AN INFORMED APPROACH
Throughout my career I’ve worked on thousands of guitars and other instruments (approx. 6,500 as of 2020.) My history as a repair luthier has significantly informed my approach to design and building. The way a guitar plays and feels, along with longevity and stability are some aspects of my target as a builder.
For me, beauty is something understated and elegant. I design with an aesthetic that is both classic and original.
Tone and function are also primary targets. There are a lot of good builders out there trying new ideas and doing amazing things. And from my experience on the repair side, only the best luthiers know how to produce stunning guitars that also play perfectly, sound amazing, and pass the test of time.
My goal is to craft the best guitars possible in the style that I build. This includes a detailed setup with precise action adjustments when complete. The guitar must play perfectly in your hands.
ACOUSTIC
With acoustic guitars, my aim is for articulate voicing combined with power and tonal balance. I want the woods to shape and color the overall tone. The guitar must be resonant, lively and responsive. I spend a lot of time on voicing and the pairing of consonant wood pieces.
ELECTRIC
For electric guitars, my preference is for a vocalized vintage tone with modern functionality. Versatility is also very important. My favorite electric voice is the neck-middle position on a strat. And a tele neck pickup can have a similar tone. But I’m more interested in your favorite sounds. What are you looking for in a guitar?
STUDY
I am inspired and informed by many great builders of past and present. I have studied the works of Ervin Somogyi and often use his texts as reference. My earliest inspiration comes from James Goodall and Dana Bourgeouis. I’ve studied various lecture notes from John Greven and other luthiers. I believe that a craftsman can never stop learning. [More info on my background can be found here.]
Like most luthiers, I have an obsession with superior materials and a wood collection that keeps growing. Every piece of wood is different, just as every player, and likewise every guitar. I believe in creating models with specific attributes to make the best possible instrument for your playing style.
INTENT & PURSUIT
We build each guitar with the final target of exquisite beauty, powerful voice, perfect playing action, and superior stability. My repair career has given me a deeply informed understanding of what makes some guitars sound amazing and play great.
There is no such thing as a perfect guitar, only a perfect musical experience. I guarantee that every guitarist can experience a perfect musical moment. My goal with Solstice is to give you a deep connection to your instrument, helping you create the best musical experience possible.
-Ryan Elewaut
