The H13 from Santa Cruz is a smaller body build that packs a punch. With the slotted headstock neck meeting the body at the 13th fret while retaining a standard longer scale, the bridge is in the optimal position for tone. Matched with a deep body (4 7/8″) it is the best of both worlds, meeting at the 13th fret! This excellent condition 2016 H13 is the iconic versatile guitar for any playing style.
The SCGC H13
What’s up with thirteen frets? The historical precedent for this classic shape was the Gibson ‘Nick Lucas Special’ from the 1920’s and ’30’s, the one Bob Dylan holds in early photos. The “H” designation is an acknowledgement to Maestro Paul Hostetter, who commissioned SCGC to build the prototype in 1978. In spite of the question of whether the historic 13 frets to the body had any basis in acoustic science, Santa Cruz’s reason for using it is plainly, it does.
SCGC’s concept for the H-13 is to achieve power beyond what would be expected in a small-bodied guitar. Two fundamental lutherie tricks make this possible. A longer string length (increased saddle pressure) and more air space via a deeper body (increased volume/bass). To place the bridge in the optimal position for power and maintain the longer string length, the neck needs to join the body at the 13th fret. Cool, huh? This is a gorgeous classic with power and presence expected from a much larger instrument. Premium Sitka Spruce matched perfectly with Honduran Mahogany back, sides and neck with slotted headstock topped with a classic sunburst finish and S29 multi-colored herringbone top purflings. Perfect for aggressive fingerstyle blues and vocal accompaniment, the H-13 feels really sweet to hold.
Includes original hardshell case.
Free shipping in the continental United States.
–