Steven Walter, 2024

Overview

This exceptional 2024 concert guitar by Steven Walter represents everything that has made his instruments legendary among concert players. Numbered No. 340, this cedar-topped Walter is one of the most overtone-rich guitars being built today, an instrument that surrounds the player with sympathetic resonance, sustain, and effortless musical freedom.

I first began playing Steve’s guitars in 2013, when one became my primary concert instrument, and over the years I have spent extensive time with many of his guitars. It is a pleasure to now represent his work here. This particular example stands out immediately for its punch, depth, and intoxicating complexity of sound.

Key Features

• Year: 2024

• Serial Number: No. 340

• Top: Cedar

• Bracing: Lattice bracing with Steven Walter’s Defined Resonance Area design

• Back & Sides: Amazon rosewood with striking central sapwood

• Neck: Raised fingerboard design inspired by the Humphrey concept

• Fingerboard: Ebony, elevated

• Scale Length: 650 mm

• Nut Width: 52 mm

• Soundports: Dual side soundports

• Tuners: Scheller machines with buffalo horn rollers

• Finish: French polish

Sound & Playability

This guitar is unapologetically overtonic. The sound blooms instantly, with a chorus of sympathetic vibrations that make the instrument feel alive under the hands. The cedar top delivers a powerful, punchy fundamental, especially in the basses, while the trebles remain silky, clear, and singing even without vibrato.

Sustain is outstanding, not only in the fundamental but in the surrounding harmonic field, giving the player the freedom to linger on notes without fear of collapse. The tonal palette is enormous. You never feel exposed, and the guitar invites exploration across colors, dynamics, and articulation.

The raised fingerboard is extremely effective. Upper-register playing is effortless, nearly cutaway-easy, making this an ideal instrument for advanced repertoire, competitions, and concert work. Steve’s necks are consistently among the best in the business: slim C-shaped, perfectly set up, with tall frets and impeccable feel.

Design & Craftsmanship

Visually, this guitar is stunning. The Amazon rosewood back and sides feature dramatic sapwood down the center, a bold and elegant choice that Steve executes beautifully. His classic rosette design is accented with subtle green details introduced in his recent work, framed by intricate braided purfling inside and out.

The side soundports enhance the player’s perception of volume and immediacy, while the body’s sculpted thickness, deeper at the lower bout and tapering toward the neck, contributes to both comfort and the raised fingerboard geometry.

Condition

Very good overall condition. This 2024 Steven Walter No. 340 shows light, honest signs of careful playing, including some nail marks in the top and light polish marks below the bridge. Importantly, there are no string dings, no cracks, and no repairs. Structurally the guitar is excellent, the neck is straight, the frets show minimal wear, and the setup is comfortable and precise throughout the fingerboard. A well cared for concert instrument that presents cleanly and is fully ready for serious playing.

Final Thoughts

This is a serious concert instrument that makes the difficult job of music-making feel easier. Rich, powerful, forgiving, and endlessly inspiring, this 2024 Steven Walter No. 340 is a standout example from one of America’s most respected modern builders.

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

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