Roy Fankhänel

Roy Fankhänel – Guitar Maker

Individual Instrument Creation

In my workshop located in Oelsnitz, Erzgebirge, I predominantly craft classical concert guitars, as well as steel-string and electric guitars. One of my priorities is to consider the desires of my customers when building their instruments. In this process, wonderful unique pieces come to life through many hours of work.

Craftsmanship and Artistic Approach

Starting from the wood selection to design elements, decorations, and the implementation of individual custom dimensions: Each of these factors is an adjustment knob to tailor the instrument to your needs. As trees greatly fascinate me, I aim to do justice to the material they provide and maximize its potential. The delicacy of hearing and the sensation of touch play a key role in opening the doors to magical soundscapes. Alongside this empirical approach, achieving craftsmanship perfection is an essential requirement for me.

Selection of Tonewoods

The tonewood used for the soundboard, whether it be Spruce or Cedar, is crucial for the sound character of my guitars. The body wood can vary widely and is chosen based on your tonal and visual preferences. In my wood depot, I store various woods including Honduran, Madagascan, and East Indian Rosewood, Cocobolo, as well as native species like Black Locust, Maple, Walnut, and various fruit tree woods.

Finish and Sound Characteristics

All decorations are made in consultation and can vary widely according to your wishes. I am delighted to develop a personalized concept with you. Surface treatment possibilities are diverse. The choice of finish not only depends on personal taste but also on how the instrument will be used. Options include Nitrocellulose lacquer in various finishes, hard wax finishes, or a shellac hand polish. My concert guitars are characterized by a very beautiful, clear, and particularly distinct sound. The basses are well-balanced and blend seamlessly with the singing treble. Due to their easy playability, these instruments are the perfect tools for both professional virtuosos and hobby guitarists.

Construction and Playability Enhancements

Due to their acoustic advantages, I prefer the Spanish construction method of the neck-body joint. To enhance playability, I arch the fretboard transversely. This makes it easier to grip barre chords. Upon request, I can equip your guitar with a raised fretboard to simplify playing in higher positions. The bridge of all guitars features a symmetric 12-hole design as standard. The bone saddle is crafted to enhance intonation and is adjusted in addition to the regular scale compensation. The nut is inset into the fretboard.

Comfort and Ergonomics

To prevent the guitar’s body edge from pressing into your forearm, I am happy to incorporate a “bevel,” a particularly elegant body bevel for improved armrest comfort.