Sollophonic Guitars - Electric Playability, Acoustic Volume, Resonator Tone.

Sollophonic Guitars are Solid-Bodied Resonator Guitars. They are designed to give a number of uses from one instrument. They have the playability, durability and the portability of an electric guitar, yet they don’t rely on having an amp. They have the volume of an acoustic, without the bulk and the high action. They also give a resonator guitar tone, at a lower volume than standard resonators, ideal for when you are playing with quieter instruments, or don’t want to disturb the neighbours/wake the kids.

They are ideal for late night jams, so that your lead or melody lines can be heard over other instruments without amplifiers. They are tough enough to use in pub sessions, and still be heard (and seen!). They are great as a guitar to pick up when inspiration strikes, without plugging in, setting up etc. They give a great glassy slide tone, both acoustic and amplified, and work well in both standard and open tunings. They are also a truly individualistic guitar, which combine the best elements of guitar iconography, with the best elements of guitar tone and versatility.

Sollophonic Guitars come in two types. There are those which are based on existing instruments, and have resonator cones, biscuit bridges, cover-plates and tailpieces fitted into existing production guitars.

There are also guitars that use other production designs, yet because of their nature, mean that custom made plastic cover-plates and tailpieces have to be used. Watch this space!!!

I also am developing my own custom designs using sustainably sourced timber to make the solid bodies, which will incorporate the resonator cone into a small, portable package, to give an ideal travel guitar.

This design of Sollophonic guitar is based on a Telecaster style guitar. This design really works as a solid bodied resonator, combining simplicity, reliability and playability.
To me it is also historically relevant in the development of the electric guitar. It combines the original solution to guitarists being heard;- the resonator guitar, with the first production solid-bodied electric;- the Telecaster. Coincidently, my two favourite designs, merged into one, as well!

These have rear soundholes, they have volume and tone controls, and can be set up for playing either slide or not, or a compromise between the two. I use both Squier guitars and copies, some of which easily compete with the real thing in terms of hardware, and build quality.

I will also undertake conversions of Tele style guitars into resonators. If you have a tired old Tele, or tele-copy, get in touch, I could give your unwanted axe a new lease of life. (Please note;- I WILL NOT carry out this conversion on anything valuable or vintage, don’t bring me your 1960s All Mahogany telecasters.)