Models - Trillium Octave Mandolins

James Tailpiece

We are currently building three different models:

Each is unique, but all three have many features in common.

Trillium instruments have an induced arch top and back design. Uniformly thin pieces of wood are bent over curved, laminated braces. The resulting stressed plate greatly enhances sustain, tone and structural integrity.

There are several wood choices for the back, sides and neck, including figured maple, walnut, mahogany, laurel and cherry. We have had excellent results using both spruce and redwood for the tops. Ebony is chosen for the radiused fingerboard, faceplate and bridge. The body, soundhole, fingerboard and peghead are all bound with grained Ivoroid and there is an inlaid abalone soundhole rosette. A Trillium flower inlay of mother-of-pearl and abalone graces the peghead while small abalone dots mark the fret positions.

All of our instruments feature a 2-way adjustable truss rod that is easily accessible through the soundhole. In addition, we place carbon graphite bars under the fingerboard to stiffen the neck and improve tuning stability. An exclusive feature of our 5-course cittern is a carbon graphite tube that is installed inside the body cavity, running from the neck block to the tail block. This innovative device provides great strength while allowing a light and resonant body design. The combination of the graphite tube, the graphite neck bars and laminated braces give this instrument remarkable tone and sustain, free from the problems often associated with the high string tension of 5-courses.

Only the finest hardware is used throughout, including gold Gotoh 16:1 tuners and either a gold Trillium tailpiece by Bill James (loop-end strings) or a gold plated cast bronze Allen tailpiece (ball-end strings). A custom made Cedar Creek hardshell case is included with each instrument.

Trillium instruments are finished with clear gloss KTM9, an environmentally safe waterbase material. The superior surface has outstanding optical clarity and is resistant to scratching, moisture, solvents and cold checking.

We can install a Fishman Acoustic Matrix Natural I pickup in any of our instruments for an additional $160.

Shipping, when needed, is not included in the price. A $500 deposit is required when placing an order with the balance due before delivery. Prices are good through January 31, 2009.

Limited Lifetime Warranty
Each Trillium instrument is warranted to the original purchaser against defects in materials and workmanship without time limit. This warranty specifically excepts wear from normal use and damage that results from abuse, heavy strings, neglect, accident, or exposure of the instrument to excessive or extreme temperature or humidity. Cracking or settling of the finish is considered 'normal use' and is not covered by warranty. Unauthorized repairs or alterations may void this warranty. Shipping charges to and from Trillium are the responsibility of the customer. This warranty takes the place of any other warranty, expressed or implied.
Trillium is a registered trademark with the United States Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office Reg. No. 2,008,482.