Robert Benedetto - 1997 "Manhattan" No. 39897
Details
Details
Overview
Overview
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Shipping important note
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More details about the guitar
About the luthier
Robert Benedetto occupies a distinguished place in the history of American guitar making. Since beginning his career in 1968, he has devoted himself to refining the archtop guitar, bringing together the traditions of American jazz instrument making with an exceptionally meticulous approach to acoustic design and craftsmanship. His work has helped establish the modern handcrafted archtop as an instrument of remarkable musical sophistication, prized for its tonal refinement, responsiveness, and elegance. Through decades of experimentation with carved soundboards, carefully voiced woods, and acoustic construction, Benedetto developed a recognisable identity that has influenced generations of guitar makers. His instruments have found their way into the hands of celebrated jazz musicians and onto numerous important recordings, becoming closely associated with the expressive possibilities of the jazz guitar. Beyond his own creations, his publications and teaching have contributed significantly to the preservation and advancement of the craft. Today, the Benedetto name remains one of the most respected in the world of fine archtop guitars.
About the guitar
This magnificent 1997 Manhattan model represents one of Robert Benedetto's most celebrated designs, an instrument in which the elegance of traditional American archtop craftsmanship meets the expressive character of a fine jazz guitar. Its spruce soundboard and beautifully flamed maple back and sides give the guitar a striking visual identity, while its graceful proportions and refined detailing reflect the attention to craftsmanship for which Benedetto is renowned.
Musically, the Manhattan evokes the intimate atmosphere of classic jazz recordings, with a mellow, rounded character and the unmistakable warmth associated with traditional archtop guitars. Individual notes emerge with a gently defined attack, while chords possess a rich, compact sonority that lends itself beautifully to jazz harmony. There is an appealing vintage quality to its voice, recalling the lyrical phrasing, delicate articulation, and intimate musical expression of the great jazz guitar tradition. Rather than relying on sheer brilliance, its character lies in the warmth and personality of each note, inviting the player to explore the subtle nuances of melody and accompaniment.
Condition
This 1997 Benedetto Manhattan is presented in mint condition, having been exceptionally well cared for by its original owner, from whom it comes directly. The original finish has been delicately refreshed to address the faintest traces of playing while carefully preserving the original finish. The guitar is accompanied by its original Benedetto case and original Benedetto pickup, as well as the original warranty signed by Robert Benedetto and the accompanying care instructions. These original accessories and documents provide a particularly complete presentation of this beautifully preserved instrument.
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.