This is a first for Dream Guitars: a brand new Klein 396! From the two Steves that matter most (Klein & Kauffman, respectively), we have a gorgeous example of contemporary, freethinking lutherie at its razor’s edge. Where to begin? Let’s start with the basics: impressively colorful Myrtlewood for the back, sides, neck, and headstock backstrap; Sitka Spruce top; 25 1/2″ scale, iconic Klein bridge plus individual string saddles, nut integrated into the headstock with a zero fret; distinctive floating and carbon-fiber-reinforced braces.
To discuss the tone of this instrument, let’s first start with one provision: that Klein guitars just don’t sound (or look) like other flattop guitars. Klein & Kauffman have managed to find themselves an honest niche in this already niche market, and this medium-sized 396 confirms that. The trebles have at once a breathy quality and a wide range of response. Which is to say, there’s a dynamic overtone response that comes out in different places across the fretboard, and the upper register itself has great body and poise. That responsiveness is well-mated to the even-keeled middle register and the defined, crisp basses.
While powerful, this Klein 396 is hardly boomy; rather, the overall voice is balanced like only a Klein can be, with equal space for each string and register. It lends itself to lowered tunings, especially spacious arrangements with floating open strings–but let’s be honest, just about anything sounds wonderful on this new Klein. This, friends, is a guitar you need to experience firsthand.
I love the neck profile. Myrtlewood is a unique wood that offers some gorgeous grain patterns and silky smooth tones; this one has both. The 396 body is super comfy, and the whole thing weighs only a little more than 4lbs! It's exciting to see a brand new instrument from the fabled Klein & Kauffman workshop. 
This smaller Klein design creates a very balanced guitar both tonally and physically. It's easy to hold and it sounds even and clear all the way across all six strings. | Scale Length | 25.5 in |
|---|---|
| Nut Width | 1.75 in |
| String Spacing | 2.13 in |
| Woods | Spruce - Sitka, Myrtlewood |
This is a first for Dream Guitars: a brand new Klein 396. From the two Steves that matter most (Klein & Kauffman, respectively), we have a gorgeous example of contemporary, freethinking lutherie at its razor's edge
I love the neck profile. Myrtlewood is a unique wood that offers some gorgeous grain patterns and silky smooth tones; this one has both
This smaller Klein design creates a very balanced guitar both tonally and physically. It's easy to hold and it sounds even and clear all the way across all six strings. 