2011 Jean-Noel Rohe SP/IN

This is an incredibly refined instrument in all ways. The craftsmanship is second to none, not only is it extremely tasteful but it is perfectly executed to the minutest of details. Sound is uniquely Rohé's but there are some influences that can be detected, such as the Friederich-like use of double-sides - rosewood on the exterior and cypress for the interior. For Rohé, this system of stiffening the sides re-enforces the box, providing a cathedral-like acoustic environment from which the sound proceeds. The bracing pattern is a symmetrical 5 fan system - with two criss-crossing, sculpted lower harmonic bars in an x-pattern just below the soundhole. This lightweight system is reinforced under the vibrating of the top (between bridge and soundhole) with a thin reinforcing plate, that would normally be found under the bridge in Hauser-styled instruments. This system seems to produce a sound that balanced and relaxed, with warm quality of sound that retains a firmness to the core of each note for definition. This unique sound has great style, all who hear and play are won over by its charm.

Rohé likes to compare the making of a guitar to wine-making, in that the vintner's personality is present in the final product in much the same way as the luthier's does. Grape varieties and scents blend in the similar fashion as do wooden framework and sound structure. One can appreciate the tonal qualities of the note as one can appreciate the complex taste of a particular wine. For the connoisseur of fine guitars, this maker's work does for the ears what the finest wines do the palates of the most discriminating wine aficionados.

Orfeo Magazine #7 - French School Luthiery