Andrea Tacchi, 2009

This 2009 Andrea Tacchi Coclea Thucea represents Tacchi’s flagship model and stands as a compelling example of why his guitars are so highly regarded by virtuosos and collectors worldwide. From the first notes, it is immediately clear that this is a true concert instrument, combining immense power with refinement, color, and a deeply individual voice.

Tonally, the guitar lives in a fascinating space. The basses have a raw, Spanish character with real bite and authority, while the trebles are elegant, chime-like, and almost French in their refinement. This contrast is not just impressive, it is addictive. The guitar invites exploration and rewards curiosity, offering a wide palette of colors that reveal themselves more fully the longer you spend with it.

Visually, the Coclea Thucea is equally distinctive. The two-tone top design, with spruce at the center and cedar on the outer wings, has a bold yet cohesive aesthetic that grows more compelling over time. Paired with a remarkable set of satinwood back and sides, the overall presentation is both historically informed and unmistakably modern.

Key Features

• Model: Coclea Thucea (flagship model)

• Top: Spruce center with cedar outer wings

• Rosette: Early, minimalist Tacchi rosette

Sound and Playability

This guitar is a true powerhouse. It offers exceptional volume, sustain, and dynamic range, while remaining extremely responsive and controllable. The basses are deep and resonant, with a distinctly Spanish edge, while the trebles are refined, singing, and beautifully focused.

What stands out most is the guitar’s ability to move effortlessly between extremes. It can sound raw and percussive under a strong attack, then immediately shift into a creamy, lyrical voice with subtle right-hand color changes. Sustain is outstanding across the fingerboard, and the instrument remains clear and balanced even in dense textures.

The raised fingerboard and refined setup make this guitar a joy to play. It feels immediately comfortable and responsive, encouraging long sessions and fearless exploration.

Currently strung with D’Addario XTC45FF, featuring carbon G and B strings paired with a nylon high tension first string, a setup that complements the guitar’s clarity and projection while preserving tonal color.

Aesthetic Details

The satinwood back and sides are especially striking, displaying rich movement and depth with a natural shimmer that shifts beautifully under changing light. This wood choice not only references fine 19th-century instruments, but also complements the bold top design in a way that feels thoughtful and cohesive.

The rosette deserves special mention. This earlier, more minimalist Tacchi rosette is particularly tasteful and understated, allowing the materials and proportions of the instrument to speak for themselves. It is a design choice that feels timeless and perfectly suited to the guitar as a whole.

Final Thoughts

This 2009 Coclea Thucea captures the essence of Andrea Tacchi’s work at the highest level. It is a guitar with a clearly identifiable voice, immense expressive range, and a visual presence that continues to reward close inspection. A serious concert instrument for the discerning player or collector.

The guitar is in excellent condition overall. There is a small crack in the satinwood that was repaired long ago with glue only and has been stable for many years. It is purely cosmetic and does not affect the sound, structure, or performance of the instrument.