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Classical Guitar Reviews
Comments from guitarist Dale Reagan
Fall 2009 - Alhambra Guitars
This fall I had the good fortune to try out several models of Alhambra Guitars. I explored four models over several days and wound up inviting a group of local guitarists over to also have a look. During our gathering we compared a number of instruments and the overall consensus of the group was that there was a significant difference in sound between the first two Alhambra models played (i.e. there was a significant difference in overall sound between the 2c and the 4p.)
I found the instruments to be well made and a pleasure to play. The big differences were in materials (wood used for soundboards, backs, sides & necks) as well as the tuners. All the guitars were strung with the same brand of strings so that actually assisted the sound evaluation.
The Alhambra (all solid tops) models reviewed included:
- Alhambra 2c (list: $612) - laminate sides - cedar top
- Alhambra 4p (list $929) - (Torres style bracing; polyeurethane) - Indian rosewood top - laminate sides
- Alhambra 8pa (list: $2225) - (different lacquer) - German spruce top, solid sides/back
- Alhambra Luthier India (list: $3412) - hand made by a master luthiers - all solid woods - different internal bracing
As noted here, I encourage folks to try as many instruments as possible before making a decision. When possible, have another guitarist assist you by playing your potential purchase - as well as you giving it a try; that way you can experience the guitar as both listener and performer.
During my review I compared the Alhambras to other instruments that were locally available (i.e. several guitars were brought by visitors.) If you attempt a similar comparison then I suggest that you try to have new-ish strings on all the instruments being sampled. Other guitars that were used during this comparison:
- Cashimira
- Mangore
- La Patrie - Canadian
- Garcia (Japanese, ~197?)
- Enriquez (Flamenco model)
- Ramirez 1a (~1979)
After having spent several hours with the Alhambra models I can recommend them as excellent choices for the aspiring student/guitarist.
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