Time has treated this Traugott well, indeed. Opening up since 2002, this BK model has an incredible voice today that’s equal parts clarity and power. This is Jeff’s large-bodied design that lends itself to both flatpicking and fingerstyle approaches—and we can attest that it thrives in both capacities. We were excited to discover that the back and sides came from Jeff’s special stash of his old-growth “Kentucky” Brazilian Rosewood (think “beautiful” times five), and Jeff sent us a letter of authenticity to certify the fact. Straight-grained German Spruce on top, Abalone rosette, and the fingerboard features position markers offset to the bass side.
Even with light gauge strings, we were able to take this one down to C# territory without the play feel getting slappy. This Traugott is a big fan of DADGAD and Open D as well. Standard 25.4” scale, 1.75” nut, and a 2.25” saddle spacing all felt natural and familiar to our hands, and the setup overall is slinky and smooth for effortless playability.
There’s a reason Traugotts are so sought after: surgically precise tone, and an understated aesthetic. Both speak volumes.
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