Sorensen VX

[surfnpikr]

Just received my second Sorensen VX yesterday. My first was/is an open, loud and focused, "knock the audience out of their chairs" bluegrass monster. A delight to look at and play. Originally owned by Darren Nicholson. After having some discussion with Steve about the possibility of coming up with something that offered a broader, somewhat warmer and more genre spanning palette for the other types of music I play, he said he had some ideas. What arrived yesterday is nothing less than an incredible, once in a lifetime instrument.

I have commented on this forum with regard to a Paul Newson F that I own, which I still love, and play often. I am fortunate to have these incredible instruments, and with recent vaccines, to once again have the opportunity to get out and play them.

..but today.. the big kudos go out to Mr. Sorensen. Thanks Steve. I still can't believe it's mine. You really delivered. .

[trodgers]

Good for you! I really dig how Mr. Sorensen tips the hat at traditional mandolin design, then blasts off for outer-space. Very cool looking instruments, for sure!

[MontanaMatt]

Just received my second Sorensen VX yesterday. My first was/is an open, loud and focused, "knock the audience out of their chairs" bluegrass monster. A delight to look at and play. Originally owned by Darren Nicholson. After having some discussion with Steve about the possibility of coming up with something that offered a broader, somewhat warmer and more genre spanning palette for the other types of music I play, he said he had some ideas. What arrived yesterday is nothing less than an incredible, once in a lifetime instrument.

I have commented on this forum with regard to a Paul Newson F that I own, which I still love, and play often. I am fortunate to have these incredible instruments, and with recent vaccines, to once again have the opportunity to get out and play them.

..but today.. the big kudos go out to Mr. Sorensen. Thanks Steve. I still can't believe it's mine. You really delivered. .

Can you share some pics and sound samples? Perhaps a comparison of the two Sorensens?

[Timbofood]

Pictures?

[surfnpikr]

Pictures?

The first VX I owned was previously owned by Darren Nicholson. It can be viewed and heard here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ao21VY550_4

I do not yet have a sound clip for the one I just received, here's a couple shots.



Note: I kept pounding Steve about the possibility of using an Engleman top..thinking that was what it would take to create a "warmer" sound. Steve insisted that although he has some spectacular Engleman in stock, it wasn't that simple. He said that Sitka works best for the VX, that it preserves volume and presence, and that the broader sound dynamics I was seeking could be accomplished by using a somewhat softer maple on the back, and of course.. modifying how it was carved. Furthermore, he said he had a demo that he thought fit the description of what I was going to order.. up to and including not just the the modified sound and response, but also changes I wanted to make in the neck profile. He was right.. it did all that, it's incredibly beautiful to look at, and I could NOT be happier.

The "Darren Nicholson" VX I owned for over a year has made it's way back to Santa Clarita to once again become Steve's demo VX. If you attend IBMA or any other event and Steve is there with this VX.. tighten your shoelaces and take it for a spin. You will be amazed.