Daniel Stark Baritone, 2025

The Daniel Stark Baritone offers a fascinating extension of the classical guitar’s range, tuned a full fifth lower than standard tuning (A, D, G, C, E, A). Built by the respected German luthier Daniel Stark, this instrument delivers a deep, powerful voice that opens entirely new musical possibilities for solo repertoire and ensemble playing alike.

Sent directly from Stark’s workshop in late 2025, this baritone showcases the same exceptional craftsmanship and consistency that have made his Española II guitars some of the most popular instruments we carry. With a warm cedar top, beautiful Indian rosewood back and sides, and an extremely comfortable setup, it combines striking tonal depth with surprisingly easy playability. For players curious about the baritone concept or looking to add new color to their palette, this guitar offers an inspiring and highly musical experience.

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Specifications

Luthier: Daniel Stark
Model: Baritone
Year: 2025
Top: Cedar
Back & Sides: Indian Rosewood
Construction: Traditional, five-fan bracing
Scale Length: 700 mm
Nut Width: 52 mm
Tuning: A, D, G, C, E, A (one fifth below standard)
Strings: Baritone set with wound 2nd and 3rd strings
Case: Hardshell case included
Condition: New

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Sound

The defining feature of a baritone guitar is its extended range. Tuned a fifth below standard, the instrument produces an exceptionally rich and resonant low register that immediately changes the character of the classical guitar’s voice. The bass response is deep and orchestral, while the trebles remain clear and singing, and the added scale length allows the lower tuning to keep its clarity and definition rather than becoming muddy or indistinct.

In ensemble settings the effect can be remarkable. A single baritone can transform the texture of a duo, quartet, or guitar orchestra by adding genuine depth and foundation, creating a more orchestral sonic landscape that broadens the expressive range of the group.

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Playability

Despite the extended scale length, this instrument is surprisingly comfortable to play. The longer scale is necessary to support the lower tuning, yet Stark has maintained a standard 52 mm nut width, so the neck feels immediately familiar under the hands. The setup is extremely comfortable, making the transition from a standard classical guitar far easier than many players might expect.

The second and third strings are wound rather than plain nylon, which helps maintain clarity and tension at the lower pitch. While this may appear unusual at first, the result is very effective: the strings feel smooth under the right hand and produce clean, clear trebles without unwanted scratchiness. The overall playing experience is remarkably natural, even when exploring standard repertoire, where the added depth gives familiar music an entirely new character.

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Construction & Design

This baritone reflects the refined design and craftsmanship that have become hallmarks of Daniel Stark’s instruments. The cedar top displays a beautiful, even grain and is paired with striking Indian rosewood back and sides that provide both visual elegance and tonal richness. The guitar features traditional five-fan bracing, contributing to its balanced response and powerful projection. While part of Stark’s more accessible production line, each instrument is still carefully set up by the maker in his own workshop, ensuring the same precision and playability found in his higher-end models. The finish work is clean and elegant throughout.

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New, sent directly from the workshop in late 2025.

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