Roy Fankhänel - 2016 RF 178
Roy Fankhänel - 2016 RF 178
Details
Details
Overview
Overview
Shipping important note
Shipping important note
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Details about GPSR
Details about GPSR
Video overview
More details about the guitar
About the luthier
Roy Fankhänel builds guitars in Oelsnitz, Germany, drawing from the traditions of German lutherie while refining his own unmistakable style. His instruments are celebrated for their precise craftsmanship and tonal power. Distinctive construction elements such as the traditional V-joint, elevated fingerboard with a slight radius, and meticulous decorative work reflect his commitment to both function and aesthetics. Fankhänel’s guitars are known for their ease of playability, visual refinement, and their bold, lyrical voice that carries well in concert settings.About the guitar
This 2016 guitar, RF 178, is a fine example of Roy Fankhänel’s work, offering a compelling blend of traditional design, tonal sophistication, and masterful detailing. The soundboard is made from premium spruce, wtih outsanding patterns and great tight grain, and paired with ovangkol back and sides, a rare choice for classical guitar, but nevertheless an appreciated tonewood for its warm, articulate response and striking grain patterns. Visually, the instrument displays a high level of refinement. The intricate rosette and matching purfling elements are crafted from a combination of Indian rosewood, maple, and pear wood. These details extend across the top, back, and headstock, enhancing the visual symmetry and charm of the instrument. The bridge, with a twelve-hole tie block and elegant shape, adds both functionality and aesthetic cohesion. Tonally, the RF 178 offers a generous, rich sound with strong projection and excellent sustain. The trebles are smooth and singing, while the bass notes provide depth and support without overpowering. The slightly elevated fingerboard allows for effortless access and precision, making this guitar a pleasure to play across all registers. With its excellent construction, tonal balance, and tasteful ornamentation, this is a concert-level instrument that embodies the best of German lutherie.Condition
This instrument is in excellent condition, with no cracks or repairs. It shows only minimal signs from normal use.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.