From German luthier Otto Rauch we have a powerful example of the kind of richness and clarity a nylon string instrument can achieve. This 2009 “Mumbo Jumbo” Concert Classical is built from a beautiful set of Madagascar Rosewood for the back and sides and an Italian Spruce top–and the latter gives this Classical its fierce projection. Designed with a smaller player in mind, this Classical features a narrow neck (1 3/4″ at the nut) and an elevated fingerboard extension for easy playability–if you’re interested in a Classical with a more accessible neck, this Rauch is the ticket!

We couldn’t find any wolf tones lurking within the fretboard, we’re happy to report, and while we we’re checking we discovered that the trebles have some angelic, haunting overtones that gave us goosebumps. Add to that a killer Fishman Matrix Infinity pickup/preamp, and you’ve got a powerhouse of a Classical!