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Tag Archive for: Traphagen Guitars

In 1982, world-renowned luthier Jimmy D’Aquisto built a rare and exceptional nylon string guitar. Thought to be only 1 of 3 in existence, and the only fully functional example, this extraordinary instrument was exquisite in tone, playability, and design. All who played it at Dream Guitars were in agreement that it was one of the finest crossover guitars in existence. Sadly, as with most treasures, the D’Aquisto nylon string was well beyond the means of the average player.

So when our friend and luthier James Condino blueprinted the D’Aquisto nylon for the Guild of American Luthiers , we struck upon the idea of commissioning a guitar built on the plans by another celebrated luthier – Dake Traphagen. The idea was to build a no-compromise representation of the D’Aquisto original, but at an affordable price. What resulted is even beyond our highest expectations! For a detailed description please call Paul or Steven at (828) 658-9795.

  • Top – German Spruce
  • Back & Sides – European flamed maple
  • Neck – Honduran Mahogany ( the old real stuff)
  • Fret Board – Ebony
  • Bridge – Brazilian Rosewood
  • Tuners – Schaller
  • Finish – Spirit varnish

In 1982, world-renowned luthier Jimmy D’Aquisto built a rare and exceptional nylon string guitar. Thought to be only 1 of 3 in existence, and the only fully functional example, this extraordinary instrument was exquisite in tone, playability, and design. All who played it at Dream Guitars were in agreement that it was one of the finest crossover guitars in existence. Sadly, as with most treasures, the D’Aquisto nylon string was well beyond the means of the average player.

So when our friend and luthier James Condino blueprinted the D’Aquisto nylon for the Guild of American Luthiers , we struck upon the idea of commissioning a guitar built on the plans by another celebrated luthier – Dake Traphagen. The idea was to build a no-compromise representation of the D’Aquisto original, but at an affordable price. What resulted is even beyond our highest expectations! For a detailed description please call Paul or Steven at (828) 658-9795.

  • Top – German Spruce
  • Back & Sides – European flamed maple
  • Neck – Honduran Mahogany ( the old real stuff)
  • Fret Board – Ebony
  • Bridge – Brazilian Rosewood
  • Tuners – Schaller
  • Finish – Spirit varnish

Just in 03/13/12: We just received  this stunning new Traphagen dreadnought!

Over the years, luthier Dake Traphagen has built some of the finest classical, nylon and steel string guitars ever to grace the Dream Guitars Showroom and website. So it was with great anticipation that we awaited his newest creation, a dreadnought designed specifically with the flat-picker in mind. Simply put, this is an amazing new guitar. The tone is full and articulate, with incredible volume and projection. It is a joy to play.

Mr. Traphagen describes it this way – “The attack is strong and powerful yet smooth and even. With a little playing time this guitar will become even more powerful and colorful in tone. The entire building process went without a hitch, as if the guitar wanted to be made. Some guitars are more demanding while they’re being formed, trying to play little tricks on the luthier – but not this one.”

Materials list:

  • Master Grade vertical grain Brazilian Rosewood back and sides
  • Master grade Adirondack spruce top.
  • 25.5″ scale
  • 1 11/16″ neck width at the nut
  • Mahogany neck
  • Ebony fret board
  • Gotoh 510 mini tuners black
  • Hand applied varnish finish
  • Honduran Rosewood bridge

Please call for more details and learn how you can try this fine guitar for yourself.