Kneipp and Bernabe

[Section_10]

Anyone play a Kneipp before? I'm amazed by it actually, very similar to Smallman, but not as nasal sounding. It has a very tight feel to the strings, incredibly responsive and loud but it actually sounds good too. The only thing it won't do is ring out on the trebles like a bernabe that I played. While the Kneipp is slightly boomy it doesn't feel as big (especially basses) as the bernabe. it's hard to figure out what sound I like more, a 'bigger' sound on the bernabe with bell-like trebles or the tight responsive sound of the Kneipp. i'd recommend both of them actually. Both just as good just slightly different sound. Anyone looking for a Smallman sound without the unpleasant overtones I highly suggest Kneipp. I also heard Redgates were good but have not played one. They're suppose to be more of a mix of lattice/traditional sound.

[daniel711]

My Redgate is my main axe... I have a '98 model, and I got back on Jim's waiting list for a new one 2 1/2 years ago, when the list was less than 2 years, and he hasn't even started the new guitar yet. He's busy!! This guitar beats the pants off my Ramirez 1a, and my Hill Fleta. It can be pushed very hard without buzzing or "thwacking". The top thickness is only slightly thinner than a traditional. IMO - these guitars are the perfect balance between a Smallman and a great traditional guitar.

I'm not sure, but I think that the Kneipp is more of a Smallman clone. I wonder how the double-top compares to the lattice-top??

[Section_10]

Although I haven't played a double-top I don't really enjoy the sound of it. I would much prefer the lattice.

[daniel711]

I really want to try a double-top. If they compare favorably to the lattice tops, then not having to deal with an Australian luthier would make all the difference.

[dennis]

I tell you what, I saw John Williams play last Saturday, and it was at a high school auditorium. He had his two monitors like he always does, but that Smallman of his sounded wonderful, the place was small enough to hear his playing in addition to the monitors. I understand the kneipps are very very similar.. If you can get something like that for the price I've seen some of the Kneipps go for, than more power to you. Hearing him play that instrument live really changed my thoughts on the sound of those lattice instuments. The longevity is another question though.

Section 10 - I see you're in FL, did you see the JW concert in Jax?

[Section_10]

No I wasn't aware of his concerts although i'm not sure I would go see him anyway, perhaps maybe if he was here in the same town maybe. I'm wondering about the longevity of these instruments. I can't imagine what happens over time with them everything besides the soundboard is tough enough to last forever ,but of course is the top that matters. Any one have any thoughts about that. People will often say "I'm not sure how long they last" but does anyone know first-hand that they deteriorate quicker or is it just speculation?