John Buscarino’s Rhapsody is unique in the guitar world in that it pairs a carved arched back with a flattop. This combination produces voice that blends the energy and attack of a steel string with the clarity and separation of an archtop guitar. This one is Adirondack Red Spruce over rare Plum Pudding Figured Mahogany.
To find a set of this wood big enough to carve a back from is quite rare indeed. Equally special are the Snakewood appointments. The fingerboard, headplate, bridge and bindings are all crafted from Snakewood which is equally rare and stunning. An elegant Ribbon rosette makes the oval sound hole a centerpiece of beauty on this fine Buscarino Rhapsody. There is also a side soundport. You need only listen to the samples by Al Petteway to hear the unique and truly special voice John Buscarino has created in this arched back flat top design. What a guitar…
Nothing short of amazing! I'm not talking about the beauty, although this is a eye-catcher for sure. The voice is what gets me, so clear and so rich and beautiful all at once. Years ago John showed me his stash of wood and proudly told me how amazing the tone of this Plum Pudding Mahogany is. This guitar is proof. Coupled with Adirondack top this guitar has it all. Body and depth, power and articulation. While designed for Jazz, I feel the Rhapsody is a surprisingly versatile design, great for all fingerstyle, flatpicking and strumming. It really does it all extremely well. 
The voice on this guitar is nearly perfect for recording and for fingerstyle playing especially. It's round and full with plenty of overtones but very focused. I really enjoyed the way the notes were so "present" in every instance and how the midrange was strong without being harsh at all. The arched back must be a contributing factor, I'm guessing. It's also beautifully finished and would be a nice addition to anyone's collection. | Scale Length | 25 in |
|---|---|
| Nut Width | 1.69 in |
| String Spacing | 2.06 in |
| Woods | Spruce - Adirondack (Red), Mahogany |
John Buscarino's Rhapsody is unique in the guitar world in that it pairs a carved arched back with a flattop. This combination produces voice that blends the energy and attack of a steel string with the clarity and separation of an archtop guitar
Nothing short of amazing. I'm not talking about the beauty, although this is a eye-catcher for sure
The voice on this guitar is nearly perfect for recording and for fingerstyle playing especially. It's round and full with plenty of overtones but very focused 