The Guitar Collection

Steve Walter, 2023

Spruce / Indian Rosewood

This 2023 concert guitar by Steven Walter (his 324th build) is an exceptional example of modern American luthiery.

  • Authenticity guaranteedEvery instrument hand-inspected and verified
  • Insured worldwide shippingExpertly packed and fully insured in transit
  • Set up and play-testedProfessionally adjusted before it ships
  • Demonstrated on videoHear every instrument played before you buy

Prefer to play it first? Visit our Austin showroom to try this instrument in person, or pick up your order directly. Arrange a visit

Maker
Steve Walter
Year
2023
Top
Spruce
Back & sides
Indian Rosewood
Top construction
Lattice
Scale length
650 mm
Nut width
53mm
Tuners
Scheller
Fingerboard
Elevated Ebony
String spacing at nut
44mm
Finish
French Polish
Soundports
Dual (ruck-style)
Condition
Excellent
Key Features

This 2023 concert guitar by Steven Walter (his 324th build) is an exceptional example of modern American luthiery. Based in Arlington Heights, IL, Walter has become widely admired for his powerful, expressive guitars, and this particular spruce-top instrument is especially meaningful: it's from the same lineage of instruments Evan has played for over a decade in competitions and concerts around the world.

With its signature raised fingerboard, carefully refined neck shape, and all-wood lattice bracing system, this is an incredibly comfortable and responsive instrument that balances explosive power with nuance.

  • Top: European Spruce

  • Bracing: All-wood lattice with defined resonance area

  • Neck: Slim, rounded C-shape

  • Tuners: Klaus Scheller with buffalo horn rollers

Sound & Playability

This guitar has outstanding projection and clarity—an ideal modern concert voice. The all-wood lattice system focuses resonance toward the center of the soundboard, yielding immediate response with no sacrifice in sustain or depth.

What makes this particular guitar stand out is how deeply musical it feels under the fingers. As Evan notes in the video, the Walter "activates" more of its tone the more you push it—offering richness and brightness in equal measure. Trebles ring with high overtones, basses are deep and piano-like, and the guitar has a rare capacity for expressive vibrato even with carbon strings.

The playability is top tier. The raised fingerboard (inspired by Tom Humphrey), comfortable neck, precise fretwork, and overall lightness make it a joy to play for extended periods. It sings equally well in lyrical playing and dense textures.

Final Thoughts

Steven Walter’s No. 324 is a reference-level concert guitar and a rare opportunity to own a modern classic. If you value tonal color, projection, and ease of play, this is a top contender.

To inquire about this guitar, please email evan@guitarcollection.com.

Looking for an amazing guitar or to sell an exceptional guitar of your own? Write to us!

Authenticity & condition

Immaculate, with virtually no signs of wear. French polish is in beautiful shape.

Every instrument is hand-inspected and verified by our expert team, then professionally set up and play-tested before it ships. Each guitar is photographed and demonstrated on video so you know exactly what you are buying.

Have a question about this instrument’s condition or history? Get in touch and we’re happy to share more detail.

Shipping & delivery

Fully insured worldwide shipping, expertly packed in a quality hard case. Most orders ship within one business day.

Prefer to see it in person? You’re welcome to visit our showroom to try the instrument or pick it up directly. Contact us to arrange a visit.

Videos

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