Product summary:

We originally built this guitar as a special classic model for a musician. The idea/requirement was:

• Easy to play
• Small model with a cutaway
• Short scale length, narrow neck
• Soft, strong sound

Already in the second series, the instrument was then designed and further developed as the first small steel-string model. We use the special strings from Thomstik (KR116 Classic S), which have a similar string tension to the classic carbon or nylon strings of a classical guitar. The cool thing about this model is that with our special classic bridge, you can string and play both nylon/carbon strings and the steel strings from Thomstik (KR116 Classic S). This makes the sound of this guitar very versatile and it fits very well with bluesy pieces, among other things.

The perfect instrument for experimental guitarists who like to travel light, free, and flexible.

About the material:

Our Soul-guitars uniquely embody the fusion of innovation and tradition in guitar making.

The choice of materials and components underscores our commitment to sustainable, responsible work. We source our wood from truly sustainable forestry. This does not always mean that it comes from regional sources, but from responsible forestry practices. The FSC principles set the highest standards, and since 2020, we have been sourcing all woods according to this standard.

Acoustically and visually, we have many ideas and craftsmanship flexibility to create a unique and wonderful companion for you, despite the limited selection of materials.

We consciously do not exclude tropical wood because by adhering to the above-mentioned principles, we support healthy forestry practices in the countries of origin, considering social and ecological aspects. Naturally, the transport distance for obtaining these woods remains long. Therefore, domestic wood remains our first choice when it fits acoustically and can be sustainably sourced.

We replace tropical wood as follows:

• Neck: Cedro or Mahogany with European Cherry, Maple, Alder
• Top: Canadian Cedar with European Spruce
• Back & sides: Rosewood or Mahogany with Apple, Serviceberry, Plum, Oak, Walnu

If we have special requirements for tonewood, it can also be Ziricote, Katalox, and Pao Ferro from sustainable sources. Interesting fact: at soul-guitars, we prefer sustainable, local woods, but we don’t always know where our instruments will end up. Therefore, we can’t always say if local wood is ideal for you.

We do not want to hide the fact that we still have a stock of tonewoods that do not come from certified sources and should therefore be viewed critically. These include, for example, kingwood, cocobolo, and bubinga. Of course, we will still use this stock, but we will no longer purchase new products without proof of sustainability. A small consolation, but for us, it is the only option to give these woods a long musical life and use them meaningfully. We registered the entire stock of woods with the Bamberg Environmental Office in 2013 and thus have proof that the materials come from our own old stock.

Our conclusion:

Each Soul-guitar is not only a small work of art but also a product of ecologically responsible craftsmanship, making it the ideal choice for musicians who prioritize both quality and environmental responsibility.