Always on the lookout for new ways of thinking the mandolin, we've been following the progress in the collaboration of cutting-edge builder/designer Will Kimble and 21st century instrument entrepreneur Peter Mix in their righteous efforts to produce the world's first full production model Carbon Fibre Mandolins in their promising"New Millenium Acoustic Design."

From the Mike Nichols movie "The Graduate," starring Dustin Hoffman and Anne Bancroft:
Mr. McQuire: I just want to say one word to you, just one word.
Ben: Yes, sir.
Mr. McQuire: Are you listening?
Ben: Yes I am.
Mr. McQuire: Plastics.
Ben: Exactly how do you mean?
Mr. McQuire: There is a great future in plastics.
Think about it. Will you think about it?
Ben: Yes, I will.
Mr. McQuire: Enough said. That's a deal...

Even tougher than steel but very light-weight Carbon fiber is unaffected by the ravages of extreme temperature and humidity. Also, uncommon knowledge is that CF is extremely resonant with tonal qualities found in finely carved-woods. Carbon fiber has been used in the construction of guitars, violins, and cellos for several years already, can be left in its natural black and gray woven cosmetic, or painted like a high-performance race car.

Our personal experiences with CF in commissioning one of only two Carbon Fibre top mandolins previously made, the Ovation custom Adamas Mandolin have been extremely positive. We're excited to see the benefits expanded to the body and neck. An A body prototype is out and in the hands of reputable testers now, soon an Oval hole, and not long after, a Florentine is on the drawing board.

Our dream is for a lovely Jethro-esque asymmetrical two-point.

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Posted by Ted at December 26, 2006 4:17 PM