The Roland Guitar Synth, GR-700 and its controller G-202 were built between 1980 and 1984 and was influential as the first successful production guitar synthesizer. The GR-700 Roland Guitar Synth is an analog synthesizer using the same technologies and Roland’s popular JX-3P keyboard synth and the MKS-30 MIDI controlled rack mount version. It’s a relatively large floor controller providing six voices and 64 memory locations.
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The first of the Gibson GB series of 6-string Mastertone Guitar Banjos appeared in 1918, as the GB-3 and GB-4. The GB-1 and GB-6 appeared in 1922, and by 1940, production had completely ended. The GB-5 was built only during 1925. These models were influenced by the popular Paramount banjo designs.These instruments are perhaps comparable in intent to the Resophonic guitars that were introduced by National just a few years later – meant to be used in fairly loud ensembles, often with horns, playing the Dixieland jazz that was all the rage.
The Eastman MDC805 Mandocello is a wonderful, rich sounding instrument that works well as a solo, ensemble or accompaniment instrument in a wide range of styles and genres, from Celtic to Classical, Latin and back again. The Mandocello had been in existence for some centuries in Europe, beginning with flat back and then bowl back. However, in 1905 Orville Gibson’s company began producing mandolin family instruments, including Mandocello models that drew from his blending of violin and guitar concepts.
Every year at the LA NAMM show I find something unique and wonderful. Mid-East Music specializes in handcrafted historic and ethnic instruments. Unlike other sources I’ve encountered, they understand and service the instruments they sell and control and participate in the manufacture process. Hand made in Pakistan, these instruments are remarkably cleanly built: accurate joinery, clean fit and finish. I was VERY impressed by the overall quality and appearance and the prices are a fraction of what we commonly see in second hand historic Lutes and Baroque guitars.
At last I can offer a completely playable historic Lute and Baroque guitar for a price that “makes sense” to most of my clients who simply want to experiment with this era of music. These instruments are “the real thing” at an affordable price. These instruments even come with lightweight but solidly made hardshell cases !
This Roosebeck Renaissance lute is a 6 course model, featuring a bowl constructed of 25 fluted Sheesham staves, and with a 600mm scale length. The top is Spruce, while the neck, bowl, nut, bridge, and end pin are built of Sheesham, The peg box is Sheesham and Lacewood. The frets are formed in the traditional manner – tied on – but are nylon line (guitar string) rather than gut.