Re: Down the Tenor Rabbit Hole... (Help)
Originally Posted by
MoreThanQuinn
-Generally speaking, how do the body size and neck length affect the sound of the a tenor? For instance, what makes some sound tinny and others smooth?
-Further, what determines if a tenor will sound good in GDAE? I have read some posts that attest to certain instruments sounding better in CGDA and vise versa. I'm specifically hoping to find a tenor that I can play in GDAE. What should I keep in mind while searching for this?
Generally speaking, I would think that scale length would be an important consideration. A 21” scale might be a bit more comfortable for playing lead, while a longer 23” scale could provide a more satisfying low G for strumming behind vocals. Body size (0 to 5) would probably correlate with volume while construction materials (spruce or mahogany top) would most likely point to tone. So depending on your purposes, one might be optimal for quiet noodling in your parlor while another would be ideal for the boisterous sessions at your local pub. Horses for courses.
In the debate of vintage versus modern, I understand the appeal of older instruments; in fact, I own one. But as you selected a new Poe Scout rather than an old Gibson Army-Navy DY or Alrite, perhaps you could similarly find a tenor builder who combines modern techniques with vintage aesthetics. You don’t disclose a budget, but Jamie Dougan’s Fletcher tenors might fit the bill if you can find one. In my case, I settled on a David Newton tenor built on a Martin size 2 body, Carpathian spruce over rosewood, with a 23” scale.
1924 Gibson A Snakehead
2005 National RM-1
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2009 Passernig A5
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2017 Poe Scout
2014 Smart F-Style Mandola
2018 Vessel TM5
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