Leo Kottke 6 & 12 String Guitar: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to the world of acoustic guitars, Leo Kottke’s 6 & 12 string guitar stands out as a testament to both craftsmanship and musical versatility. Known for his distinctive fingerpicking style and the ability to create a wide range of sounds with just one instrument, Kottke’s guitars have become a staple in the acoustic guitar community. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of the Leo Kottke 6 & 12 string guitar, exploring its design, sound, and the legacy it has left behind.
Design and Construction
The Leo Kottke 6 & 12 string guitar is a marvel of design and construction. Crafted by Kottke himself, these guitars are known for their unique features and attention to detail. Here’s a closer look at some of the key aspects of their design:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Body Shape | The guitar features a modified dreadnought body shape, which provides a balanced and full sound. |
| Top Material | The top is typically made of solid Sitka spruce, a wood known for its resonance and clarity. |
| Back and Sides | The back and sides are usually made of solid mahogany, which contributes to the guitar’s warm and rich tone. |
| Neck | The neck is made of mahogany and features a comfortable, rounded profile. |
| Fingerboard | The fingerboard is made of rosewood, which provides a smooth playing surface and a rich, dark tone. |
One of the most distinctive features of the Leo Kottke 6 & 12 string guitar is its headstock design. Kottke’s headstock is unique in that it features a slanted angle, which allows for a more comfortable playing position and easier access to the higher frets.
Sound and Tone
The Leo Kottke 6 & 12 string guitar is renowned for its rich, warm tone and dynamic range. Here’s a breakdown of the factors that contribute to its sound:
The combination of solid Sitka spruce for the top and solid mahogany for the back and sides creates a perfect balance between resonance and warmth. The Sitka spruce top allows for a clear and bright sound, while the mahogany back and sides add depth and richness to the tone.
The guitar’s modified dreadnought body shape also plays a significant role in its sound. This shape provides a larger sound chamber, which allows for a more powerful and full-bodied sound.
Another factor that contributes to the Leo Kottke 6 & 12 string guitar’s unique sound is the use of a 12-string configuration. While the 12-string guitar is often associated with a bright, jangly sound, Kottke’s guitar produces a more mellow and harmonious tone. This is due in part to the use of a lighter gauge string and the guitar’s overall design.
Playability and Comfort
One of the reasons Leo Kottke’s guitars have become so popular is their playability and comfort. Here’s what makes these guitars so user-friendly:
The neck of the Leo Kottke 6 & 12 string guitar features a comfortable, rounded profile that is easy on the fingers. This design allows for extended playing sessions without discomfort.
The guitar’s headstock design also contributes to its playability. The slanted angle of the headstock allows for a more comfortable playing position and easier access to the higher frets.
In addition to the physical design, the Leo Kottke 6 & 12 string guitar is also known for its intonation. The guitar is well-constructed and set up, ensuring that each string is in tune and plays smoothly.
Legacy and Influence
Leo Kottke’s 6 & 12 string guitar has left an indelible mark on the acoustic guitar world. Here’s a look at some of the guitar’s legacy and influence:
Leo Kottke himself is a legendary guitarist, known for his innovative playing style and ability to create a wide range of sounds with just
