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Thread: New 2nd generation Coombe flat top

  1. #1
    Mandolin & Mandola maker
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    Default New 2nd generation Coombe flat top

    This is a new flattop just finished. It incorporates some new technology that I discovered that makes flattop mandolins sound a lot better. This one embarrassed the arch top I use as a reference, so the sound is quite astonishing for a flattop. With this technology I am calling it my 2nd generation flattop mandolins. I have made Pancake flattops and Kalamazoo type of flattops, but for reasons I don't understand, this body size and shape seems to give the best sound. It uses the same body size and shape as a Lyon and Healy style C.

    Woods are Red Spruce top, Tasmanian Tiger Myrtle back and sides, Myrtle neck, Ivorywood bindings, Ebony fingerboard and headstock overlay. It has an adjustable Brekke flattop bridge. This mandolin has no shell inlay. The fingerboard dots are red opal, and the headstock logo is European Maple cut with a small CNC machine.

    Sorry, I was hoping for some sound clips, but I injured my left middle finger and won't be able to play anything for a few weeks.

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    Peter Coombe - mandolins, mandolas and guitars
    http://www.petercoombe.com

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  3. #2
    Registered User
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    Default Re: New 2nd generation Coombe flat top

    Peter, very handsome new build. I've always loved the simple, yet elegant shape of a Style C, and it makes me--an uneducated bystander--wonder if there isn't much more intended by that shape than just aesthetics. Anyway, hope your finger heals soon so we can enjoy hearing this fine new instrument.

  4. #3
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    Default Re: New 2nd generation Coombe flat top

    Peter - I hope your finger heals soon & well! I have been experimenting with new (to me) bracing styles for flat top OMs. I've lately been working with a sort of modified "H" bracing pattern with what seems to be promising results. I was wondering if you would be willing to discuss any of the construction details (esp. top bracing) of your 2nd generation mandolin. It's quite lovely , by the way; can't wait to hear it! If that information is considered proprietary, I can understand.

    Thanks - Earl Tyler

  5. #4
    Mandolin & Mandola maker
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    Default Re: New 2nd generation Coombe flat top

    It is X braced similar to a guitar with the X reinforced with carbon fibre. Basically they are built more like a flattop guitar using some of the principles in the design book by Australian luthiers Trevor Gore and Gerard Gilet. Mandolins vibrate like guitars so it all makes sense. The bracing is not part of what I discovered. Hopefully what I have found will eventually be published in the GAL.
    Peter Coombe - mandolins, mandolas and guitars
    http://www.petercoombe.com

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    Earl 

  7. #5
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    Default Re: New 2nd generation Coombe flat top

    I appreciate your response, Peter, & look forward to seeing your published information.

    - Earl Tyler

  8. #6
    Kelley Mandolins Skip Kelley's Avatar
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    Default Re: New 2nd generation Coombe flat top

    Peter, that’s a great looking mandolin! I love that style C body shape!

  9. #7
    Mandolin & Mandola maker
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    Default Re: New 2nd generation Coombe flat top

    Peter Coombe - mandolins, mandolas and guitars
    http://www.petercoombe.com

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  11. #8
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    Default Re: New 2nd generation Coombe flat top

    There's a good ring to that Peter.
    - Jeremy

    Wot no catchphrase?

  12. #9
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    Default Re: New 2nd generation Coombe flat top

    Looks and sounds great, Peter!
    Chuck

  13. #10
    harvester of clams Bill McCall's Avatar
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    Default Re: New 2nd generation Coombe flat top

    Wonderful.
    Not all the clams are at the beach

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