Boulder Creek OM Guitars: A Comprehensive Guide
Boulder Creek OM Guitars have long been revered for their exceptional craftsmanship and rich, warm sound. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting out, these instruments offer a unique blend of quality and aesthetics that can elevate your playing experience. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the various aspects of Boulder Creek OM Guitars, from their history to their design, sound, and price range.
History and Background
Boulder Creek Guitars, founded in 1979 by luthier Bob Taylor, have been producing high-quality acoustic guitars for over four decades. The OM (Orchestra Model) was introduced in the early 1980s and has since become one of the most popular guitar shapes in the industry. The OM design offers a balance between the smaller, more intimate sound of a parlor guitar and the larger, more powerful sound of a dreadnought.
Design and Construction
Boulder Creek OM Guitars are known for their meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each guitar is handcrafted by skilled luthiers using premium materials, including solid wood tops, backs, and sides. The following table highlights some of the key features of the Boulder Creek OM design:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Body Shape | Orchestra Model (OM) |
| Top Wood | Solid Sitka Spruce or Solid Adirondack Red Spruce |
| Back and Sides Wood | Solid Mahogany or Solid Indian Rosewood |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Bridge Material | Spruce |
| Finish | Hand-rubbed oil or high-gloss nitrocellulose |
The combination of solid wood construction and the OM body shape results in a guitar with a rich, full-bodied sound that is perfect for a variety of musical styles, from folk and bluegrass to acoustic rock and country.
Sound and Tone
The sound of a Boulder Creek OM Guitar is truly remarkable. The solid wood construction and the OM body shape contribute to a warm, balanced tone with a clear, articulate voice. The following table compares the sound characteristics of the OM model to other popular guitar shapes:
| Model | Body Shape | Sound Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| OM | Orchestra Model | Full-bodied, balanced, articulate |
| Parlor | Parlor | Intimate, warm, articulate |
| Dreadnought | Dreadnought | Powerful, loud, articulate |
The OM model’s sound is versatile, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of musical genres. Its balanced tone and articulate voice make it particularly well-suited for fingerpicking and solo playing.
Price Range
Boulder Creek OM Guitars are considered premium instruments, and as such, they come with a higher price tag compared to entry-level guitars. The price range for a new Boulder Creek OM Guitar can vary depending on the specific model, wood choices, and additional features. The following table provides a general price range for new and used Boulder Creek OM Guitars:
| Condition | New | Used |
|---|---|---|
| Excellent | $3,000 – $4,000 | $2,000 – $3,500 |
