2023 Juan Hernandez, Model Emperor, Concert Classical Guitar
2023 Juan Hernandez, Model Emperor, Concert Classical Guitar
Make: Juan Hernandez
Model: Emperor
Year: 2023
Serial Number 104
Signed: Handmade by Alberto Hernandez
Top: Canadian cedar double top with Nomex
Back & Sides: Cocobolo Rosewood double back and sides
Scale: 650mm
Nut: 52mm
Finish: Lacquer
Tuners: Schaller Grandtune
Upper bout: 295mm
Waist: 245mm
Lower bout: 370mm
Body lenght: 485mm
Depth at neck: 95mm
Depth at tail: 105mm
Sound hole: 90mm
Weight: 1765 gm
Country of Origin: Spain
Condition: New
Location: Tucson, AZ
The Juan Hernández Model Emperor is an innovative double-top concert classical guitar that masterfully blends traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge design. Constructed with the highest-grade Canadian Western Red Cedar for the soundboard and stunning Cocobolo Rosewood for the back and sides, this model is a testament to excellence in both materials and construction.
The double-top soundboard features two thin layers of Canadian cedar separated by a lightweight Nomex core, which enhances resonance, responsiveness, and tonal complexity. Traditional fan bracing, paired with a Bouchet bar beneath the bridge, optimizes vibration transmission across the soundboard. This design results in an extended harmonic range, producing rich overtones, dynamic expression, and increased sustain with controlled decay.
The Nomex double-top and double-back construction amplify the guitar’s responsiveness and projection, providing a broad dynamic range and crisp articulation across various playing styles. From delicate, warm tones when softly strummed to powerful, blossoming richness with vigorous play, every note resonates with clarity and presence. The lightweight yet rigid properties of the Nomex core contribute to this outstanding tonal performance.
In the upper registers, the trebles sparkle with brilliance, maintaining a balanced tonal palette across the fretboard. The bass notes resonate with full-bodied warmth, delivering a solid foundation for intricate melodies and harmonies. Whether performed in a grand concert hall or an intimate venue, the Juan Hernández Emperor fills the space with harmonically rich timbre, seamlessly combining traditional classical guitar tones with modern construction techniques for a sound that is both timeless and innovative.
The Emperor model is also highly functional, featuring a twelve-hole bridge for easier string changes and a comfortable setup and action. The visible bone above the bridge saddle allows for effortless adjustments to lower the action if desired.
About Juan Hernández Guitars: The legacy of Juan Hernández Guitars began with Juan Hernández Iranzo, who started his career as an apprentice at the Francisco Esteve workshop at just 15 years old. After earning certification as a guitar maker and advancing to production manager, he established his own workshop in 2001, crafting a line of handcrafted classical and flamenco guitars. Following in his footsteps, Alberto Hernández Monfort, his son, quickly earned his certification and joined the workshop. Now serving as head luthier, Alberto crafts models that reflect the family’s dedication to artistry and innovation, with many bearing his personal signature.
The Juan Hernández Model Emperor exemplifies the workshop’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of guitar design while honoring traditional techniques, offering players an extraordinary instrument for both performance and artistry.