Tim Harris, 2020

This 2020 guitar by American luthier Tim Harris was a genuine surprise the moment it arrived. Built as his 51st instrument, it immediately stands out for its depth, balance, and expressive power. On paper, the extensive mix of woods might seem unconventional, but once you play it, the reasoning becomes obvious. Everything works together to produce a sound that feels grounded, expansive, and remarkably musical.

This is an instrument that builds its voice from the ground up, with a sense of depth and complexity that reveals itself more the longer you play.

Construction & Features

• Top: Cedar / Nomex double top with Engelmann spruce inner layer

• Back & Sides: Walnut, laminated with maple and amboyna

• Rosette: Spalted maple, non-mosaic design

• Bridge: Brazilian rosewood with musk ox horn tie block

• Armrest: Walnut

• Neck: Black limba with a comfortable, well-balanced C-shaped profile

• Fingerboard: Raised fingerboard for easy upper-fret access

• Scale Length: 650mm

• Nut Width: 53mm

• Headplate Veneer: Walnut

• Tuners: Gotoh Premium

• Soundport: Side soundport with magnetic removable cover

• Truss Rod: Two-way adjustable truss rod, accessible without removing strings

• Finish: Traditional French polish

The guitar is currently set up with a medium-low action, playing easily and comfortably, with plenty of room at the saddle for adjustment either higher or lower depending on player preference.

Despite the complex wood recipe, the guitar feels cohesive and thoughtfully designed rather than decorative or gimmicky.

Sound & Playability

Tim Harris describes balance as a core goal of his instruments, and this guitar delivers exactly that. The sound has real depth, with a sensation of the voice blooming upward through the instrument. Projection is impressive, sustain is generous, and the overtones are rich without becoming unfocused.

There is a hint of the power and projection often associated with laminated back-and-side designs, paired beautifully with the immediacy and responsiveness of a modern double top. The result is a guitar that feels expressive, flexible, and easy to make music on, whether exploring individual strings, lyrical repertoire, or more dramatic dynamic passages.

Final Thoughts

This is a highly impressive and unusually compelling handmade guitar that punches well above its weight. Whether you are stepping into the world of handbuilt instruments or already own significantly more expensive guitars, this Tim Harris offers exceptional musical value and character.

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

Very good overall condition. There are a few light cosmetic marks and small scratches consistent with careful use, but nothing that detracts from playability or performance.