Ryosuke Kobayashi, 2026

This 2026 Ryosuke Kobayashi RF was built exclusively for GuitarCollection.com and represents an exciting collaboration with one of Japan’s most compelling young makers. Kobayashi’s guitars have been steadily gaining attention internationally, and it is easy to understand why the moment this instrument is in hand.

This is a traditionally fan braced guitar with a number of thoughtful modern features that make it feel refined and player-focused. The sound is remarkably mature for a brand new spruce top guitar: balanced, open, overtone-rich, and full of natural bloom. There is a distinctly lyrical, Spanish character to the voice, along with the clarity and projection modern players appreciate. The result is a guitar with a broad color palette that remains even and controlled across the entire register.

Visually, Kobayashi’s work shows impressive attention to detail. The rosette is particularly striking, featuring an intricate chandelier-like pattern that immediately draws the eye. The raised fingerboard offers excellent upper fret access, and the soundport is elegantly carved with tasteful proportions. Even subtle design elements, such as the distinctive tapering headstock profile, reveal Kobayashi’s thoughtful and highly refined approach to guitar making.

GuitarCollection.com is the exclusive U.S. dealer for Ryosuke Kobayashi.

This guitar has a wonderfully balanced and responsive voice with an openness that is impressive for such a fresh spruce instrument. The trebles are clear and bell-like with a beautiful singing quality, while the basses are rich, rounded, and supportive without becoming overpowering.

One of the most striking characteristics is the guitar’s sustain and natural bloom. Notes develop beautifully after the initial attack, producing a rich overtone structure that gives the instrument a very expressive quality. At the same time, the clarity across the register is excellent. The third string in particular remains clear and focused, avoiding the tubby character sometimes heard in this range.

The overall effect is a guitar that feels incredibly even and cooperative. No notes jump out or disappear prematurely. Instead, the instrument allows the player to shape phrases naturally, offering a wide palette of colors while maintaining remarkable balance.

Kobayashi has given this guitar a very refined and comfortable feel in the hands. The neck is relatively slim, sitting somewhere between a C and D shape with a subtle flatness through the center that feels natural and controlled. The setup is low and fast, making the instrument extremely easy to play.

The fingerboard features a noticeable radius, which makes barre chords especially comfortable and natural. Combined with the raised fingerboard design, upper fret access is excellent and feels effortless.

This is also a highly responsive guitar that captures a great deal of nuance from the right hand. Subtle variations in attack and tone color translate easily, making it an instrument that rewards careful and expressive playing.

• Bracing: Traditional fan bracing
• Strings: D’Addario XT C45FF (carbon G & B, nylon first)

If this instrument has sold, please feel free to contact us to reserve the next Ryosuke Kobayashi to arrive.

D’Addario strings: https://ddar.io/guitar-collection

If you're interested in purchasing, please write to me at evan@guitarcollection.com