$4,995.00
An exceptional example of the work of renowned American luthier Alan Carruth, the N-89 is a beautifully balanced short-scale classical guitar offering remarkable depth, clarity, projection and sustain.
Built in 2005, this Grand Concert model combines an Engelmann spruce soundboard with Indian rosewood back and sides to produce a warm, expressive and highly articulate voice. Its 640 mm short scale and 50 mm nut width provide a comfortable playing experience, while the instrument retains impressive tonal authority and projection.
The guitar offers warm, woody basses beautifully complemented by bright, singing trebles, with excellent sustain and a refined harmonic response.
A sophisticated and exceptionally musical instrument from an accomplished American luthier, the Alan Carruth N-89 is a guitar that truly deserves to be experienced in person — a must try.
1 in stock
Description
Classical Guitar
Model: N-89 — Grand Concert
Year: 2005
Scale Length: 640 mm
Nut Width: 50 mm
Soundboard: Engelmann Spruce
Back & Sides: Indian Rosewood
Neck: Mahogany, elevated
Fingerboard: Ebony
Rosette: 3-part braid design
Tuners: Gilbert tuning machines
Finish: French polish
Case: Tweed hard-shell case included
About the Maker
Alan Carruth has been building guitars since 1974, with a longstanding focus on achieving the best possible combination of sound, playability, durability and beauty. His approach combines modern tooling with meticulous hand craftsmanship, while his extensive study of acoustics has played an important role in his approach to instrument making.
Carruth studied guitar making and repair with Thomas Knatt, and violin making and acoustics with the influential acoustician and luthier Carleen Hutchins. He has also written and lectured on instrument construction and acoustics and has been recognized within the North American lutherie community for his work as both a maker and teacher.
His instruments are known for a thoughtful approach to acoustics and tonal development. Carruth has been particularly associated with the use of plate tuning, an area in which he was an early practitioner among guitar builders.
The three-part braid rosette found on this guitar is also characteristic of Carruth’s classical and flat-top instruments. According to Carruth, the design pays homage to the Moorish origins of the classical guitar while also reflecting his own Celtic heritage.
The N-89
This particular N-89 Grand Concert, built in 2005, is an especially interesting example of Carruth’s classical guitar work. Its shorter 640 mm scale and 50 mm nut width offer a comfortable alternative to the more traditional dimensions, while the Engelmann spruce and Indian rosewood combination provides an excellent foundation for its rich and articulate voice.
The guitar’s tonal character is beautifully balanced, with depth and warmth in the bass, clarity throughout the register, singing trebles and impressive sustain. It is an instrument capable of both intimacy and projection, making it equally appealing for personal playing, serious study, recording and performance.
The N-89 is a particularly compelling opportunity for anyone interested in owning an instrument by a respected American luthier whose work reflects decades of experience, acoustic research and dedication to the craft.
A superb example of Alan Carruth’s work and an instrument that should be experienced in person.
Availability & Ordering
Please contact us directly for current availability, additional information and shipping details.
All prices are in Canadian dollars.
Additional information
| Weight | 9 kg |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 114 × 51 × 21 cm |
