2014 Mazaud Vieux Paris

Alain Mazaud is one of the most respected and experienced French luthiers specializing in jazz manouche guitars. His instruments are played by such luminaries as Moreno, Patrick Saussois, Ritary Gaguenetti, and Ryan Hoffman of Pearl Django. Mazaud is known for his thorough knowledge Selmer Maccaferri design and construction, as well as his meticulous attention to detail.

The Vieux Paris model, which is a tribute to the pre-war designs and techniques used by masters such as Maccaferri and Busato, is a culmination of Mazaud's 25 years of guitar building experience. This guitar, which received glorious reviews in Guitarist Acoustic magazine, is simultaneously very traditional and highly unique in that it utilizes "old world" techniques like an arched Busato back, lacquered interior, and a Selmer body size; yet combines these elements into something entirely new and exciting! Among this guitar's more notable qualities are: an enlarged oval soundhole for improved bass response, antiqued Miller hardware, shorter 660m scale for increased midrange response and playability, ultra-light nitrocellulose/satin antique finish for maximum body resonance and vintage look, Busato style ebony neck spline, and rope binding.

The woods are absolutely stunning, most notably the deliciously figured Brazilian rosewood back. The top is aged French spruce and the neck is walnut with an ebony spline.

Sonically this instrument is astounding! One of the rare guitars I get that is full bodied, with a rich bass and thick midrange, but still has the projection of the brighter, brasher Gypsy guitars. The highs are gently rounded, yet have enough pop to allow your leads to sing without much effort. Chords sound huge, as the low end of this guitar is about as good as it gets. Very full, yet clear and not too boomy or muddled.

If you're looking for a Gypsy guitar that is balanced, with a deep tone and lots of projection yet still has a very traditional tone and look, than this instrument is for you. It is nothing short of a Gypsy jazz fashion statement, as it's sharp looks and voluminous sound will turn heads at any jam session.

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