Archived Sales of Selected Flamenco and Classical Guitars

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Zavaleta's La Casa de Guitarras specializes in flamenco and classical guitars made in Spain. We carry carefully selected inventory of fine handmade guitars built by individual Spanish luthiers. Because we are a flamenco and classical guitar dealer not a retail store, our concert classical guitars and professional flamenco guitars are not those left after thousands of buyers have looked at them. We have no pound puppies.  If we do not have what you want in stock, we can easily place an order for you with any of the Spanish guitar makers we handle. Don't hesitate to contact us with any questions. 

PURCHASE POLICY: Guitars shipped pre-paid on 48 hr. approval, 30 day exchange.

GUITARS SHIPPED DHL OVERNIGHT IN THE CONTINENTAL USA FOR $35.00

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Guitars

 

 

 Antonio Carlos Garcia, Madrid, c. 1870.  This maker of guitars and bandurrias was active in Madrid circa 1870. This Spanish guitar was made for the English market where according to its label Alban Voigt & Co. was Garcia's exclusive distributor in Great Britain and the colonies. This guitar has a three piece top, back and sides of  Brazilian rosewood. What looks like mother-of-pearl inlayed into ebony of the rosette is actually a white metal.  The construction of this small instrument (590mm scale), is unusual in that it makes no use of fan bracing. Despite this, its tone and volume are surprisingly big.

1870 Antonio Carlos Garcia played by  Randall Avers

 1913 Hauser guitar

 1913 Hermann Hauser 7-String Guitar. Although Hermann Hauser Sr. (1882-1952) is widely known for his guitars in the Spanish tradition, which he began to make with Segovia's encouragement after meeting him in 1924,  Hauser had been building guitars, lutes, and other related instruments in the German tradition since 1900. While Hauser's early work does not yet command the astronomic prices of his latter instruments, I consider these instruments to be good investments as only limited numbers survive. This unusual and rare seven-string guitar is a fine example of his early work.  

 

 

1920 Hermann Hauser Vienna Model Classical Guitar.  Hermann Hauser Sr. (1882-1952) is widely regarded as one of the finest makers of the 20th century.  This guitar was originally purchased from Hauser by the German guitarist and composer Heinrich Albert  (1870-1950). Its body is made of flamed European maple with a top of German spruce. The instrument is in excellent condition. The machine tuners and hardcase are original. The guitar has been re-French polished by Renzo Salvador, a luthier in Belgium. The fingerboard has been widened slightly for playability, but could be returned to its original configuration easily.  Its sound is of absolute purity, and it was used by Philippe Lemaigre to record the complete works of Agustin Barrios. This guitar is currently in Europe and price does not include shipping or other applicable duties. 

 

 

 

 
Hermann Hauser, Munich, 1924. Although Hermann Hauser Sr. (1882-1952)  is best remembered for the remarkable instruments he built in the Spanish tradition after 1924. In that year, both Andres Segovia and Miguel Llobet visited Hauser in Munich. Segovia had attended a concert at which a group of musicians all played Hauser's. Segovia impressed by the quality of Hauser's work, wrote his impressions of the concert, noting that he "immediately saw the potential of this great artisan if only his mastery might be turned to the construction of the guitar in the Spanish pattern as immutably fixed by Torres and Ramirez" (Segovia 1954). Segovia encouraged Hauser  to copy his 1912 Manuel Ramirez guitar (an instrument generally believed to have been built by Santos Hernandez while he was foreman of the Ramirez shop). He examined and made measurements of this instrument. As Llobet owned an 1859 Antonio de Torres, Hauser also had opportunity to examine it as well. Although Hauser began building in the Spanish tradition in 1925, the secrets of these great masters were not an open book, and it took him twelve years of trail and error before he was able to build a guitar that Segovia proclaimed as being the "greatest guitar of our epoch." This guitar is Hauser's Vienna  model which he continued to make even as he made Segovia's 1937 Spanish style concert classical guitar.

1924 Hermann Hauser played by Guilherme Vincens

1933 Santos Hernandez Concert Classical Guitar. Santos Hernandez was the maker who built Andres Segovia's 1912 Manuel Ramirez guitar while worked for Ramirez. The sound of his concert classical guitars speak for themselves. The label has been signed and dated by Santos Hernandez, and bears the maker's stamp neck block. The underside of the top is also signed and dated. This guitar was restored in 1981 by J. Farré, a luthier in Barcelona, (b.1928), and the guitar also carries his label stating that he restored this instrument. The restoration repaired a number of cracks on the back, including one that crossed the original label, and hairline cracks on the top. The restorer also refinished the guitar using, as did Santos Hernandez, French polish. This guitar has a top of German spruce, and Brazilian rosewood back and sides. Everything, including the tuners, appears to be original. The neck is straight, and the action at the 12th fret, 6th string is set at 3.5mm.

 

 
1940 Santos Hernandez, Concert Classical Guitar. Santos Hernandez (1874-1943) was one the guitar great makers of the early 20th century to come out of  the shop of Manuel Ramirez. He is credited with being the maker of the 1912 Manuel Ramirez that Segovia played until 1938. After Manuel Ramirez died, he worked for Manuel's widow until 1918, where upon he opened his own shop on the calle Atocha. Under his own name between 1916-1943, he made some 300 guitars. This guitar made by Santos  Hernandez  in 1940 for the countess Josefina Locateli, in whose possession it remained until 2004.
1940 Santos Hernandez played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

1944 Vda de Domingo Esteso

1944 Vda de Domingo Esteso  Flamenco Guitar. Domingo Esteso Lopez was one the guitar great makers of the early 20th century to come out of  the shop of Manuel Ramirez. After Manuel Ramirez died, he opened his own shop on the calle Gravina, where he was joined by his 13 year old nephew, Faustino Conde in 1926. After his death in 1937, Domingo's widow (Vda) took over the shop, and Faustino and his two brothers, Mariano and Julio continued working for her building under the label Vda y Sobrinos de Domingo Esteso which they signed Conde Hermanos until her death in the 1960s. This guitar made by the Conde Hermanos in Gravina Shop in 1944. This guitar has the  wonderful, dry flamenco rasp, and soul that made Conde Hermanos world famous.
 
1944 Vda y Sobrinos de Domingo Esteso played by Gaetano

1957 Manuel Velazquez Concert Classical Guitar. Manuel Velazquez was born in 1918, and began building in the 1930s, he is widely consider a world class maker, and his guitars have been played by Andres Segovia, Julian Bream, and many others. This guitar was made in 1957 with magnificent German spruce top, of a quality that is rarely seen these days. The back and sides are build of Brazilian rosewood.  The tone of this guitar is warm, full, fundamental, even, and concentrated. Normal finish wear for a guitar of this age, some light scratches.
 
 

1958 Arcangel Fernandez

1958 Arcángel Fernandez Flamenco Guitar. This flamenco guitar, no 75 in his obra, was made in 1958. Over all this guitar is in remarkable condition. There a few  hairline cracks on the back and top which were expertly repaired by Ivor Marants music in London some 10 years, and do not affect the sound. The golpeadores (tap plates) have come off leaving marks on the finish underneath. There are a few small scratches and dings on the sides and back. Again nothing serious The neck is straight, and the action is set up for flamenco.  This would be a wonderful addition to any collection, and a great instrument for any player.  

 

1960 Marcelino Lopez Nieto Concert Flamenco Guitar. Born in 1931,   Marcelino López Nieto was a cabinet maker before becoming a guitar maker. He was drawn into making guitars, because he was studying with Daniel Fortea, and wanted a fine guitar, but could not afford one. Although, he confesses that as a luthier he is largely self-taught,  he worked for a time carving head stocks for Hernandez y Aguado, and he informally learned much the theory of his craft from the widow of Santos Hernandez, and from his nephew Feliciano Bayon in whose workshop he hung out regularly as did many of the leading musicians of the time.  He established his own workshop in Madrid in 1949. Marcelino is a complete luthier, and makes not only fine classical and flamenco guitars, but historic guitars and ancient instruments. He is also one of only five living Spanish makers included on Summerfield's list of the finest guitar makers since 1800. This flamenco guitar which was made in 1960 has back and sides of cypress, German spruce top, machine heads, and like old flamenco guitars a tap plate made of maple. The scale is 650mm, with a 52mm nut. While the guitar shows wear consistent with its age, (scratches to the finish, etc), overall this guitar is in excellent condition. There are no cracks, repairs, nor are any needed. The set up at the 12th fret is 3mm on the 6th string, 2mm on the 1st.

 1960 Marcelino Lopez Nieto played by owner

 

 

 1960 Ignacio Fleta, Sr Concert Classical Guitar. There are Fleta's and there are Fleta's. This is an extraordinary one, and certainly the best one I have ever played. Built by Ignacio Fleta, Sr. this is an instrument that is truly worthy of a concert guitarist. There are two small cracks in the top, but the repairs were so excellently done that they are nearly invisible.

 

 

1961 Edgar Monch Concert Classical Guitar. Edgar Monch was a German luthier from Munich who in 1965 moved to Toronto, CA, and later trained Jean Larrivée, the founder of Larrivée guitars. Summerfield includes him on his list of the finest guitar makers since 1800.  Early in John William's career, he played a Monch. This fine example of his work  is in excellent condition. Made in 1961, it is his 75th guitar. It has a fine grained German spruce top, rosewood from Brazil back and sides, and  black engraved with gold, Gotoh tuners.

 

 1962 Jose Ramirez

 1962 Jose Ramirez III, 1a Concert Classical Guitar.  A rich, sweet and full Spanish sound that comes from great craftsmanship and careful, nurtured aging. This guitar made during what many consider Jose Ramirez III's best period has been meticulous cared for, and apart from two well repaired cracks, is in good condition. The guitar has the initials F.M. indicating it was built by Felix Manzanero when he worked for Ramirez. An rare opportunity to own the top-of-the-line from the most famous name in the business, and at an affordable price. 

 

 

 

1964 Hermanos Conde Concert Flamenco Guitar. The Spanish luthier Domingo Esteso Lopez was one the guitar great makers of the early 20th century to come out of  the shop of Manuel Ramirez. After Manuel Ramirez died, he opened his own shop where he was joined by his 13 year old nephew, Faustino Conde in 1926. After his death in 1937, Domingo's widow (Vda) took over the shop, and Faustino and his brothers, Mariano and Julio continued to work for their aunt building under the label Vda y Sobrinos de Domingo Esteso. With her death in the 1960s, when they began using their own label Hermanos Conde, sobrinos (nephews) of Domingo Esteso. This guitar made by the Conde Hermanos in their Atocha Shop in 1964. Other than a few nail marks, this guitar is in remarkable condition, no cracks, straight neck,  nicely set up for flamenco. This wonderful flamenco guitar has the dry flamenco rasp, and soul that made Conde Hermanos the choice of so many famous flamenco players. This rare guitar would be a great instrument for any player, and a wonderful addition to any collection.

 

 1967 Manuel de la Chica Concert Classical Guitar Manuel de la Chica was a Granada maker  (1911-1998). Like many makers, Manuel de la Chica began as a cabinet maker. He did this work until the late 1930s, when he decided to build guitars. Already familiar with tools, woods, and having studied a little about acoustics, without any apprenticeship, he began to copy the guitars of Santos Hernandez.  In time, however, he began to evolve his own designs. Among his disciples are Antonio Lopez of Paris,  Francisco Manuel Diaz of Granada, and Pedro Maldonado of Malaga. Manuel de la Chica retired in 1973 due to poor health. His guitars were played by Andrés Segovia, Celedonio Romero, Luis Sanchez, Manuel Cano and Sebastian Maroto. This guitar is in excellent condition aside from slight scratches on the top below the sound hole, some visible nail marks, and a string burn behind the first string. The set up is standard, 4mm at 12th fret, 6th string, 3mm on 1st string. Although the present set up is very comfortable, there is sufficient bone in the saddle to adjust the action if needed. NOTE this guitar is presently in the UK and is priced in pounds sterling.
1968 Manuel Contreras Sr. 1a Concert Classical Guitar. Born in Madrid in 1926, Manuel Contreras  joined the Ramirez workshop as a senior journeyman in 1959. It was Contreras who made the first José Ramirez guitar Andrés Segovia bought in 1960. After three years with Ramirez, Manuel opened his own guitar workshop in the center of Madrid.  He soon earned a reputation as one of the finest and most innovative luthiers in Spain. Contreras died in 1994 of cancer. This handmade concert classical guitar is from his best period, and is signed by Manuel Contreras Sr. It is generally in very good condition, no cracks,   straight neck, but it does have some finish wear consistent with this guitar's age and active use--  there is some glazing of the finish, and finger nail dents from "golpes, and assorted other surface finish scratches, nothing deep." Some work was done on the neck and a shim placed under the fingerboard to correct the action, which is now set at a standard 4mm at the 12th fret on the 6th string, and 3mm on the first. The set up is very comfortable, and there is more than sufficient bone in the saddle to make adjustments should this ever be necessary. This a powerful, concert guitar, with great sustain and separation, each note comes across as distinct. The upper registers do not become plinky and notes remain full and mellow. The intonation is excellent. An new equivalent concert guitar from Manuel Contreras II would retail for around $8000.  1968 Manuel Contreras  played by Guilherme Vincens

1969 José Ramirez 1a Traditional Flamenco Guitar.  From the workshop of Jose Ramirez III, during his best period, this Ramirez 1a professional concert flamenco guitar with traditional pegs represents the highest quality in workmanship, detail, and choice of wood. The guitar of choice for many professional flamenco guitarists, it has an easy to play 655mm scale, and a low, fast action. It has the kind of raucous rasp and power one seeks in a flamenco guitar. The sonority of this guitar has to be experienced in person. This guitar is absolutely stunning.  For attention to detail, quality of construction and sound, this is a first-class handmade flamenco instrument. This guitar has a tightly spaced, strain grain Canadian cedar top with the highest quality Spanish cypress back and sides. This flamenco guitar does not appear to have ever been really played, since the only marks on it are only some light scratches below the bridge, from changing strings.  Comes a hardcase.

 

 

 

 1971 John M Gilbert Flamenco guitar. John M. Gilbert (b.1922)  is regarded by many as one of the finest luthiers in America, and also among the most innovative. His guitars are played by guitars such as David Russell, David Tanenbaum, and Fred Hand. This guitar is the only flamenco guitar he made, at least to my knowledge. With exception of some nail marks on the treble side next to the golpeador, the guitar is in excellent shape. The action is very low, and gives an aggressive flamenco sound. This label is signed, dated, and serial numbered 712.

 

 

 

 
1971 Conde Hermanos Concert Classical Guitar. This concert classical guitar built under the label Vda y Sobrinos de Domingo Esteso and signed Conde Hermanos is a wonderful example of their  work. It is among the best sounding guitars we have had come thru our hands. Its tone and character remind me strongly of the cedar topped guitars of Miguel Rodriguez, big bold Spanish sound, with fat notes. The guitar has a couple of well-repaired hair line cracks in the top, and has recently had its French polish renewed. Otherwise this handmade guitar is in excellent shape. The action is very playable and comfortable. 
 
 
1971 Conde Hermanos Concert Classical played by Guilherme Vincens
 

 

1972 David Rubio Concert Classical Guitar. David Rubio, (1934-2000) had a long and close relationship with Julian Bream. Their now famous collaboration led Rubio to produce exceptional concert guitars. His guitars are played not only Bream but also by a number of well known recording artists: This wonderful handcrafted concert guitar is signed by David and dated 1972. This concert classical guitar is in excellent condition, showing only some nail marks, which are nearly invisible, and which could be easily polished out. Neck is straight, the action is set at 3.5mm at the 12th fret, 6th string.

1972 David Rubio winamp sound sample

 1976 Miguel Rodriguez
1976 Miguel Rodriguez Concert Classical Guitar. If I were trying to pick one guitar with a quintessentially Spanish tone, it would be a Miguel Rodriguez. This guitar is a monster--volume to fill the largest concert hall, and an intensely bold Spanish voice. It is simply wonderful to play. This guitar was built by Miguel Rodriguez, Jr. (1921-1998). It was formerly owned by Angel Romero who used it to record Claude Bolling laserdisc. It is in excellent condition, but does have one repaired crack that while well-done could be made less noticeable without great expense.

 

 

 1978 E.B. Jones Concert Classical Guitar (David Rubio Workshop). This British maker apprenticed with David Rubio, one of England's premier luthiers, best known for his long association with Julian Bream. This guitar was made in David Rubio's workshop by E.B. Jones in 1978. It has a German spruce top, rosewood from Brazil back and sides. It is French polished, and has a 650mm scale length. The head and rosette details are nearly indistinguishable from Rubio's own work from this period Likewise its rich, sweet tone is typical of a Rubio. It is in excellent condition.

 

 

 

1979 Manuel Contreras
1979 Manuel Contreras 1a Special Concert Classical Guitar. Born in Madrid in 1926, Contreras  joined the Ramirez workshop as a senior journeyman in 1959. It was Contreras who made the first José Ramirez guitar Andrés Segovia bought in 1960. After three years with Ramirez, Manuel opened his own guitar workshop in the center of Madrid.  He soon earned a reputation as one of the finest and most innovative luthiers in Spain. Contreras died in 1994 of cancer. This guitar is from Contreras best period. It is generally in very good condition, but does have some finish wear including several spots where the finish on the neck has bubbled or flaked off. There is a visible 2.5cm scratch above the bridge, as well as other shorter less obvious scratches on the top, and a couple of dozen finger nail dents from "golpes." There is a general loss of finish below the sound hole. The back and sides are in good condition, showing wear consistent with this guitar's age and active use. The set up is very comfortable, and there is sufficient bone in the saddle to make adjustments should this ever be necessary. This a powerful, concert guitar, with great sustain and separation, each note comes across as distinct. The upper registers do not become plinky and notes remain full and mellow. The intonation is excellent. A new 1a special concert model from Manuel Contreras II would retail for around $8000.

1979 Robert Ruck Concert Classical Guitar. Robert Ruck (born 1945) has been building guitars full-time since 1965, and has become widely recognized as one of the great American builders. Among the great guitarists playing Ruck guitars is Manuel Barrueco. This guitar is number 199 in Ruck's obra. According to a letter from Ruck, this guitar was modeled on one he made for Juan Mercadal. The same letter describes it as a concert guitar with a European top, rosewood from Brazil back and sides, Honduras Mahogany neck, and fingerboard of Indian ebony. He also says "I am no longer taking new orders. My order list is 300 orders long. I build 25-30 guitars a year. The owner describes this guitar as being in perfect shape.
 
 
 

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1981 Feliciano Bayón Concert Classical Guitar. Felicano Bayón, who died in 1998, was the nephew of Santos Hernández, and inherited the shop of his famous uncle. He built under the label Sobrinos de Santos Hernández, and was the father of Santos Bayón. Feliciano studied his uncle's guitars very closely, and modeled his guitars on those of his uncle's.  

 

 

1982 Juan M. Alvarez Concert Classical Guitar. This classical guitar was built by Juan M. Alvarez, the son of Juan Alvarez (1932-2001) who was one of Madrid best luthiers and a great gentleman. The label is signed and dated. This is a concert classical guitar. While there are a few minor scratches and checking of the finish, the only minor issue is a hairline crack on the bass side tongue of the bridge which does not appear to be affect the sound. The setup is good: 4mm on the bass side, slightly lower on the treble 3mm.

 

 

 

   

1984 Greg Byers Classical Guitar. Greg Byers is among the most respect luthiers in America.  His road to becoming a luthier is a strange one. In 1979, while doing research for his Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology he met a guitar maker in Puerto Rico, and decided he would like to build one some day.  Returning to Tucson,  he finished his dissertation (University of Arizona 1981), and built a guitar which he showed to Tom Patterson, (the head of the guitar program at the UA). Encouraged by Tom to continue building, he enrolled in a workshop taught by Jose Romanillos, and "never looked back." John Gilbert also has had a strong influence on his work. David Russell and David Tanenbaum are among the many concert guitarists who play his instruments. Other than some light nail marks in the top, this guitar is in nearly perfect shape. The setup is comfortable, and if ever needed could be lowered. Currently, if one places an order directly with Greg, his standard classical guitars is $7500, making this fine instrument a real bargain.
1984 Greg Byers played by Perf de Castro
 

  

1987 Valeriano Bernal Professional Flamenco Guitar. This 1987 concert flamenco guitar by Valeriano Bernal is representative of his best models. His guitars are particularly sought after by professionals, and have that edge that flamenco players love, and an endearing deep, dark tonality characteristic of guitars from Andalusia. This instrument is generally  in good condition. As might be expected, it has a few dings, a string burn behind the first string. There are a couple of cracks. One, about three inches long, runs along the upper edge of the fingerboard. We suspect it is just in the lacquer finish (because it definitely does not go through the top). The other runs back from the bridge, and is a little longer. It appears to be stable and does not move when you push on it, so it might not be in the wood. The owner describes this guitar as being one of the easiest guitars to play that he has ever touched, and should one want to lower the action, there is enough saddle to make an adjustment.  
 

1988 Greg Smallman 

 1988 Greg Smallman Concert Classical Guitar This guitar is in excellent condition, and has the wonderful kind of sound that attracted John Williams among many other professional players. This guitar was originally made for Benjamin Verdery (as a letter from Smallman in the case attests). Although there is one repaired crack on the top, the repair was done by Smallman, and has no affect on this guitar's marvelous tone. The action on this guitar is a player's dream.

 

1988 John Gilbert 

 1988 John M Gilbert. Concert Classical Guitar Gilbert (b.1922)  is regarded by many as one of the finest luthiers in America, and also among the most innovative. His guitars, for example, feature a unique bridge design that not only better distributes the load driving the top but allows the height of each string to be adjusted separately. His guitars are played by guitars such as David Russell, David Tanenbaum, and Fred Hand. This is a player's guitar: great volume, controlled but powerful basses and polished singing trebles, well balanced, evenness of tone throughout.

 

 

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1990 Manuel Contreras Double Top, Concert Guitar.  The Double Top is Mr. Contreras most successful designs, which is made with a matched piece of cedar that is laminated to the inside of the back, making for better projection and improvement of tone. The action is low, making it extremely easy to play. It’s beautifully made, and in excellent condition, with a few playing marks. This guitar was purchased  from the shop of the late Manuel Contreras in Madrid, by its present owner. It comes with its original case.

 

 

1991 David Daily Concert Classical Guitar. This American luthier has earned an good reputation for fine work. This is a concert guitar with a German spruce top, Brazilian rosewood back and sides. It is French polished and has Sloan tuners. The guitar is in excellent condition, with exception of some minimal nail damage near the rosette, a string burn, and some wear to the finish on the upper bout. Nothing that could not be easily touched up with French polish. This guitar is priced to sell fast.

 

 

 

1994 David Whiteman Concert Classical Guitar. This British builder from Brighton has earned an good reputation. This guitar originally was custom made for the guitarist Richard Durrant.   It has a old German spruce top, Indian rosewood back and sides. It is French polished and has Rodgers tuners. I comes with a Hiscox hard-shell case. Considering this guitar was professionally play, it is in excellent condition.

 

 

1995 Kevin Aram Concert Classical Guitar. This British builder has earned an outstanding reputation, especially for his Hauser and Torres copies. This guitar is his "Torres" model. Its scale length is 650 mm. It has a German spruce top, Indian rosewood back and sides. It is French polished and has Rodgers tuners. I comes with a Hiscox case. The guitar is in excellent condition, with no marks except for a hardly noticeable nick in the back.

 

 

 

 

1995 Masaru Kohno Concert Classical Guitar. Masaru Kohno apprenticed with Arcángel Fernández and was destined to become one Japan's greatest guitar makers. This guitar was built by Masaru personally, and the label bears his signature. Other than a scratch on the purflings on the back of the guitar, this instrument is nearly flawless. The setup is low, and there is room at the saddle for adjustments. It comes with a TKL case.  

 

 

 

 

 1996 Jeronimo Pena Fernandez Concert Flamenca Negra Guitar. The back and sides are made with figured and deep 'purplish, chocolate-brown' rosewood from Brazil, giving this guitar a very exotic look. The soundboard is the highest quality German spruce, beautiful even grain.  Ebony fingerboard & headstock overlay.  The headstock is exquisitely carved with Jerónimo's distinguishing mark as is the bridge. The back of the neck has also a gorgeous inlaid motif.  Fustero tuners. The fingerboard width at the nut is 54 mm, (very comfortable).  The neck is straight as an arrow, and the scale length is 657 mm.  Action is amazingly low, (2.2 mm @ the 12th fret!) with no buzzing! A true joy to play on the merits of its action alone.  The sound is incredible, bright flamenco high end with deep resounding bass, and a longer than usual sustain than most flamenco blancas. Pena's French polish finishing is second to none, his instruments are truly musical works of art! They have been favored by flamenco players including Manolo Sanlucar, Enrique Montoya, and Manu rosewood Escobar. Jerónimo is retired now, at the age of 69.  His guitars are becoming increasingly more difficult to obtain, specially in this mint condition & in the rosewood from Brazil version.  

 

 

 1997 Conde Hermanos Model A26 Flamenco Guitar. From the Conde Hermanos Felipe V shop, this is their model A-26, professional flamenco guitar. Overall this Spanish flamenco guitar is in great shape, exhibiting the kind of wear that one might expect in a played guitar. There are no cracks or repairs. There are some scratches on the back caused by a belt buckle. The top of this Conde Hermanos guitar  is in nearly perfect shape, with the exception of a string burn, and one little nick below the bridge. All of the scratches are in the lacquer finish, and have not penetrated into the wood.  The neck is straight. There is sufficient bone showing above the saddle to lower the action should one want to do so.

 

 

1998 Felix Manzanero

1998 Felix Manzanero, Concert Classical Guitar, No. 1000.  Felix is among the finest makers in Spain, and his guitars not only have the power one expects in a concert instrument, but a noble rich, complex, refined, and balanced tone. This guitar was made to celebrate his 1000th guitar, and is an absolute gems of the luthier's art. For this guitar, Felix used his finest woods, all aged over 30 years. This fingerboard is inlayed with fine marquetry. I took these pictures in his shop, perhaps the most fitting place to display this masterpiece.  

 

 

1998 J.A. Pantoja Martin Traditional Maple Flamenco Guitar. This 1998 J.A. Pantoja Martin maple flamenco with pegs is excellent condition and looks almost new. J.A. Pantoja Martin is a traditional luthier, and craftsman of the old school. Every part of this handmade guitar (with the exception of the frets, tap plate and strings) he has made himself using hand tools. This is an old school flamenco guitar as well. Maple was the wood of choice for fine flamenco guitars until the 1930s when the depression dictated the use more economical woods and Spanish cypress became popular. The tone is sophisticated and full. It has both a refined, lovely, warm, smooth honey-like voice that one wants to play lyrical passages, plus the real bark one expects in a concert flamenco guitar. This instrument is in excellent condition. There is a nail mark on the top, near the neck, and a  small area on the back where French polish is dull. There is some color variation on the top, but it is simply an artifact of the luthier's choice to use particularly seasoned piece of wood with better sonic properties than appearance.

J.A. Pantoja Martin Flamenca 

1998 Ignacio M Rozas 2a Professional flamenco guitar. Although Rozas terms this flamenco guitar a model 2a, he does not make a flamenco 1a model. Back and sides of fine Spanish cypress, top of German spruce.  French polished. 650mm scale, 52 mm at nut. This is another guitar  that I selected personally on my recent trip to Spain. A great flamenco guitar made by one of Madrid's finest makers. Set up is perfect.  

Rozas Flamenco  played by  Andrew Hull   

 

1998 Jose Martinez Penalver Professional Flamenco Guitar. This is Pedro's top special model, a truly professional flamenco guitar.  Great volume. Its tone is one of great clarity with true biting flamenco edge to it. Its action is perfect. Because it developed a crack in the top along the seam from the bridge to the butt, which we have had expertly repaired, we are selling it as a used instrument, and have reduced the price.

  José Martinez Peñalver  played by  Andrew Hull  

 

 1998 Casimiro Lozano 1a Rio Concert Classical Guitar.  Lozano work is inspired by Ignacio Fleta's guitars. Although not a copy, Lozano's handmade concert classical guitars incorporate elements of Fleta's design. The result is a Fleta without a Fleta price. Its attack is immediate, with bright, clear sound, and unusually long sustain. It has superb balance, separation, and volume. Don't just take our word for it read what others are saying (Review 1  Review 2 ). This guitar has been well-cared for and has only a few barely visible scratches.

 

 [From our archives] Casimiro Lozano 1a  played by Andrew Hall

 

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1998 Juan Alvarez Concert Flamenco Guitar.  This is a concert flamenco guitar worthy of an artist. This is a truly an exceptional instrument: explosive power, bright, clear, and responsive in every register. Fast flamenco action and authentic sound.

 Juan Alvarez played by Paco de N.

 

 
 1998 Robert Ruck 1998 Robert Ruck Concert Guitar. Robert Ruck (born 1945) has been building guitars full-time since 1965, and has become widely recognized as one of the great American builders. Among the great guitarists playing Ruck instruments is Manuel Barrueco. This guitar is number 686 in Ruck's obra. It is a concert guitar with a Western Red Cedar  top, Indian rosewood back and sides. It has Gotoh deluxe tuners. Aside from a string burn below the bridge at the first string,  the guitar is in excellent condition.

 

 

1998 Paulino Bernabé model 40 Concert Classical Guitar. A gorgeous instrument that is suitable for concert-level performance. This handmade concert classical guitar features Indian rosewood back and sides, and German spruce soundboard. Finished with hand-rubbed French polish, Fustero tuning machines, ebony reinforcement in the neck and beautiful purflings and rosette. The sound is very Spanish, very full, with excellent volume, separation, evenness, and clarity in all registers. Bernabé is known as one of the finest makers in Madrid to have come out of the Ramirez workshop. The top has been re-French polished, over existing finish, and is in excellent shape--with only a few minor nail marks that are only visible if the light is right. Overall this guitar is in excellent condition. Includes a hard shell case.
 

1998 Paulino Bernabe model 40 concert classical played by Guilherme Vincens

1998 Greg Byers Concert Classical Guitar. Greg Byers is among the most respect luthiers in America.  His road to becoming a luthier is a strange one. In 1979, while doing research for his Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology he met a guitar maker in Puerto Rico, and decided he would like to build one some day.  Returning to Tucson,  he finished his dissertation (University of Arizona 1981), and built a guitar which he showed to Tom Patterson, (the head of the guitar program at the UA). Encouraged by Tom to continue building, he enrolled in a workshop taught by Jose Romanillos, and "never looked back." John Gilbert also has had a strong influence on his work. David Russell and David Tanenbaum are among the many concert guitarists who play his instruments. Although the top was refinished by Greg Byers in 2006, however, fingernail marks can be discern under the refreshed French polish. The setup is standard, and comfortable, and if ever needed could be lowered. Currently, if one places an order directly with Greg, his standard classical guitars is $9000, making this fine instrument a real bargain.
 

 
  1999 Casimiro Lozano 1a Concert Classical Guitar. This guitar is a real bargain, priced more than a thousand dollars below its current new price. It is simply a superb instrument, with an immediate attack, bright, clear and focused trebles, rich crisp basses, and an unusually long sustain. It has excellent balance, separation, and real concert volume. This guitar is in excellent condition, its only defects being some light fingernail marks in the finish below the sound hole. It is set up as a classical should be, but has sufficient saddle to adjust the action should one desire to do so.

 Casimiro Lozano 1a played by  Randall Avers

 

 

2000 Gerundino Fernandez Concert Flamenco Guitar. This is an authentic flamenca blanca, built by the late, great, Gerundino Fernández. Recognized as one of the few master builders of the 20th century, his guitars have a special duende professional flamenco players seek and love. To name but a few of his clients: Paco de Lucia, Tomatito, and Paco Peňo. As is typical of Gerundino's instruments, this guitar is made of master grade woods. Its top is made using the best tight-grained German spruce, the back and sides are made from impeccable Spanish cypress. This guitar's form and size is signature Gerundino. He built large bodied guitars, with full upper bouts, and long scale lengths. This guitars 660mm scale and 54mm nut is characteristic. The set up is low to medium. The guitar is responsive in all registers. It is in excellent condition, save a few minor nicks that do not penetrate the finish. It is been cared for meticulously by its owner who acquired it directly from Gerundino Fernandez. This guitar is among the most desired flamenco guitars on the market, and is priced to sell quickly.
 
  2000 Gerundino Fernandez

2000 Amalio Burguet ABF Flamenca Negra Guitar. This professional flamenca negra is personally made by Amalio Burguet and is entirely handcrafted. Each ABF guitar is dated, numbered, and signed.  Amalio uses the finest woods available for this model. Amalio Burguet's flamenco guitars have a truly flamenco tone and bite. Their set-up is low, fast, and they are a joy to play. This is a great flamenco negra and a true bargain.

  Amalio Burguet ABF Flamenca Negra played by Paco de N.

 

2000 Amalio Burguet ABF Professional Flamenco Guitar. This model is personally handmade by Amalio Burguet and is entirely handcrafted. Each ABF guitar is dated, numbered, and signed.  Amalio uses the finest woods available for this model. Amalio Burguet's flamenco guitars have a truly flamenco tone and bite. Their set-up is low, fast, and they are a joy to play. This would be a great flamenco guitar at any price. 

 Amalio Burguet played by Paco de N.

 

 

 

2000 Ruben Moises Lopez Concert Classical Guitar.  Ruben Moises Lopez is the 33 year old son of Marcelino Lopez Nieto-- one of Spain's most respected luthiers--who is mentioned in almost every major book about classical guitars, and whose guitars are widely sought after by players and collectors. Marcelino writes me: "While you are waiting for the guitars you have ordered from me, it occurred to me to offer you a guitar made of Indian rosewood built using wood that I have had in my house for many years, a guitar of my design, done and varnished by hand by my son, Ruben. This guitar is similar to mine in sound, and some parts of it were built by me." This collaboration alone may make this a very collectable guitar. Regardless, if you are looking for concert quality sound at a reasonable price, this guitar is a real bargain. 

 Ruben Moises Lopez Concert guitar played by Randall Avers

2000 J.A. Pantoja Martin 1a Traditional Flamenco Maple Guitar. This 2000 J.A. Pantoja Martin maple flamenco with pegs is excellent condition and looks almost new. Maple was the wood of choice for fine flamenco guitars until the 1930s when the depression dictated the use more economical woods and Spanish cypress became popular. Since the guitar is French polished the finish shows some slight wear on the binding where you place your arm.  Except for a slight blemish  below the bridge where a string snapped that has been re-polished, there are no dings or cracks. This guitar is made with very beautiful maple and spruce wood and has a very mature tone. The maple imparts a refined, smooth honey-like voice that one wants to play lyrical passages, but it also has the real bark one expects in a concert flamenco guitar. Great low, fast flamenco action.

  J.A. Pantoja Martin played by  Andrew Hull

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 2001 Hermanos Conde Flamenca Negra Guitar. From the original Conde shop, with this model Hermanos Conde set the standard for flamenca negras. 

 Hermanos Conde played by  Andrew Hull  

 

 
PACOFT2.JPG  2001 Francisco Santiago Marin Concert Classical Guitar. Francisco Santiago Marin was born in Granada in 1946. He apprenticed with his uncle don Antonio Marin  Montero, and spent  ten years in his uncle's workshop learning the art of guitar making before opening his own workshop in 1973. He builds entirely by hand using traditional methods and designs. In 1997, the Second International Guitar Competition in Spain was held in his honor. His instruments have been bought by such great players as Manuel Cano, Camelo Martinez, David Rose, Konrad Ragossnig, and Eliot Fisk.

 Randall Avers MP3 Sound Sample
02plzft.jpg  2001 Jose Marin Plazuelo Concert Classical Guitar. Jose Marin Plazuelo is the nephew and disciple of Antonio Marin Montero, and shares his shop. His classical guitars, are indeed, very similar to his uncle's earlier instruments, with typical Granada characteristics, dark smooth trebles and strong basses, they sing in all registers. His flamenco guitars are patterned after a Francisco Simplicio (1874-1932) guitar, and is smaller bodied than the standard Torres. Despite their small body, these instruments carry very well in a concert hall.

 José Marin Plazuelo played by Maya Rafajlovic

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2001 Felix Manzanero Flamenca Negra Guitar. Felix  is widely considered as one of the truly great flamenco guitar makers in Spain. Built with exception materials, the finest rosewood from Brazil, aged German spruce-- the top is 32 years old--this is a sublime flamenca negra and  plays like a dream.  This wonderful guitar was a special order but the buyer lost his job and was unable to afford it. Because the buyer had Felix write a dedication to him on the label, we have reduced the price.  

 

 

 

 

  2001 Marcelino Lopez Nieto Torres Model Concert Classical Guitar.   This is a very faithful copy of an 1858 Antonio de Torres built by one of Spain's most respected luthiers, who has been building guitars since 1949. This is number 915. Although this guitar has cypress back and sides and a German spruce top, aged more than 30 years, it is not a flamenco guitar. Like Torres, Marcelino coaxes from cypress a remarkable, classical tone. The whole guitar is light, and breathes, and every string is alive. I had intended to keep this guitar for myself, but as I recently bought three antique guitars, for the sake of domestic tranquility, I am selling this wonderful instrument. An act I am sure I will regret, as I waited for over two and half years to get it from Marcelino.

     2001 M. Lopez (Torres copy) played by Randall Avers   

 

 2001  Jesús Bellido F1 Professional Flamenco Guitar.  This guitar has the same wonderful, vibrant, full-bodied  tone and flamenco edge as his 2a model, but with even greater clarity. Low, fast flamenco action. Jesús Bellido's flamenco guitars have the kind of true flamenco flavor that evokes the gypsy caves of Granada's Sacramento. 

 Jesus Bellido  played by  Paco de N.

 

2001 Jose Romero Concert Classical Guitar. José Romero is another of the fine craftsmen who learned their trade in the workshop of José Ramirez. This is an impeccably made guitar that uses fine, aged woods of the highest quality. This guitar possess a wonderful, refined, and lovely tone. The trebles are clear and concentrated. The basses are firm. The balance between trebles and basses is excellent. All in all, this is a very musical instrument-- that possess all the qualities one expects in a concert guitar.
 
 Randall Avers MP3 Sound Sample
 
 

2001 Santos Bayon Concert Classical Guitar - Santos Hernandez Model.  This is a fabulous handmade guitar and a real bargain. As he builds few guitars and has a waiting list, Santos kept it for several years as a demo for people who come into his shop. Before sending it to us, he re-polished it, and put better machines on it. Because it was a demo guitar we have reduced the price. This is a guitar I would be happy to keep for myself.

2001 Santos Bayon - Santos Hernandez model played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 
 

2001 Paulino Bernabe Model Concierto PB Classical Guitar. Little needs to be said about the quality of this guitar, Paulino Bernabé is among the worlds best luthiers, and his concierto model PB is a concert guitar is the choice of many professional guitarists.  Aside from a few tiny, light scratches on the back that one need to have the right light and angle to see, this guitar is in perfect shape. The set-up is very comfortable as well. While I don't have an actual recording of this instrument, Bernabé is a consistent maker, and the following recording is what I would reasonably expect.

  Bernabé Concert P.B. model (s)(b) played by Andrew Hull 

 

 

 

 2001 Jose Ruiz Pedregosa Concert Flamenco Guitar.  I have compared José Ruiz Pedregosa's flamenco guitars head to head with that of flamenco Gerundino Fernandez and found that I liked that of  José Ruiz Pedregosa more. This guitar is in nearly new condition, making this a real bargain.

   José Ruiz Pedregosa Concert Flamenco played by Gaetano

 

2001 Pedro De Miguel Concert Flamenca Negra Guitar.  This guitar was inspected by the respected American luthier, Chris Carrington, who says of it, "I have thoroughly examined this 2001 Pedro de Miguel Guitar, made of rosewood from Brazil and spruce, and find it to be a superb example of this maker's work. Not only is this guitar in perfect, brand new, mint condition, but the set up is in perfect playing order." 

 

 

2001 Brian Dunn Concert Classical Guitar (Hauser Model). Brian Dunn is a luthier in Tucson, Arizona who is rapidly rising to national prominence. Although he has been a luthier for many years, he only recently turned his hand to building classical guitars. Right from the start, Professor Tom Patterson, who heads the guitar program at the University of Arizona, bought one of his first instruments, and promoted them to his students. This was in 2001. Brian now has a waiting list of over three years. Although this is Brian Dunn third guitar, this instrument is a first rate concert classical guitar. It is a Hauser copy, and has the character one associates with Hauser guitars. Guitar making is something of a religion for Brian. He approaches the work, armed with years of study, experience, and exacting levels of craftsmanship. German spruce top is perfectly quarter sawn. The Indian rosewood likewise is master grade. He used rare straight grained Honduran mahogany for the neck. Brian takes special pride in his setups. The intonation is perfect and playability is excellent. This handmade concert guitar is in excellent condition with only a few very light nail marks visible on the top.
2001 Brian Dunn Concert Classical Hauser Model played by Federico Reggiardo

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2001 Paulino Bernabe Model 5 Classical Guitar. Braced the same way as his higher end models, like all of Bernabe's guitars, this instrument is not only beautifully made, but has Bernabe's signature tone: powerful, with great sustain and impact, wonderful separation,  well balanced with evenness of notes throughout all registers.

  2001 Paulino Bernabé  model  5 played by Randall Avers   

 

2001 Paulino Bernabe Model 10 Classical Guitar.  Braced the same way as his higher end models, like all of Bernabe's guitars, this instrument is not only beautifully made, but has Bernabe's signature tone: powerful, with great sustain and impact, wonderful clarity and separation,  well balanced with evenness of notes throughout all registers.

 2001 Paulino Bernabé  model 10 played by Randall Avers   

 

 

2001 Paulino Bernabe Model 20 Classical Guitar. Braced the same way as his higher end models, like all of Bernabe's guitars, this instrument is not only beautifully made, but has Bernabe's signature tone: powerful, with great sustain and impact, wonderful clarity and separation,  well balanced with evenness of notes throughout all registers.

 Bernabé model 20 played by Randall Avers

 

2001 Rene Baarslag Concert Classical Guitar. René Baarslag guitars are inspired by those of Antonio Marin, with whom he apprenticed. Like Antonio Marin, his guitars are  Although not a copy, Marin's guitars, they incorporate elements of his design, such as bracing using the Marin-Bouchet system. The result is a guitar a very immediate response, great clarity of tone, firm woody basses, concentrated trebles. It has superb balance, separation, and volume. 

  Randall Avers MP3 Sound Sample

 

2001 Sakurai Kohno Model Special Concert Classical Guitar. From Japan's most recognized luthier, this instrument is a first rate concert classical guitar. The  rosewood from Brazil back and sides are stunning and the German spruce top is perfectly quarter sawn with plenty of silk. Playability is excellent. Tone is lovely with very, very good volume. This handmade instrument is a step up from the Professional J in detailing (especially in the purflings and rosette), and choice of materials. It has thick back and sides, and a double-ebony reinforced neck with makes this a very stable instrument for travel.
 

 

2001 Vicente Carrillo 1a Concert Classical Guitar.  The workmanship this instrument is impeccable. The guitar is very nicely balanced, very clear, Madrid style tone, responsive, the set up is ideal, and intonation true. It is not only a handsome guitar, it is a joy to play. Given the prime quality materials used, craftsmanship, and tone, this guitar is truly an exceptional value. 

  Vicente Carrillo 1a  played by Randall Avers

2001 Vicente Carrillo 1a Concert Flamenca Negra Guitar. Vicente Carrillo Casas is one of the fast rising stars among Spanish luthiers. World class flamenco players are now using his guitars. His new model of flamenco negra is not only one of the best buys in the market in terms of workmanship and quality of materials used, but it is a guitar that I predict will storm the flamenco world. It has the bark and growl that one expects from a flamenco guitar but doesn't buy its soulful rasp at the expense of tone.
 
 
 Randall Avers MP3 Sound Sample

 

 2001 Antonio Marin Montero Concert Classical Guitar. Antonio Marin’s reputation as a guitar builder certainly speaks for itself, and his guitars are constantly in high demand. He is one of the most acclaimed builders in Spain today, and is considered by many to be the founding father of the Granada school of guitar building. Marin’s guitars represent the quintessential Spanish sound to many players, with an emotional content that is truly heart warming. This guitar is an excellent example of the master’s work, with clear, full, romantic trebles perfectly blended with lush yet full basses. Recently repolished by expert luthier German Vazquez Rubio, this instrument is in absolutely mint condition, just awaiting a new home with a serious and worthy player. At current exchange rates, the cost of a new 2006 model (if you can find one) is about $8,850.
 

A Mp3 of a previously sold Antonio Marin.

 

 

 2002 Santos Bayón Ruiz Santos Hernandez Model Concert Classical. German Spruce top. Rosewood from Brazil back and sides. Santos is the grand nephew of Santos Hernandez whose shop he inherited from his father, Feliciano Bayón, a talented luthier in his own right. He has obviously studied his great uncle's guitars very closely, and his Santos Hernandez model is a superb instrument that lives up to its name.  I believe that Santos is among the finest makers currently working in Spain. This instrument truly sings-- great trebles, crisp basses, full bodied tone, responsive. 

Santos Hernandez model played by Maya Rafajlovic

2002 Ricardo Sanchis Carpio 1a-F Extra Flamenco Guitar  German spruce top, Spanish cypress back and sides, ebony fingerboard. Premium material throughout. Beautifully made. This is Ricardo Sanchis top of the line flamenco guitar. A powerful, lively, flamenco guitar with the kind of bark and edge that flamenco players love.

Ricardo Sanchis Carpio 1a-F extra played by Gaetano

 

2002 Ricardo Sanchis Carpio 2AF Flamenco Guitar Recently, Ricardo's sons, David and Herman, have joined the firm. Although their production line guitars are still made under their father's supervision, they are now marketed as "Guitarras Hermanos Sanchis Lopez," and  the "Ricardo Sanchis Carpio" label is reserved for their concert models. The quality of materials, workmanship, and attention to detail on these instruments is outstanding. Like Domingo Esteso and Faustino and Mariano Conde guitars they have firm basses, lyrical trebles, and a true flamenco snarl. The set up on them is incredible, close to 2mm at 12th fret, and without a lot of buzzing.

Ricardo Sanchis Carpio 2AF played by Gaetano

 

2002 Vicente Carrillo Professional Flamenco Guitar Model F11. Vicente Carrillo Casas is one of the fast rising stars among Spanish luthiers. World class flamenco players are now using his guitars. His model 11 is one of the best buys in the market in terms of workmanship and quality of materials used, but it has the bark and growl that one expects from a flamenco guitar but doesn't buy its soulful rasp at the expense of tone. Its set up is perfect, making it a real joy to play.
 
 
  2002 Vicente Carrillo Flamenca Blanca played by Gaetano

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2002 Manuel Reyes Jr.  Concert Flamenco Guitar.  This Manuel Reyes Jr. is among the finest flamenco guitars we have had come through our hands. Manuel Jr. is certainly carrying on the proud tradition established by his father-- of making great flamenco instruments.
 
 
Manuel Reyes Jr. Concert Flamenco played by Gaetano
 
 
 

2002 Ignacio M. Rozas 1a-Especial Concert Classical Guitar. This is a true concert guitar that has highly refined classical tone. Its deep and resonant basses are nicely balanced against polished and focused trebles. The set up is ideal-- effortless even in the highest registers. We are proud to again be able to offer Ignacio's work. On this especial model, he carves his special headstock, and adds other decorative touches that show off the luthier's art as only a master luthier can.

Ignacio M. Rozas 1a Especial played by Maya Rafajlovic

 

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 2002 Antonio Lopez Classical Guitar - Model Clasico. This classical guitar from Paulino Bernabe's workshop is not only beautifully made, but this particular instrument would be an exceptional guitar at any price. Its tone is powerful, has great sustain, and impact. It is well balanced, has wonderful separation, with evenness throughout all registers.

   Randall Avers MP3 Sound Sample

 

2002 Felix Manzanero 1a Concert Classical Guitar. All the woods employed in building this guitar have been aged at least 25 years. The 32 year old German spruce top is outstanding, and  Indian rosewood is superb. Felix is among the finest makers in Spain, and his guitars not only have the power one expects in a concert instrument, but a noble rich, complex, refined, and balanced tone. This is an absolute gems of the luthier's art.

 Manzanero Concert Classical played by  Randall Avers

2002 Angel Benito Aguado Concert Classical Guitar. We are proud to be able to offer Angel's work. Although his guitars are not are inspired by those of Antonio Torres (1817-1892), they are not copies. Although he has drunk deeply from the work of Torres and other Madrid school makers,  he has developed his own unique bracing system. Aside from exquisite workmanship, his guitars are wonderfully playable, and possess a rich, refined tone. They are true concert guitar instruments. This guitar is no exception. It possess wonderful, deep and resonant basses that are nicely balanced against bright and focused trebles. The set up is ideal-- effortless even in the highest registers.

  Angel Benito Aguado played by Maya Rafajlovic

2002 Manuel Romero Macias Concert Classical Guitar. Manuel Romero Macias guitars fall into a special category. They are true hand made instruments, built by an old-school luthier using the finest materials. They possess a wonderful sound, and are very affordable. To do this, however, Manuel builds them fairly quickly, and spends no extra efforts on making, for example, the inside of the guitar look pretty. If sound is more important than looks, then Manuel's guitars are great bargains--a Champaign sound for those of you on a beer budget.

mp3 sample provide by present owner.

 

 

2002 Amalio Burguet ABF Professional Flamenco Guitar. This model is personally made by Amalio Burguet and is entirely handcrafted. Each ABF guitar is dated, numbered, and signed.  Amalio uses the finest woods available for this model. Amalio Burguet's flamenco guitars have a truly flamenco tone and bite. Their set-up is low, fast, and they are a joy to play.

 Amalio Burguet played by Paco de N.

 

 

Santos Bayon Ruiz classical guitar

 2002 Santos Bayón Ruiz, Santos Hernandez Model, Concert Classical Guitar. Santos Bayon is the grand nephew of Santos Hernandez and continues to work in Santos Hernandez actual workshop which he inherited from his father, Feliciano Bayón, a talented luthier in his own right. I believe that Santos is among the finest guitar makers currently working in Spain. This handmade classical guitar is a faithful copy of a Santos Hernandez, built in Santo's own forms. The rosette, with its mother-of-pearl inlays, is also one that Santos employed in some of his guitars.  I have a number of original Santos Hernandez guitars in my own collection, and Bayon's Santos Hernandez model compares well with them. It is a superb instrument that whose tone is instantly recognized as that of Santos Hernandez. The trebles are concentrated, intense, and possess a crystalline clarity. The mid-range is likewise vibrant and full bodied. The basses are firm, resonant, and crisp. The guitar has concert volume, great presence and projects even when played softly.

 Santos Bayon Ruiz - Santos Hernandez model played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 

 2002 Lester Devoe Concert Flamenca Negra Guitar. Lester DeVoe began taking classical and flamenco guitar lessons in the early 1970s, with aspirations of becoming a professional player. Inspired by his teacher's 1924 Santos Hernández, he began building, patterned after those Santos Hernández. As he tried new ideas of construction: more accurate fret placement, string compensation, top arching, stress-free assembly, internal bracing structure and neck reinforcements he has kept pattern, sound and feel of the Santos Hernández in mind." DeVoe flamenco guitars have been played by the great performers of the flamenco world, including the late Sabicas, Paco de Lucia and, Vicente Amigo. Although there are some slight nail marks in the finish, there are no real scratches, nicks, dings, or string burns. The neck is straight, and the saddle is high enough to lower the action should this ever be required.  

2002 Lester Devoe Concert Flamenca Negra played by owner.

 

 

2003 José Lopez Bellido Concert Flamenco Guitar. This is simply a great flamenco guitar from José Lopez Bellido,  one of Granada's leading guitar makers. It is one I picked up personally on my last trip to Spain in October, 2004. Not only is workmanship is outstanding, but it possess firm but profound basses, a vibrant mid-range and concentrated trebles that still sing at the 19th fret. It has the punch, rasp, and power one expects from a great flamenco guitar.

2003 José Lopez Bellido Concert Flamenco played by Gaetano

 

 

2003 Manuel Reyes, Model 6-36 Flamenco Guitar This model is made to Manuel Reyes specifications, and the final set up work and finishing touches are done in his shop. These are without a doubt the finest production guitars I have seen, and rival many instruments that sell for hundreds more. The set up is simply perfection, making this guitar just a joy to play.

Reyes flamenco model 6-36 played by Gaetano

 

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 2003 Marcelino Lopez Nieto, Hernandez y Aguado Model Classical Guitar This is a very faithful copy of a Hernandez y Aguado guitar built by one of Spain's most respected luthiers, who has been building guitars since 1947. This is number 926. Interestingly, Marcelino comes to this model honestly, he made instruments for Hernandez y Aguado for a time between 1971and 1975. This guitar has Indian rosewood back and sides and a German spruce top, aged more than 30 years.  As Marcelino is in his 70s, he is building fewer instruments, only 5 or 6 per year. 

Marcelino Lopez Nieto played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 

2003 Antonio Lopez Professional Model Classical Guitar. These guitars are handmade in Paulino Bernabe's shop under his supervision. The quality of materials, workmanship, and attention to detail on these guitars is outstanding. They are concert quality instruments that are responsive and have impeccable balance and a firm,  clear, classical tone, with great separation and sustain. 

 Antonio Lopez Professional played by  Andrew Hull  

 

2003 Antonio Lopez Maestro Model Concert Classical Guitar. These guitars are handmade in Paulino Bernabe's shop under his supervision. The quality of materials, workmanship, and attention to detail on these guitars is outstanding. They are concert quality instruments that are responsive and have impeccable balance and a firm,  clear, classical tone, with great separation and sustain. 

Antonio Lopez Maestro played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 

 

 2003 Felix Manzanero. Concert flamenco Guitar. Back and sides of cypress, top of German spruce. Felix  is widely considered as one of the truly great flamenco guitar makers in Spain--usually mentioned in the same breath with luthiers such as Manuel Reyes and Arcángel Fernández. This guitar is shows this reputation is clearly justified.

 Felix Manzanero Concert Flamenco played by Gaetano

 

2003 Pedro Maldonado Model F2 Concert Flamenco Guitar.  Pedro Maldonado was born in Loja, Granada in 1929. He apprenticed first  with Manuel de la Chica, and later with Miguel Robles,  who he credits as being his primary teacher. In 1959, he open his own workshop, and currently builds with his sons Pedro and Luis. His flamenco guitars are highly esteemed in flamenco circles. They have all the qualities one would expect of a good flamenco guitar: power, burn, snarl, firm crisp basses, brilliant vibrant trebles, but also refinement and loveliness of tone. These qualities have led many leading flamenco artists to  use his guitars, including Vícente Amigo,  Pepe Romero, Manuel Cano, Sergio Lara, Diego Vargas, Strunz and Farah, and many more. Overall this guitar is excellent condition. There are a few very light nail marks between the 12 and 19th fret on the treble side of the top, where there is no tap plate. There are also some very light marks near the string block. All of this is difficult to see without close inspection. The set up is very nice and plays easily,  (3mm at the 12th fret on 6th string, 2.5mm on the 1st string). There is enough saddle to lower the action should one desire to do so.

 

 

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 2003 Jose Ruiz Pedregosa Concert Flamenca Negra. Indian rosewood back and sides, German spruce top. This is an outstanding flamenco negra, which like his famous teacher's (Jerónimo Peña Fernández) guitars are adored with carved headstock and bridge, and inlays in the back of neck. Beautiful mosaic rosette. This guitar delivers power one expects from a flamenca negra. This is an exciting  flamenco guitars with a beautiful flamenco tone, and edge, low fast action. We sold this guitar a few months ago, but the owner finds he that although he loves this guitar's tone, he can not handle its 660mm scale. This is a chance to get a wonderful Ruiz Pedregosa flamenca negra in mint condition, and save $500.00 to boot.

   José Ruiz Pedregosa Flamenca Negra played by Gaetano

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 2003 Jose Ruiz Pedregosa Coral Concert Flamenco Guitar. The coral wood (a  deep red African hardwood) produces a sound brighter than cypress, but has the hardness and weight to give it the power one expects from a flamenca negra. This is one of the most exciting  flamenco guitars we have, beautiful flamenco tone, and edge, low fast action. I expect this maker to become very hot.  

   José Ruiz Pedregosa Coral Flamenco  played by Gaetano

 

2003 Paulino Bernabe Model 30 Concert Classical Guitar. A gorgeous instrument that is suitable for concert-level performance. The handmade guitar features Indian rosewood back and sides, and cedar (Sequoia) soundboard, aged 30 years. Finished with hand-rubbed French polish, German tuning machines, ebony reinforcement in the neck and beautiful purflings and rosette. The sound is very warm and loud with evenness and clarity in all registers. The strong neck provides stability for both hands making it an easy guitar to play. Bernabé is known as one of the finest makers in Madrid to have come out of the Ramirez workshop.. This guitar is in exceptional shape--without any dings, blems or scratches. It is in "as new" condition. Includes a hard shell Humicase.

Bernabé Model 30 (from our archives) played by Andrew Hull 

2003 Francisco Navarro Garcia Grand Concert Hauser Model Guitar. Francisco Navarro Garcia, (b. 1963) began building when he was about twenty. Within a few years he had established himself as one of the finest builders in Mexico. In 1989, he won first place in the national competition among hundreds of guitar makers in Mexico held annually in Paracho. Although Francisco calls this guitar a Hauser model, he explains that it is not a copy per se, rather it is his interpretation of a Hauser. The workmanship on this guitar is excellent, and compares well with guitars made in Spain. Among the nice details on this guitar is a twelve hole bridge, which permits a sharper break angle for the strings as they cross the saddle, and so greater downward force, and hence more volume. This guitar is responsive, has a clear voice that projects well, and has a rich, full tone. The intonation is excellent.
 
 
Francisco Navarro García played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

2003 Jose Romero Concert Flamenco Guitar. José Romero is another of the fine craftsmen who learned their trade in the workshop of José Ramirez, but is know concentrating on making his mark in the world of flamenco guitars.  This is an impeccably made guitar that uses fine woods of the highest quality. This guitar number 558 in his obra possess a wonderful, burning flamenco voice, and great snarl. The trebles are clear and concentrated. The basses are firm. The balance between trebles and basses is excellent. All of this, in a very musical instrument-- that possess all the qualities one expects in a great flamenco guitar. This guitar is generally in excellent condition. There are perhaps a dozen nail marks (shallow and not visible in a photo), and a few other tiny marks, visible at certain angles in a good light. The action is set up well for flamenco, and there is enough bone on the saddle to adjust the action if so desired.

 

Jose Romero Concert Flamenco played by Gaetano

2003 Jose Marin Plazuelo Concert Classical Guitar. José Marin Plazuelo, a nephew of Antonio Marin Montero, has spent most of his adult life working with his uncle, and continues to share his shop. In recent years, his guitars like those of his uncle,  have gained an international reputation. Although this guitar is a commission sale, it is essentially a new guitar and is in mint condition.

 José Marin Plazuelo played by owner

2003 Pedro Maldonado F2 Cutaway Concert Flamenco Guitar. Pedro Maldonado was born in Loja, Granada in 1929. He apprenticed first with Manuel de la Chica, and later with Miguel Robles, who he credits as being his primary teacher. In 1959, he open his own workshop, and currently builds with his sons Pedro and Luis. His flamenco guitars are highly esteemed in flamenco circles for their duende. This flamenco cutaway has all the qualities one would expect of a good flamenco guitar: power, burn, snarl, firm crisp basses, brilliant vibrant trebles, but also refinement and loveliness of tone. These qualities have led many leading Spanish flamenco artists to  use his guitars, including Vícente Amigo,  Pepe Romero, Manuel Cano, Sergio Lara, Diego Vargas, Strunz and Farah, and many more.
 
Pedro Maldonado F2 Cutaway played by Gaetano
 

2004 Pedro Maldonado Concert Flamenca Negra Guitar  Pedro Maldonado was born in Loja, Granada in 1929. He apprenticed first with Manuel de la Chica, and later with Miguel Robles, who he credits as being his primary teacher. In 1959, he open his own workshop, and currently builds with his sons Pedro and Luis. His flamenco guitars are highly esteemed in flamenco circle. They have all the qualities one would expect of a fine flamenco guitar: power, burn, snarl, firm crisp basses, brilliant vibrant trebles, but also refinement and loveliness of tone. These qualities have led many leading flamenco artists to  use his guitars, including Vícente Amigo,  Pepe Romero, Manuel Cano, Sergio Lara, Diego Vargas, Strunz and Farah, and many more.
 
 

 

 

2004 Pedro Maldonado Andalucia Model 1a Concert Flamenco Guitar. Pedro Maldonado was born in Loja, Granada in 1929. He apprenticed first  with Manuel de la Chica, and later with Miguel Robles,  who he credits as being his primary teacher. In 1959, he open his own workshop, and currently builds with his sons Pedro and Luis. His instruments are highly esteemed in flamenco circles. The Andalucia is a new 1a concert flamenco model  made exclusively for us. It is true concert flamenco guitar with power, burn, snarl, firm crisp basses, and brilliant vibrant trebles, as well as refinement and loveliness of tone. Many leading flamenco artists to play Maldonado's guitars, including Vícente Amigo, Pepe Romero, Manuel Cano, Sergio Lara, Diego Vargas, Strunz and Farah, and many more. There are a few light marks in the finish, from putting strings on, near the bridge, need good light to see them.
 
  Pedro Maldonado Andalucia Model played by Gaetano  

 

 2004 Pedro Maldonado Andalucia Model 1a Concert Flamenco Guitar. Pedro Maldonado was born in Loja, Granada in 1929. He apprenticed first  with Manuel de la Chica, and later with Miguel Robles,  who he credits as being his primary teacher. In 1959, he open his own workshop, and currently builds with his sons Pedro and Luis. His instruments are highly esteemed in flamenco circles. The Andalucia is a new 1a concert flamenco model  made exclusively for us. It is true concert flamenco guitar with power, burn, snarl, firm crisp basses, and brilliant vibrant trebles, as well as refinement and loveliness of tone. Many leading flamenco artists to play Maldonado's guitars, including Vícente Amigo, Pepe Romero, Manuel Cano, Sergio Lara, Diego Vargas, Strunz and Farah, and many more.
 
  Pedro Maldonado Andalucia Model played by Gaetano
 

 

 2004 Pedro Maldonado F2 Concert Flamenco Guitar. Pedro Maldonado was born in Loja, Granada in 1929. He apprenticed first  with Manuel de la Chica, and later with Miguel Robles,  who he credits as being his primary teacher. In 1959, he open his own workshop, and currently builds with his sons Pedro and Luis. His flamenco guitars are highly esteemed in flamenco circle. They have all the qualities one would expect of a good flamenco guitar: power, burn, snarl, firm crisp basses, brilliant vibrant trebles, but also refinement and loveliness of tone. These qualities have led many leading flamenco artists to  use his guitars, including Vícente Amigo,  Pepe Romero, Manuel Cano, Sergio Lara, Diego Vargas, Strunz and Farah, and many more.
 
 2004 Pedro Maldonado Concert Flamenco played by Gaetano
 
 

 
2004 Pedro Maldonaldo F1 Traditional Concert Flamenco Guitar. Pedro Maldonado was born in Loja, Granada in 1929. He apprenticed first  with Manuel de la Chica, and later with Miguel Robles,  who he credits as being his primary teacher. In 1959, he open his own workshop, and currently builds with his sons Pedro and Luis. His flamenco guitars are highly esteemed in flamenco circle. They have all the qualities one would expect of a good flamenco guitar: power, burn, snarl, firm crisp basses, brilliant vibrant trebles, but also refinement and loveliness of tone. These qualities have led many leading flamenco artists to  use his guitars, including Vícente Amigo,  Pepe Romero, Manuel Cano, Sergio Lara, Diego Vargas, Strunz and Farah, and many more.
 
2004 Pedro Maldonado Traditional Concert Flamenco played by Gaetano

 

 2004 Rúben Moisés López Concert Classical Guitar. Rúben Moisés López is the 37 year old son of Marcelino López Nieto-- one of Spain's most respected luthiers--who is mentioned in almost every major book about Spanish luthiers, and whose guitars are widely sought after by players and collectors. Rúben was initiated into the world of guitar making starting at the age of five, learning about tools and woods, since his father's workshop was in their home. He faithfully follows the tradition of his father and teacher, so if you are looking for concert quality sound at a reasonable price, this guitar is a real bargain.   

 

 Rúben Moisés López Concert guitar played by Randall Avers

 

 2004 Pedro Maldonado 1a Concert Classical Guitar. Pedro Maldonado was born in Loja, Granada in 1929. He apprenticed first  with Manuel de la Chica, and later with the luthier Miguel Robles,  who he credits as being his primary teacher. In 1959, he open his own workshop, and currently builds guitars with his sons Pedro and Luis. His classical guitars are highly esteemed. Not only is the craftsmanship superb, but this concert guitar possesses all the qualities one expects in a true concert classical guitar: power, color, and balance, as well as refinement and loveliness of tone. These qualities have led many classical guitar artists such as Eliot Fisk to buy his guitars.

 

 

2004 Casimiro Lozano Model 1a Concert Classical Guitar.  Rosewood from Brazil back and sides, German spruce top. Inspired by Fleta's design and Santos Hernandez bracing,  attack is immediate, with bright, clear sound, and unusually long sustain. It has superb balance, separation, and volume.  (Review)  

  Casimiro Lozano, 1a (spruce 1) played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 

2004 José Marin Plazuelo Concert Flamenco Guitar.  Spanish cypress back and sides, German spruce top.   A great flamenco guitar from one of Spain's finest guitar makers. Explosive power, spectacular flamenco tone. This guitar is absolutely alive, responsive, bright vibrant trebles, crisp basses. Great low, fast action--plays like a dream. 

 

José Marin Plazuelo flamenco  played by Perf de Castro

2004 Angel Benito Aguado 1a Concert Classical Guitar. We are proud to be able to offer this handmade instrument from the Spanish luthier Angel Benito Aguado. Although his concert classical guitars are inspired by those of Antonio Torres (1817-1892), they are not copies. Although he has drunk deeply from the work of Torres and Madrid school of guitar makers,  he has developed his own unique bracing system. Aside from exquisite workmanship, his classical guitars possess a rich, refined tone, and are wonderfully playable. They are true concert guitar instruments. This is a powerful guitar. It possess wonderful, deep and resonant basses that are nicely balanced against bright and focused trebles. This guitar sings even in the highest registers.

  Angel Benito Aguado (#2) played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

2004 Rafael Romero 1a Especial Flamenco Guitar.  I discovered Rafael Romero Barroso on my most recent trip to Spain. He was born in 1963 in the province of Cadiz and was a professional flamenco guitarists before he found his true vocation as a guitar maker. Thus, he brings to his guitar making both the knowledge of his craft and the sensibilities of a guitarists. This is his top model cypress flamenco that he makes entirely by himself, and is signed, dated, and numbered. This guitar has the qualities one wants in a flamenco guitar: incisive trebles, firm basses, a fat mid-range, power, rasp, and a true flamenco flavor. Normally, this guitar would sell for $4,750, but because it was damaged in shipping and has a crack on the top, which we have had expertly repaired, and is barely noticeable, we are selling it as a used guitar in excellent condition.
 

2004 Rafael Romero 1ae  played by Gaetano

2004 Santos Bayon Model Santos Hernandez Concert Flamenco Guitar. Santos Bayon is the grand nephew of Santos Hernandez and continues to work in Santos Hernandez actual workshop using his tools and forms. The family inherited not just the workshop, but some Santos Hernandez guitars which obviously he studied very closely. The result is faithful Santos Hernandez model, a superb instrument which recognizes one instantly has having the Santos Hernandez sound. The rosette, with its mother-of-pearl inlays, is also one that Santos employed in some of his guitars.  In fact, they compare well with the Santos Hernandez flamenco guitars I have in my own collection. The trebles are clear, focused, and intense. The mid-range is likewise strong and full bodied. The basses are firm, resonant, and crisp. The action is perfect for flamenco.

2004 Santos Bayon flamenco guitar played by Gaetano 

2004 Jesus Bellido 1a Concert Classical Guitar.  Jesus Bellido is the son of Manuel Bellido, and a fine luthier in his own right. This 1a concert classical guitar is model that he is making exclusively for us, using master grade wood for the top. It has everything one could ask for in a concert guitar: power, great tone, and character- a wonderful, vibrant, full-bodied basses, and substantial lovely singing trebles.  

  Jesús Bellido concierto clasico  played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 

 

2004 Jose Ruiz Pedregosa 1a Concert Classical Guitar. This guitar is a splendid example of the luthier's art with a carved headstock and bridge, beautiful mosaic rosette, and inlays in the back of neck has a tone that is as lovely as the guitar is handsome. It is a responsive, powerful, balanced, with a rich full bodied tone.

  José Ruiz Pedregosa played by  Andrew Hull  

 

 

 2004 Marcelino Lopez Nieto Concert Flamenco Guitar. This wonderful flamenco guitar was built by Marcelino Lopez Nieto, one of Spain's most respected luthiers, who has been building guitars since 1947. Built with Spanish cypress back and sides, neck of Honduran mahogany, this guitar has a German spruce top made from wood Marcelino bought in 1959. As to sound, this is one of the nicest flamenco I have had come through my hands. Marcelino's flamenco instruments are old school Madrid, inspired by Santos Hernandez. This guitar has that powerful earthy, woody, tone we associate with Madrid instruments made before WWII. Deep, resonant basses. Sweet focused trebles.  It is very much a flamenco guitar very much to my tastes, and reminds me strongly of my 1923 Santos Hernandez. I  would love to see this guitar in the hands of a good player. However, as Marcelino is in his 70s, and is building only 5 or 6 instruments per year, if it doesn't sell, I may keep it for myself.

 

 

2004 Jesus Bellido 1a Concert Flamenco Guitar. Jesus Bellido is the son of the luthier Manuel Bellido, and a fine maker in his own right. This concert flamenco model is a guitar he is making exclusively for Zavaleta's. It is made from master grade woods, has a authentic flamenco tone, with a great throaty rasp. It is among the most powerful flamenco instruments I have ever played. The basses are solid, full, profound, and crisp. The trebles possess great clarity, and are full  bodied,  incisive, and focused. This guitar sings in every register without losing power.

 

 Jesus Bellido Concert Flamenco played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 
2004 Rafael Romero Model 150 Flamenco Guitar. I discovered Rafael Romero Barroso on my most recent trip to Spain.  He was born in 1963 in the province of Cadiz and was a professional flamenco guitarists before he found his true vocation as a guitar maker. Thus, he brings to his guitar making both the knowledge of his craft and the sensibilities of a guitarists. This is not a production guitar, but a handmade instrument, made by Rafael with the help of two assistants. Besides being beautifully made, this guitar has the qualities one wants in a flamenco guitar: singing trebles, firm basses, a fat mid-range, power, rasp, and a true flamenco flavor. Compared to the model 120, the tone of the model 150 has greater clarity and body.
 
 2004 Rafael Romero Model 150 played by Gaetano  

 

2005 Jesus Bellido Taller Classical Guitar.  The Spanish luthier Jesus Bellido is the son of Manuel Lopez Bellido, and a fine guitar maker in his own right. This classical guitar has a wonderful, vibrant, full-bodied basses, and substantial lovely singing trebles.  

 Jesus Bellido Taller Model Classical played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 

 

2005 Jose Manuel Fernandez Enriquez 1a Concert Flamenca Negra Guitar. The Spanish luthier José Manuel Fernández Enriquez is the son of the late Manuel Fernández Fernández, and a fine guitar maker in his own right. This handmade flamenca negra has a authentic, full-bodied flamenco tone, and a great rasp. Trebles and basses are well-balanced. The basses are rich, full, and firm. The trebles are well focused and clear. This flamenco guitar plays very evenly, and sings even in the highest register. The action is a flamenco player's dream. This flamenca negra would also well serve the guitarist who wants to play a mix of musical styles as it has the richness of tone that wants for classical, Latin, or Jazz, but when pushed its own dry flamenco soul steps forward.

 2005 Jose Manuel Fernandez Enriquez 1a Flamenca Negra Guitar played by Gaetano

 
  2005 Manuel Romero Macias Concert Classical Guitar. Manuel Romero Macias guitars fall into a special category. They are true hand made instruments, built by an old-school luthier using the finest materials. They possess a wonderful sound, and are very affordable. To do this, however, Manuel builds them fairly quickly, and spends little effort, for example, on making the inside of the guitar look pretty. If sound is more important than looks, then Manuel's guitars are great bargains. His guitars provide a Champaign sound for those of you on a beer budget. This particular guitar was completed in November of 2005. It possesses rich cello like deep basses, balanced nicely against polished trebles with good body. The setup is very comfortable.

2005 Manuel Romero Macias played by Guilherme Vincens

 
  2005 Antonio Raya Ferrer 1a Concert Classical Guitar.  Antonio Raya Ferrer is the son of Antonio Raya Pardo, and shares his father's workshop. This guitar shows that he has been well taught, and is able stand on his own as a maker. The craftsmanship is superb and breaths the quality of tone. The label is signed and dated, and numbered. Like his father's 1a concert classical, his guitars have a true Granada school flavor. They are powerful instruments with a noble tone and the volume to fill a concert hall. They are beautifully balanced and have excellent separation, great sustain, and are capable of singing in every register. The trebles are rounded and clear. The basses are nice and firm. The action is set up very well, and is very easy to play.

Antonio Raya Ferrer played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 
 
2005 Pedro Maldonado 1a Concertista.  Pedro Maldonado was born in Loja, Granada in 1929. He apprenticed first  with Manuel de la Chica, and later with Miguel Robles,  who he credits as being his primary teacher. In 1959, he open his own workshop, and currently builds with his sons Pedro and Luis. His classicals are highly esteemed. The Concertista is a new 1a Concert model made exclusively for us. Not only is the craftsmanship superb, but this guitar possesses all the qualities one expects in a true concert guitar: power, color, and balance, as well as refinement and loveliness of tone. These qualities have led many classical artists such as Eliot Fisk to buy his instruments.  

2005 Pedro Maldonado 1a Concertista played by Guilherme Vincens

 
  2005 Paco Santiago Marin Concert Classical Guitar. Francisco Santiago Marin was born in Granada in 1946. He apprenticed with his uncle don Antonio Marin  Montero, and spent  ten years in his uncle's workshop learning the art of guitar making before opening his own workshop in 1973. He builds entirely by hand using traditional methods and designs. In 1997, the Second International Guitar Competition in Spain was held in his honor. His instruments have been bought by such great players as Manuel Cano, Camelo Martinez, David Rose, Konrad Ragossnig, and Eliot Fisk. This guitar has everything that one wants in a concert classical guitar: fine craftsmanship, rich full-bodied tone, balance, evenness, power in every register, and great set-up. One of Segovia's ex-students, who regularly tests the concert instruments that come in, expressed that this pair guitars was among the finest he has seen to come thru my hands.  

Paco Santiago Marin (#2) played by Gonzalo Andres Molano

 
  2005 Ruben Moises Lopez Concert Classical Guitar. Rúben Moisés López is the son of Marcelino López Nieto-- one of Spain's most respected luthiers--who is mentioned in almost every major book about classical guitars, and whose concert guitars are widely sought after by players and collectors alike. Ruben Moises was initiated into the world of guitar making starting at the age of five, learning about tools and woods, since his father's workshop was in their home. He faithfully follows the tradition of his father and teacher, so if you are looking for a handmade concert classical guitar with a quality sound at a reasonable price, this guitar is a real bargain. 
 
Rúben Moisés López Concert guitar played by Randall Avers

 

2005 Paco Santiago Marin Concert Classical Guitar. Francisco Santiago Marin was born in Granada in 1946. He apprenticed with his uncle don Antonio Marin  Montero, and spent  ten years in his uncle's workshop learning the art of guitar making before opening his own workshop in 1973. He builds entirely by hand using traditional methods and designs. In 1997, the Second International Guitar Competition in Spain was held in his honor. His instruments have been bought by such great players as Manuel Cano, Camelo Martinez, David Rose, Konrad Ragossnig, and Eliot Fisk. This guitar has everything that one wants in a concert classical guitar: fine craftsmanship, rich full-bodied tone, balance, evenness, power in every register, and great set-up. One of Segovia's ex-students, who regularly tests the classical instruments that come in, expressed that this pair guitars was among the finest he has seen to come thru my hands.  

Paco Santiago Marin (#1) played by Gonzalo Andres Molano

 

Arturo Huipe Hauser Model Concert Guitar. Arturo Huipe is one of the best luthiers in Mexico. He is among those makers (from whom I would buy in Paracho) because uses prime woods and materials, and takes great care with control of humidity. In fact, both in workmanship and tone, his guitar compare favorably to many instruments that would sell for hundreds of dollars more. The guitar has the volume one expects from a concert instrument--it is responsive, well-balanced between basses and trebles, has excellent clarity, and a very wet, rich, colorful tone. 
 
 
 Arturo Huipe Hauser model (#1) played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 

Arturo Huipe Estudio Model Concert Guitar. Arturo Huipe is one of the best luthiers in Mexico. He is among those makers (from whom I would buy in Paracho) because uses prime woods and materials, and takes great care with control of humidity. In fact, both in workmanship and tone, his guitar compare favorably to many instruments that would sell for hundreds of dollars more. The guitar has the volume one expects from a concert instrument--it is responsive, well-balanced between basses and trebles, has excellent clarity, and a very wet, rich, colorful tone. The estudio guitar has the same quality of  tone as his other models, but is made with less costly paloescrito.
 
 
 Arturo Huipe Estudio model played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano
  Antonio Raya Pardo XXXth Anniversary Model Concert Guitar. This guitar was made by Antonio Raya Pardo in 2004 to celebrate his 30th year as a guitar maker. The whole guitar breaths quality: from his choice of premium grade woods, to his care in craftsmanship, to its quality of tone. The label is signed and dated, and numbered. This is a concert classical guitar with a true Granada school flavor--beautifully balanced, excellent separation, power and sustain in every register, romantic rounded clear trebles, and nice firm basses. The action is very comfortable, and is a real joy to play.

Antonio Raya Padro 30th Anniversary model played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 
  Arturo Huipe Friederich Model Concert Guitar.  Arturo Huipe is one of the best luthiers in Mexico. He is among those makers (from whom I would buy in Paracho) because uses prime woods and materials, and takes great care with control of humidity. In fact, both in workmanship and tone, his guitar compare favorably to many instruments that would sell for hundreds of dollars more. The guitar has the volume one expects from a concert instrument--it is responsive, well-balanced between basses and trebles, has excellent clarity, and a very wet, rich, colorful tone.   

 Arturo HuipeFriederich model played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 
  2005 Antonio Lopez Clasico Model. These guitars are hand-made in Paulino Bernabe's shop under his supervision. The quality of  workmanship and attention to detail on these instruments is outstanding. They are high quality instruments that are responsive and have impeccable balance and a firm,  clear, classical tone, with great separation and sustain. 

 Antonio Lopez clasico  (spruce) played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 
  2005 Antonio Lopez Professional Model. These guitars are hand-made in Paulino Bernabe's shop under his supervision. The quality of materials, workmanship, and attention to detail on these instruments is outstanding. They are professional quality instruments that are responsive and have impeccable balance and a firm,  clear, classical tone, with great separation and sustain.   

Antonio Lopez Professional Model played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 
  2005 Antonio Lopez Professional Model. These guitars are hand-made in Paulino Bernabe's shop under his supervision. The quality of materials, workmanship, and attention to detail on these instruments is outstanding. They are professional quality instruments that are responsive and have impeccable balance and a firm,  clear, classical tone, with great separation and sustain.   

  Antonio Lopez professional model played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 
  2005 Antonio Raya Ferrer 1a Concert Classical Guitar.  Antonio Raya Ferrer is the son of Antonio Raya,he craftsmanship is superb and breaths the quality of tone. The label is signed and dated, and numbered. Like his father's 1a concert classical, his instruments have a true Granada school flavor. They are powerful instruments with a noble tone and the volume to fill a concert hall. They are beautifully balanced and have excellent separation, great sustain, and are capable of singing in every register. The trebles are rounded and clear. The basses are nice and firm. The action is set up very well, and is very easy to play.

Antonio Raya Ferrer played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 

 
  2005 José Lopez Bellido -- Eduardo Ferrer 100th Anniversary Model Flamenco Guitar.  This is simply a superb flamenco guitar from José Lopez Bellido,  one of Granada's leading guitar makers. In making this limited edition guitar in honor of the luthier Eduardo Ferrer to commemorate the 100th anniversary of his teacher's  birth,  José selected the finest aged woods he had available.  Not only is workmanship is outstanding, but it has all the qualities one expects in a great flamenco guitar: profound basses, a vibrant mid-range, and concentrated trebles that still sing at the 19th fret.

2005 José Lopez Bellido Concert Flamenco played by Gaetano

 
 

2005 Marcelino Lopez Nieto Concert Flamenco Guitar. This is a wonderful flamenco was guitar built by one of Spain's most respected luthiers, who has been building guitars since 1947. This is number 942. Marcelino tells me that he purchase the woods used in this guitar in 1959. As Marcelino is in his 70s, he is building fewer guitars, only 5 or 6 per year. This guitar is truly wonderful. As Gaetano put it in his words of high praise, "its a monster." It is one of the finest flamenco guitars we have ever had come through our hands.

2005 Marcelino Lopez Nieto flamenco played by Gaetano

 

2005 Rafael Romero Model 120 Flamenco Guitar. I discovered Rafael Romero Barroso on my most recent trip to Spain.  He was born in 1963 in the province of Cadiz and was a professional flamenco guitarists before he found his true vocation as a guitar maker. Thus, he brings to his guitar making both the knowledge of his craft and the sensibilities of a guitarists. This is not a production guitar, but a handmade instrument, made by Rafael with the help of two assistants. Besides being beautifully made, this guitar has the qualities one wants in a flamenco guitar: incisive trebles, firm basses, a fat mid-range, power, rasp, and a true flamenco flavor.
 
2005 Rafael Romero Model 120 played by Gaetano

2005 Rafael Romero Model 150 Flamenca Negra Guitar. I discovered Rafael Romero Barroso on my most recent trip to Spain.  He was born in 1963 in the province of Cadiz and was a professional flamenco guitarists before he found his true vocation as a guitar maker. Thus, he brings to his guitar making both the knowledge of his craft and the sensibilities of a guitarists. This is not a production guitar, but a handmade instrument, made by Rafael with the help of two assistants. Besides being beautifully made, this guitar has the qualities one wants in a flamenca negra guitar: singing trebles, firm basses, a fat mid-range, power, rasp, and a true flamenco flavor. 
 
  2005 Rafael Romero Model 150 Flamenca Negra played by Gaetano
 

2006 Ruben Moises Lopez Concert Classical Guitar. Rúben Moisés López is the son of Marcelino López Nieto-- one of Spain's most respected luthiers--who is mentioned in almost every major book about classical guitars, and whose concert guitars are widely sought after by players and collectors alike. Ruben Moises was initiated into the world of guitar making starting at the age of five, learning about tools and woods, since his father's workshop was in their home. He continues to work in his father's workshop, faithfully following the tradition of his father and teacher. If you are looking for a handmade concert classical guitar with a quality sound at a reasonable price, this guitar is a real bargain.   

 

 

 

 

2005 Amalio Burguet ABF Mixta Flamenca Negra Cutaway Guitar. This concert flamenca negra cutaway guitar was made by Amalio Burguet personally, and is entirely handcrafted. Each ABF guitar is dated, numbered, and signed.  Amalio uses the finest woods available for this model. Amalio Burguet's flamenco guitars have a true flamenco tone and bite. The ABF mixta is also a perfect guitar for jazz, bossa nova, or latin music. The quality of tone is such that one can just as easily play classical. The set-up on this guitar is low, fast, and it is a real joy to play. This is a great handmade flamenca negra cutaway, and a true bargain.

 

  Amalio Burguet ABF Mixta played by Gaetano

 

2006 Jesus Bellido Concert Classical Guitar.  Jesus Bellido is the son of Manuel Bellido, and a fine maker in his own right. This 1a concert classical model guitar is model that he is making exclusively for us, using master grade wood for the top. It has everything one could ask for in a concert guitar: power, great tone, and character- a wonderful, vibrant, full-bodied basses, and substantial lovely singing trebles.  

  Jesús Bellido concierto clasico played by Gonzalo Andrés Molano

 

2006 Jesus Bellido Taller Model Flamenco Guitar. Jesus Bellido is the son of Manuel Bellido, and a fine maker in his own right. This guitar has a authentic flamenco tone, with a great rasp. The basses are solid, full, and crisp. The trebles are incensive, focused, and sing.

 Jesus Bellido Taller Model Flamenco (#2) played by Gaetano

 

2006 Jose Manuel Fernandez Enriquez. 1a Concert Flamenco Guitar. The Spanish luthier José Manuel Fernández Enriquez is the son of the late Manuel Fernández Fernández, and is a fine guitar maker in his own right. His handmade concert flamenca guitars have an authentic, full-bodied flamenco tone, and a great rasp. Trebles and basses are well-balanced. The basses are rich, full, and firm. The trebles are well focused and clear. His flamenco guitars play very evenly, and sing even in the highest registers. His action is a flamenco player's dream.

2006 Jose Manuel Fernandez Enriquez 1a Concert Flamenco played by Gaetano

 

2006 Antonio Raya Pardo Concert Flamenco Guitar. This truly elegant flamenco guitar was made by Antonio Raya Pardo in 2006, who stands among the best luthiers in Granada, if not in the world. This beautiful handmade concert flamenco guitar breaths quality: from his choice of premium grade woods, to his care in craftsmanship, to its quality of tone. It even smells good. The label is signed and dated, and numbered. This is guitar is without a doubt among the best sounding Granada flamenco guitars we've ever had. Powerful, alive, open, incisive, outstanding trebles, vibrant mid-range, beautifully balanced, crisp basses, are some of the adjectives that describe this guitar. It is real joy to play.
 
 
2006 Antonio Raya Pardo concert flamenco guitar play by Gaetano
 

 Arturo Huipe Fleta Model Concert Classical Guitar.  Arturo Huipe is one of the best luthiers in Mexico.  This guitar represents his effort to step up to a concert guitar that can complete on world level. The workmanship on this handmade, French polished guitar is impeccable. Indeed, this guitar compares favorably to many classical guitars that would sell for hundreds of dollars more.  While not a Fleta copy, its tone is inspired by Fleta; and, it has the volume and refinement one expects from a concert instrument. It is responsive, well-balanced between basses and trebles, has excellent clarity, and a very full, rich, and colorful tone. It is also set up well, so it is a joy to play.

Arturo Huipe Fleta Model Concert Classical Guitar (#1) played by Cale Hoeflicker

 

José Marin Plazuelo Concert Flamenco Guitar. This guitar was purchased around 2001 from Jose Marin Plazuelo, the instrument is signed, but he has stopped dating them because he does think guitars should be treated like cars, devalued as each year passes. This guitar belongs to a professional flamenco guitarist-- who plays full time, and so this guitar has the usual wear and tear to the finish that one expects -- scratches, nail dents. The playability is excellent. New this guitar sells at current exchange rates for $6500-- a great flamenco instrument at a bargain price.

José Marin Plazuelo flamenco played by Gaetano  

 

2007 Juan Miguel Gonzalez Concert Flamenco Guitar. This wonderful flamenca blanca was built by Juan Miguel Gonzalez who is widely recognized as one of the great flamenco guitar makers living today. His guitars have a special duende professional flamenco players seek and love. To name but a few of his clients: Tomatito, Norberto Torres, Monolo Franco, Carlos Piñana, and El Niño de la Manola. As is typical of the guitars made by Juan Miguel Gonzalez instruments, this instrument is made of master grade woods. Its top is made using the best tight-grained German spruce, the back and sides are made from impeccable Spanish cypress.  This guitars 650mm scale and 52mm nut is characteristic. The set up is a flamenco player's dream-- low, fast, without buzz. The guitar is responsive in all registers. It explodes with power, and has the rasp that defines flamenco guitar.
 
2007 Juan Miguel Gonzalez  concert flamenco guitar played by Gaetano
 
 

2007 Casimiro Lozano XXV Anniversary concert classical guitar. This is a very special Lozano, made to celebrate his 25th anniversary as a maker. This model is made from the finest woods and materials Casimiro has available. For this model he has made a special rosette as well as trims. Lozano's guitars take their shape and dimensions of Fleta guitars, but use his own bracing system. This guitar has  superb balance, separation, and power, with unusually long sustain.  The basses are full, resonant, and deep. The trebles are rounded, clean, clear, and sweet. The attack is immediate. Don't just take our word about what great guitars Casimiro is making, read what others are saying (Review 1  Review 2 ).

2007 Casimiro Lozano XXV anniversary concert classical guitar played by Cale Hoeflicker

 

2008 Paulino Bernabe -- Rafael Roman model 4 Classical Guitar. The Rafael Roman of classical guitar line is made by Paulino Bernabe's workshop. The quality of workmanship and attention to detail of this guitar are of a very high standard. This guitar possess a bold Spanish tone whose character is instantly recognizable as a Bernabe. It is well balanced, has great intonation, nice clarity, and excellent separation, and sustain.

 

2008 Rafael Roman Model 4 (spruce) played by Cale Hoeflicker

 
Please note because we sell worldwide the prices we quote under each maker are prior to export and do not include shipping costs etc. For those listed in our inventory, we have already paid shipping costs, import duties, broker's fees, so they are priced slightly higher than our world price. Price on all guitars includes their case.

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