A unique model to SCGC, built with 13 frets to the body. A small bodied guitar with dreadnought depth, giving it more bass response and volume than one would expect from an instrument its size.
What’s up with thirteen frets? The historical precedent for this classic shape was the Gibson ‘Nick Lucas Special’ from the 1920’s and ’30’s, the one Bob Dylan holds in early photos. The “H” designation is an acknowledgment to the guardian of the lore of all things vintage and stringed, Maestro Paul Hostetter, who commissioned SCGC to build the prototype in 1978. In spite of the question of whether the historic 13 frets to the body had any basis in acoustic science, our reason for using it does.
SCGC’s concept for the H-13 is to achieve power beyond what would be expected in a small-bodied guitar. Two fundamental lutherie tricks make this possible: a longer string length (more downward pressure at the saddle) and more air space via a deeper body (increased volume and bass response). To place the bridge in the optimal position for power and maintain the longer string length, the neck needs to join the body at the 13th fret. Cool, huh? This is a gorgeous classic with power and presence expected from a much larger instrument. Perfect for aggressive fingerstyle blues and vocal accompaniment, the H-13 feels really sweet to hold.
Specs:
Body Wood Type: Mahogany
Back Stripe: S29
Binding: Ivoroid
Top Wood Type: Sitka Spruce
Rosette: Ivoroid
Purfling: S29
Bracing/Voicing: H 13 Scallop/Tapered
Neck Peghead: Slotted
Peghead Binding: None
Overlay Material: Ebony
Headstock Inlay: Santa Cruz Ivoroid Script Logo
Width at Nut: 1-3/4″
Neck Shape: V
Fingerboard Side Dots: Black
Inlay: None
Width at 14th Fret; 2-3/16″
Binding: Ivoroid
Scale Length; 25.375"
Finish Top: Sunburst
Back & Sides; Tobacco/Buffed
Neck: Tobacco/Matte
Setup Pickguard: Tortoise
Tuners/gears; Waverly nickel tuners w/ Ivoroid Buttons
List Price $6050
Specs
Make: Santa Cruz Guitars
Model: H/13
Top Wood: Sitka Spruce
Back/Sides: Mahogany
Nut Width: 1.75"
Fretboard Radius:
Condition: new
Price: $5445
Serial Number: 1684
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A word from Pat, ToneWood Guitars owner:
Whether you're interested in this H/13, or something completely different, I'd love to take some time to help you find your next instrument.