Daniel Ott Guitars M-14 Private Reserve Cocobolo #10

I'm proud to present my new Daniel Ott Guitars M-14! As a showcase piece for the Guitar Summit 2025, I wanted to build an instrument that combines special tonewoods with a sophisticated look. So, I chose the finest moon spruce from the Alps and "Private Reserve" cocobolo. I had actually set this set of cocobolo aside for a private guitar in 2019, but decided to use it for this occasion. The neck is made from my approximately 25-year-old stock of air-dried mahogany and features an African blackwood fingerboard. The headstock front, bridge, and pins are made of ebony.

Elaborate Look

The decorative work on this instrument was extremely complex in some parts. Particularly challenging was the detailed soundhole rosette, which is made of cocobolo, ebony, flamed maple, dark blue veneer, and 0.15mm-thick brass strips. Black Rocklite ebano bindings contrast beautifully with the handcrafted, flamed maple inlays on the top and back. The so-called "end graft", the decorative piece on the lower side joint, is also elaborately crafted in ebony with various decorative stripes. The fingerboard features inlays made of brass rings with abalone dots, which are also found in the pins. The dark blue "OTT" logo is more discreet. This color is also found in the rosette, end graft, and the inner veneer of the sides. Visually, everything is perfectly coordinated!

Timeless, Three-Dimensional Sound

Of course, even the most beautiful guitar is about sound. And this Model M-14 doesn´t have to hide. Like all my guitars, this one is characterized by a large volume, easy response, very good string separation, excellent balance, and long sustain. The cocobolo gives this guitar a complex overtone response and a certain three-dimensional depth. From gentle fingerpicking to tight strumming, this instrument impresses with its great dynamic range and versatility. Those who enjoy exploring the upper registers can do so without hindrance thanks to the generous cutaway and asymmetrical neck heel.

Discerning players seeking a top-quality all-rounder should definitely take a closer look at this guitar. Premium woods, exquisite craftsmanship, and a sound that's both modern and timeless.