Artinger Carved Top Sidewinder, Koa/Padauk

My journey with Matt Artinger began 25 years ago at a Philadelphia guitar show, where he emerged as a wunderkind luthier whose talent was immediately apparent. Since then, I've had the privilege of working with Matt on numerous builds, watching his already impressive skills evolve into something truly special.

These Carved Top Sidewinders are a great example of where Matt is as a builder right now. There's something about these guitars that evokes Trey Anastasio's aesthetic while staying entirely true to Matt's own voice. They're confident designs that don't compromise playability or tone.

The neck carve is something special. It nestles into your hand like an old friend, making long sessions effortless. The roasted Canadian maple neck with its seamless all-access joint isn't just beautiful to look at—it's stable, resonant, and a joy to play. The chambered mahogany body gives these guitars real acoustic resonance, and those carved tops add depth to both the look and the sound.

The Lollar Imperial low-wind humbuckers deliver precisely what you want—clear, woody articulation with just enough character to make the notes come alive. From pristine cleans to snarling overdrive, they respond beautifully. The series/split/parallel switching opens up a world of tonal possibilities without overwhelming you with complexity.

Matt's approach to hardware really impresses me here. The Gotoh Nashville-style bridge, paired with that floating ebony tailpiece, provides excellent intonation and sustain. It's a thoughtful combination that honors tradition while embracing smart innovation.

The flamed koa top on this Sidewinder creates remarkable depth and movement. What makes this example special is Matt's choice of lighter-orange Padauk binding, which creates an entirely different aesthetic from its darker-bound sibling. The Padauk's vibrant orange tones complement the golden warmth of the koa in a way that's both bold and harmonious. Paired with koa inlays, the visual statement here is confident without being ostentatious. Like its rosewood-bound counterpart, the koa brings warmth and musical character, but the lighter binding creates a visual energy that makes this guitar stand out with more personality.

These Sidewinders represent Matt's journey as a luthier in the best possible way. They play beautifully, sound fantastic, and have the kind of character that makes you want to pick them up and play.

If you'd like to find out more about this item, just call or e-mail me. It would be my pleasure to talk to you about it.