Description

The 2021 Kevin Ryan Cathedral Grand Fingerstyle in European Spruce & Ziricote is a masterclass in modern lutherie, a sublime instrument that reflects both the visionary artistry and technical precision that has made Kevin Ryan a towering figure in the acoustic guitar world. Long admired for redefining the possibilities of tone, comfort, and aesthetic sophistication, Ryan’s innovations have permanently influenced how boutique steel-string guitars are built, played, and heard. His meticulous attention to detail, particularly through the Ryan Innovation Suite—including features like the ergonomic bevel with flutes, EO bracing, titanium bridge pins, and the micro-adjustable truss rod system—delivers a playing experience that feels as effortless as it is inspiring.

This Cathedral Grand model is a sonic and visual marvel. The European spruce top brings a refined responsiveness and nuanced clarity to every note, while the stunning ziricote back and sides provide not only dramatic grain patterns but also a rich, bell-like resonance with piano-like overtones. A flamed koa binding theme wraps the body with warmth and elegance, further elevated by a blue paua soundboard purfling and rosette, which shimmer with iridescent beauty. Subtle yet striking details like the ghost fingerboard inlay and blue paua “R” logo showcase Ryan’s signature blend of innovation and artful restraint.

Premium Gotoh Super 510 tuners in black chrome, adorned with ebonoid buttons and the embossed “R” logo, ensure rock-solid tuning stability and a refined aesthetic. With a 1.75" nut width, 2.25" bridge spacing, and a 25.7" scale, the guitar is ergonomically tailored for fingerstyle players seeking both comfort and dynamic expression. Weighing just 5 lb 4 oz and housed in a Calton flight case, this instrument is in excellent used condition, offering a rare opportunity to own one of Kevin Ryan’s most revered creations—an heirloom-quality guitar that sings with soul and elegance.

Other specifications include:

European Spruce Top
Ziricote Back & Sides
Flamed Koa Binding Theme
Blue Paua Soundboard Purfling
Ghost Fingerboard Inlay
Blue Paua Rosette
Blue Paua "R" Logo
Gotoh Super 510 Black Chrome Machine Heads with Ebonoid Buttons and Embossed "R" Logo
Innovation Suite (Ryan Ergonomic Bevel with Flutes, EO Bracing, Acoustic Honeycomb, Ryan Micro Adjustable Truss Rod System, Titanium Bridge Pins and A5 "Racing Stripe" Kerfed Liner)
1.75" Nut Width
2 25" Bridge Spacing
25.7" Scale Length
K&K Pure Mini Installed
Calton Flight Case
5 lb 4 oz