Sale Pending-Nik Huber Rietbergen 12 String Prototype - Faded Sunburst/NAMM Instrument #44885

The Nik Huber Rietbergen 12 String Prototype is a rare and inspiring creation—an exclusive NAMM showcase instrument that captures the shimmering chime of a classic 12-string while elevating it with the refinement and precision craftsmanship associated with Nik Huber. As a prototype, it represents both innovation and artistry, blending vintage soul with boutique execution.

Visually, this Rietbergen commands attention with its flame maple top, finished in a beautifully nuanced faded sunburst that enhances the depth and movement of the figuring. The faux natural maple binding frames the top elegantly, adding a refined contrast that highlights the instrument’s carved contours. On the back, black korina contributes not only striking tonal character but also a warm, organic aesthetic that pairs perfectly with the aged hardware and brushed accents. The overall look feels timeless—like a golden-era classic reimagined through a modern master’s lens.

The flame maple neck is carved to the comfortable and substantial Std. Rietbergen profile, offering stability and confidence even under the added tension of twelve strings. An East Indian rosewood fretboard brings warmth and balance to the tonal spectrum, adorned with understated bone dot inlays that reinforce the instrument’s vintage-inspired elegance. Every detail—from the ebony tuner buttons to the creme brushed pickup rings and matching switch tip—has been carefully selected to create a cohesive and luxurious visual identity.

Tonally, this prototype delivers the expansive shimmer and harmonic complexity that define a great 12-string. The Vintage-voiced bridge and neck pickups provide articulate clarity, blooming overtones, and dynamic responsiveness, ensuring that each doubled course rings with piano-like definition. Chords sound orchestral and immersive, while single-note passages maintain focus and sweetness. The 12-string trapeze tailpiece enhances sustain and resonance, complementing the natural tonal character of the flame maple and black korina body combination.

Premium hardware underscores the instrument’s boutique pedigree. Gotoh/Nik Huber 510 tuners ensure precise and reliable tuning stability—essential for a 12-string platform—while aged hardware adds a subtle, road-worn sophistication. Bell gold brushed knobs provide a tasteful vintage touch, and the guitar comes professionally set up with 010–046 strings for balanced feel and optimal playability right out of its included hard case.

As a NAMM showcased prototype, the Rietbergen 12 String stands as both a collector’s piece and a serious performance instrument. It embodies Nik Huber’s commitment to tonal excellence, visual beauty, and uncompromising build quality—offering lush, chiming textures wrapped in boutique elegance.

Other features include:

• Flame Maple Top Wood
• Black Korina Back Wood
• Faux Natural Maple Binding
• Flame Maple Neck Wood
• Std. Rietbergen Neck Carve
• East Indian Rosewood Fretboard
• Dot (Bone) Inlays
• Faded Sunburst Finish
• Bridge: Vint / Neck: Vin Pickups
• Creme Brushed Pickup Rings
• Gotoh/Nik Huber 510 Tuners
• Ebony Tumer Buttons
• 12-String Trapeze Tailpiece
• Bell Gold Brushed Knobs
• Creme Brushed Switch Tip
• Aged Hardware
• Setup 010 - 046
• Showcased at NAMM
• Hard Case
• 8 lbs 3 oz
• 44885

 For more information on this Nik Huber instrument, please contact us.

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