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Fritz Ober - 2019 - 4

Fritz Ober - 2019 - 4

Details

Luthier:  Fritz Ober
Construction Year: 2019
Top: Spruce
Soundboard Finish: French polish
Body Finish: French polish
Air Body Frequency: C # / D
Scale (mm): 650
Weight (g): 1345
Strings: Knobloch - EDC 34.0
Condition: Excellent
Case: Hiscox Pro II “Siccas Edition”

Overview

The 2019 Fritz Ober No. 4 is one of the last instruments completed by the German master and reflects the maturity of his Torres-inspired philosophy. Built with a select spruce top and Brazilian rosewood back and sides, finished in French polish, it embodies Ober’s pursuit of tonal depth and refinement. Weighing only 1345 grams, it responds with immediacy and sensitivity, while its unusually low air resonance between C♯ and D lends the instrument a profound bass foundation rarely found in traditional construction. The sound is balanced and lyrical, with a silky, clear first string, excellent separation of voices, and a tonal richness that combines the warmth of historical guitars with the clarity required for modern performance. In excellent condition, with original Klaus Scheller tuners and well-preserved finish, this guitar stands as both a performance-ready instrument and a significant piece for collectors, uniting historical influence with Ober’s distinctive artistic voice.
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Video overview

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Fritz Ober 2019-4 Classical Guitar Review
This Guitar Belonged to a Famous Composer! WGM #176 | H. Hauser II, Ober, Fischer, Humml, Bazzana

More details about the guitar

About the luthier

Fritz Ober (1955–2020) was a German luthier known for his dedication to the tonal ideals of historical instruments, particularly those built by Antonio de Torres and Hermann Hauser I. He was especially drawn to guitars with deeper body profiles and lower air resonances, as found in certain Torres models. Rather than reproducing a single design, Ober developed his own interpretations that blended the tonal richness of Hauser with the deeper bass qualities of early Torres instruments. His plantilla was closely related to Hauser’s, though subtly informed by the forms of Torres and Manuel Ramírez. Among his most notable creations was a faithful reproduction of Torres’ “La Leona,” used in concert by Wulfin Lieske. He also explored techniques for achieving profound resonance without relying on devices like the tornavoz. Ober’s guitars aimed to preserve the warmth and character of traditional Spanish instruments while providing the clarity and strength in the treble needed for modern repertoire.

About the guitar

This guitar, built in 2019 and numbered 4, is among the final instruments completed by Fritz Ober. It exemplifies his mature style and tonal priorities: tradition, depth, and refinement. The top is made of select spruce, with back and sides of Brazilian rosewood (CITES certified), all finished in French polish. These premium tonewoods are paired with a highly resonant body design that speaks to Ober’s Torres-inspired philosophy. One of this guitar’s most distinctive attributes is its extremely low air body resonance, measured between C♯ and D, a rare feature in traditionally built instruments and the result of Ober’s pursuit of deep, responsive voicing. Its weight is exceptionally light at just 1345 grams, which contributes to a fast, tactile response across the dynamic spectrum. The guitar delivers a smooth and lyrical first string, excellent note separation, and a sound that is both powerful and intimate, with a tonal signature that evokes older instruments while supporting modern repertoire. As the fourth guitar completed by Ober in his final year, this instrument is ideally suited to collectors seeking a piece of historical and artistic significance. At the same time, it is a superb choice for discerning players who value rare voicing, low body resonance, and subtle tonal color.

Condition

The instrument is in excellent condition, with no structural repairs or cosmetic issues. The French polish is even and well preserved. The Klaus Scheller tuners function precisely. The guitar is performance-ready and exceptionally well maintained.

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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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