Ryohei Echizen is an exceptionally talented new builder from Yamanashi, Japan, who recently completed an apprenticeship with famed Canadian Master Luthier, Sergei de Jonge. Sergei obviously taught him well, because this gorgeous R1 cutaway model in Bearclaw European Spruce and stunning Ziricote is superb in every way. His attention to detail and level of craftsmanship are off the charts, and belies the length of his young career. This guitar truly checks all the boxes with several custom options such as an elevated fingerboard, soundport, arm bevel and ribrest, and flush cutaway. Upon even closer inspection, we’re treated to fine standard touches rarely found on many instruments, such as hemispherical fret ends, french polish finish, and durable Evo gold fret wire. What’s more, Ryohei has put even more energy into nailing down a remarkable voice in this guitar, with a beautifully balanced response across the strings, that’s rich in sparkling overtones and tight bass response. A perfect fingerstyle guitar that’s sure to go up in value.
I'd never heard of Ryohei Echizen until this year's Healdsburg Guitar Festival, where I first got to play this amazing guitar. Holy smokes! I was drawn in by the stunning materials used -- creamy Euro Spruce and Ziricote of unmatched beauty. Then I began noticing all the top-notch appointments, as well as Ryohei's remarkable attention to detail. I thought if it sounded half as good as it looks, there was potential there. Turns out, the tone and playability surpassed the looks. Perfect action compliments a heavenly voice with full, tight bass and nice juicy trebles. We'll be hearing a lot more from Ryohei Echizen in the future, and I can't wait! 
This is the first of these guitars I've had the pleasure of playing and I have to say I am impressed. Not only are the woods and workmanship top notch, the tone is perfectly balanced and ideal for fingerstyle playing. I love the way the heel goes right into the cutaway and the elevated fingerboard makes it a joy to play when you are on the higher frets. I would imagine that this would be a good instrument for anyone looking to expand their collection with a guitar from a relatively new master builder. He is not well known now, but he will be. | Scale Length | 25.59 in |
|---|---|
| Nut Width | 1.75 in |
| String Spacing | 2.19 in |
| Woods | Spruce - European, Ziricote |
Ryohei Echizen is an exceptionally talented new builder from Yamanashi, Japan, who recently completed an apprenticeship with famed Canadian Master Luthier, Sergei de Jonge. Sergei obviously taught him well, because this gorgeous R1 cutaway model in Bearclaw European Spruce and stunning Ziricote is superb in every way
I'd never heard of Ryohei Echizen until this year's Healdsburg Guitar Festival, where I first got to play this amazing guitar. Holy smokes
This is the first of these guitars I've had the pleasure of playing and I have to say I am impressed. Not only are the woods and workmanship top notch, the tone is perfectly balanced and ideal for fingerstyle playing 