The AR403CED features a classic single-cutaway archtop design, with a body crafted from laminated maple for the top, back, and sides. This choice of tonewood not only contributes to the guitar's durability but also delivers a balanced, warm, and resonant sound that is ideal for jazz and other nuanced musical styles. The body dimensions include a 16-inch lower bout and a body depth of 2.75 inches, which provides a comfortable playing experience without sacrificing the richness of the guitar's acoustic tone. The top of the guitar is carved with precision, giving it a beautiful arched profile that enhances its acoustic projection. The laminated maple used in the AR403CED's construction is carefully selected and matched to ensure consistent quality and tonal balance. The guitar's body is finished with a high-gloss nitrocellulose lacquer, a finish revered for its thin, resonant properties, which allow the wood to breathe and mature over time. This finish is typically available in a classic sunburst or a sleek black, both of which highlight the natural grain and beauty of the maple wood. Neck and Fingerboard The neck of the AR403CED is made from three-piece maple, offering stability and strength, crucial for maintaining the guitar's playability over time. The neck has a comfortable C-shaped profile that fits well in the hand, making it suitable for extended playing sessions. The fingerboard is crafted from ebony, a premium wood known for its smooth feel, durability, and bright tonal qualities. The fingerboard is adorned with 20 medium-jumbo frets, providing ample space for expressive playing across the 25-inch scale length. The fingerboard is embellished with elegant mother-of-pearl block inlays, which not only enhance the guitar's aesthetic appeal but also provide clear fret markers for easy navigation. The binding on the neck is meticulously done, adding to the overall refinement of the instrument. Electronics and Hardware The Eastman AR403CED is equipped with dual Kent Armstrong humbucker pickups, renowned for their ability to capture the warm, rich tones associated with archtop guitars. These pickups are specially designed to handle the nuances of jazz playing, offering a smooth, articulate sound with excellent clarity and depth. The pickups are controlled via a traditional setup of two volume knobs, two tone knobs, and a three-way toggle switch, allowing for a wide range of tonal variations from warm, mellow tones to brighter, more cutting sounds. The bridge of the AR403CED is made from ebony and is fully adjustable, allowing players to fine-tune the action and intonation to their preference. The bridge is paired with a chrome-plated trapeze tailpiece, which not only adds a touch of vintage elegance but also contributes to the guitar's sustain and resonance. The guitar is fitted with high-quality Gotoh tuners, known for their smooth operation and reliable tuning stability. These tuners, combined with the bone nut, ensure that the guitar stays in tune even during extended playing sessions. Aesthetics and Additional Features The Eastman AR403CED is as visually stunning as it is sonically impressive. The body and neck are both bound with multi-ply binding, which adds to the guitar's refined look and protects the edges from damage. The headstock features a classic Eastman logo inlay, along with additional decorative touches that highlight the brand's attention to detail. The pickguard is made from ebony, matching the bridge and fingerboard, and is mounted with a floating design that enhances the guitar's aesthetic while avoiding any dampening of the top's resonance. Playability The combination of a well-contoured neck, a comfortable body size, and precise fretwork makes the AR403CED a joy to play. Whether you're playing complex jazz chords or intricate single-note lines, the guitar responds with clarity and warmth, making it a versatile instrument for both rhythm and lead playing.