WADE FW-5 2008[Pre-Owned]

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WADE is a workshop in Osaka, recognized by Lloyd Loar scholar and artist Tony Williamson. This is a pre-owned FW-5 with a VIRZI tone producer, a faithful recreation of a Lloyd Loar-era F-5 from the 1920s.

WADE began its workshop in 1990, building guitars, basses, and a variety of stringed instruments. Around 2000, the workshop began producing flat-top mandolins in earnest, thoroughly recreating not only the finish but also the construction of early-1920s Lloyd Loar-era Gibson F-5s. These instruments earned high praise from players and collectors worldwide. As they are now rarely produced, they have become exceptionally rare mandolins.

The beautifully carved arches of the top and back, shaped by Mr. Ueda, fully display the appeal of a handmade mandolin. Its exquisite scroll and arches are details you will find yourself wanting to trace with your fingers.

This instrument is fitted with a VIRZI Tone Producer, an acoustic plate devised by the Virzi Brothers to enhance tone and used in the early 1920s. Combined with its ultra-thin shellac finish, it creates a wonderfully nostalgic character. An inlay at the final fingerboard position further enhances its individuality.

Its treble has the warmth and character of true vintage sound, making it an ideal fit for traditional bluegrass styles. Its powerful cutting tone will add definition to any ensemble.

There are numerous scratches overall, including around the scroll, but these contribute to its authentic 1920s character. A contact pickup is also installed, making the mandolin suitable for live performance.

A pre-owned WADE mandolin with a VIRZI Tone Producer rarely appears on the market. Please do not miss this opportunity.

[Specification]

Body : F-type
Top : Solid Spruce
Side & Back : Solid Maple
Neck : Maple
Finger Board : Ebony
Bridge : Ebony
Back Construction : 2p
Neck Width At Nut : 27 mm
Scale Length : 355 mm
Tuning Machine : Golden Age
Case : w/HFC
Repair / Modification History : Pickup installed; tuners replaced. Please contact us for details.

Please note this item may also be available locally, and might sell out.
All customs, duties, and import procedures are the buyers responsibility.
Please be aware of the any duties or procedures for your country.
We shipping to overseas will use the EMS or FedEx.
We do not use plastic/styrofoam for packing and all items are shipped tracked and insured.