It’s not easy to build a 12 string that’s as responsive and clear as a 6 string, but that’s precisely what Bill Tippin has managed to pull off. This is an incredible 2009 Bravado with primo Brazilian Rosewood and lake salvaged Sitka Spruce and a Celtic appointment package that humbles the player with its clarity, power, and elegance. Right down to the details (read: Fossilized Buffalo Horn bridge pins) We love Bill’s work, and are always eager to represent it here, but this one caught us by surprise with just how perfectly everything comes together.
The Celtic knot work along the fretboard and headstock are comprised of intricately woven MOP and Abalone, and Bill added a soundport to the upper bout, and a Koa arm bevel to the lower, for creature comfort. All 12 tuners are Black Pearl Waverlies—one set of these tuners is stunning, to say nothing of two! And we love how the ruddy color of the sinker Sitka pairs with the Koa bindings and rich brown Brazilian Rosewood. This Tippin Bravado is ready for travel and the stage, too, with a custom Calton flight case and a Highlander IP-2 dual source mic/UST pickup system.
Other keywords: lutherie, luthier, 12-string, bravado 12 string, fingerstyle, leo kottke