Yulong Guo is a highly respected Chinese luthier who has been making guitars since 1983. Based in Zhengzhou, China, Guo has built a reputation for combining traditional Spanish guitar-making methods with modern design features. He is especially recognized for his double-top guitars which enhances projection, responsiveness, and tonal balance—qualities prized by classical players.

Yulong Guo’s 2023 Chamber Concert model (No. 62) showcases why his name has become synonymous with the forefront of modern Chinese luthiery. Built with a Canadian cedar Nomex double top and lattice bracing, the instrument offers remarkable projection and sustain without sacrificing tonal warmth. The cedar/Nomex sandwich construction gives the guitar a powerful, immediate response with clear separation across the registers, while the lattice bracing adds balance and stability, producing a voice that is both bold and refined.

The Indian rosewood back and sides complement the cedar top with depth and resonance, contributing to a dark, rounded bass and sparkling trebles. An elegant rosewood armrest ensures player comfort, while the raised ebony fingerboard improves access to higher frets and adds to the guitar’s contemporary profile.

With a 650 mm scale length and 52 mm nut width, the guitar offers a traditional concert setup, making it comfortable for a wide range of players. The instrument is fitted with Der Jung tuning machines, known for their smooth action and reliability, adding a touch of understated quality. The label is signed, underscoring Guo’s commitment to craftsmanship and authenticity.

In play, this Chamber Concert guitar delivers a modern concert sound: powerful projection suited for large halls, yet nuanced enough for chamber settings and recording. The combination of volume, tonal richness, and ergonomic design makes it an excellent choice for advanced students and professionals seeking a first-rate double-top instrument at a highly competitive value compared to European makers.

Overall Impression: The 2023 Yulong Guo Chamber Concert No. 62 is a sophisticated, well-balanced guitar that blends traditional aesthetics with cutting-edge design. It reflects Guo’s four decades of experience and his ongoing dedication to pushing the boundaries of concert guitar making.