Sale Pending - Kevin Ryan "The Driftwood" Cathedral Grand Fingerstyle - Lutz Spruce & Honduran Mahogany

The Kevin Ryan “Driftwood” Cathedral Grand Fingerstyle – Lutz Spruce & Honduran Mahogany is an extraordinary instrument that epitomizes the pinnacle of modern acoustic guitar design, tone, and craftsmanship. As part of Kevin Ryan’s revered Cellar Door Series, this guitar is not only a sonic marvel but also a visual work of art, featuring a hand-applied “Driftwood” top finish that gives each piece its own unique aesthetic identity. Every detail reflects the spirit of innovation, refinement, and the deeply personal approach that has made Kevin Ryan one of the most influential and respected luthiers in the acoustic guitar world.

Kevin Ryan’s contribution to the world of lutherie is nothing short of revolutionary. Known for his bold innovations and impeccable build quality, he has helped redefine the boundaries of what modern acoustic guitars can achieve in tone, comfort, and structural integrity. The Innovation Suite found in this Cathedral Grand model—featuring his Ergonomic Bevel with Flutes, EO bracing, Acoustic Honeycomb architecture, Titanium bridge pins, the A5 “Racing Stripe” kerfed liner, and Ryan’s proprietary Micro Adjustable Truss Rod System—is a testament to his tireless pursuit of the ideal acoustic voice and playing experience. These advancements don’t just serve form; they push the envelope of playability, resonance, and long-term stability.

The Cathedral Grand Fingerstyle body is purpose-built for wide dynamic range, rich overtones, and sustain that seemingly never ends. The pairing of a Lutz spruce top with stunning Honduran mahogany back and sides creates a tonal profile that is warm, punchy, and deeply articulate, with shimmering highs and a powerful, yet focused low end. The extended 25.7” scale length adds clarity and headroom—ideal for fingerstyle players, open tunings, and percussive techniques, allowing each note to bloom with depth and intention.

Visually, the Driftwood finish sets this guitar apart—earthy, nuanced, and tactile, it perfectly complements the warmth of the mahogany. The instrument is adorned with a lavish blue paua purfling theme, wrapping the soundboard, back and sides, fingerboard, and headstock, creating an iridescent halo effect that shimmers against the natural hues of the tonewoods. The wide Indian rosewood rosette with matching blue paua accents and the iconic blue paua “R” logo on the headstock underscore the guitar’s elegant and unmistakable identity.

Comfort is a central design pillar in every Ryan guitar. The Ergonomic Bevel with Flutes allows the body to rest naturally against the player, making long playing sessions effortless. The Florentine cutaway offers superior upper fret access, enhancing the musical possibilities for modern fingerstylists and solo performers alike. The Ghost Fretboard Inlay, subtly embedded across the board, provides visual intrigue and orientation while maintaining an air of understated sophistication.

Rounding out this masterpiece are Gotoh Super 510 gold tuners with ebonoid buttons, each engraved with the Ryan “R” logo—fusing precision functionality with aesthetic harmony. Weighing 4 lb 12 oz, the Cathedral Grand is resonant yet incredibly balanced in the lap or on a strap. And when it’s time to travel, this work of art is protected by a rugged and elegant Calton flight case.

In every respect, the Kevin Ryan Driftwood Cathedral Grand Fingerstyle is a guitar without compromise—a culmination of over two decades of refinement, invention, and a deep, intuitive understanding of what an acoustic guitar should be. It is not simply built—it is composed, voiced, and sculpted to elevate the playing experience to its absolute highest level.

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For more information about the Ryan Cathedral Grand Fingerstyle, please contact us.

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