2014 Fritz Ober SP/CSAR

Over the last several years, Fritz Ober has been building some of the best Torres/Hauser style guitars available. In our opinion, this maker stands in his own right as one of the great contemporary guitar makers in the world. His style of sound is reminiscent of the "Spanish-style" Hauser I guitars which were typical of earlier Hauser I instruments: the soundboard is a bit thinner (in contrast to later Hausers which had thicker tops) which produces increased volume despite the more compact body size. The sound has a strong old-world character and is immensely charming. It is bold and clear, with loose, colorful basses and resonant, penetrating trebles. Fritz's latest guitars have had a deeper body resonance which gives the tone a bit more of a mysterious and dark character. Materials used on this instrument are gorgeous - the dramatic grain patters and color in the CSA rosewood back, and the gorgeous piece of aged spruce on the soundboard make it as beautiful in appearance as in sound. Fritz Ober is clearly of the leading contemporary builders in our opinion. Although a used guitar this is in fine condition with no damage and very little wear. This is a gorgeous instrument to behold, both to ear and eye.Orfeo article on Hauser III, Blochinger and Ober