C-885, Maksim Cuker (Lithuania)

Description

Maksim Cuker – Lithuania

New concert classical “Double Top” guitar

Made in 2026

640mm scale with 52mm nut

Western red cedar tops

Pau Ferro back & sides

Meranti neck (mat finished)

African ebony fingerboard with 20th fret

Indian rosewood bridge, bindings & headstock veneer

Sound port + cover

Armrest

Gotoh 35AR510-KM machine heads

Hand rubbed French polish finishing on top

Acrylic on the back & sides with mat finish on the neck & bridge

De Cascia Fiberglass case included

 

Guitars weight is 1.6 Kg / 3.527 lbs

Stands 96 cm / 37.79 inches tall

Body length is 48.5 cm / 19.09 inches

Body depth is 10 cm / 3.93 inches

Upper bout is 28.5cm  / 11.22 inches

Lower bout is 37 cm / 14.56 inches

 

Maksim Cuker Double Top Classical Guitar

At first glance, this instrument reflects the clean, contemporary aesthetic that has become a hallmark of Maksim Cuker’s work. A closer inspection, however, reveals a number of thoughtful innovations that distinguish it from the vast majority of modern double-top guitars.

Unlike most double-top instruments, which rely on a Nomex or balsa core sandwiched between two ultra-thin soundboard skins, Cuker has developed his own entirely wood-based construction. Rather than inserting a separate core material, he precisely routes a chevron-pattern network of channels directly into the cedar soundboard before laminating it with a second wooden layer. The result is a remarkably responsive top that delivers the power, projection, and immediacy expected from a modern double top while preserving the warmth, complexity, and organic character of a traditional concert guitar. With no Nomex or balsa influencing the sound, the voice remains exceptionally natural, rich, and expressive.

The cedar top itself displays beautiful, mature coloration, noticeably deeper and richer than the pale cedar often encountered. It is complemented by an understated rosette featuring a striking green and black central motif framed by delicate gold rings that echo the elegant body bindings. The finely crafted rosewood bridge incorporates subtly flared winged ends, a thoughtful structural detail designed to help reduce localized stress and minimize the potential for pressure cracks over time.

One of the guitar’s most elegant design elements is its seamlessly integrated armrest. Rather than being attached as a separate component, it flows naturally from the side into the soundboard without any visible lip or transition, creating an exceptionally comfortable playing experience while maintaining the instrument’s refined visual lines.

Turning the guitar over reveals an equally impressive presentation. The Pau Ferro back and sides exhibit remarkable figure, highlighted by a perfectly symmetrical center wedge that immediately draws the eye…

A side sound port enhances the player’s listening experience by directing more of the instrument’s voice toward the performer.

The neck is topped by Maksim Cuker’s distinctive compact headstock, tastefully accented with ebony details and fitted with premium Gotoh tuning machines. Together they provide exceptional tuning precision while complementing the instrument’s understated elegance.

Another particularly appealing feature of this guitar is its 640 mm scale length. Slightly shorter than the traditional 650 mm concert scale, it offers noticeably greater playing comfort without sacrificing projection, tonal richness, or dynamic range. The reduced stretch in the left hand makes demanding passages, extended reaches, and barre chords feel more effortless, making this an outstanding choice for performers seeking maximum comfort during long practice sessions and concerts. The shorter scale also contributes to a relaxed, inviting playing experience that will appeal equally to professionals and serious enthusiasts.

About the Luthier

Lithuanian luthier and professional guitarist Maksim Cuker has devoted his career to combining traditional craftsmanship with modern acoustic innovation. Born in 1975, he built his first guitar at the age of eighteen under the guidance of Yuri Zirin before continuing his development through independent study and the close examination of instruments by respected Ukrainian luthier Nikolay Rudenko.

His artistic vision has also been shaped by extensive experience with instruments by renowned makers including Masaru Kohno, José Ramírez, Manuel Contreras, Dieter Hopf, and John Price, each contributing to his understanding of tonal balance, projection, and playability.

In 2014, one of Cuker’s guitars received First Prize at the Guitar Virtuosos Luthiers Competition in Saint Petersburg, marking an important milestone in his career. Today, his instruments are played by musicians around the world and continue to earn recognition for their exceptional craftsmanship, innovative engineering, and inspiring musical character.

Our Thoughts

Modern double-top guitars often impress with their tremendous volume and responsiveness, but some players feel they sacrifice a measure of the warmth and natural character found in traditionally built concert instruments. Maksim Cuker has successfully bridged that divide. His innovative all-wood double-top construction preserves the richness, color, and complexity of a fine cedar guitar while delivering the effortless projection, dynamic range, and immediate response that contemporary performers demand.

Combined with its comfortable 640 mm scale length, elegant craftsmanship, and thoughtful design details, this is an exceptionally versatile concert instrument that is as enjoyable to play as it is inspiring to hear. For guitarists seeking something genuinely different—an instrument that blends modern engineering with a remarkably traditional voice—this Maksim Cuker stands among the most compelling examples we have encountered.

 

Our first Maksim Cuker guitar at Grand Guitar Salon has found its new Home !!

We are pleased to announce that the next Maksim Cuker instruments allocated to our salon are expected during 2026–2027.

With limited availability, early inquiries are warmly encouraged for those wishing to secure an upcoming instrument.

Reservations for the 2026–2027 allocation are now welcome.

If you are interested in a Maksim Cuker guitar, please contact us to discuss the upcoming instruments and reserve your place.