Luthier's Review: sapele

Charlie Hoffman is well known both as a builder and for his world-class repair shop, Hoffman Guitars. Many of his guitars are fairly conventional, but Charlie has a knack for subtle, beautiful combinations. Subtlety is one of Charlie's trademarks (in his building anyway). He cares little for extravagant inlay or anything that qualifies as the boutique guitar world's equivalent of "bling." What he does care for are guitars built to be played. He has spent nearly 40 years in this pursuit, and continually builds on the name he has built. He has made great guitars for years, but they somehow keep getting better and better. His latest work is easily his best, providing a great balance of presence, volume, tone with subtly unique and modern aesthetics. The american market for his guitars has taken notice, but are probably still a little underpriced for the quality he's putting out now - and the european market is starting to show some strong interest. So, whether you are in Brighton, England or in Minneapolis, Minnesota - stop into the best guitar shop you can find and try one out.

This particular guitar is Sapele with Koa accents, and it doesn't just play - it sings. The tone is a combination of crisp, deep bass and shimmering trebles, and the sustain has a refreshingly even decay. The body is very comfortable to hold and play - the arm bevel is a very nice touch. Some older enthusiasts may remember Stu Mossman's guitars. Charlie learned a great deal from Stu, and it still shows in his work - the same kind of solid build allows for heavier strings without limiting playability. It really is a joy to play.