Stephen Holst Archtops

[BigMikeinNJ]

[citizenk74]

That's a gorgeous instrument, Big! Congratulations, and play it in good health!

[JWMandy]

While recognizing that posting here is something of a Zombie thread, I wanted very much to thank everyone who posted here and elsewhere on the Forum for your tremendous compliments and high regard Steve Holst's work. On the basis of these recommendations, I went ahead and ordered a Holst archtop some time back, and have received this recently. It has immediately become my favorite. Worked together with Steve to define a ES-175 type built to a Byrdland scale length for a small guy like me heretofore playing an Andy Bennedetto. The Andy is a fine instrument and it's 23-inch scale length works, but the thing's just a bit too dimunitive for me to play comfortably - small as I am. Finding that special groove craddling it just never really felt like I could find it consistently. So Steve's guitar adds just another 1/2 inch in scale length and spreads the sides only another 3 inches, but the result is quite a bit of improvement in voicing the bass, and this rounds the sound nicely. Workmanship is beautiful and follows Steve's own design vocabulary - a bit more contemporary than the traditional Gibson, but still a close relative. Due to tarrifs, we missed the opportunity to get first choice in a British pickup, and ended up with a Benedetto which is 100% fine. All in, I'm loving it. So hats off both to Steve and everyone here for their guidance in crafting an inspiring instrument. Thanks again. (Photo taken by Steve of the guitar on his workbench).

[AKA]

It’s a beauty! If the playability and tone rival its looks, you have a gem. Would love to see additional pics.

AKA

[marcwhy]

).

Fantastic!!

Beautiful instrument, and yes, Steve does incredible work! My Holst feels so good to play (and hopefully I make it sound good once in a while)!

Congrats - enjoy!

Marc