Manuel Contreras’ Nº 3 is the entry point into Contreras’ concert range; the guitars made at the family’s Madrid workshop. As a genuine Madrid made Contreras concert guitar, it is an instrument built with the same artisanal philosophy as the higher models, but offered available at a lower price point than the flagship 1A model.
This 2021 guitar features a solid Canadian cedar top paired with Indian rosewood back and sides. A classic pairing that results in a voice that is warm, rounded, and bell like, with a singing treble and generous bass. The tonal profile is particularly well suited to romantic and Spanish repertoire, while remaining versatile enough for polyphonic and modern works.
The Nº 3 model delivers that genuine Madrid sound; that big, glossy, bell like tones made famous by Ramirez, Hernandez, Bernabe to name a few. The key tonal difference with this guitar is the level of refinement that tucks in the mid range, tightens up the bass (whilst retaining volume) and allows room for the trebles to sing. A narrower nut of 51.5mm and subsequently rounder neck shape is also a welcome break from the strict traditionalist 52mm+ nuts and flatter neck profiles of many a José Ramirez guitar, highlighting the maker’s consideration for the player’s comfort.
This guitar is secondhand and in very good overall condition with just a handful of marks consistent with general use. The most noticeable of which is a scratch on one side of the body (see pictures) caused by a guitar support slipping during use. The damage is purely cosmetic and has no impact on structure, playability, or sound, but it is clearly visible and has been reflected in the heavy discount in price. Aside from this, the guitar has been well cared for and remains an excellent musical tool. The owner originally purchased this guitar for £4,500 and this relatively young guitar is now being offered for just £2,400. Perfect for those seeking a genuine concert guitar by an established and desirable maker, but without having to pay the full price of a brand new model.
£2,400.00
Out of stock
More Information
Interested in this guitar?
Other Customers Searched For…
Endorsements and Happy Customers
“I taught Ed Peczek (Director of Classical Guitar Academy) whilst he was a student at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. He is a fine musician and guitarist with a keen musical insight. Ed is a young man of real integrity who will offer unbiased advice on purchasing a quality instrument. I can think of no one better equipped to direct a centre such as Classical Guitar Academy.”
Phillip Thorne, MBE
Senior Lecturer, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (1978-2016)
“Excellent guitar and very good service. Highly recommended!”
Joe Scarffe
Classical Guitar Academy Customer
Jo Lloyd
Classical Guitar Academy Customer
“Classical Guitar Academy is pure class! I received this superb guitar, hard case & accessories very quickly and in really secure packaging. If you’re looking for excellent quality products and customer service, then look no further than CGA.”
David Lees
Classical Guitar Academy Customer
“Just received an Amalio Burguet 2M by mail. Arrived, beautifully packed, in superb condition. After tuning had my first acquaintance with it. Lovely tone which I am sure will improve with playing time. Turned the instrument over in my hands for close inspection. First-rate construction under superb high-gloss finish. Thanks for swift supply & responses via email.”
Roger Watts
Classical Guitar Academy Customer
“Been playing guitar since I was 15 (am now 59), bought my first classical guitar in 1985 and recently decided I needed a better one. After some discussion with Ed at the Classical Guitar Academy about all things guitaristic (Ed is very knowledgeable and always enthusiastic) I tried a few of the guitars Ed had in stock. I knew what I was looking for and Ed understood what I was looking for and I have ended up with a superb Antonio Sanchez guitar. I had also tried a few guitars in a few of the mainstream shops but did not get anything like the help and advice I got from Ed – he understands what it’s all about!”
Duncan Adamson
Classical Guitar Academy Customer
“Excellent customer service. Appointment service giving you the opportunity to try out range of quality classical guitars with no pressure. Highly recommended!”
Catherine Evans
Classical Guitar Academy Customer