Description

The Kevin Ryan Signature Series Cathedral Grand Fingerstyle is an instrument of transcendent beauty, a guitar that stands at the zenith of acoustic lutherie. Crafted by Kevin Ryan, one of the most revered and forward-thinking luthiers of the modern era, this masterpiece represents the culmination of decades of innovation, artistry, and an uncompromising pursuit of sonic perfection. Ryan’s influence on the world of high-end acoustic guitars is immeasurable—his pioneering designs, such as the Ryan Bevel, EO Bracing, and Acoustic Honeycomb, have redefined what is possible in both tone and playability. The Cathedral Grand Fingerstyle is a testament to his mastery, a guitar that not only elevates the instrument itself but inspires the very music it was built to create.

At the heart of this extraordinary guitar lies a Signature Grade Bearclaw Sitka Spruce top, a soundboard of unparalleled resonance and responsiveness. The rare Bearclaw figuring, formed by natural stress in the tree’s growth, creates a striking visual texture while enhancing structural integrity and projection. This top is a living, breathing entity—every note it produces is imbued with an ethereal clarity, shimmering overtones, and a depth that rivals the finest aged spruce in existence. It is the perfect complement to the legendary Signature Grade "The Tree" Honduran Quilted Mahogany back and sides, a tonewood so coveted that its very name carries an almost mythical weight in the world of fine guitars.

Harvested from a single, fallen Honduran Mahogany tree discovered deep in the rainforest over a century ago, “The Tree” is regarded as one of the most remarkable tonewoods ever found. Its impossibly tight, three-dimensional quilted figuring is unlike any other Mahogany, both visually and tonally. Where traditional Mahogany is known for warmth and balance, "The Tree" takes these characteristics to another level—offering a deep, complex low end, velvety midrange, and a glassy high register with an almost cathedral-like sustain. The pairing of Bearclaw Sitka Spruce with “The Tree” Mahogany creates a voice that is orchestral in its grandeur, with profound depth, sensitivity, and an almost otherworldly harmonic bloom.

This Signature Series Cathedral Grand Fingerstyle is a work of visual art as much as it is a tonal marvel. The Ebony binding theme provides a striking contrast to the rich hues of the Mahogany, framing the body with understated elegance. The intricate Arts & Crafts soundboard purfling and Black Tahitian Pearl back & side purfling add an element of opulence, shimmering subtly under the light. The Arts & Crafts Pueblo Rose inlay, delicately set into the fingerboard, is mirrored in the turquoise-accented rosette, a nod to the meticulous craftsmanship of a bygone era. The Black Tahitian Pearl “R” logo, adorned with Turquoise MicroPearl, is the final signature of distinction, an emblem of excellence that signifies this guitar as a true masterpiece.

Beyond its stunning materials and aesthetics, the Cathedral Grand Fingerstyle is outfitted with Ryan’s Innovation Suite, an ensemble of groundbreaking features that elevate both comfort and sound. The Ryan Ergonomic Bevel with Flutes allows for seamless playability, the EO Bracing enhances resonance and sustain, and the Acoustic Honeycomb fortifies the structure while maintaining a featherlight weight of just 4 lb 14 oz. The Ryan Micro Adjustable Truss Rod System ensures effortless neck adjustments, while Titanium Bridge Pins maximize clarity and note separation. Even the interior is a marvel, with the A5 "Racing Stripe" Kerfed Liner demonstrating Ryan’s dedication to perfection in every unseen detail.

With a 25.7" scale length, 1.75" nut width, and 2.25" bridge spacing, this instrument is designed for effortless expression, inviting the player into a world of tonal nuance and limitless possibility. Encased in a Calton Flight Case, it is protected as the treasure it is—a guitar that represents not just the pinnacle of Ryan’s work, but one of the most extraordinary acoustic instruments ever built.

To hold and play the Kevin Ryan Signature Series Cathedral Grand Fingerstyle is to experience something truly rare: the intersection of history, innovation, and pure artistry. It is more than a guitar—it is a legacy, a dream made tangible, a voice that sings with the depth of time itself.

Other specifications include:

Signature Grade Bearclaw Sitka Spruce Top
Signature Grade The Tree Honduran Quilted Mahogany Back & Sides
Ebony Binding Theme
Arts & Crafts Soundboard Purfling
Black Tahitian Pearl Back & Side Purfling
Arts & Crafts Pueblo Rose Fingerboard Inlay
Arts & Crafts Pueblo Rose Rosette in Turquoise with Black Tahitian Pearl Purfling
Black Tahitian Pearl Headstock Purfling
Arts & Crafts Headstock Inlay
Black Tahitian Pearl "R" Logo with Turquoise MicroPearl
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
Calton Flight Case
4 lb 14 oz