I think it is wonderful that positive threads like this one (and the one featuring Tyler White a few months back) can make a real difference to an independent luthier's order book.
I think it is wonderful that positive threads like this one (and the one featuring Tyler White a few months back) can make a real difference to an independent luthier's order book.
The credit goes to Matt. He had quite a bit of spruce on hand. He took the time to go through the characteristics of several pieces and suggested the sitka. I would love to see some lore develop around "The Bridge" tops. Sounds damn good on the new instruments. Can't wait to hear these mature.
Ron...I have gotten to know both of the gentlemen builders you mentioned just a bit. I can't say enough nice things about both. Great craftsmen, passionate about their work and always willing to listen and discuss customer inquires. Bottom line though is both produce fantastic musical tools.
Yes, that is what blows me away is how popping and thick the trebles are. No thin flat sound here, cutters all the way. I love the X-braced F5s he produces. Especially the ones where they cross just about an inch in front of the bridge. But all of his are fantastic.
Definitely one of the greatest makers I know of.
Ruhland Ruhles!
Blessings
I have recently been enjoying the experience of being in the studio with a group I perform with. I have used one of Matt's A5's on several tracks. It sits so well on the track, what a pleasure. The fundamental tones are full, rich and complex. In a word, " Fat". If it works this well for a novice player, I can only imagine what it would record like with a masterful player. Good mic placement by a fine engineer and the A5 does the rest. I could not be happier. Also, a big tip of the hat to Oliver Apitius. His F5 in the studio is so sweet and such great clarity, powerful lows. Amazing builders in our community. We are so fortunate! Thank you both, truly.
I have recently had the pleasure of a Ruhland A-5 (#26) on loan to me, and I must say it is an outstanding instrument. It has a bright, lively, bell-tone quality, mixed with a complex sweet and chewy woodiness, making it rather unique in my experience. Great playability and workmanship! Congratulations to Matt Ruhland!
Ruhland # 27
Here is an example of a raw track of Ruhland # 27, from a local Portland studio (minus vocals, bass etc.)
Records really well - the characteristic fat trebles and the resonant woody thunk of the bass come through very well...even with the dreaded banjo in the way!
2003 John Sullivan F5 "Roy"
2015 Heiden F Artist
2019 Ruhland F5 #35
Thanks Evan...your comments are definitely all true. The fundamental tones/pitches are so wide, fat. Play-ability is also just excellent. Very comfortable in the hands. It sounds like Matt is well on his way with the next batch of F5's as well. That back of yours looks incredible. Nice choice.
I meant to also mention that your tone and musicianship on that recording is great. Yeah, psyched to see/hear this batch of F's and to see my new Ruhland F take shape. Have seen a couple photos along the way...
2003 John Sullivan F5 "Roy"
2015 Heiden F Artist
2019 Ruhland F5 #35
Thank you Evan... would you be willing to show us a photo of the back of your F5 from Matt? It's been a good while since I have visited his shop.
2003 John Sullivan F5 "Roy"
2015 Heiden F Artist
2019 Ruhland F5 #35
Lol... well...I haven't seen that before. I can't wait to see just how 3D that back appears when all is said and done
Very cool.. thanks!
Sounds great, Old Growth. The second track is the same as the first for me--not the solo mandolin. Would like to hear it solo.
Evan, that back is going to be spectacular. Amazing piece of wood.
2010 Heiden A5, 2020 Pomeroy oval A, 2013 Kentucky KM1000 F5, 2012 Girouard A Mandola w ff holes, 2001 Old Wave A oval octave
http://HillbillyChamberMusic.bandcamp.com
Videos: https://www.youtube.com/@hillbillychambermusic
Lol...correct Sir. I guess i must be saving them for a rainy day. I would agree with your comments about the sound/volume of the Ruhland. A fine A5. Thanks for noticing.
Nice Evan...i'm guessing that's your F5, yes? Love that old bridge wood, red tint. That stuff has a mystique to it. Cool!!
It is. Can't wait to play this one!
2003 John Sullivan F5 "Roy"
2015 Heiden F Artist
2019 Ruhland F5 #35
Matt has a gifted sense of woods, sounds, craftsmanship, focus and passion. Just a great builder and person.
Thanks for sending the inlay photos.
Can't wait to see this next batch!
2003 John Sullivan F5 "Roy"
2015 Heiden F Artist
2019 Ruhland F5 #35
I love the look of those old Sitka bridge-wood tops. Nice inlay work too. Nice backs too.
Last edited by Don Grieser; Feb-19-2019 at 10:16pm.
2010 Heiden A5, 2020 Pomeroy oval A, 2013 Kentucky KM1000 F5, 2012 Girouard A Mandola w ff holes, 2001 Old Wave A oval octave
http://HillbillyChamberMusic.bandcamp.com
Videos: https://www.youtube.com/@hillbillychambermusic
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