2021 Felipe Conde "Sobrinos de Esteso 1974" RW/CSAR

In recent years, Felipe Conde has released several fantastic "tribute" models to honor famous guitars played by Moraito Chico, Pepe Habichuela and Paco de Lucia. This new model is based on another Conde owned by Paco de Lucia that was built in 1974. The original guitar featured Indian rosewood for the back and sides, and so the substitution of CSA for this special edition is the only difference (in materials) from the original. Structurally, this model is practically identical to the original, and Felipe even used the same mould as was used for the original instrument from 1974, which he inherited from his aunt Juliana (Faustino Conde´s widow) after her passing. In the spirit of remaining as true to the original as possible, the redwood used for the soundboard was taken from the stock as that which was used in 1974 for Paco's guitar - wood that Felipe has been storing for decades for the right opportunity, which presented itself as perfect for this model. This beautiful top is matched with an exquisite set of CSA rosewood for the back and sides (with glowing contrasts from the lighter sapwood that ebbs in and out of the darker heartwood). It has an immediate, punchy attack with bitey trebles and growly basses, giving it a lot of "rasp" in all registers. In addition to the super fast responsiveness it is also very comfortable to play, especially for a longscale. It has a ringing sound but is still nicely percussive at the same time. Felipe has done an amazing job at capturing the sound of this vintage and iconic era. Although previously owned, the guitar is in like-new condition with virtually no signs of prior use. Another stunning instrument from this famous shop.

Felipe is also celebrating 50 years as a guitar builder, which is commemorated on the gold-trimmed label. This is No. 7 in a limited run of only 25 "Serie de Oro" (Gold Series) instruments.

Felipe Conde in Iberia Magazine

Conde Hermanos guitars have been the industry standard for Spanish flamencos for many decades now. Conde has been the guitar of choice for the vast number of great players for many generations from Nino Ricardo and Melchor de Marchena to Paco de Lucia (who has recorded and concertized for nearly his entire career on Conde), Moraito, Gerardo Nunez, Canizares, Rafael Riqueni and the present generation's Diego del Morao and many others. Click here to see a small sampling of such performances. They are famously known for a dry, "woody" and very firm tone, capable of retaining clarity and punch even when driven to the extreme limits of speed - whether in picado, tremolo or rasguedo techniques - these guitars can hold up and deliver a reliable and consistent quality of tone. Felipe Conde has been building these guitars for over 40 years - first with his father and uncle and later with his brother. Now Felipe has established his his own workshop, and GSI is proud to be the exclusive US dealer for his guitars.