Reintroduced in January ’24, D’Angelico’s Model B replicates design particulars from a number of of the archtops John D’Angelico first constructed within the Thirties.

The elegant aesthetics and Artwork Deco touches of his preliminary Excel line are well-preserved right here, alongside a couple of sensible updates for trad jazz gamers of this century. Whereas the unique line was conceived as an acoustic jazz guitar, this replace owns the floating DeArmond Rhythm Chief pickup mod adopted by gamers who wished to be heard in a band setting, and shaves girth from the chunky neck of yore. With the Model B, you possibly can wrap your fingers round a contemporary C neck and seize the vaunted D’A vibe.

Floating pickups just like the DeArmond are designed to protect the sound of an unadulterated acoustic high, which the Model B maintains with a floating ebony bridge, bottom-mounted “two bar” tailpiece, and pots on the pickguard. Within the case of Model B’s laminated high, again and sides, it’s a considerably closed and managed sound, preferrred for punchy rhythms and spherical, burpy leads. Earlier than your nostril goes up concerning the laminate, observe that it’s additionally useful for taming suggestions on a hollowbody; it contributes to the guitar’s tight backside, nice for articulating low chord voicings. And, after all, it’s a significant component in affordability.

The three-piece neck is topped by an ebony fretboard sporting 20 frets alongside a 24.75″ scale. Dovetailed to the jumbo physique on the 14th fret, it’s realistically playable to twelfth place.

Whereas the Model B is designed to “excel” (sorry) as a rhythm instrument, its quick, comfy neck begs you to blow. You’ll additionally recognize the steadiness and fullness of the DeArmond, which lures chord-melody taking part in. Jazz gamers received’t be stunned that the Model B’s tone shone most brightly via solid-state and acoustic amps, which opened its woodier acoustic qualities.

D’Angelico has concurrently launched the EXL-1, replicating a later single-cut that grew to become the envy of L-5 house owners, and a favourite of giants similar to Johnny Smith and Chet Atkin.