2017 Mark Whitebook

• Model: Dreadnought #83

• Origin: USA

• Woods: Sitka Spruce / Quilted Maple / Macassar Ebony Fingerboard

• Scale: 25 1/4 in. Nut Width: 1 11/16 in.

• Finish: Lacquer

The legendary luthier Mark Whitebook has recently returned to guitar building after putting his tools in storage in 1980. Having built around 70 guitars in the 70’s, his list of clients during that time is astounding and reads like a top music chart of the era: artists like James Taylor, Carly Simon, John McLaughlin, Linda Ronstadt, Phil Keaggy, and Clarence White.

In late 2014, Whitebook, after 35 years, made the decision to being building again; but this time without an order list, without customization, and without timelines. He wanted to build instruments free from the constraints of clients waiting in the wings and instead wanted to focus on building according to his inspiration and desires. Whitebook has set his sights on reaching 99 guitars built before he hangs up the shingle for good.

This new dreadnought (Guitar #83) came to life in Whitebook’s Laguna Niguel shop in 2017 and was inspired by some special woods he sourced in 2015/2016:

“I had always wanted to build a maple guitar with a Macassar Ebony fingerboard, and I had a chance when I ran across some extraordinarily nice pieces of figured maple and a terrific Macassar Ebony board.”

The Quilted Maple back, sides, and neck along with the Sitka Spruce top sit in beautiful contrast to the Macassar Ebony fingerboard and Santos Rosewood adornments (Peghead veneer, bridge, back stringer, heel cap, bottom wedge inlay, and bindings).

But as gorgeous as the materials are; it’s the sound of this dreadnought which is the true star! The guitar is incredibly versatile; delivering a captivating sound in every single style played on it. From James Taylor (of course!) to driving strummers; from crystal clear solos to contrapuntal classical pieces. This guitar could do it all and with a tone that makes you lose track of time and of your surroundings.