Bernhard Kresse

Bernhard Kresse is a German guitar maker and restorer with over 25 years of experience specializing in 19th-century historical instruments by makers such as Stauffer, Lacôte, Panormo, Torres, and Hauser. His workshop focuses on precise restorations and conservation work, aiming to preserve the instrument’s original character and sound. He serves professional musicians, collectors, and museums around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions About Classical Guitars

How do I choose the right classical guitar for my level?

Choosing the right classical guitar depends on your playing level, musical goals, and budget. Beginners benefit from studio-model guitars from renowned workshops, while advanced players and professionals often choose a handmade master guitar. We are happy to advise you personally and can send detailed sound samples and videos on request.

What is the difference between a master guitar and a studio guitar?

Master guitars are built entirely by hand in the workshop of a single luthier, using only high-quality, well-aged tonewoods. Studio guitars are made in small series, often under the supervision of the master luthier, and offer excellent value for students and ambitious amateur players.

Can I try a classical guitar at home for 14 days?

Yes — every guitar you purchase from us comes with a 14-day home approval period. This complimentary trial applies worldwide to all orders, whether you are in Germany, Europe, the USA, Asia or anywhere else. We ship your instrument fully insured in a high-quality case so you can play it under your own acoustic conditions. If the guitar is not the right one for you, simply send it back and receive a full refund of the purchase price.

Can I try a classical guitar before purchasing?

Absolutely. You are warmly invited to visit our showroom in Karlsruhe, Germany, and test the instruments at your leisure. We are happy to schedule a personal appointment. If a visit is not possible, we send detailed videos and sound samples, and offer extensive consultation by phone or video call.

What payment methods and financing options do you offer?

We accept bank transfer, PayPal, major credit cards, and Klarna. For high-value instruments, we offer individual installment plans on request. Please contact us directly — we will find a suitable solution for every budget.

How do I properly care for my classical guitar?

A classical guitar requires constant humidity between 45 and 55 percent. Store the instrument in its case with a humidifier, avoid direct sunlight and large temperature fluctuations. Change the strings regularly and clean the guitar with a soft microfiber cloth.

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About the Guitar Maker

Bernhard Kresse is a distinguished German luthier and restorer specializing in historical plucked instruments. Over the past 25 years, he has carried out numerous restorations on early 19th-century romantic guitars—including those by Stauffer, Panormo, Lacôte, and Fabricatore—as well as Spanish-style guitars built by Arias, Torres, Garcia, and Hauser. His clientele includes professional musicians, private collectors, conservatories, and museums.

Repair and Restoration Philosophy

In addition to standard repairs and overhauls, his workshop also undertakes extensive restoration projects. The primary goal is often to return an instrument to playing condition. However, depending on the instrument’s condition and rarity, a more conservative approach—focused on preserving its original state—may be more appropriate. Such decisions are always made in close consultation with the owner before work begins.

Conservation Methods

For Bernhard Kresse, a conservative restoration approach means that every intervention must be as reversible as possible. This requires the use of traditional hide glues, as employed for centuries in violin making, allowing for future rework when necessary. Preserving all original parts, including the finish, is a top priority. The replacement of entire components—for example, in cases of woodworm damage or severe deterioration—is considered only as a last resort.

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