Chartwell Guitar

David Argent 2006 lattice

Woods: Santos Pallisander back and sides, Englemann spruce top, Honduran mahogany neck. Nitro lacquer throughout. The dark color of the top suggests cedar at first glance, but my guess is this is spruce, with a slightly caramelized hue.

Specs: 650mm scale, 52mm nut, 54mm string spacing at nut, 58mm at saddle. 4mm string height 12th fret bass side. Humicase, six hole tie block, carbon fiber reinforced lattice bracing.

Condition: excellent. Nitro lacquer has preserved the original gloss and prevented the minor nail marks associated with French polish. Case shows some wear.

Comment: As with most Australian lattice braceless back guitars, the weight of this exceptionally thick set of Santos Pallisander renders predictable characteristics. Volume, yes, exceptional sustain, yes, bell like trebles, very much yes. The high end rings convincingly in a piercingly bright voice. David Argent has learned all the lessons builders like John Price perfected and this remarkably clean guitar is a steal if the Aussie sound is for you. A handsome, well crafted instrument.