2019 Fructuoso Zalapa "Double Top" SP/CO

This is the double-top model of Fructuoso Zalapa, which like by Dammann, Wagner, and others, has a soundboard composed of Nomex at its core (an ultra light cell structure), "sandwiched" between two very thin layers of both spruce on the exterior and cedar for the interior. This makes for an extremely light and efficient soundboard, but is domed in such a way as to maximizes stiffness at the same time - very important for both the sound quality and structural stability. Outwardly it seems just like a normal spruce soundboard. Internally, it has lattice braces of cedar with spruce harmonic bars. It is double sided, with cypress lining on the interior, similar to Ramirez 1a's which forces the top to do most of the vibrating and at the same time, coloring the sound coming out of box with some added harmonic richness. It has a fully elevated fingerboard for improved ease of play in the higher positions, particularly above the 12th fret. It is also fitted with two saddles - one for the treble strings, the other for the bass strings - which allows more flexibiliy in compensating the string lengths and ultimately the intonation. In appearance Zalapa has borrowed heavily from his Romanillos model, in particular in the head shape and inlay work in the purfling and rosette. Materials are striking including a very dramatic set of Cocobolo with a flash of contrasting sapwood in the center of the back and a stripe along the sides. This complex design with all the above structural details yields a guitar with added power and a focused quality of sound, making it suitable for any sized concert hall. Playability and setup are easy on the hands and players looking for an ergonomically well-built instrument will find this guitar especially comfortable. Overall a great guitar by any standard.