2000 National Delphi Taupe Anodised Resonator

A very nice example of a 2000 National Delphi in the distinctive Taupe finish, presented in excellent condition for the year and supplied with a fitted hard case.

The Taupe finish is a particularly attractive feature of these early-2000s Delphi models. National used the term to describe its distinctive baked/powder-coated finish, giving the instrument a muted grey-brown appearance that suits the industrial character of the Delphi extremely well.

The Delphi combines the traditional appearance and character of National's early steel-bodied resonators with the refinements of the modern National Reso-Phonic instruments. This example features the distinctive ribbed sieve-hole cover plate, rolled F-holes and slotted headstock.

Tonally, it has the immediate, powerful response associated with a good National single-cone resonator. The sound is clear and highly articulate, with strong projection, a pronounced midrange and plenty of metallic bite and sustain. There is a dry, focused quality to the attack which works particularly well for blues and bottleneck slide, while the instrument retains enough warmth and harmonic complexity for fingerstyle, country and roots playing.

This guitar has been set up specifically for slide, giving it the appropriate action and feel for bottleneck playing. The resonator responds particularly well to a firm slide technique, producing a powerful, singing voice with excellent note separation and plenty of authority.

Cosmetically, it is in excellent condition for the year. There are a few light marks consistent with careful use, together with one small ding on the edge of the lower bout on the bass side. These are relatively minor and are reflected in the photographs.

Factory specification includes the ribbed sieve-hole cover plate, rolled F-holes, slotted headstock, 1.825" top nut and 25" scale length. The combination of these features and the Taupe finish gives the Delphi its unmistakable character.

Supplied with a fitted hard case.

A very nice example of a 2000 National Delphi Taupe — distinctive, powerful sounding and particularly well suited to slide playing.

Specifications

Year: 2000
Model: National Delphi Taupe
Finish: Taupe
Body: Anodised steel
Cover plate: Ribbed sieve-hole
Soundholes: Rolled F-holes
Headstock: Slotted
Top nut width: 1.825"
Scale length: 25"
Setup: Slide
Case: Fitted hard case
Condition: Excellent for year

National Delphi Taupe 2000