Richard Reynoso, 2024

Overview

This 2024 Richard Reynoso is a fascinating example of a modern American luthier exploring new ideas while remaining firmly grounded in the traditional Spanish aesthetic. Based in California, Reynoso builds instruments that draw inspiration from the great historic makers, yet his work consistently reveals a distinctive personal voice both visually and acoustically.

This particular guitar introduces several of Reynoso’s newest design concepts, which he has been quietly developing for years. The guiding idea behind the instrument is elegant simplicity: removing unnecessary material wherever possible in order to reduce weight and increase the responsiveness of the soundboard. The result is a guitar that feels exceptionally lively and efficient under the hands, while maintaining a refined and minimal aesthetic.

One of the most striking details is the tapered fingerboard above the 12th fret, inspired visually by certain 19th-century Viennese guitars. By gradually narrowing the bass side in this region, Reynoso removes excess material where it is rarely needed in performance. The goal is simple: less mass, greater resonance, and a more responsive instrument.

A similar philosophy can be seen in the bridge design, where the wings taper outward from the center to eliminate unnecessary weight. Rather than using a traditional tie block, the strings pass through an elegant scalloped bridge structure with internally guided channels that lead to a concealed anchor point. This not only creates a remarkably clean visual presentation but also increases the break angle over the saddle, improving energy transfer into the top.

Another memorable visual element is the unique “chandelier” rosette design. Instead of appearing on the soundboard surface, the decorative rosette hangs slightly into the soundhole, becoming most visible from the player’s perspective. Inspired by ornamental jewelry and chandeliers, this feature also subtly influences the body resonance in a manner reminiscent of a small tornavoz.

Further weight reduction and balance come from the use of mechanical tuning pegs rather than traditional machine heads, resulting in a lighter headstock and a playing experience that feels extremely comfortable and responsive.

The guitar is finished with French polish on the soundboard and a very light hand-rubbed oil finish on the back and sides, allowing the natural texture of the wood to remain visible while keeping the instrument lively and responsive.

Sound & Playability

The cumulative effect of these design choices is immediately apparent when the guitar is played. With less mass in key areas such as the upper bout and bridge region, the soundboard moves very freely, producing a tone that feels energetic and responsive.

The voice is dense and focused, with a strong fundamental surrounded by tightly integrated overtones. Notes have a satisfying depth and vertical texture, giving the guitar both clarity and presence. The instrument projects confidently while maintaining a rich palette of color, making it equally at home in the practice room or on stage.

Under the hands, the guitar feels remarkably efficient and responsive. Small changes in right-hand input translate immediately into sound, allowing for a wide dynamic range and expressive control.

Key Features

• Luthier: Richard Reynoso

• Year: 2024

• Top: Spruce

• Back & Sides: Indian Rosewood

• Scale Length: 655 mm

• Nut Width: 52 mm

• Finish: French polish top, hand-rubbed oil finish on body

• Country: USA

Condition

Mint condition. 2024 but looks brand new.