2023 Lowden S32J Nylon Jazz - Alpine Spruce & Indian Rosewood #27126

The 2023 Lowden S32J Nylon Jazz is a beautifully realized meeting point between the classical guitar and the modern steel string acoustic. It possesses the warmth, fluidity, and intimate touch of nylon strings, yet its graceful Lowden S body, radiused fingerboard, and comfortable neck proportions give it a familiar feel beneath the hands of contemporary acoustic players. It is an elegant crossover instrument, but one with a distinct identity of its own, equally compelling for jazz harmony, fingerstyle arrangements, classical repertoire, Brazilian music, and any player searching for a softer, more expressive tonal palette.

George Lowden has never been interested in simply recreating the instruments of the past. Since establishing Lowden Guitars in 1974, he has pursued an original acoustic voice defined by balance, responsiveness, rich harmonic color, and exceptional sustain. The Jazz Series is a particularly fascinating expression of that philosophy. George developed the nylon string Jazz model from his classical bracing ideas, then adapted the design for musicians accustomed to modern acoustic guitars. The neck provides the space required by nylon strings, while its cambered fingerboard and approachable feel invite a far wider range of techniques than the traditional classical format. The S shaped Jazz models also incorporate a cutaway for effortless access to the upper register.

What makes the S32J so special is the way it retains the unmistakable Lowden character while speaking with the rounder attack and vocal sweetness of nylon. The compact S body feels immediate and intimate, yet it produces a surprisingly deep and complete voice. Its Alpine Spruce top brings clarity, definition, and a beautifully elastic response, giving each note a clean beginning before allowing it to bloom. Indian Rosewood back and sides add depth, sustain, and a broad harmonic atmosphere, surrounding the fundamental with color without obscuring the precision that makes the guitar so useful for complex chords and melodic work. The bass is warm and composed, the trebles are smooth and lyrical, and the space between notes feels almost as expressive as the notes themselves.

Visually, the guitar reflects Lowden’s gift for understated natural beauty. Figured Sycamore binding traces the body with a pale, shimmering border, complemented by purfling and a rosette composed of Sycamore, Rosewood, and Mahogany. These contrasting woods create a quiet richness that rewards a closer look rather than demanding attention from across the room. An East Indian Rosewood headstock overlay and Rosewood bridge continue the organic aesthetic, while the five piece Mahogany and Rosewood neck provides strength, stability, and another subtle piece of Lowden craftsmanship. Schaller Hauser pattern tuning machines complete the traditional nylon string presentation with precision and elegance.

A Fishman Matrix pickup allows this instrument’s warm, detailed voice to move naturally onto the stage, making it a particularly versatile choice for the performing guitarist. At just 4 pounds 3 ounces, the S32J feels light, responsive, and wonderfully alive against the body. Complete with its protective Hiscox case, this Lowden is an expressive instrument that blurs the boundaries between classical, jazz, and modern fingerstyle guitar. It is unmistakably a Lowden, not merely in its appearance or construction, but in its ability to make the lightest touch feel musical.

This 2023 S32J is in excellent condition overall. It shows light scuffing on the clear pickguard, along with a few light scratches in the hand rubbed finish consistent with careful play. There is also a tiny finish crack on the neck near the nut. These minor signs of use do little to distract from the beauty, performance, or exceptional character of this remarkable Lowden.

Other specifications include:

• Indian Rosewood back & sides
• Alpine Spruce top
• Figured Sycamore binding
• 5 piece Mahogany/Rosewood neck
• Sycamore, Rosewood, and Mahogany Purfling
• Rosewood, Sycamore, Mahogany rosette
• Rosewood Bridge
• East Indian Rosewood headstock overlay
• Schaller "Hauser pattern"
• Fishman Matrix pickup
• Hiscox Case
• This guitar is in excellent condition with light pick guard scuffs, light finish scratches and a small finish crack on the neck near the nut.
• 4 lb 3 oz
• #27126

For more information about the Lowden S-32J, please contact us.

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