Manuel Contreras 1981 Doble Tapa Classical Guitar – The legendary innovation from Madrid with impressive sound projection
The 1981 Manuel Contreras Doble Tapa Classical Guitar is one of the instruments that have permanently changed the world of modern concert guitar making. It comes from the workshop of one of the most important Spanish guitar makers of the 20th century and impressively embodies the spirit of innovation for which Manuel Contreras became world-renowned.
Manuel Contreras was born in Madrid in 1926 and began working as a master luthier in José Ramírez’s legendary workshop in 1959. Among other instruments, it was there that he crafted the famous Ramírez guitar that Andrés Segovia purchased in 1960. Just a few years later, Contreras opened his own workshop in the heart of Madrid and quickly became one of Spain’s most respected and innovative guitar makers.
His greatest milestone was the development of the famous „Doble Tapa“ design, which he unveiled in 1974 after numerous experiments. The goal was to significantly increase volume, projection, and richness of tone without losing the elegance and warmth of traditional Spanish concert guitars. The 1981 Manuel Contreras Doble Tapa classical guitar is one of the highly sought-after early examples of this legendary design and impressively demonstrates why this concept remains one of the most significant innovations in modern guitar making to this day.
The Manuel Contreras 1981 Doble Tapa Classical Guitar was crafted according to the traditional principles of the Madrid School. Contrary to what the name might suggest, „Doble Tapa“ does not refer to the top, but rather to the intricately constructed double-layered back. An outer layer of rosewood is complemented on the inside by a second layer of cedar. This construction increases the stability of the body while significantly improving projection, richness, and resonance.
With a scale length of 650 mm and a nut width of 52 mm, the Manuel Contreras 1981 Doble Tapa Classical Guitar offers ideal conditions for discerning concert guitarists. From the very first chord, it delivers a balanced, comfortable playing experience and responds with exceptional sensitivity to every nuance of the touch. The guitar features a cedar top and a rosewood back and sides.
But the Manuel Contreras 1981 Doble Tapa Classical Guitar truly reveals its greatness through its sound.
Even the very first note exudes an impressive presence. The instrument possesses tremendous volume and projection, yet remains controlled and balanced at all times. The bass notes are powerful and deep, while the treble notes are brilliant, clear, and exceptionally resonant. Across all registers, a focused, colorful sound unfolds, full of expression and dynamism.
Typical of the large guitars of the Madrid School, the 1981 Manuel Contreras Doble Tapa Classical Guitar combines warmth and elegance with exceptional projection. It responds immediately, has a long sustain, and fills even large concert halls with ease. At the same time, each voice remains superbly defined and transparent.
The Manuel Contreras 1981 Doble Tapa classical guitar is in good condition. Two cracks on the top have been restored with the utmost professionalism and are practically invisible from the outside. As a result, the instrument’s structural integrity and its exceptional tonal qualities remain fully intact. Overall, the guitar is an exceptionally well-maintained concert instrument with excellent playability and impressive sound quality.
The 1981 Manuel Contreras Doble Tapa Classical Guitar comes in its original guitar case.
The 1981 Manuel Contreras Doble Tapa Classical Guitar is far more than just a high-quality concert guitar. It is a milestone in modern Spanish guitar making and an instrument that continues to inspire guitarists around the world to this day. Anyone looking for an exceptional concert guitar with great projection, a rich tonal range, and historical significance will find here a true masterpiece from the golden age of Manuel Contreras.
Watch Video
Video will open in a new window
Using the eBay App? Paste link into a browser window: