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1993 Andersen Metropolitan Special

Status: Pricing and hold status for all instruments currently available is shown on our Instruments page here. If this instrument does not appear on the Instruments page it has been sold, and is no longer available. Photos and descriptions of Previously Sold instruments may be found here. To be notified of examples of this model or similar instruments in the future, please contact [email protected],. Please be specific on which instrument(s) you're looking for, and we'll be happy to contact you as soon as they become available.

Serial #: 163

Body size at lower bout: 17" Body depth: 3" Scale length: 25 1/2" Nut width: 1 11/16"

Finish: Natural blonde finish, nitrocellulose lacquer type

Materials: Solid handcarved Englemann spruce top; handcarved solid AAA tiger flame maple back with matching sides and neck; mother of pearl peghead logo; bound body.

Hardware: Gold hardware includes Schaller tuners, Armstrong floating JS style pickup woth volume control and end pin jack; solid ebony tailpiece, compensated bridge, and bound pickguard.

Notes: Steve Andersen is a local hero here in the Pacific Northwest, having produced top-notch acoustic instruments for over three decades. First famed for his mandolins and flattops, Steve has built an international reputation on his extensive line of world-class archtop guitars. Andersen players now number recording star Bill Frisell, Dan Fahnle, and many more top pros.

This guitar is one of a small series Steve produced in the 90's, combining topflight woods, an elegant art-deco design, and Andersen's ultra-meticulous fit and finish. The result is an instrument of surpassing acoustical quality, clean lines, and exceptional playability. The design of this rare example features extravagantly figured tiger flame maple back and sides, a one-piece maple neck, and solid ebony hardware, including the deco-inspired stairstep pickguard. With it's finely carved, X-braced soundboard, now aged for over two decades, this instrument offers an exceptionally open, even voice, with depth and woodiness reminiscent of some of the finer prewar acoustic archtops.

Action is smooth and low over a gentle D profile neck, and the instrument has been maintained in virtually unplayed condition. In a world mushrooming with wannabe archtop builders, Andersen has for years been among the tiny handful of truly thriving workshops, with many pro clients and substantial backorders. It's no accident that these guitars rarely surface for resale. Don't miss this rare opportunity in a true hand-built masterpiece. One only: call now.

Setup: This instrument is strung with medium gauge nickel strings (.013-.056). The guitar will accommodate lighter or heavier gauge strings, according to preference. String action is set at 5/64" to 6/64" at the 12th fret, with moderate relief for acoustic playing with medium strings. The action may be lowered or raised to your requirements with the adjustable bridge.

Case: Original deluxe black arched plush lined hardshell case.

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