Matthias Dammann, 1992
Cedar / CSA Rosewood
Overview
Matthias Dammann is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential guitar makers of the modern era. His instruments are played by many of the world’s leading concert artists, including David Russell, Manuel Barrueco, Meng Su, Pablo Sáinz Villegas, among countless others. While Dammann is most famously associated with pioneering the modern double-top soundboard, his earlier single-top guitars are extraordinary instruments in their own right, and in many ways deserve equal recognition.
The moment this guitar is played, it becomes immediately clear why Matthias Dammann is considered one of the greatest luthiers of all time. You immediately hear many of the qualities that made Dammann guitars legendary: depth, punch, clarity, and remarkable projection. Yet in this example, those characteristics appear in a more traditional single-top package, offering a slightly more organic and lyrical response while still delivering the unmistakable authority associated with the maker.
This particular guitar features a cedar top paired with beautiful Brazilian rosewood back and sides, producing a sound that is powerful yet refined. The tone carries a strong, clear fundamental along with a beautiful bloom of overtones that gives the instrument an expressive and colorful voice across the entire register. Simply put, this guitar sings, and it is a real joy to play.
At 664mm scale, this guitar sits on the longer end of the spectrum and contributes to the clarity and headroom that Dammann guitars are known for. Interestingly, this scale length is the same as Evan’s personal 2009 Matthias Dammann, as well as many of the finest examples from the maker.
Dammann guitars are rarely available on the market, and we seldom have the opportunity to offer one. For players who have always wanted to experience one of these legendary instruments, this may be a rare opportunity.
Sound
The voice of this guitar is powerful, clear, and extremely articulate.
The basses are deep and authoritative without becoming overly heavy, while the trebles are focused, singing, and capable of tremendous projection. One of the defining characteristics is the clarity of the fundamental combined with an expansive overtone bloom, creating a sound that fills the room with ease.
The guitar responds beautifully to a light touch but also allows the player to dig in with confidence without losing composure. This balance between sensitivity and headroom is one of the defining qualities that has made Dammann guitars favorites among concert performers around the world.
Playability
Despite the long 664mm scale, the guitar feels balanced and comfortable in the hands. The longer scale contributes to the clarity and projection of the instrument while still allowing excellent control and responsiveness.
The neck profile feels natural and ergonomic, and the guitar encourages both lyrical playing and powerful concert projection.
Condition
The guitar is in great overall condition with clear signs of play, which is not surprising for an instrument of this caliber that has clearly been enjoyed by its previous owner.
There is one professionally repaired crack in the Brazilian rosewood back, as well as one finish-only crack on the top. In addition, there are various scratches and signs of honest use throughout the instrument. These marks reflect a guitar that has been played and loved, and they do nothing to diminish its exceptional musical qualities.
Specs
Maker: Matthias Dammann
Year: 1992
Top: Cedar
Back & Sides: Brazilian Rosewood (CITES certificate included)
Scale Length: 664mm
Nut Width: 54mm
Tuners: Rob Rodgers
Strings: D’Addario XTC45FF (with Pro-Arté nylon first string)
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Worldwide shipping is available.
If you're interested in purchasing, please write to me at evan@guitarcollection.com
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