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| Questions about *Old* Nick Lucas Specials http://www.luthiersforum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=10101&t=22293 |
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| Author: | truckjohn [ Thu May 07, 2009 12:41 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Questions about *Old* Nick Lucas Specials |
Hey all, Got a couple questions -- I want to try building a "Real" Nick Lucas special sort of guitar.... Reading the dimensions of the old ones -- 1926-ish... they look similar in size to the Gibson L-0 dimensions.... like 13 1/2" across the lower bout size... I took a look at the 1920 L-0 prints, and they are kinda like a modified A-brace/ladder brace design... Not an X brace. So... for folks who have fooled around with the old "real" Nick Lucas', What is in there? Would following the old 1920's L-0 print for the modified A-bracing and short neck and building body deeper give a sound that is similar to the originals.... or is this too weak, and why Gibson departed from this design by the early 30's? Thanks John |
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| Author: | David Newton [ Thu May 07, 2009 2:47 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: Questions about *Old* Nick Lucas Specials |
The "old style" Nicks were either H or A braced, generally, but like everything Gibson, an X-braced one has surfaced. Yes, they were deeper L-1's, with a "slightly convex" top and back. But the build was more refined, cosmetically and functionally. The challenge (to me) of an old-style Nick reproduction is to give it that visual quality, but to make it NOT sound like a stump with a neck to match. |
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| Author: | truckjohn [ Sun May 10, 2009 6:29 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: Questions about *Old* Nick Lucas Specials |
So... should I go for the H/A bracing pattern, or the more modern X pattern? I am sure the H pattern may sound more "Authentic" -- if i can get it right.... But... I think there is probably a reason we only see the X braced models today.... Even the old ones seem to have been converted into X braced models sometimes in their lives. Thanks John |
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| Author: | David Newton [ Mon May 11, 2009 8:22 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: Questions about *Old* Nick Lucas Specials |
John, Since you asked the question, and I'm your audience (I currently have a "later" NLS in the works) I think you should use the bracing that you are comfortable with. I would adapt the X bracing that I understand to the guitar at hand. I once did a ladder braced guitar that a customer wanted, and did not find much joy in the process. Call me a one-trick-pony, but maybe I know my one trick really well. If the "H" bracing has any value, it is unknown to us today. If you want to do a period correct reproduction (I'm a history buff as much as anyone) you are sure to find some interest in it. |
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| Author: | Flori F. [ Mon May 11, 2009 10:08 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: Questions about *Old* Nick Lucas Specials |
John, I've just built my first L-0 inspired guitar. I built a 12 fret version and opted to go with x-bracing: coco/sitka. It's an experiment, that's for sure. I still haven't strung it up. I'm waiting for the varnish to cure before buffing. But I'll let you know how it sounds when it's all put together. Best, Flori |
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