Kuniharu Nobe　［野辺　邦治］ 10-string classical guitar

Product Description

Neck:Mahogany
Fingerboard:Ebony
Finish(Top):Shellac
Finish(Back & Sides):Shellac
Tuning Machines:SCHELLER
String Height(1st):3.1mm
String Height(6th):3.8mm

[Maker Information]

Kuniharu Nobe

Kuniharu Nobe is an important Japanese guitar maker from Saitama Prefecture who holds a firm place in the history of Japanese classical guitar making. Known for his solid craftsmanship and deep understanding of traditional Spanish construction techniques, he earned particular recognition for his work on 10-string guitars.

During the development of Japanese vintage handmade guitars in the 1970s, Kuniharu Nobe was known as a craftsman who remained committed to individually handmade instruments. He also belonged to an important generation of makers who passed reliable traditional techniques on to the next generation, including his own son. His instruments are valued for their natural playability, ease of handling, and highly developed acoustic qualities, and have earned the trust of professional musicians.

[Instrument Information]

This is a 10-string classical guitar made in 1974, with a 664 mm string length.

The instrument is characterized by a rich and exceptionally well-developed voice, combining a full-bodied sound with clear articulation. It maintains remarkably even response across the entire fingerboard, while responding sensitively to the player's touch and following subtle changes in dynamics with ease. The tonal palette is broad and expressive.

The distinctive resonance and rich overtones expected from a 10-string guitar are particularly impressive, producing an extended and enveloping sustain. From the seventh string downward, the long and deep sustain contributes significantly to musical interpretation, demonstrating an excellent balance between practical playability and sophisticated acoustic design.

The volume is substantial, the response is highly responsive, and the sustain is excellent, while the overall tonal balance is very well judged. The instrument features a French polish finish and is fitted with Schaller tuners. The neck has a standard thickness and is straight, and the frets remain in good condition. The string tension is relatively soft, with a broad tolerance for different playing touches, making the guitar exceptionally comfortable to play.

Approximately 50 years have passed since its construction, yet the instrument remains in generally good condition. There are a few very shallow minor dings on the soundboard, but no conspicuous damage. The finish has been well preserved overall, although there is a slight area of finish alteration where the player's right arm makes contact with the body. The neck remains in good condition.

There is a previous repair to a crack in the lower section of the back. The repair was properly carried out and does not affect the instrument's current playability. Rather, this condition reflects the fact that the guitar has been genuinely played and used over the course of its 50-year history, while its fundamental structural integrity has remained intact. The soundboard and body retain the robust structural design required to withstand the particular demands of a 10-string guitar.

A hard case is included.