Dieter Hopf concert classical guitar - 1975

*FREE Shipping*

I offer for your consideration an exquisite example of the craftsmanship, artistry, and lutherie skills of the German luthier, Dieter Hopf. Built in 1975, this is a truly magnificent concert level guitar. Labelled Model # 875/36, I believe later examples of this same model were labelled "Virtuoso", as the marquetry, materials, and design details appear identical. Using only the finest materials, this instrument has a Canadian red cedar soundboard and striped Macassar ebony back and sides. The back of the mahogany neck is covered with an unfinished veneer of the same Macassar ebony which gives it a very smooth, easily playable feel. The headstock is Hopf's delicate signature design and is faced with the same beautiful striped Macassar ebony. The entire instrument, save the back of the neck, is finished in lacquer.

The projection of sound from this guitar is quite powerful, yet balanced - very crisp, clear notes all the way through to the upper registers. The 660 scale and the stiffness created by the multi-ply sides contribute to the excellent sound projection. The multi-ply Macassar ebony sides also make this a very solid, relatively heavy instrument with a weight of 4lbs 4oz. It is very easy to play with the 12th fret action set at 3.6mm-2.5mm (E6-E1 respectively). A true concert level guitar.

I have owned this guitar for nearly 20 years, having purchased it from a seller in Europe. Unfortunately, the delicate headstock was damaged in the shipping. It was expertly repaired in 2006 at The Blue Guitar in San Diego. The only other notable imperfections are a small (~1") crack on the back near the heel/center backstrip, a small (natural) blemish on the soundboard, and a lacquer chip at the end graft which I have pictured. A 1/4" scratch on the lower bout of the soundboard and some finish shrinkage along the backstrip were not able to be shown.

The guitar will be shipped in a Humicase with a padded canvas Humicase case cover with backpack straps. The original documentation from the luthier is also included.

As a luthier myself, I can only aspire to the level of quality, craftmanship, artistry, and tone of this wonderful instrument. You will not be disappointed.