Manuel Adalid

Manuel Adalid (born 1951) is one of Spain’s most respected modern luthiers. Trained by his father Manuel Adalid Lázaro and the master builders Francisco Esteve Calatayud and Antonio Monfort, he masterfully blends traditional Spanish craftsmanship with contemporary innovations. Since becoming managing director of Guitarras Francisco Esteve in 1980, he has elevated the brand to international prominence. His guitars are known for their refined construction, rich basses, clear trebles, and balanced tonal character. With his technical developments, global lectures, and official recognition as “Maestro Artesano,” Adalid stands as a leading innovator in the Spanish guitar-making tradition.
Manuel Adalid

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.

You may also be interested Manuel Adalid

Manuel Adalid is one of the most renowned Spanish luthiers of our time — a maker who unites traditional Spanish craftsmanship with modern construction and a genuine drive to innovate. Born on 1 October 1951 into a family deeply rooted in guitar making, he creates handcrafted concert guitars that are sought after by players, collectors, and enthusiasts worldwide.

The Journey to Master Luthier

Adalid was trained by master luthiers from the start: his father, Manuel Adalid Lázaro, along with Francisco Esteve Calatayud and Antonio Monfort. He showed an early interest in guitar making, and after studying Business Administration at the University of Valencia he founded his own guitar trading company at just 18 — which soon became one of the main clients of Francisco Esteve Guitars.

During summers as an apprentice at the Esteve factory he refined the traditional Spanish techniques that still underpin his work. At 23 he dedicated himself fully to lutherie, completing his master training under his father and Antonio Monfort. When the founders of Guitarras Francisco Esteve retired, they appointed him Managing Director in 1980. Under his leadership the workshop grew from 2,000 m² to 6,000 m², the team expanded from 30 to 49, and the brand’s international reputation rose significantly.

Recognition and Influence

Beyond his workshop, Adalid has shaped modern guitar making through lectures around the world — in Spain, France, China, Turkey, and Argentina — sharing both traditional Spanish technique and new innovations. His craftsmanship is officially recognised: the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Generalitat Valenciana awarded him the title of Master Craftsman (No. 193), and he serves as President of the Association for Musical Instruments (AFIMA).

Innovation Meets Tradition

Adalid combines the essence of Spanish guitar making with modern developments. His instruments are distinguished by meticulous craftsmanship in premium tonewoods, an outstanding tonal balance of deep basses, clear mids, and brilliant trebles, and the careful integration of modern materials to enhance tone and playability. His construction draws on the Spanish tradition of legendary makers such as Torres and Hauser, and his range includes both classic fan-braced instruments and modern double-top and lattice designs, with spruce and cedar tops. His most recent focus is developing new technologies for classical guitar construction.

Why Choose a Manuel Adalid Guitar?

An Adalid guitar is the culmination of decades of research, experience, and passion — uniting traditional Spanish craftsmanship with forward-thinking innovation. Every Adalid we offer is hand-selected and set up for tone and playability. Explore the collection, compare it with our traditionally built guitars and the rest of our classical guitars, and reach out for personal advice — with a 14-day home trial, worldwide.