Catalyst – Padauk 005
Ember is the thicker-voiced Reaction platform: warm mids, vocal lead tone, and that semi-hollow “breath” — without losing definition when you lean into gain.
What it sounds like
Ember is tuned for thickness without mud. The acoustic response is lively and mid-forward, with a quick initial attack from the bolt-on joint. Plugged in, it stays articulate under gain and sings on single notes.
Roll back the volume and it cleans up without collapsing. Push the front end of an amp and it compresses in a musical, vocal way — the “Tennessee whiskey” kind of sustain.
Why this build works
- • Semi-hollow chambering tuned to avoid boomy lows.
- • Bolt-on geometry for clarity and serviceability.
- • Nitro finish kept thin to let the wood move.
- • Electronics chosen for a smooth, usable tone sweep.
The build sheet
Exact components for this guitar. If you have questions about any spec or want a tweak on a future build, reach out.