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Big Bertha
Looking for something new and unique to do during one of our meetings in 1998, we talked about making a big electric guitar to use as promotion and just all round fun. We decided it had to be playable so our project took on a whole new meaning.
Some of the criteria for the guitar were:
The guitar had to be just under 8 feet long so it would still fit in our vans for easy transportation to one of the six stores or many trade shows and events Bertha sees.
The design was based on a Fender Precision Bass Guitar. This design is very popular and we felt that if it had to be played a bass guitar would be the easiest for two people.
It had to be made in a real sense, just like you would make a custom guitar.
Our guitar guy, Derrick, who also happened to be a guitar maker was asked to take on the project. The guitar was completed and put on display in the fall of 1998 and has been exhibited at many major functions since.
"Big Bertha" is just under 8 feet high and weighs 85 pounds. We have a custom made flight case to ship the guitar around. It comes with two stands, vertical or horizontal, offering two playing positions. She's made from maple and cherry woods with brass frets. The strings were custom made by Al Jescke from Edmonton and the pickups are Dimarzio. Estimated cost to build Bertha was $5000.
When visiting Sight and Sound, make sure you look for Big Bertha. Who knows? there may be a giant set of drums beside her.
Here's some photos of the construction process with Derreck.
Click to enlarge
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