More often than not, the price tags of instruments are puffed up because of their association with big brand names and artists. Thankfully, there are still lesser known guitar builders like Blueridge who put all your money’s worth into the actual instrument. A good example of this is the Blueridge BR-371, an all-solid wood boutique style parlor guitar that’s priced considerably lower for its specs and feature set.
With its early 20th Century inspired design, and impressive tone woods, this parlor guitar is easily a museum worthy instrument that would make for a great centerpiece for anyone’s collection. But it’s not just all for show, because this instrument is meant to be played, built using modern construction methods for improved structural stability and durability. While the Blueridge BR-371 is definitely not cheap, it does have features that you’d normally only get from instruments that are multiple times more expensive.
The parlor-style body of this guitar features select solid Indian rosewood for the back and sides, while the top is crafted from select solid Sitka spruce. This all-solid wood combination is preferred for by many players for its emphasis on articulation and dynamics, something that complements the midrange emphasis of small bodied guitars. Blueridge utilized handcarved scalloped and parabolic-shaped bracings to support the top, following authentic PreWar forward-X position but built using modern and more consistent methods.
The neck is crafted from solid mahogany that joins the body at the 12th fret. It is topped by premium black ebony fingerboard which feature a more modern nut width of 111 ⁄16 ˝ and scale length of 24.75″ that make it easier to play for today’s players. Other cool features of the neck is its diamond volute and slotted headstock design, that visually takes you back to the early 1900s.
Giving this guitar its premium appeal are the stunning, hand-inlaid strips of precisely-cut abalone shell which outline the entire top and circle the sound-hole rosette. In addition to the abalone purfling, the neck and the body is wrapped in grained ivoroid binding, the same grained ivoroid material is also used on the buttons of the tuning machines. Other features include bone nut and saddle, black ebony pyramid-style bridge, and Gotoh tuners.
To better appreciate the BR-371’s premium looks and tone, check out the demo video below:
The Blueridge BR-371 is currently retailing online for around $1450. For more information and other details, visit Saga Music.
1 thought on “Blueridge BR-371”
well done. not a lot of hard playing.