2015 Christopher Dean CD/IN

Christopher Dean is a highly regarded British maker who builds beautiful traditionally-inspired instruments. Strong influences from the French school can be identified in this guitar, including use of the "Bouchet" brace, which passes under the bridge, acting as a sort of see-saw, which improves dynamic range, tone color and sustain. It has a very lightweight build which assists in giving the guitar quick response, making playability a breeze for both hands. As usual for his guitar, great attention has been paid to craftsmanship and choice of materials are beautiful. This is great instrument for someone looking for a like-new/modern guitar that at the same time has a sweet, old-world charm. When it was first imported to the USA it had some hairline cracks to the top during shipping - very near the edge of the lower bout extremities, which have recently been repaired by luthier Richard Reynoso, and are currently invisible. Condition is therefore excellent - and notwithstanding these very minor repairs, the guitar is in virtually brand-new condition, with about 30 minutes of total play-time on it. Top concert players of Dean guitars have included Tillman Hopstock, Eleftheria Kotzia, Simon Dinnigan all members of the Vida Quartet, the Eden Stell duo, and many others.