| Top | Sequoia |
| Back and sides | Rosewood (Brazil) - double side |
| Varnish | French polish |
| Fingerboard | Ebony |
| Scale | 650 mm |
| Nut width | 52 mm |
Paulino Bernabe model IMPERIAL - sequoia
The Imperial Model by the prestigious Madrid-based luthier Paulino Bernabe represents one of the most refined expressions of the contemporary Spanish classical guitar tradition. Widely regarded as one of the most respected guitar makers internationally, Bernabe developed, throughout his career, a distinctive sound that has been recognized and appreciated by concert artists around the world.
This particular Imperial model, built with a redwood top and exclusive Brazilian rosewood back and sides, offers a particularly rich and sophisticated tonal combination. Redwood provides an immediate response and remarkable tonal elasticity, allowing for a broad, open sound from the very first touch. Its character brings notable warmth and harmonic depth, especially suited to lyrical phrasing and expressive playing.
Brazilian rosewood, one of the most prized tonewoods in concert guitar construction, adds extraordinary harmonic complexity and outstanding projection. The basses are deep and well-defined, the midrange is round and expressive, and the trebles stand out for their clarity and singing quality. Combined with redwood, the result is an exceptional tonal balance, with great timbral richness and long sustain.
Acoustically, this guitar stands out for the breadth of its sound, impressive volume, and excellent separation between voices. The dynamic range is wide, allowing the player to move naturally from delicate pianissimos to powerful passages without losing control or definition. The instrument responds easily to both a light touch and a firmer attack, always maintaining the characteristic identity of the so-called “Bernabe sound,” known for its nobility, depth, and projection.
In terms of playability, the string tension feels balanced and comfortable, encouraging technical fluency and precise articulation. The guitar conveys great structural stability and a sense of solidity, reinforcing its character as a true concert instrument.
Overall, the Paulino Bernabé Imperial Model with redwood top and Brazilian rosewood represents a top concert guitar with a distinctive sonic personality. Its power, harmonic richness, and tonal balance faithfully reflect the world-renowned Bernabe sound, making it an ideal instrument for the demanding guitarist seeking depth, projection, and exceptional expressive capability.