Jochen Röthel - 2023

Jochen Röthel, born in 1969 in Kitzingen, Bavaria, is a distinguished guitar maker, influenced by his upbringing as the son of a cabinet maker. After high school, his fervent passion for guitars led him to study at Lakewood Guitars workshop in Giessen under Martin Seeliger, where he met his future friend and inspiration, Michel Brück. A crucial turning point in his career was attending a Guitar Builders Workshop in 1992 with Josè Luis Romanillos in Cordoba, Spain, which fueled his specialization in classical guitars. Röthel obtained his Master's Degree as a Luthier in Guitar in 1997 and established his workshop in Oldenburg, Germany. Renowned for his restoration work and study of historic guitars from masters like Manuel Ramirez and Hermann Hauser, Röthel developed a unique building style, incorporating traditional Spanish techniques into his design. His guitars, known for their powerful, warm sound and elegant craftsmanship, reflect a perfect blend of historical reverence and innovative design, marking him as a prominent figure in contemporary guitar building.

This guitar, a creation of Jochen's meticulous craftsmanship, stands as a pinnacle of luthiery, marrying elegance and precision in every aspect of its design. The level of workmanship invested in this instrument sets a high benchmark, with an attention to detail that's both rare and admirable. It boasts an elegant aesthetic that is nearly flawless, reflecting the sophisticated taste and skill of its maker. True to Jochen's reputation, only first-class materials have been used in the construction of this guitar. The spruce top is a highlight, representing the best of what one could find, chosen for its superior acoustic properties and visual appeal. Complementing this is a gorgeous set of classic Indian rosewood for the back and sides, adding depth and richness to both the guitar’s appearance and sound.

Nicolo Alessi in Italy, known for their precision and durability, have crafted the tuners, adding to the guitar’s overall quality and elegance. The sound of this guitar is as remarkable as its looks. Its lightweight build results in an immediate response, yet it possesses a velvety, overtone-rich sound quality with a substantial body to each note across the entire register. While it has a distinctively Spanish character, it also exhibits strong "German" qualities, most notably in its steady and clear tone, and extremely precise balance. Jochen’s preference for a low body resonance imbues the guitar with a slightly darker dimension in each note, adding to its unique sound profile. With its highly refined sound, excellent volume, and sustain, this guitar truly has it all, standing as a testament to Jochen’s mastery and a prized possession for any serious guitarist.