Manuel Adalid - 2023 Torres No. 14
Manuel Adalid - 2023 Torres No. 14
Overview
Overview
Manuel Adalid, a renowned Spanish guitar maker, was born on October 1, 1951. He grew up in a family of guitar makers, with his father, Manuel Adalid Lázaro, as well as Francisco Esteve Calatayud and Antonio Monfort, as his teachers in the craft. After completing his studies in Higher Bachelor and Commercial Expert at the University of Valencia, Adalid set up a guitar trading company at 18, quickly becoming one of the most important clients of Francisco Esteve Guitars. He spent summers working as an apprentice at Francisco Esteve’s guitar factory, honing his skills and knowledge in the craft. At 23, Adalid returned to Guitarras Francisco Esteve with a full dedication to the guitar’s construction. During this time, his father and Antonio Monfort continued to mentor him, allowing him to complete his apprenticeship as a guitar maker. When the founding partners of Guitarras Francisco Esteve reached retirement age, they appointed Adalid as manager, recognizing his commercial and technical knowledge. Under his direction since October 1980, the company grew significantly, expanding its workshop area from 2,000 m2 to 6,000 m2 and increasing its employees from 30 to 49. Adalid is also known for his contributions to the field of guitar-making beyond his work at Guitarras Francisco Esteve. He has lectured on the Spanish construction system and new technologies for constructing the classical guitar in countries such as Spain, France, China, Turkey, and Argentina. Adalid’s expertise in the craft has been recognized through his title as a Master Craftsman, granted by the Department of Industry and Commerce of the Generalitat Valenciana with number 193. He is also currently the President of the Association of Musical Instruments (AFIMA). In recent years, Adalid has dedicated himself to researching new technologies for constructing classical guitars, which he considers the most enriching task on a personal level that he currently enjoys. Through his lifelong passion for the craft, Adalid has become a respected figure in the guitar-making world, leaving a lasting impact on the field.
The 2023 Manuel Adalid “Torres” guitar stands as a contemporary tribute to the legendary designs of Antonio de Torres, revered for his pivotal role in shaping the classical guitar's evolution. This exquisite instrument marries traditional aesthetics with modern craftsmanship, featuring a stunning spruce top complemented by the rich, deep hues of Indian rosewood for the back and sides. The choice of these materials not only contributes to the guitar's sophisticated visual appeal but also enhances its tonal characteristics. Finished with French polish, the spruce top radiates a smooth and lustrous sheen, allowing the wood to resonate freely and produce a sound that is both rich and complex. In contrast, the back and sides are treated with Nitrocellulose lacquer, a finish known for its ability to protect the wood while maintaining its natural resonance and tonal quality.
Sonically, the Manuel Adalid “Torres” guitar is a masterpiece, capturing the quintessential qualities of early 20th-century Spanish guitars. It offers a warm, balanced tone, characterized by singing trebles and artistic expression. The instrument's excellent projection and sustain make it a preferred choice for classical guitarists seeking to emulate the traditional Spanish sound. Furthermore, this guitar represents exceptional value, offering features and quality that surpass its price point, thereby making it an attainable choice for guitarists at various levels. Overall, the Manuel Adalid “Torres” guitar is not just an instrument but a celebration of historical craftsmanship and musical heritage, skillfully crafted to honor the legacy of Antonio de Torres and delight contemporary musicians.
Luthier: | Manuel Adalid |
Construction year: | 2023 |
Top: | Spruce |
Back and sides: | Indian rosewood |
Scale: | 650 mm |
Nut: | 51 mm |
Weight: | 1600 grams |
Air body frequency: | G# |
Tuners: | Gotoh |
Strings: | Knobloch EDC 34.0 |
Case: | Hardshell |
Condition: | New |























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