Paulino Bernabé Roman: A Legacy of Excellence in Luthiery Paulino Bernabé Roman (b. 1960) is a world-class Spanish luthier, following in the footsteps of his father, Paulino Bernabé Almendariz (1932–2007). Having grown up in his father’s workshop, Paulino formally joined his father in the early 1980s, working side by side for 30 years. Like his father, Paulino II is not only a master craftsman but also an innovator, constantly experimenting with construction methods and sound qualities to refine the art of guitar making.

The Model 15, crafted entirely by hand in Paulino’s Madrid workshop, reflects his commitment to excellence. Collaborating with skilled luthiers, he employs traditional tools and techniques honed by generations of master luthiers.

As Paulino explained to me about the Model 15, “It takes almost as much time to build an estudio model as it does a top concert model (artistic decorations aside), so why waste time building a guitar of inferior materials?” This philosophy underpins his approach: every model, including the Model 15, is constructed with the same meticulous attention to detail as his top concert guitars. Paulino personally makes the tops for all the guitars that come out of his shop, ensuring that the Model 15 stands as a fully professional concert guitar.

The Model 15 is instantly recognizable as a Bernabé creation, boasting a bold, firm Spanish sound with exceptional volume, projection, presence, and balance. Its even tone and wide palette of colors make it a standout instrument, embodying the legacy of Bernabé guitars while continuing to push the boundaries of sound and craftsmanship.