2016 Richard Reynoso SP/CY

Richard Reynoso is a guitar maker based out of California, USA. His instruments are fully traditional in construction design and largely inspired by the great Spanish makers of the past, but they do offer a voice and personality that is entirely his own. This particular instrument, a cypress classical, features his signature carved headstock with ebony veneer which has a dark, almost black color that is matched throughout the unique detailing of guitar - most notably in the purfling, rosette and bridge material. The aesthetic is striking - one is tempted to say it has an almost "neo-art deco" look to it with its hard yet graceful lines and contrasts, not just in the head shape but also in the rosette design, and carved taperings at the end of the fingerboard which descends into the soundhole. Its sound is steady, bold and well-defined, with a large color palette and dynamic range. Each note is very dense, with the overtones tightly packed into the firmness of every note. Although built with cypress (which is typically associated more with flamenco blancas), it has a rich, full-bodied "classical" style sound to it. As per the other instruments we've seen of Richard's in the past, it has excellent clarity and separation between the voices throughout the entire register. Feel and playability are notably comfortable, with a well-shaped neck and easy action providing a the player with a sense of control and a solid, stable feel in all playing positions. GSI is proud to be working with Reynoso and we see much talent in the build quality, tone and feel of his guitars.Orfeo Magazine No. 10 - West Coast Luthiers