Bruce Guitars 1934-Spec D-18 Shade Top

We've followed the work of luthier, Micah Bruce, for a couple years now. He trained with our friends at Collings Guitars -- an apprenticeship that would whip anyone into shape when it comes to woodworking, detail-orientation, and cleanliness of craft.

The ability to see Micah's work in person at the annual Fretboard Summit showcases in Chicago reinforced our enthusiasm. But with so many great guitars all competing for attention, what makes one stand out? Perhaps it's the willingness to do things others won't, but ultimately, it's still about sound.

Micah builds lovely guitars--both acoustics and electrics. But the ultra-light, 1930's inspired flattops we saw in Chicago each of the last two years convinced us to take the plunge. This 1934-style D-18 is, as far as we know, the first one of its kind made by Mr. Bruce. We were so knocked out by the OMs and 000s we'd heard in Chicago, we knew it was time to go big. This is a faithful reproduction of a first-batch D-18, right down to the bar frets and Ebony neck support, which is bolstered by carbon fiber strips for extra rigidity. The sound and responsiveness are both wonderful. There's plenty of power on tap, for the traditional bluegrass player who wants dryness and snap, but the guitar also has a gorgeous, shimmery depth of tone available to players with a nuanced touch. Translation? Home run on the first swing. This is a dreadnought that stands out in a busy field. (And DIG that hand-rubbed Sunburst!)

While the Bruce name may not be as recognized as some of the other players in the distressed acoustic guitar niche, we think that's bound to change.