Product summary:

Our model “small” is designed especially for musicians with a shorter reach.

We not only designed it for children and young people but also for those of you who increasingly struggle with playing long scales or are hindered by a large body.

The shape of this instrument is slightly smaller and has a somewhat shallower rim. The scale length has also been reduced and is now 630mm.

Overall, that may not sound like a big change, but it provides a much more relaxed playing posture. Your left arm doesn’t have to stretch as far, your right arm rests more naturally over the body, and even your shoulders remain noticeably more relaxed. The Soul-Cut gives you easier access to the upper registers.

About the acoustics:

The model “Small Lattice Nature”, made from apple wood with a thermally modified spruce top, is acoustically a very precisely tuned instrument with quick response and high sustain.

The lattice bracing system, combined with a 1.4mm top thickness in the vibration field under the bridge, transmits the string’s tonal development so quickly and accurately that each note remains distinctly separated, even in fast passages.

The thermally modified top material additionally provides a slightly dry response.

The natural lacquer finish, consisting of a shellac base coat combined with an oil/wax finish, creates a very natural playing feel. This finish has a minimal damping effect, which further supports the character of this guitar.

Of course, we must also talk about the reduced body volume. Naturally, a smaller volume somewhat limits the depth of the low resonances. However, it provides a very balanced frequency range in the higher registers.

In a nutshell: The Small has slightly less bass, but it competes effortlessly with its larger siblings in the mid and high frequencies. In these ranges it truly shines.

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, Service tree, Plum, Oak, Walnut

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.