Jaen Siracusa 17E+ 17" Archtop
2025 Jaen Siracusa 17E+ Archtop
I’m very fortunate to have this, my first guitar from the workshop of Fernando Jaen. When I first became acquainted with Fernando, I asked if his archtops were made primarily as acoustic or electric instruments. His answer, “100% acoustic and 100% electric.” Once I had this Siracusa in hand, I understood what he meant by that. This is a guitar designed with intent, all in service to sound and structure. Even the pickups are designed and constructed by Fernando in-house.
More videos: Unplugged / Amplified / Amplified
Specs / Measurements
2025
Apline Spruce / Figured Sapele
Oil finish
Figured sapele bindings
Carbon fiber pickguard with Ziricote skin
Mahogany kerfing lined with maple
Ebony / carbon fiber bridge, hollow feet
Ebony saddle w/ carbon fiber base layer
Stainless steel frets
Magnetic truss rod cover, ebony / carbon fiber
~1 11/16” nut
~25.5” string length
~2.14” string spacing at saddle
~17” lower bout
~2.83” rims
Schertler tuners, imbedded in headstock with carbon fiber covers
Proprietary dual-pickup system (control diagram here)
Humbuckers with two rows of adjustable pole pieces
Toolbox for hex wrenches, made from matching sapele
Hiscox Artist Series case, with Siracusa manual and quick start guide
Builder-supplied spec sheet here
Condition / Setup Notes
Brand New; This is a new guitar, but with a very thin and delicate oil finish. While this contributes to the beauty of sound, it’s possible that there may be some indication of it being handled, even if sparingly for set up, photography and demo videos. Set up currently with very low string height, just below 4/64”-3/64” form bass to treble, and with a touch of relief. Of note, string height adjustment on this guitar (made with a supplied hex key) is smoother and easier than with a typical archtop bridge.
***
Every aspect of this Siracusa has been thoughtfully designed and constructed. One look says that something different, something more, is going on. Perhaps one of the first things to draw attention is the unorthodox sound hole, placed in the waist in tandem with a side sound port. And indeed, the resulting acoustic resonance is unique and refreshing. The electronics too are eye-catching and unique, designed and fabricated in-house by Fernando (more on controls here).
While it may seem like a small thing, the ease of access and adjustment to the truss rod and bridge are a delight. The truss rod cover is magnetic, so there is no need to remove and manage screws. Additionally, the string height adjustment is made with a hex wrench and is accomplished so smoothly. No struggles here, and no spanner wrench needed. Fernando’s thoroughness and thoughtfulness are on display here too, with the hex wrenches supplied in a charming box made from sapele that matches the back and sides.
Just a beautiful guitar, “100% acoustic and 100% electric” just as Fernando says. I would also add my take, that it’s 100% sound and playability and 100% details and design. This is my first instrument from Jaen Guitars, and I’m grateful to be its steward while it finds a good home.
$9250
Thanks for looking, any questions please feel free to get in touch.
This instrument ships for free via UPS Ground.