Neck:Cedro
Fingerboard:Ebony
Finish(Top):Polyurethan
Finish(Back & Sides):Polyurethan
Tuning Machines:GOTOH
String Height(1st):3.1mm
String Height(6th):4.2mm


[Profile]
Born in Nagoya in 1939, Kodama Kanou began learning guitar making at the age of 19 under his father, Kanou Mokumei. In 1966, he established his own workshop and brand, and has since been actively producing high-quality instruments with remarkable consistency, making him one of Japan’s most senior and respected luthiers.

In addition to classical guitars, he crafts mandolins, lutes, and other early music instruments, earning high acclaim in each category. His classical guitars follow a Spanish-inspired, orthodox tonal philosophy, yet carry a refined, even somewhat austere character, combining rich resonance with elegance. His lineup includes short-scale models (610–640 mm), which are particularly notable in Japan as pioneering instruments in the high-end segment.
He passed away in January 2025, leaving a significant legacy in the field of guitar making.

[Description]
This is a brand-new classical guitar, No. 100, built by Kodama Kanou with a 650 mm scale length. Despite being crafted after the luthier has passed 80 years of age, it exhibits the same stable quality and meticulous attention to detail that Kanou is known for. While the design remains largely consistent across his works, this high-end model benefits from carefully selected premium tonewoods.

Internally, the guitar features eleven symmetrically arranged fan braces, evenly distributed beneath the soundboard below the soundhole. The resonance is set between G and G♯. The instrument offers a captivating balance between a strong, responsive bass with a pleasing sustain and clear, articulate treble. Its tone is characteristically understated yet versatile, capable of rich expressive nuance when needed. Playability is excellent, matching the ease of his short-scale models, making this guitar both a refined and highly playable instrument.

Performance video

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