Chartwell Guitar

2003 David Rouse rosewood and cedar traditional

Woods: Rosewood that appears to be Honduran back and sides, western red cedar top.  Three piece back with very fine inlay. Spanish cedar neck. French polish throughout.

Specs: 650mm scale, 53mm nut, 44mm string spacing at nut, 55mm at saddle. 4mm string height at 12th fret bass side. Metro case. Seven fan bracing with additional braces beside the sound hole.

Condition: near mint. Case shows wear but is structurally fine.

Comment: this is my third Rouse guitar, there being a spruce version also on the site. Having learned about this underrated British luthier some years back by a performer who touted his work, I am of course enamored of the sweet, traditional Spanish (one could by inference say British) sound and rich color palette, but the beauty and craftsmanship David employs is remarkable. His trademark Gilbert influenced rosette sets off the dark cedar top in a very attractive way. One could easily miss the ultra fine inlay that separates the three pieces of the back or in the head stock.

I say this is Honduran rosewood because I know it is a wood he favors and the grain and sapwood suggest something other than Indian or East Indian rosewood. But, like the other cedar top here, the density of these timbers render a more crystaline treble voice than you would expect with a cedar top. Moving the right hand towards the bridge offers a very unique metallic sound.

This is not naturally a loud guitar, but one to play in ensemble or enjoy in the privacy of one’s studio. It is a wonderful companion for any type of music and responds intelligently, like a great dance partner.

Rouse guitars now list for five figures and are hard to find used. This is a very special instrument.