2012 ALD La Cocobella

A superior Gypsy guitar built by Gerald Alonso and Fabian Le Dosseur in Rouen, France. ALD guitars are all the rage in Europe now, and are currently endorsed by Angelo Debarre. The distinct and beautiful tone of ALD guitars can be heard on Debarre's recent recordings such as Gipsy Unity, Live in Paris, and Trio Tout A Cordes.

ALD's have a unique and easily distinguishable tonal palette that is open, complex, and bold. This instrument is well suited to the needs of the contemporary Gypsy jazz guitarist as it has a well balanced frequency response, plentiful volume, and a modern neck profile. The precision fretwork and neck geometry allow for an easy-playing low action setup that is critical for today's highly technical style of playing. The workmanship is phenomenal, with every little detail done to perfection, making this instrument a treat both for the eye and the ear.

This stunning example features highly figured cocobolo back and sides, a flamed maple neck, and a spruce top. Like all of ALDs high end models, both the front and back of the headstock are fitted with a beautiful ebony veneer. All of this gorgeous wood adds up to one sharp looking instrument! It is certainly the most visually beautiful guitar ALD has sent me to date.

As an added bonus the interior of the guitar is lacquered, a feature normally only found on flagship guitars that are twice the price. Also, a set of Schaller Classic Deluxe tuners are included.

Sonically, this model is somewhere between the less expensive Original and premium la Brune. It has more high end than the Original but not as much as the cedar topped Brune, and it is also louder than the Original but doesn't pop quite as much as the Brune does. However, it is probably the most balanced of the all the models with a nice compromise between the bass, mids, and highs. It is certainly the warmest of all the ALDs currently here, with thick sounding leads and a nice depth to the chordal work. If you're looking for a guitar with nice balance and a bold, open tone, then this guitar should suite you well..

Playability is excellent, with the action set at a very slinky 2.8mm.

This is the CASH price...add 3% (4% for International orders) if you'd like to pay with a credit card.