NK Forster Standard Model Bouzouki – compact, focused, Session-ready

 

The Standard Model is a Forster Irish bouzouki that fits neatly into a banjo case.

Back when I worked with Stefan Sobell, we only made a few smaller-bodied bouzoukis, citterns, and octave mandolins—but they were always excellent. This size offers a more focused, precise tone than the larger-bodied versions, which makes it perfect for session playing.

This is the first of the new design—built from Western red cedar and straight-grained, quartersawn Victorian blackwood. The client chose a satin finish, which is practical and a bit more affordable.

It turned out beautifully.

 

 

Standard Irish bouzouki full
P1050216
handmade Irish bouzouki
Blackwood Irish bouzouki

  • Material

    Soundboard – carved top mature seasoned European spruce or Western red cedar.

    Back and sides – there are many options - mahogany, figured mahogany, flame jarrah, wenge, ziricote or figured bubinga.

    Neck - New Guinea rosewood, Fiji mahogany.

    Fretboard - fine Sri Lanka ebony or ancient bog oak, upgrade to Mun ebony or ringed gidgee.

    Bridge - ebony.

  • Hardware

    Tuners - Gold Gotoh 510.

    Frets - hand polished Evo gold frets.

    Nut and saddle - hand polished bone.

  • Dimensions

    body width: 340mm 13.4″
    body depth: 90mm 3.5″
    scale: 22", 23.5", 24.75″ or 650mm or custom.
    nut: 36mm or custom.
    tuning: GDAE, GDAD, ADAD or similar.