We are happy to offer you a Lowden right out of their specialty shop. This O38 Custom brings some heavy hitters to the wood table: Brazilian Rosewood back and sides, Engelmann Spruce top, and an elegant 5-piece Mahogany neck. Not impressed? Consider the fact that this guitar was built in 1994: that Rosewood and Spruce has opened up nicely and gives the guitar an enveloping warmth. In addition to a perfect setup making this Lowden a breeze to play, it also means the guitar projects exceedingly well, without washout. In fact, the guitar responds very well to Fingerstyle playing, but the tone doesn’t become distorted when flatpicked–chords, solos, bass lines maintain a pianistic articulation across all registers. Plus, there’s a graceful leaf abalone inlay on the fretboard, complementing the softer curves of the upper and lower bouts. This is a beautiful workhorse: a guitar for every application.

Lowden’s RT Signature Model combines the craftsmanship of Lowden guitars with the discerning requirements of the 1991 Orville H. Gibson Award winner, famed British guitarist Richard Thompson, to produce a top-notch instrument with some interesting style. The back and sides are gorgeously figured Ziricote and are combined with a Red Cedar top for lots of sustain and warmth, and the F35 body is light with an attractive waist bound in Figured Tasmanian Blackwood. The Richard Thompson model has a tight response and great articulation, with a low-end that is clear and controlled. The middles absolutely sing, and the trebles are well-balanced with slight bell-like overtones. Of course, if this guitar was built for Thompson, you know it’s going to sound just right in lowered tunings, especially DADGAD, where the entire voice fleshes out and achieves a chorus-like effect. This guitar comes with the original Hiscox hardshell case.