the Unusual Suspects
Six acoustics that are positively embracing tonewood diversity
Martin d-16e £2,299
One of the very best dreadnoughts we’ve seen this year isn’t just a talking point because of its 000 depth and surprising silver binding, the sustainable solid sycamore back and sides prove to be both attractive visually and sonically. www.martinguitar.com
taylor Gs Mini-e Koa £779
The small guitar with the mighty sound was originally released in solid koa-topped form (with laminate koa back and sides) as a limited run but has returned loaded with the Expression System-T. Apart from the stunning figuring, tonally there’s warmth with a shimmery high end. www.taylorguitars.com
art & lUtherie aMeriCana Cw Q1t £499
Godin’s Canadian heritage is reflected here with laminate wild cherry back and sides and a vintage aesthetic that also helps the Americana live up to its name, and also stand out from the crowded £500 electro market. www.artandlutherieguitars.com
larriVée oM-03 silVerwood £1,849
A free silverwood back and sides upgrade offer celebrates Larrivée’s anniversary in style. Jean Larrivée thinks silver oak one of the best kept secrets of the guitar building world with ‘excellent balance and a very transparent midrange register.’ www.larrivee.com
lUna GUitarS Vista wolF £680
Why limit your options when you can have a landscape of exotica with a top featuring blackwood, padauk, koa, flamed maple, cocobolo, maple burl & movingui. The back and sides are cocobolo with electronics provided by Fishman’s Presys+. www.lunaguitars.com
Maton srs70C £1,399
Both Australian brands Cole Cark and Maton use homegrown wood extensively in their guitars, and it makes for some unusual tonal combinations. For this electro the back and sides are made from Tasmanian Blackwood, and while the top is a solid cut of ‘Grade A’ Sitka Spruce, the neck is Queensland maple. Blackwood has been compared to koa for its midrange qualities. www.maton.com.au