Gary Southwell A-Series Classical
2015 Gary Southwell A-Series Classical
Always a treat, this is an A-Series model from English luthier Gary Southwell. The A stands for Adjustable, and refers to its adjustable neck joint that is inspired by the style of Stauffer. The string height is easily changed with the turn of a clock key (which is included).
Specs / Measurements
2015
Stauffer-style adjustable neck
Spruce / Rosewood
Figured maple neck with V-jointed headstock
~51mm nut
~645mm string length
~57 string spacing at saddle
Buffalo horn inlays on headstock, tail, rosette, tie block
Armrest
Rodgers tuners, buffalo horn buttons
Hiscox case
Condition / Setup Notes
The guitar remains in excellent shape, with only light wear in its delicate finish. It has been played, but carefully. There is a small section along the back where the finish is sinking into the seam; it is shown in the last picture, although it is difficult to capture at all. There are no issues here. It presents beautifully. The string height is currently about 3mm at the bass, but is easily adjustable up or down.
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The A-Series is a special design in contemporary classical guitars, and an experience to have in hand. Inspired by the work of 19th century Viennese luthier JG Stauffer, its most notable trait is perhaps the adjustable neck. This allows string height changes under string tension, on the fly, with the turn of a clock key. Its aesthetic and outline too are refreshing, I especially am drawn to the stepped rosette design, mixing colorful horn and wood. The headstock design is eye-catching also, and a closer look will show some interesting design elements like a shallow tournavoz built into the sound hole, and carbon rods that buttress the internal structure against string tension. The sound is unique, and has a big bottom end that can be very gratifying. But so too are the trebles, and to my ears have a bright sheen and clarity to them. Although in many ways it’s a departure from traditional concert guitars, the builder brings with him a long history in traditional classical guitar making, and this attention to the pursuit of good sound shows through.
$9000
Thanks for looking, any questions please feel free to get in touch.
This instrument ships for free via UPS Ground.