Roy Fankhänel – 2023 Spruce/Yew No. 226

Description

Roy Fankhänel runs his workshop in Oelsnitz, Germany, where he builds guitars in the German tradition. He shows a very high level of craftsmanship that can be seen in features such as the V-joint, the details of the rosette, the design of the head, and the quality of the construction in general. His guitars are potent instruments with a generous rich sound. They are straightforward to play and feature a slightly radiused elevated fingerboard.

At first glance, the guitar’s decorative motifs captivate the onlooker’s attention. Masterful craftsmanship is visible in the intricate rosette and the meticulously detailed ornaments that grace its binding. These elements bestow upon the instrument a sense of age-old allure, harmoniously blending with the innovative color palette that is both refreshing and exquisitely sophisticated.

The tonal qualities of this guitar are equally as compelling as its visual charm. Eschewing the conventional choice of rosewood, the back, and sides are constructed from yew. This wood, being less dense, offers a distinct sound profile characterized by airy trebles and deep, sonorous bass notes. The top, carved from Alpine spruce, further augments the guitar’s tonal characteristics. Celebrated for its unparalleled resonance and ability to deliver sharp, crystalline tones, Alpine spruce elevates No. 226 from a mere instrument to a symphonic marvel.

The guitar’s neck is another testament to its innovative design. With a matte finish, it effectively resists the detrimental effects of sweat, ensuring longevity and maintaining the guitar’s pristine condition. Furthermore, the radius fingerboard stands as a game-changer for guitarists. This feature, meticulously designed to enhance the left hand’s grip and movement, drastically improves playability, offering musicians an experience as comfortable as melodious.

Watch the presentation video of this particular guitar below, where you will find a lot of additional information about its playability and sound.