Chartwell Guitar

Woods: figured Granadillo (South American or Amazon rosewood) back and sides with spruce top, Spanish cedar neck. Nitro lacquer finish throughout.

Specs: 52mm nut, 43mm string spacing at nut, 58mm at saddle; 4mm bass string height at 12th fret. Gator hard case. 12 hole tie block, Van Gent tuners. Five fan bracing with Ramirez style angled treble bar, which has been credited with making instruments louder and brighter.

Condition: new

Comment: my introduction to the Esteve #12 model, under the Manuel Adalid label, was a used one that came to me via trade. I was amazed at how sophisticated this student priced guitar was, comparable to custom Spanish traditionals at three times the price. So it was no surprise when I tuned this new #12 and was reminded of how fine an instrument it is. Very loud, with a warm, cream voice and good sustain. Beautifully crafted with nitro lacquer, which insures against incidental scratches and nail marks, as well as the dreaded moisture whorl when the player perspires. I have guitars in the shop dating back to the 90’s whose finish looks brand new.

This guitar sounds and plays like a high end traditional Spanish guitar and is a bargain.