Craig Atkins playes the SDR pre-production Dobro

The very talented Craig Atkins dropped by recently and landed the first play on the SDR pre-production dobro. It's based on a unique platform I have been developing with some interesting features. 

The circular back/soundboard is recessed 5mm into the body behind a false back which means no energy is lost from the soundboard resting on the player's leg. The back has a spoke bracing system unique to this design.

The sound chamber is circular and has a highly structural, lightweight chassis, minimising energy losses into the body which sustains energy retention in the cone and the back. This enhances tone, sustain and volume. It’s a balancing act between mass and structure.  

Where the neck joins the body is a complex curve that fits to the player's left leg. 

And last but by no means least, it has a passive amplifying port which is a horn that projects sound forward towards the audience. 

I was deeply flattered when Craig said it was one of the best instruments he has ever played.