The world of the nylon-string guitar is one defined by nuance, touch, and a specific kind of magic. For over 15 years, Cordoba has been at the heart of this world, driven by a deep-seated passion for the instrument. Their story isn't just about manufacturing; it's a tale of dedication and an obsessive attention to detail.

Cordoba’s Master Builders have spent years bridging the gap between the legendary past and a vibrant future. By studying the giants of guitar history—like Torres and Esteso—and blending their wisdom with modern innovation, Cordoba has created a lineup that serves everyone. Whether you are a traditionalist seeking the soul of Old Spain or a modern performer needing contemporary features, there is a Cordoba built for you.

Let’s take a closer look...

The artisans at Cordoba, guided by Master Luthiers like Edmund Blöchinger, believe that to build the future, you must intimately understand the past. They don't just look at blueprints of 100-year-old masterpieces by Torres or Domingo Esteso; they study the physical heirloom instruments themselves.

Through this "back to the source" approach, they have mastered the delicate variables of:

• Body Shape: Optimizing projection and comfort.

• Wood Thickness: Finding the "sweet spot" for resonance.

• Construction Techniques: Utilizing time-honored methods to ensure authentic tone.

While these insights shine brightest in the hand-made Luthier Series, this high-level knowledge trickles down into every guitar Cordoba makes.

A standout philosophy at Cordoba is the idea that a nylon guitar should be "built like a kite meant to fly." Unlike heavy steel-string acoustics, a great classical or flamenco guitar must be lightweight to resonate fully. This results in an instrument that responds to even the lightest touch.

You can see this traditional dedication in the Espana Series, which utilizes a 1931 "5 Fan" bracing pattern—a design pioneered by Esteso for incredible balance and projection. A prime example is the Luthier Select Esteso CD, featuring a Western Red Cedar top that delivers a mellow, vintage warmth sought after by the most discerning players.

While they revere history, Cordoba isn't stuck in it. They recognize that today’s musicians often have "hybrid" needs. Not everyone wants a thick, wide classical neck; some players need tools that work on a modern stage.

Cordoba addresses these needs through:

• Comfortable Ergonomics: Slimmer neck profiles and radiused fingerboards for players used to electric or steel-string guitars.

• Stage Readiness: Integrated cutaways for upper-fret access and high-quality Fishman pickup systems.

Advanced Engineering: Use of lattice bracing and raised fingerboards for increased volume and ease of play.

Take the Cordoba Fusion 12, for example. With its Spruce top and Flame Maple back, it’s a visual and sonic stunner. Its narrower 1 7/8” nut width makes it incredibly approachable, while the Fishman Presys system ensures it sounds just as good plugged in as it does unplugged.

Even their more traditional-looking models, like the C12 Spruce, hide modern secrets. While it pays homage to the past with an Esteso-designed rosette, it utilizes lattice bracing to create a loud, strident, and balanced voice that meets the demands of the modern concert hall.

The guitars we’ve explored today are just a glimpse into Cordoba’s diverse catalog. By fusing the heritage of Old Spain with the precision of modern building techniques, they have created instruments that are truly impressive. Whether you are a professional or an enthusiast, a Cordoba is an instrument to cherish for a lifetime of playing.

The Cordoba story is a tale of passion, dedication and attention to detail. Cordoba is about the love of the nylon string sound and the entire world that goes along with it.