Description
1976 José Ramírez 1A – Madrid, Spain
Cedar Top / Indian Rosewood / 664 mm Scale
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/hLhUDsECP98
A well-preserved example of a mid-1970s José Ramírez 1A, built in Madrid during the celebrated cedar-top era. Instruments from this period are widely regarded for their powerful voice, expansive tonal character, and historical role in defining the modern concert classical guitar.
This guitar presents as a strong player-grade instrument, offering the depth and immediacy associated with Ramírez guitars of this period, with a particularly responsive feel under the right hand.
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Tone & Response
The instrument exhibits a warm, open cedar voice with a broad and supportive bass register, complemented by a quick, articulate attack. The overall character is lively and expressive, with good projection and a sense of immediacy that rewards a nuanced right-hand approach.
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Construction & Specifications
• Cedar top (free of cracks)
• Indian rosewood back and sides
• 664 mm scale length
• 54 mm nut width
• Traditional Ramírez construction
The guitar has been recently refretted and professionally set up, and is currently playing comfortably with a balanced and responsive feel.
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Setup
Current action is approximately 3.2 mm on the bass side and 2.8 mm on the treble. The guitar is presently strung with Savarez Corum high-tension basses and Savarez normal-tension nylon trebles.
The original saddle is included, offering the option for a lower setup if desired.
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Condition
This instrument is best described as a player-grade example rather than a collector-grade piece, though it remains structurally sound and musically rewarding.
Notable details include:
• Second ebony fingerboard overlay
• Side position markers at the 5th and 7th frets
• Two professionally sealed grain cracks on the back
• Replaced tuning machines
• Small internal reinforcing brace near the soundhole
The neck is straight, and the top remains crack-free. The guitar is structurally stable and ready for continued use.
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Summary
A compelling example of a 1970s Ramírez 1A with the characteristic tonal depth and projection of the period. While not a pristine collector piece, it offers strong musical value for a player seeking the classic Ramírez sound in a well-adjusted and responsive instrument.
