Santa Cruz H/13 Custom Sitka Spruce & Black & White Ebony Acoustic Guitar

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The Santa Cruz H/13 Custom in Sitka Spruce and Black and White Ebony is a breathtaking instrument that reflects both the artistry and the vision of Richard Hoover. As the founder of Santa Cruz Guitar Company, Hoover has dedicated his life to preserving the traditions of golden era guitar building while constantly refining them through innovation and sensitivity to the needs of modern players. His philosophy has always been that a guitar is more than wood and wire. It is an instrument of connection and inspiration, and the H/13 is one of the finest examples of this ethos.

This custom H/13 combines a Sitka Spruce top with striking Black and White Ebony back and sides. Sitka is known for its versatility, dynamic range, and balance, giving the guitar a voice that is clear, warm, and full of subtle overtones. The Black and White Ebony not only provides one of the most visually dramatic tonewoods available, but also contributes to a focused, articulate response with a touch of glassy brilliance. The 4-inch soundhole expands projection and volume, while the scalloped and tapered Sitka bracing with Titebond glue allows the top to respond with nuance and resonance.

The aesthetics of this instrument are equally extraordinary. The “buttered toast” sunburst top radiates a warm golden glow, framed in understated black binding and a single black top border. The rosette in ivoroid with tortoise accents nods to classic 1929 styling, offering vintage charm without excess. The S29 backstrip and matching tail strip provide an elegant finishing detail. The natural beauty of the Black and White Ebony is left clear and uncolored, highlighting the bold striping that makes each guitar one of a kind.

The appointments are both refined and timeless. The slotted headstock is capped with Brazilian Rosewood, paired with an ivoroid Santa Cruz logo for a touch of understated sophistication. The fingerboard and pyramid bridge are also crafted from Brazilian Rosewood, offering a sleek, responsive playing surface that complements the tonal richness of the guitar. Snakewood-button tuners mounted on bronze engraved plates add a luxurious and old-world character. Ebony bridge pins and end pin, each set with ivoroid dots, complete the theme with subtle grace.

Playability is another hallmark of this build. The mahogany neck is shaped with a comfortable round profile, finished in a matte texture that feels smooth and natural in the hand. With a nut width of 1 13/16 inches, bridge spacing of 2 5/16 inches, and a 25.375-inch scale length, this H/13 offers a spacious and expressive playing experience that fingerstyle players in particular will appreciate. The guitar weighs 4 pounds 6 ounces, striking the perfect balance between resonance and stability.

Practicality is not overlooked, with an H/13-shaped tortoise pickguard, SCGC low-tension strings, and an LR Baggs Hi-Fi pickup for amplified performance. The guitar comes housed in a custom SCG-H13S case, ensuring it is protected as carefully as it was built.

The Santa Cruz H/13 Custom in Sitka Spruce and Black and White Ebony is more than an instrument. It is the culmination of Richard Hoover’s commitment to crafting guitars that inspire artistry, blending tonal excellence with breathtaking visual beauty. This guitar stands as both a work of art and a lifelong companion for the musician who plays it.

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