Michael Ritchie’s RE Realejo concert guitar reflects a deep reverence for the Granada school of luthiery, shaped by his 18-month immersion in its traditions. Having previously been entrusted to international prize-winner Ian Watt, this particular instrument embodies the refined sensibility and warmth of tone that define Ritchie’s approach. A spruce top and Indian rosewood back and sides form the core of its traditional construction, but it’s the guitar’s subtle musicality—particularly in the treble tasto range—that leaves a lasting impression.

Key Highlights

• Formerly of International Prize Winning Guitarist Ian Watt
• Marginally wider nut/string spacing for more space to navigate the fingerboard
• Tonal purity showcasing the warmer, sweeter side of spruce

Construction & Materials

Built to Ritchie’s own “Realejo” plans, this guitar precisely captures the tonal ideals of the Granada tradition. The spruce top provides typical clarity and pureness of tone, paired with Indian rosewood back and sides adding depth, particularly noticeable in the bass. A natural wood rosette and sympathetic purfling offer a tasteful visual accent, while features such as a 12-hole bridge and fret markers at the 5th and 7th positions provide practicality, the likes of which not all makers make accommodations for.

Tone & Character

The tonal profile is defined by its purity and lyrical charm. Trebles attack softly and are remarkably sweet—particularly when played in the tasto position, where the trebles especially excel. The basses are warm and supportive, never overpowering but always present. In the midrange, gentle overtones emerge with a beautifully musical quality. While some guitars impress instantly with bold volume or sharp attack, Michael Ritchie’s Realejo opens up gradually to reveal a voice of rare subtlety and expression.

Playability & Feel

The neck features a familiar gentle D profile and the guitar’s overall balance is excellent. At 52.7mm wide at the nut and with string spacing of 44mm, it offers just a touch more room than most concert instruments—an ideal choice for players with larger hands or those who prefer a less crowded feel in the lower positions. The setup is well judged, and the guitar responds sensitively to variations in touch, supporting nuanced phrasing and tonal exploration with ease.

Comparisons

Tonally, this model sits closer to the ‘old world’ sound than many of today’s modern spruce-topped guitars. Its most natural comparison in our studio would be Roger Williams’ Concert model, though Michael Ritchie’s Realejo leans more toward purity and is a little less ‘Spanish’ despite it’s roots. While it may not be the right choice for players seeking sparkle or brilliance in the trebles, it offers a softer voiced alternative that is genuinely expressive and profoundly musical.

Why Should You Buy This?

This guitar will appeal most to advanced players and professionals who value warmth, refinement, and the lyrical potential of spruce. It is especially well-suited to repertoire that benefits from sustained melodic phrasing and harmonic clarity—whether in expressive baroque lines or introspective Romantic miniatures. It will also resonate with players seeking a slightly wider fingerboard for added comfort.

Conclusion

For those who hear beauty in restraint and subtlety, the Michael Ritchie RE Realejo offers a compelling voice—a quietly confident, musically generous, and deeply satisfying playing experience. It’s a guitar that invites long-term relationship rather than instant fireworks, rewarding players who enjoy attuning themselves to the subtle tonal variances on offer.