Michael Haaser - 2018 Liuto Forte No. 261
Details
Details
Overview
Overview
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Shipping important note
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More details about the guitar
About the luthier
Michael Haaser (d. 2025) was a German instrument maker whose work became closely associated with the development and production of the Liuto Forte, a modern evolution of the European lute. He trained as a guitar maker at the instrument-making school in Markneukirchen before pursuing further studies in lute construction under Professor Günter Mark in Elsa. His background in both guitar and lute making provided a foundation for his understanding of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary acoustic design.
The Liuto Forte project originated in the 1990s through the collaboration of lutenist André Burguete, engineer Benno Streu, and instrument maker Günter Mark. Their ambition was to extend the expressive possibilities of the historical lute through innovative construction principles, increasing projection, sustain, and dynamic flexibility while preserving the instrument's distinctive musical character. Haaser became one of the principal makers associated with this development, producing numerous instruments for the project until early 2024. His work reached musicians throughout Europe and beyond, establishing his name within this specialised field of contemporary lute making. His instruments remain closely connected with an important chapter in the continuing evolution of the European lute.
About the guitar
Built in 2018, this Liuto Forte No. 261 by Michael Haaser represents a fascinating meeting of historical instrument making and contemporary acoustic development. Its spruce soundboard is paired with an elegantly ribbed yew bowl, whose fine, remarkably uniform grain and warm amber colour are accentuated by narrow dark dividing lines. The flowing curvature of the body reveals the demanding craftsmanship involved in shaping and joining the individual ribs, creating an instrument of understated beauty and considerable structural refinement.
The Liuto Forte concept goes beyond the faithful reproduction of a historical lute. Its sophisticated soundboard construction and use of individual strings rather than traditional paired courses are designed to provide greater projection, longer sustain, and a broader dynamic range. The aim is to preserve the delicate articulation and tonal flexibility of the lute while allowing individual notes to carry further and melodic lines to unfold with greater continuity. Depending on tuning and stringing, this approach opens a broad musical repertoire, from Renaissance polyphony and Baroque arrangements to contemporary compositions, extending the expressive possibilities of traditional lute playing.
Haaser's craftsmanship is evident in the precision of the rib-built bowl, the refined proportions, and the careful integration of traditional lute making with the innovative construction principles of the Liuto Forte. Every element contributes to an instrument that respects the historical character of the lute while extending its musical possibilities. Internally geared tuning pegs provide an additional practical refinement, allowing precise and convenient tuning while preserving the traditional appearance of the instrument.
Condition
The instrument is in mint condition, showing only the lightest traces of careful use and storage. It is accompanied by its original custom-fitted case and strap.
Regular care extends the life of the instrument
Even with careful use, a classical guitar may gradually change in appearance or respond to unstable storage conditions. Have a close look at your guitar regularly and be attentif to changes. If your instrument is suffering from its environement, it will let you know.
Protect Your Guitar: Handle with Care
Be mindful when touching your instrument with greasy or unwashed hands: any skin contact is a small attack on the varnish. Of course, a guitar is made to be played, but taking a few precautions helps preserve its beauty: wash your hands before playing, wear long sleeves, and avoid unnecessary direct skin contact with the body of the instrument.
Pro tip: Avoid playing with a button-up shirt, heavy jewelry, or a belt, as these can scratch the guitar. Also, make sure your guitar case is free of any objects that could damage the instrument during storage.
String care
A good habit to adopt is wiping down your strings briefly after each playing session. This small action significantly extends their lifespan and helps maintain a consistent, comfortable feel under your fingers.
Most importantly, clean strings are essential for keeping your instrument in tune. Corrosion, sweat, and dust can affect the uniformity of the strings and interfere with accurate tuning across the entire fingerboard.
Pro tip: If you're having trouble getting your guitar in tune, it might be time to change the strings. A useful test is to compare the pitch of the 12th fret harmonic with the fretted note at the 12th fret; if there's an unusually large gap between them, your strings may have lost their integrity and should be replaced.
Keep Your Shellac Finish Shining!
Got a guitar with a shellac (French polish) finish? Here's a simple trick: Take a clean microfiber cloth and gently breathe on the surface to create a light mist. Then, softly rub to remove fingerprints, sweat, and grease. That’s usually all it takes to keep it looking great, no products needed!
Pro tip: Every few years, treat your guitar to a check-up with a luthier to keep it in top shape.
Storing Your Guitar: Climate Matters
Your guitar can safely stay outside its case, as long as the surrounding environment maintains 42–55% humidity and a temperature between 18–25°C.
Keep in mind that humidity levels can still fluctuate inside the case, especially during seasonal changes.
- Too much humidity may cause overtightened strings and a dull tone.
- Too little humidity can lead to a bulging top, string buzz, or even cracks.
Avoid placing your guitar near radiators, air conditioners, or windows with direct sunlight.
Pro tip: Always close your guitar case while playing. This helps preserve a stable microclimate inside the case, so your instrument is protected the moment you put it back in.
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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.