Here's one that I've been playing for a long time (about 6 years): an experimental stage acoustic by Rob Ristow. The lack of binding and other frills is due to the fact that it was only meant as an experiment and never meant to be sold, the wear and tear is because I wanted to buy it anyway and subsequently played it everywhere from Poland to New Orleans.
The basic premise was to "build it like a bridge," according to Rob Ristow, the guitar's builder. What he meant was that the bracing is quite abnormal - it's a narrow "X" style bracing that isn't continuously attached to the top (leaving little arches that look like bridges).
It certainly has a different look, but the construction is quite solid. It's held up quite well despite the true oil finish and climates I've subjected it to. The wear on the top is really just due to my (former) playing style, and is now covered by a transparent pick guard.
So, how does it sound? Also different. The attack is minutely delayed, sometimes giving it a natural reverb-type quality. The tone is great for featuring intricate playing with balanced highs and mids that really cut through a mix. The lower notes are thin, but it is a stage acoustic - designed to minimize feedback and pack light. It is exceptionally light, and I've never had any trouble with feedback. Also, the Fishman Matrix pickup does a respectable job of representing the guitar despite its low cost, and gives you the ability to boost those lows if necessary.
What really makes this guitar shine is its playability. The action is extremely fast, and there are surprisingly few fret buzz issues for an acoustic with an essentially electric-style action. That combined with the tone that just begs for lead parts make for an incredibly fun live playing experience.
Top: Spruce
Back & Sides: Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany, Purple Heart and Ebony
Bridge & Fingerboard: Rosewood
Nut & Saddle: Bone
Audio Samples:
Live Sound
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Pickup Sound
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