, with true sentimental value. I cannot imagine any other reason that it hasn't sold if it is anything like the one I had. Sorry about your mom. I have to use "late" with mine too, sadly.

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