G.R. Bear Grand 00, Koa & Western Red Cedar

Whatever preconceptions you have about koa or the 00 design, check them at the door. Australian luthier G.R. Bear's Grand 00 is larger than a Martin 00, more comparable in size to a small classical guitar. Even knowing that won't prepare you for this guitar's sound, though! The lightest touch draws out an incredible response. Powerful, dynamic, with wild amounts of sustain and a bright, crystalline clarity in the high end, this is a truly unique soloist's instrument. Western red cedar and koa would be a compelling combination on any instrument, but it's G.R.'s unusual bracing approach that may explain much of this guitar's distinctive tone. He uses Falcate bracing, "incorporating laminated curved braces reinforced with carbon fiber above and below the brace to make the tops light and flexible at the edges, yet strong and stiff where they need to be." This Grand 00 benefits from a thin French polish finish, and unusual wood choices elsewhere, like the padauk bridge and African blackwood fretboard, further contribute to a one-of-a-kind sound and appearance.