Unlocking the Secrets of Mahogany: A Woodworker’s Treasure
Woodworking craftsmen the world over regard genuine mahogany as the finest of all furniture woods. This captivating material possesses a remarkable combination of qualities that make it a true standout – from its incredible working characteristics to its unparalleled durability, stability, and lustrous appearance. Whether you’re a carver seeking to capture the most intricate details or a turner shaping it with ease, mahogany is a woodworker’s delight.
But what exactly is “genuine” mahogany? To most in the woodworking realm, it’s the Honduras variety (Swietenia macrophylla), hailing from Central and South America. There’s also the Cuban or Spanish mahogany (Swietenia mahagoni) found in Cuba and the West Indies, as well as the closely related African mahogany (Khaya ivorensis). All share similar desirable traits, yet craftsmen have traditionally favored the Swietenia species.
The allure of mahogany is no newfound phenomenon. Eighteenth-century English cabinetmakers like Chippendale, Hepplewhite, and Sheraton elevated this wood to new heights, creating furniture of such classic style that it remained in vogue for nearly two centuries. But the wood’s origins can be traced even further back, to the late 1500s when the Spanish Armada’s mahogany-built ships first caught the eye of English shipbuilders. They had never encountered timber of such impressive size and quality, perfect for constructing vessels with greater lengths and widths than their customary oak. This seafaring legacy lives on today, with many a splendid yacht or sailing ship boasting mahogany decks and trim.
In the modern wood trade, Honduras mahogany is known as “Tropical American mahogany,” reflecting its broad origins across Central America, South America, and southern Mexico. The Cuban mahogany first discovered by the Spanish is now commercially scarce, while the Swietenia species has been widely cultivated for lumber throughout its natural range and even in the South Pacific. Genuine mahogany commands a premium, selling for nearly $7 per board foot for the highest FAS (First and Seconds) grade. African mahogany, while similar, sells for around 50% less. Veneer can cost up to $25 per square foot, though true mahogany plywood is unfortunately not readily available.
One captivating aspect of mahogany is the remarkable variation in its heartwood color, ranging from yellowish to reddish-pink or salmon when freshly cut, eventually darkening to a deep reddish-brown with age. While this diversity is part of the wood’s allure, it’s best to select boards of uniform color to ensure a cohesive look in your projects.
Beyond its impressive visual qualities, mahogany also boasts remarkable workability – it’s been fondly called “the wood by which all other woods is measured.” This semi-open, straight-grained timber cuts well with both steel and carbide-tipped blades, though you’ll want to take precautions against dust buildup and potential tear-out. The hardness and stability of mahogany make it a dream to joint, plane, and sand, producing a silky-smooth finish. Carvers can sculpt intricate details with confidence, while power carvers must exercise caution to avoid aggressive cutting. Assembling mahogany projects is a breeze, as the wood lacks the natural oils found in many tropical species, readily accepting a wide range of adhesives.
Whether you’re drawn to the warm, classic tones of a P-bass or the bold, modern aesthetic of a sculpted guitar body, mahogany is a true master of versatility. Its rich history, unparalleled workability, and enduring beauty make it an irreplaceable part of the woodworker’s toolkit. Embrace the allure of this exceptional material and let your creative vision take flight.
Crafting Masterpieces: Insights from a Luthier’s Workshop
As a skilled luthier with a deep passion for his craft, Ellis Hahn of LEH Basses has built instruments for some of the most legendary musicians in the industry. From Colin Greenwood of Radiohead to Tim Lefebvre of David Bowie fame, Hahn’s basses have graced the stages of iconic venues worldwide, captivating audiences and leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape.
When asked about the experience of having his creations played by such renowned artists, Hahn’s enthusiasm is palpable. “Not gonna lie! It really feels pretty amazing. Being at a venue and feeling a bass you made through the sound system rattling your chest… it’s surreal.” He vividly recounts the thrill of seeing Tim Lefebvre pick up one of his basses, immediately connecting with the instrument and taking it straight to rehearsal. “It was so great to see him take to it right away. I literally dropped him off at rehearsal with it an hour later. When I got a chance to see him play it the next day with the BlackStar Symphony Orchestra: The Music of David Bowie… let’s just say it was an absolute high note. I think I was smiling for two days straight.”
Hahn’s journey into building custom instruments began during his time at Sadowsky Guitars, where he honed his skills and gained invaluable experience working alongside industry legends. “The bulk of my experience building basses for legendary musicians comes directly through my time building for Sadowsky,” he explains. “While I was there, I got the chance to build basses for Jason Newsted, Will Lee, Tully Kennedy, Verdine White, Tal Wilkenfeld, and definitely some others whose names are escaping me right now.” One particularly memorable project was his collaboration with Colin Greenwood of Radiohead, who sought a bass that captured the feel and sound of his beloved vintage P-bass, with a few key updates. “He wanted a bass that felt like and sounded like his vintage P bass but that was a bit less worrisome on the road. He brought in one of his favorite P’s for me to get to play and listen to so that I could recreate it…but as a Sadowsky.”
Hahn’s passion for his craft is evident in the meticulous attention he pays to every aspect of his instruments. “There’s a lot of geometry you can tweak in the neck pocket that can drastically change the feel of a bass. The neck pocket, more than anything, was the main difference between a ‘normal’ Sadowsky and Collin’s vintage P. Dialing in the neck pocket for the right feel was crucial.” This level of detail and customization is a hallmark of Hahn’s approach, ensuring that each bass he builds is tailored to the player’s unique needs and preferences.
When asked about the quintessential LEH musician, Hahn’s response reflects his holistic vision. “I don’t want to build for a specific subset. A lot of things have become polarized in the past several years and music bridges gaps. I just want to make a bass that anyone can feel at home with. That’s my goal. I want my bass to be able to adjust to you and age with you and be the thing you can pass down to your kid who is going to do something I cannot even fathom with it.”
Hahn’s own musical experience also informs his approach to building. “I’m not the greatest musician, but my greatest talent as a musician is being able to be a blank slate for playing styles. I can play-test a bass or a pickup combo and leave myself and my music out of it. Very neutral fretting and right-hand technique.” This impartiality allows him to truly assess the nuances of the instrument and ensure it meets the needs of a diverse range of players.
One aspect of Hahn’s process that many may find surprising is the role his furry companion plays. “Hahaha.. Yes! She is crucial. Burnout is not a joke. She helps me remember to take a breath and step away periodically. This is normally communicated by dropping a tennis ball at my feet and tilting her head slightly to the side. That’s her way of reminding me that whatever nuance I am squinting over is not as important as our ongoing game of fetch.”
Hahn’s attention to detail extends beyond the instrument itself, manifesting in a cohesive, visually striking aesthetic. “My favorite aspects are the way that things line up together. Things that you don’t really think about unless they are off. For instance, if there is a pickguard, it lines up perfectly with the control plate.” He also takes great pride in innovations like his magnetic battery cover, ensuring a seamless and integrated look and feel.
One of the most distinctive features of Hahn’s basses is the innovative fader controls he’s developed. “I love those things! That was an idea that I came up with in order to simplify the controls and make adjustments easy for players at all times. I like the visual element too, because not only does it look cool, but you can see the EQ right there on the body of the bass.” These thoughtful design choices demonstrate Hahn’s commitment to enhancing the player’s experience, blending form and function in a truly unique way.
For aspiring musicians seeking the perfect bass, Hahn has a simple message: “Have a good hard think about what you want to say as a player. What is your style, both musically and as a player? There are so many instruments available. Do the research, play the instruments that fit your criteria, and make a decision. But make sure you try a GGB Bass! With all the sound choices my basses offer, with a simple turn of a knob, you may find it easier to find ‘your’ sound.”
As for the future of GGB Basses, Hahn remains focused on getting his creations into the hands of discerning players. “It’s a work in progress. Right now, it’s all about getting the word out and getting the basses into the hands of interested players. I believe in the basses – and the Quad pickup, so hopefully, GGB Basses can become a go-to bass for demanding studio and live players who want sound choices in a gorgeous vintage-style instrument.”
Building Basses, Exploring Space: The Multifaceted Journey of a Luthier
Stepping into the workshop of Ellis Hahn, one is immediately struck by the juxtaposition of his dual passions – the craft of instrument building and the boundless wonder of outer space. While the former is the foundation of his professional calling, the latter serves as a captivating backdrop that infuses his work with a sense of endless possibilities.
Hahn’s journey into lutherie began during his high school days, where a love of woodworking blossomed. “I did woodwork in High School and always enjoyed making all sorts of things out of wood,” he recounts. After completing his studies, Hahn delved into the world of electronics, taking a course that provided him with a deeper understanding of the circuitry behind guitars, amplifiers, and effects. “The best way to learn is to deconstruct and study, so my dad’s garage was littered with old junked radios and any instrument parts I could find.”
Hahn’s early forays into instrument building were, in his own words, “more like Frankenstein-type creations made out of parts I found here and there.” It wasn’t until he perfected his patented Quad pickup design that he truly began to focus on crafting basses from scratch. This innovative pickup, which he owns the patent for from 4- to 10-string variations, has become a hallmark of his GGB Basses line.
“I started working on my Quad coil design back in Australia in the ’90s and then put it to bed, so to speak, until I found an old pickup winding machine at a swap meet here in LA,” Hahn explains. “I taught myself enough about pickup winding to build my first prototype design and worked towards my patented Quad coil design by trial and error.” The Quad pickup offers players a remarkable range of tonal options, from split humbuckers to single coils, all from a single passive pickup.
Hahn’s selection of tonewoods for his basses is a thoughtful process, rooted in his admiration for the classic Fender designs of the 1950s. “I only use woods that were used at Fender in the 50s, which are my favorite basses and guitars of all time,” he states. His INXS bass – a 1958 Fender Precision he acquired in Chicago – serves as the inspiration for his GGB models, with their alder bodies and maple necks carefully dried to match the resonance of this treasured instrument.
As for the player reactions to his creations, Hahn’s basses have been enthusiastically received by seasoned professionals. “I build the basses to feel like an old friend. They look and feel vintage, and when you plug them in, you discover the array of vintage sounds available to you from just one pickup.” Among the esteemed artists who have graced the stage with GGB Basses are Freddie Washington and Nick Seymour of Crowded House.
Hahn’s attention to detail is evident in the seamless integration of various design elements, from the perfectly aligned pickguards and control plates to the custom magnetic battery cover. “One thing that is tricky but fun to line up is the treble side of the neck pocket where the heel is parallel to the body. If the body sticks out in front of it, that’s a deal breaker.” This meticulous approach ensures that every aspect of the bass contributes to a cohesive and visually striking whole.
Hahn’s personal connection to his instruments is further underscored by the role his canine companion plays in the creative process. “Hahaha.. Yes! She is crucial. Burnout is not a joke. She helps me remember to take a breath and step away periodically.” The playful banter between Hahn and his furry friend serves as a reminder that even the most dedicated luthiers need moments of respite to maintain their passion and creative spark.
While Hahn’s primary focus is on crafting exceptional basses, his interest in the realm of space exploration adds a unique dimension to his work. “I am weirdly obsessed with space. Since I was a kid, I’ve loved space exploration. In the 80’s I went to garage sales and was on the lookout for National Geographic Issues from the late 60’s that had amazing images and would tear out records of sounds from space.” This lifelong fascination manifests in the cosmic-inspired imagery he uses as a backdrop for his instruments, evoking a sense of boundless potential.
As Hahn navigates the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, his vision for the future of GGB Basses remains steadfast. “It’s a work in progress. Right now, it’s all about getting the word out and getting the basses into the hands of interested players. I believe in the basses – and the Quad pickup, so hopefully, GGB Basses can become a go-to bass for demanding studio and live players who want sound choices in a gorgeous vintage-style instrument.”
Whether you’re a seasoned bassist or an aspiring musician, Hahn’s story is a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. By seamlessly blending his expertise in lutherie with his fascination for the vast unknown, he has created a truly unique and captivating musical experience. Discover the beauty of hand-crafted wood accents and the boundless possibilities that await at Woodcraft Parts.
