Such a powerful, expressive, and engrossing 1A model from Manuel Contreras I—we’re in love with this powerhouse from 1969. Gorgeously figured Brazilian Rosewood back and sides are paired with Cedar on top (retopped by the inimitable R.E. Bruné in ’86) and a long scale, 663mm setup to marry power and precision with warmth and colorful overtones. And that’s precisely what we find when playing this 1A. The trebles have a quick and energetic quality that’s instantly attractive, and it’s that lively flavor which animates the voice and gives this Contreras an immediacy and dynamic presence. It’s a big sound, but sweet at the same time. At least part of that is pairing up Cedar with a longer scale, and the rest is Manuel’s unique touch with the chisel and the saw. This 1A is a superb concert instrument.
Other keywords: classical guitar, classical, nylon string, luthier, lutherie, fingerstyle, marquetry, handmade, french polished, steve newbrough, andy jurik, re brune, richard brune, ramirez