Daniel Ott Guitars S Tiger Myrtlewood/Moon Spruce #11

This Model S is truly something special! Packed with a host of extraordinary specifications, this guitar represents one of my most challenging commissions to date.

It is based on my smallest body shape, the Model S, which I developed as a modern counterpart to the traditional 00 12-fret guitar. "Modern" here means that while I embraced benefits like enhanced comfort and an intimate playing feel, I also aimed to achieve a bigger sound and an open voice. The silhouette is an original design, too—timeless and elegant. Now, regarding the woods: the client had a specific tonal preference leaning towards spruce and maple. We stuck with spruce, selecting a fantastic piece of Moon Spruce. While browsing through my wood stock together, we stumbled upon a spectacular set of "Tiger" Oregon Myrtlewood—a choice he made in seconds! He was equally enthusiastic about selecting a wildly figured, FSC-certified ebony fretboard.

Beyond the sound, playing comfort was crucial. Due to an issue with his right shoulder, my client cannot play guitars with deep bodies; even standard classical guitars are difficult for him. The solution was a "Manzer Wedge." Canadian luthier Linda Manzer developed a design that rotates the back around the center axis, making the body thinner on the bass side than on the treble side. This clever solution allows the body volume to be maintained. We also opted for a cutaway and a round soundport facing away from the player. An LR Baggs VTC system allows the guitar to be amplified as well.

Visually, we chose my "hollow headstock" design. Additionally, the color green runs subtly through the instrument as a contrasting element; the decorative details in the rosette and the fretboard inlay are crafted from green burl wood. The edge of the soundhole, the back of the headstock, and the inner sides are finished with green veneer.

The result is a guitar that is likely one of a kind. Thanks to the Manzer Wedge, the short scale length, and the relatively low action, it is extremely easy to play. From the very first strum, it surprises with great volume and a very rich tone, even on individual strings. The sustain is exceptional, extending even into the upper registers of the fretboard. This Model S offers a surprisingly versatile sound; with its rapid response, it is particularly well-suited to fingerpicking. The 46 mm nut width and generous 60 mm string spacing at the bridge also make the transition from a classical guitar to a steel-string model easy.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my customers for their trust and for the chance to build such a unique instrument!