Klein & Kauffman Parlor Model - Sitka Spruce & The Tree Mahogany #P-183
Serial: P-183
Weight: 4 lbs 0 oz
$24,750.00
All photos are of the actual product. Learn More
The Klein & Kauffman Model 457 “Black Beauty” is the kind of instrument that stops a player in their tracks before a single note is ever played. Its visual presence is commanding yet refined, carrying an elegance that feels timeless rather than ornamental. From the luminous German Spruce top to the deep, near-obsidian African Blackwood body, every detail reflects the combined vision of two legendary builders whose lives have been devoted to the pursuit of extraordinary acoustic instruments.
Steve Klein has long been regarded as one of the most imaginative minds in modern lutherie. Known for his groundbreaking ergonomic designs and deeply analytical understanding of resonance and structure, Klein approached guitar building as both an art and a science. Steve Kauffman brought decades of masterful acoustic craftsmanship and tonal refinement to the partnership, earning immense respect for his precision, musical sensitivity, and uncompromising execution. Together, Klein and Kauffman created instruments that married innovation with tradition in a way few builders ever achieve. Their collaborative work carries a distinct personality that is instantly recognizable to those fortunate enough to spend time with one.
This Model 457 is a stunning example of that partnership at its highest level.
The German Spruce top glows with a delicate golden warmth, its fine grain and glassy texture giving the guitar an unmistakable sense of sophistication. Paired against it is a breathtaking set of African Blackwood back and sides, dark and rich enough to appear almost black under low light. The contrast between the two woods creates a dramatic visual statement, which is exactly why the “Black Beauty” nickname feels so fitting. Running through the center of the back is a Brazilian Rosewood wedge that adds a subtle ribbon of warmth and elegance to the guitar’s already striking presentation.
Every appointment on the instrument reveals extraordinary attention to detail. The fully mitered Brazilian Rosewood bindings are executed with astonishing precision, framing the body with clean architectural lines. Black/Maple/Black top purfling and Maple/Black/Maple back and side purflings provide understated contrast while reinforcing the guitar’s refined aesthetic. The Mother of Pearl and Ebony Lotus rosette serves as a graceful centerpiece, intricate and artistic without ever feeling excessive.
Tonally, the wood combination is exceptional. German Spruce offers remarkable responsiveness, clarity, and dynamic range, while African Blackwood contributes piano-like note separation, powerful projection, and rich overtone complexity. The result is a voice that feels expansive and authoritative, yet incredibly articulate. There is depth in every note, but also precision and focus that make even delicate passages bloom effortlessly.
The Indian Rosewood neck pairs beautifully with the ebony fingerboard, offering a smooth and stable playing experience that feels immediately familiar in hand. The Brazilian Rosewood bridge complements the tonal richness of the body while adding another layer of visual sophistication. On the headstock, the ebony front veneer and Brazilian Rosewood rear veneer continue the instrument’s flowing dark aesthetic, capped off perfectly by the Gotoh 510 Cosmo Black tuning machines.
At only 5 lbs 6 oz, the guitar feels remarkably alive and resonant against the body. There is an openness and immediacy to the response that makes the instrument feel almost weightless musically. Whether approached with a light fingerstyle touch or a stronger attack, the Model 457 responds with effortless nuance and composure.
The Klein & Kauffman Model 457 “Black Beauty” is far more than a boutique acoustic guitar. It is the culmination of two remarkable luthier journeys, brought together in an instrument that radiates intelligence, artistry, and musical depth from every angle.
Other specifications Include:
- German Spruce Top
- African Blackwood Back & Sides with Brazilian Rosewood Wedge
- Indian Rosewood Neck
- Ebony Fingerboard
- Brazilian Rosewood Bridge
- Mother of Pearl & Ebony Lotus Rosette
- Ebony Headstock Front Veneer
- Brazilian Rosewood Headstock Rear Veneer
- Fully Mitered Brazilian Rosewood Bindings & Backstrip
- Black/Maple/Black Top Purfling
- Maple/Black/Maple Back & Sides Purflings
- Gotoh 510 Cosmo Black Tuning Machines
- Deluxe Hardshell Case
- 26.25" Scale Length
- 1 3/4" Nut Width
- 2 1/4" Bridge Spacing
- 5 lbs 6 oz
- 457-168
For more information about the Klein & Kauffman 457, please contact us.
- Manufacturer
- Klein & Kauffman
- Body Style
- Jumbo
- Actual Weight
- 5.6
- Model
- Model 457
- Condition
- Brand New
- Color
- Natural
- Strings
- 6
- Body Style
- 14 Fret
- Pickup
- No
Product Images
Downloads
SKU: 457-168
Weight:
5 lbs
6 oz
Klein & Kauffman Model 457 "Black Beauty" - German Spruce & African Blackwood #457-168
$16,500.00
- Condition:
- New
Free Shipping inside lower 48 states
48 Hour Return Policy
Description
The Klein & Kauffman Model 457 “Black Beauty” is the kind of instrument that stops a player in their tracks before a single note is ever played. Its visual presence is commanding yet refined, carrying an elegance that feels timeless rather than ornamental. From the luminous German Spruce top to the deep, near-obsidian African Blackwood body, every detail reflects the combined vision of two legendary builders whose lives have been devoted to the pursuit of extraordinary acoustic instruments.
Steve Klein has long been regarded as one of the most imaginative minds in modern lutherie. Known for his groundbreaking ergonomic designs and deeply analytical understanding of resonance and structure, Klein approached guitar building as both an art and a science. Steve Kauffman brought decades of masterful acoustic craftsmanship and tonal refinement to the partnership, earning immense respect for his precision, musical sensitivity, and uncompromising execution. Together, Klein and Kauffman created instruments that married innovation with tradition in a way few builders ever achieve. Their collaborative work carries a distinct personality that is instantly recognizable to those fortunate enough to spend time with one.
This Model 457 is a stunning example of that partnership at its highest level.
The German Spruce top glows with a delicate golden warmth, its fine grain and glassy texture giving the guitar an unmistakable sense of sophistication. Paired against it is a breathtaking set of African Blackwood back and sides, dark and rich enough to appear almost black under low light. The contrast between the two woods creates a dramatic visual statement, which is exactly why the “Black Beauty” nickname feels so fitting. Running through the center of the back is a Brazilian Rosewood wedge that adds a subtle ribbon of warmth and elegance to the guitar’s already striking presentation.
Every appointment on the instrument reveals extraordinary attention to detail. The fully mitered Brazilian Rosewood bindings are executed with astonishing precision, framing the body with clean architectural lines. Black/Maple/Black top purfling and Maple/Black/Maple back and side purflings provide understated contrast while reinforcing the guitar’s refined aesthetic. The Mother of Pearl and Ebony Lotus rosette serves as a graceful centerpiece, intricate and artistic without ever feeling excessive.
Tonally, the wood combination is exceptional. German Spruce offers remarkable responsiveness, clarity, and dynamic range, while African Blackwood contributes piano-like note separation, powerful projection, and rich overtone complexity. The result is a voice that feels expansive and authoritative, yet incredibly articulate. There is depth in every note, but also precision and focus that make even delicate passages bloom effortlessly.
The Indian Rosewood neck pairs beautifully with the ebony fingerboard, offering a smooth and stable playing experience that feels immediately familiar in hand. The Brazilian Rosewood bridge complements the tonal richness of the body while adding another layer of visual sophistication. On the headstock, the ebony front veneer and Brazilian Rosewood rear veneer continue the instrument’s flowing dark aesthetic, capped off perfectly by the Gotoh 510 Cosmo Black tuning machines.
At only 5 lbs 6 oz, the guitar feels remarkably alive and resonant against the body. There is an openness and immediacy to the response that makes the instrument feel almost weightless musically. Whether approached with a light fingerstyle touch or a stronger attack, the Model 457 responds with effortless nuance and composure.
The Klein & Kauffman Model 457 “Black Beauty” is far more than a boutique acoustic guitar. It is the culmination of two remarkable luthier journeys, brought together in an instrument that radiates intelligence, artistry, and musical depth from every angle.
Other specifications Include:
- German Spruce Top
- African Blackwood Back & Sides with Brazilian Rosewood Wedge
- Indian Rosewood Neck
- Ebony Fingerboard
- Brazilian Rosewood Bridge
- Mother of Pearl & Ebony Lotus Rosette
- Ebony Headstock Front Veneer
- Brazilian Rosewood Headstock Rear Veneer
- Fully Mitered Brazilian Rosewood Bindings & Backstrip
- Black/Maple/Black Top Purfling
- Maple/Black/Maple Back & Sides Purflings
- Gotoh 510 Cosmo Black Tuning Machines
- Deluxe Hardshell Case
- 26.25" Scale Length
- 1 3/4" Nut Width
- 2 1/4" Bridge Spacing
- 5 lbs 6 oz
- 457-168
For more information about the Klein & Kauffman 457, please contact us.
- Manufacturer
- Klein & Kauffman
- Body Style
- Jumbo
- Actual Weight
- 5.6
- Model
- Model 457
- Condition
- Brand New
- Color
- Natural
- Strings
- 6
- Body Style
- 14 Fret
- Pickup
- No
Media Gallery
Product Images
Downloads
Contact Us About this Item
True Product Images
Yes, this is the actual guitar you’re looking at – not a generic stock photo! We take the time to individually photograph each and every guitar we sell so that you know exactly what you’re getting. From the grain of the wood to the unique finish and subtle character marks, what you see in the photo is the very guitar that will be shipped to your door. No surprises, no guesswork – just full transparency and confidence in your purchase.
You May Also Like
Here to Make Your Experience Great!
Get to know Eddie’s Guitars – Serving musicians since 1971.
Contact Us: