These are traditional instruments and all models are based on the famous 1937 Herringbone Dreadnought, owned by the late, great Charles Sawtelle of the award winning bluegrass band, Hot Rize. All feature Red spruce (Adirondack) tops chosen for tap tone and stiffness, advanced X brace placement, hand graduated top thickness, pre-war hand carved scalloped braces, nitro-cellulose lacquer finishes and time tested design features such as dovetail neck joints. It’s all about sound, and that is what the Thompson Dreadnought specializes in. Thompson Dreadnoughts are built with the finest woods, materials and craftsmanship to deliver that sought after pre-war sound and playing feel. This D-MA model features Sinker Mahogany back & sides, Adirondack top.

Applying innovative modern construction techniques to create a vintage vibe and sound is what gives these new instruments their appeal! Says Jerry Douglas: “The word ‘Deco’ conjures images of a time when design was at its peak. A period in architectural history unmatched by any other. The resonator guitar was born during this time and echoed art deco elements. Paul Beard’s newest line of resonator guitars honors that tradition in appearance and tonal quality. Beneath the historic exterior lie Paul’s own structural advances. By representing the original sound with the advantage of stability, it’s only right that these guitars should bear the name ‘Deco’.”