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1998 Paulino Bernabe "Imperial"
Top: Well aged Spruce of more than 40 years Back and sides: Exotic Brazilian Rosewood Scale: 650mm Origin: Spain Price: SOLD |
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This is a dream guitar for the legions of Bernabe fans, a just divine Imperial built by Paulino Sr especially for a concert artist who was a very close friend of his. As was his way he often reserved special attention and special woods for close friends, and this guitar demonstrates that nicely. The top is a wonderful well aged Spruce that I estimate to be more than 40 years old at this time, and is now well played in as well. The back and sides are of stunning and exotic Brazilian Rosewood of the type more often seen on the Royal guitars. The inner lining of the sides appears to be Maple, the same as the current Imperial’s but the owner tells me Paulino insisted this was a special African wood with properties similar to Maple, but is actually another very exotic wood. Paulino did not sign the labels in those days, instead preferring to sign on the bridge pad inside the guitar where it could never be 'faked'! The guitar has been so well cared for that it appears to be a brand new Imperial. What a delightful guitar. As always, concert level volume, and very friendly to both right and left hands as far as the action is concerned. The Imperial guitars have an ‘aliveness’ that is unique to them, and may account for why they are perhaps the most popular of all the Bernabe guitars. Clear, articulate trebles and persuasive basses blend together in a way that both compliments and augments at the same instance. A very special guitar indeed.
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