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The Contemporary
Hawaiian
An astounding tone with a rich, luscious
quality of sound, this guitar sounds awesome in many playing styles--rhythm,
lead, flatpick, finger-style, jazz, blues and of course the many tunings
of Hawaiian slack key. The sustain is haunting. More...
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The Contemporary
Hawaiian 12 String
This instrument is dedicated to our continuing
struggle for justice. Originally inspired by events of the 60’s
and brought to life under the guidance of Roland Cazimero; for those
who still believe they can change the world with their music, this is
the guitar for you. More...
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This is the original
big bodied all Koa model bearing the shape of the Contemporary Hawaiian.
Adorned tastefully with mother of pearl and abalone, it is truly a gem
in both appearance and sound. More...
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Micheal has done it again. Check out his
latest masterpeice with Taro-leaf soundholes, a Kiawe bridge, and Mother
of Pearl, Anahola fret markers. More...
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M
ichael Sussman is known for his custom
works of art. More...
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Many accessories can be added to any of
the instruments featured on this site. More...
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Concept Construction
The Koa is from Kauai’s primal rain-forest, is no longer
harvested, and can not be purchased*; it is Hawaii’s most ancient and
is extremely rare and valuable. The timbers are air-dried at least 10
years then dehumidified down to about 5% moisture content in a climate controlled,
50% relative humidity shop.
Drawing upon many years of violin making
and bass restoration, as well as guitar making, these instruments have several
unusual design features contributing to their unique sound. The tops
and backs are domed with all interior bracing shaped to match this arc.
The sides are also contoured to match the dome of the top. This doming
of the top and back builds more air space into the guitar, under the bridge,
while at the same time adding structural strength to the soundbox. This
in turn allows the guitar to substantially benefit from the delicate graduation
of the top and back plates. The direct result of such thinning and tuning
giving the instrument an open, responsive sound, rarely heard in a new instrument.
This technique also gives the instrument a big voice when played softly and
a clear sound that doesn’t break up when played hard.
The neck
is made of Koa with laminations of mahogany on both sides, reducing the weight
an all Koa neck has, while adding stability from the glued laminations to
help guard against accidents. The neck is set back from a standard angle
to accommodate the arc of the top and retain a fine playing action, a truss
rod adjusts for back bow as well as relief, and the entire design produces
an extremely comfortable guitar to play, especially considering its size,
for any age or size player, man or woman.
* The Koa that is on the market today has been planted, re-grown,
and then harvested. It's quality holds no comparison to the ancient Hawaiian
Koa that Michael uses in his instruments. |
Michael Sussman Master
Luthier creates beautiful, hand crafted, Koa, stringed instruments on
the island of Kauaii, Hawaii. These custom made Violins and Guitars have
rich overtones, peircing highs, powerful midranges, and thunderous bass
tones that match the lush primal rainforest where it was born. The Hawaiian
Anahola Koa resinates in both sound and beauty in richness and fullness
for all the artists and musicians that Mickey has the opportunity of building
for. Make your custom order today. |
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