John Buscarino has earned a place among the most-respected independent archtop builders, and the 16" Monarch perfectly embodies his hand-carved, boutique approach. Each guitar is built by hand and shaped by traditional archtop craft, and the Monarch reflects Buscarino’s focus on refined materials, elegant design, and the meticulous voicing that makes each instrument a unique work of art. The Monarch is the perfect fit for player's who want a responsive, acoustically-alive archtop rather than a mass-produced laminate build. With high-end appointments executed with impressive attention to detail, tihis 2004 Buscarino Monarch inspires like no other.
This 2004 Monarch features a carved spruce top and carved Flame Maple back and sides, and it is finished in a gorgeous full-body amber sunburst. With hand-voiced X-bracing under the hood, this Monarch has an open, articulate acoustic voice that drives the amplified sound when you plug in. Notes have a quick, present attack, and there’s clarity and balance across the entire fingerboard—ideal for single-note jazz lines, chord melody, and any situation where nuance and subtlety matter. This Monarch produces a broad dynamic range with controlled lows, focused midrange punch, and natural, woody warmth that will only develop further as the instrument opens up with time and playing.
In keeping with Buscarino's reputation, the attention to detail is on point, especially with all the high-end appointments (fancy binding, inlays, etc). In general, this Monarch feels artfully crafted. It has a floating pickup suspended from the hand-carved Ebony pickguard, and there are discreet volume and tone controls mounted underneath. The matching Ebony tailpiece and bridge complete the picture. Buscarino guitars are also known for their playability and expressive feel, and this Monarch does not disappoint. The nut width measures 1-3/4", and the string spacing is 2-3/16" at the bridge. The neck profile is comfortable and well-shaped, offering substance without excess bulk, and the overall balance—both on a strap and in the lap—feels light and responsive for a full-size carved archtop. Set up low with half-wound strings, it plays beautifully.
This 2004 Buscarino Monarch has been played, but it has been properly cared for. This is a fine, handmade guitar, after all, so no surprise the previous owner was nice to it. The only cosmetic blemish worth noting is a small ding along the treble edge of the top at the lower bout. Other than that, there's very minor play wear and general signs that it's not a brand new guitar. The input jack feels a little played out because of the end-pin/strap-button design, but with a good cable it functions 100% as it should. The amplified tone stays true to the guitar’s acoustic character: clean, dynamic, and highly touch-sensitive. This 2004 Buscarino Monarch includes its original hardshell case, which is protective but heavy.