Manne

Manne: The architecture of sound between extreme innovation and Italian character

The story of Manne officially began on January 7, 1987, in Schio, but its roots lie in the speed and determination of Andrea Ballarin. Nicknamed “Manne” for the speed that linked him to the sprinter Mennea, Ballarin transferred that dynamism from the track to the lutherie bench. After a troubled start marked by a corporate partnership that faded at the last moment, Andrea turned an obstacle into a springboard, deciding to become “Mr. Manne” and founding a brand that, over thirty years later, has redefined the standards of the electric instrument in Italy and around the world.

With over 3,000 instruments sold in 16 countries and reviews that have compared his work to the legend of Ferrari for precision and character, Ballarin has proven that stylistic independence is the key to longevity. His vision breaks away from the imitations of American giants to pursue an Italian path made of refined ergonomics and courageous technical solutions, consolidating Manne as a pillar of Made in Italy in the global market.

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The collection

The Manne catalog is a complete ecosystem where every instrument is designed, developed, and produced in-house. The collection is distinguished by a versatility that embraces everything from visceral rock to refined jazz:

• Electric Guitars: Iconic models such as the Taos (produced since 1993) and the Ventura represent the cutting edge of Manne design. Alongside these are the semi-acoustic Electravibe and Acustivibe models, characterized by sound research and innovative ideas. The Raven, Redwing, Blackbird, and T-bone series reinterpret classic shapes with ergonomic improvements, leading up to 7 and 8-string instruments for contemporary needs.
• Electric Basses: The line ranges from solid body models like Sedona, Fillmore, and Woody, to technological innovations like the AcoustiBass (a chambered electric with piezo) and the singular VibraBass. The Multi model represents a modern and innovative evolution with original semi-acoustic sounds.
• Special Edition: Unique projects like the guitar built from Lagavulin whisky barrel wood demonstrate the workshop’s ability to engage with the world of luxury collectibles.

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Construction philosophy, techniques, and materials

The “Manne mindset” is summarized in the motto: “There is always a better way to do it.” This translates into a technical recipe that is unique in the international scene:

• The Multi-Laminate Neck: A construction secret perfected over 25 years. The necks feature a laminate structure with two lateral maple strips, coupled with an ultra-thin phenolic resin fretboard. This choice is not just aesthetic (similar to the best ebony), but structural: the resin guarantees absolute stability and constant sonic brilliance, eliminating the dead spots typical of natural wood.
• Bodies and Woods: Poplar, Paulownia, Walnut, Chestnut, and Plane tree woods are preferred for the bodies. All Italian woods.
• Dynamic Painting: The use of polyurethane paint is aimed at protection and stability, but it is applied with cycles studied to maintain the minimum thickness required, allowing the instrument to vibrate without the constraints of “thick” industrial finishes.
• Proprietary Electronics: Manne creates its own circuits in-house and uses custom-specified laminated ceramic pickups, designed to be neutral and dynamic, letting the natural voice of the wood dominate.

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Collaborations and recognitions

Manne’s prestige is confirmed by a list of international artists who have chosen these instruments for their reliability and superior timbre. Notable names include Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple), Zucchero, Gil Dor (Noa), Nguyen Lè, Federico Malaman, Daniele Camarda, Lionel Loueke (Herbie Hancock), Gianluca Mosole.

In 2005, the US magazine Guitar Player sanctioned the brand’s international success, comparing the performance of Manne guitars to the speed and excellence of Ferrari cars. The appreciation of collectors and professionals in 16 countries testifies how the authenticity of handmade work is a universal language.

Since 2021, he has been recognized as a “Master Artisan.”

He is a member of the EGB (European Guitar Builders) association, having served on its Board of Directors.

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Direct experience

Manne operates today with a model of direct sales and face-to-face relationships with the musician, a strategic choice to ensure that every instrument meets the customer’s specific needs without the filters of mass distribution. The Schio laboratory is not just a place of production, but a center of excellence that offers:

• Custom Consulting: The ability to personally choose woods (such as flamed poplar tops) and define every technical specification.
• Lutherie and Assistance: A complete center for repairs, restoration, and professional set-ups.
• Training: Manne promotes lutherie culture through educational courses, keeping the “pleasure of doing something different” alive.

Entering the Manne world means embracing a philosophy that rejects homogenization to discover a superior sonic identity, rooted in thirty years of Italian artisanal innovation.