One of the most well-known names in modern lutherie, Ervin Somogyi. We’ve been lucky to work with his guitars for a number of years, and today we’ve landed a unique piece of Somogyi history: his first 12-String, built in 1977. Originally owned by none other than Alex DeGrassi, this Ervin’s first has Indian Rosewood back and sides and Spruce on top, 12 frets to the body, and a Classical-style mosaic rosette. The body dimensions are slim for a 12-string (14 5/8” across the lower bout), granting a warmth and punchy flavor to the voice. While it doesn’t have the signature bass response that Ervin’s guitars are now known for, this 12-String has a balance and intimacy to it that really lends itself to recording. The setup is slick and easy, the nut coming in at 1 7/8” and the saddle string spacing at 2 5/16”. It’s a fantastic 12-String by itself, and it has the added provenance of being Ervin’s first.
Here is a historic guitar with wonderful provenance. The first ever 12-string guitar by Ervin Somogyi, the master builder and author who is now taught an entire generation of guitar makers. This guitar was once owned by Alex DeGrassi, the legendary recording artist as well. At once collectible and playable, this is a special find. - Paul Heumiller
08-19-2020, 05:07 PM
1977 Somogyi 12-String, Indian Rosewood/Spruce
