What is the Difference in Torres/Hauser/Rodriguez Guitars

[mike.m]

Hi,

Would someone explain the difference in style of Torres/Hauser/Rodriguez guitars and how they sound?

Thank you.

[daniel711]

Torres - Very small body, based on original 19th century 'Torres' design (7 fan baraces, spruce topped) - Never heard one, but probably not a very big sound.

Hauser - Based on Torres, slightly larger body, spruce topped, sound is bright and balanced, not huge - the definitive design for playing counterpoint (Bach/Baroque).

Rodriguez - Large body, cedar topped, big, warm, 'Spanish' sound - Best suited for warm, romantic, Spanish repertoir.

Hope this helps

[mike.m]

Hi daniel711,

Thank you for your help. I play a factory made Yamaha CG180-SA, and recently had an opportunity to play some good hand made guitars. I am still in shock, and trying to understand what makes some of them to sound so good.

I would like to upgrade my current guitar, but can't decide what to do. I like the sound of Bernabe model 50, but it is over my budget and I will have to find some alternatives.

One local luthier e-mailed me the price list with Rodriguez style guitar being the most expensive, then Torres and Hauser being the most affordable.

I am use to spruce sound and was wandering, is it possible to have Rodriguez model with a spruce top?

Regards, mike.m

[sseow]

mike,
good day...
are you referring to the australian luthier sean hancock, who offer you the rodriguez model?
if you are buying from a luthier, you can always specify what you like for the top. i don't think the luthier will reject such request.
i have played the bernabe model 50 and some of other higher end models made by bernabe. they are really good guitar and worth the value.
personally, i like hauser design guitar.
regards
sseow
singapore

[mike.m]

Hi sseow,

Thank you for your reply. I have got confirmation today that a Rodriguez could be done with a spruce top.

I have some more questions:
Could you comment on difference between Bernabe m50 and hancock guitar?
Have you had opportunity to play all three models?
How would you describe advantages of Hauser model?

Regards,
mike.m

[sseow]

i don have a chance to try a hancock and therefore unable to comment. but i guess there are all of different class and character.
so, how much did you pay for a rodriguez with spruce... i m thinking of getting one cedar (since i own too many spruce guitars)... is the same maker makes hauser model also?
i can't say there is any advantages of hauser.... but i really respect this great luthier of the work he produced.
seow
singapore

[Mikey]

mike.m,

I play a sean hancock hauser model. This is a great instrument for the price. It stands up to many concert instruments that are twice as much. I can't comment on the bernabe 50, but I played a couple bernabe concerto models this fall and they were nowhere near the guitar my hancock is. The hauser model is very clear and pretty loud for a slightly smallish bodied guitar. Its got a great treble sound.

Mikey.

[Dave Tate]

Hi Mike,
Please feel free to contact me if you'd like to discuss any of these guitars. We have several options in all of these styles, in various price ranges.
I'd be glad to help you in your search for the right guitar.
Cheers,
Dave

[mike.m]

Hi,
Thank you all for your help, I found this forum really good and lots of my questions already discussed here.

to sseow:
1) I think there is a sort of misunderstanding here so let me clarify, I am looking to upgrade my guitar.
2) According to the web page http://www.masterguitars.com/, Sean Hancock makes all three models with both spruce and ceder tops.
3) I think it is better for you to get the price from Sean, his email is sean@masterguitars.com

to Mikey & daniel 711:
I really appreciate your comments.

to davetate:
Thank you for reading all of this.
I feel like a child in first grade of 'Learn to Swim' course... I need to learn more about guitars to be able to make a good choice. I have planed to visit some local luthiers and sort out my impressions.
I appreciate your help and the GSI, as one of the best guitar sources on the web. We will stay in touch.

best regards
mike.m