#27 Katalox Classical
I have owned several classical/nylon string guitars over the years, but I have never had a really good one. I have built one classical before, but it was more of a “make-it-up-as-you-go-along” kind of deal. I actually followed a plan on this one. Also used a set of wood that I have been keeping for several years for just such a build.
The back and sides on this one are a species called katalox (cat-a-LOSH), a Central American hardwood that is super dense and heavy. I have used this on fingerboards and bridges in the past, but not a body. The wood is very resonant and bell-ringly. The set was too small for a full size guitar but perfect for a classical. Several people have wanted this set, but I have kept it reserved for me because I can… Got this set in a clearance sell because of all the imperfections.
The lighter colored sections on the back and sides are the sap wood - what was the outer, living part of the tree that carries water. This one also had some spalting and worm-holes in it which adds to the unique character.
The bridge and fingerboard are also katalox. The fingerboard had some very nice figure in it.
The bridge is also a new design to me. It is a 12 hole bridge instead of the traditional 6 hole design. The 12 hole design allows for a much firmer grip on the strings to prevent slippage. It also allows for a little better break angle of the string over the saddle.
The top on this one is spruce. A classical usually has a cedar or spruce top. I decided to try spruce on this one. Check out that sweet silking in the grain in the pic above.
The rest is all fairly normal: abalone rosette, mahogany binding. This one is also a multi-scale although it is not as spread as some others. It is a combo of 650-660mm, the two most standard classical scale lengths.
It is still breaking in… Will post a sample when it has played in some.
