2018 Ross Gutmeier CD/IN

Based out of Baltimore, luthier Ross Gutmeier has been building a wide range of styles over the past years. Since 2007, he has been especially enamored with the instruments of Santos Hernandez and has been experimenting with various ways of integrating the charming and alluring elements of this legendary style into his own work. For this guitar, it has the body shape of a Santos but Ross says the soundboard is a combination of both Santos and Torres. The functionality of the top is like that of an early Santos (same arching, bridge dynamics, tuning, etc) but the bracing is a Torres layout with the open waist bar and typical low/wide 3X7 mm fan bracing. It is extremely lightweight and thinly built, which makes it extremely lively with an immediate attack and big, powerful sound. The quality of sound itself is fairly dark and yet firm - every note is very focused and penetrating. Due to its fast and lively responsiveness, it's very easy on the hands and almost plays by itself. Fitted with a 20th fret for players needing a high c natural. Overall a very impressive instrument from this well respected luthier.