Collings C10 Cutaway

Based on parlor guitars first introduced around the same time as the OM, the Collings C10 is a leaner alternative, with the narrow waist and small upper bout resulting in a precise, focused response. Of all Collings' acoustic models, the C10 is perhaps the easiest for electric guitarists to adapt to, thanks in part to the more rounded neck profile. The small oval neck heel is ideally suited to the optional cutaway, which allows unrestricted access to the upper frets. With its unique shape and asymmetrical headstock's lines echoed in the curvilinear pickguard, C10 models offer a welcome alternative for those who find that most small acoustic guitars look too much alike.

This is a very special Collings C10 that I had Collings make just for CR Guitars. I waited a long time for Bill to find some curly mahogany--which is quite rare--for the back and sides.  It was worth the wait.  Whoa! He found some spectacular wood. While some people consider figured wood merely a cosmetic treat, curly and flamed maple and mahogany create a stiffness in the wood that translates to a more immediate presence to the sound.  Aside from that benefit,  the mahogany used in this guitar is spectacular, with a flowing, three dimensional depth. The top is very tight, straight grained Sitka that reminds me more of German spruce, and the Western shaded nitro finish also has great depth and beauty. In fact, I loved the beauty of the top so much that I had Bill leave the pickguard off! But I had him send a Dalmatian pickguard with the guitar, so if you want the pickguard, I can install it for you, or you can have it done very easily at a later point in time.

But enough about looks. Let me tell you a little bit about the sound. This guitar has a warm, full sound that is very personal, and playing music with it is a very intimate experience. It is definitely a great guitar for finger style players, with that extra level of connection you feel because your fingers strike the strings directly.  Honestly, I want to just take it home and play it in my living room, or on the porch on spring mornings with the world is just waking up.  This guitar has the warmth of a classical guitar, and the articulation of a very fine steel string. In fact, I played some Bach on this guitar, and I have never heard a steel string sound so good playing classical music. But flatpickers and Jazz guitarists will find beautiful resonances here as well, and using a plectrum gives wonderful nuances that are really stunning for a new guitar. I believe that  once it's been played for a bit, the sound will open up even more.

The neck is Collings perfect, and just feels right in your hands. The cutaway makes those upper frets much easier to access, which just expands the useful range of this wonderful guitar. Also, this guitar's sound is perfectly balanced across the entire neck, with an even full tone that you feel throughout your body when you play.

The best way I can describe it is to say that the guitar is just alive. From the subtlest musical gesture to the grandest, this guitar stays with you, never faltering. And if you want to pull out all the stops and play power chords, the guitar is right there. This guitar is definitely for a musician who appreciates an balanced instrument that is full and rich, with ringing overtones, complexity, and that rare ability to excel in every style of playing.

If you'd like to find out more about this item, just call or e-mail me. It would be my pleasure to talk to you about it.

ABOUT COLLINGS GUITARS
Bill Collings moved from Ohio to Texas in the mid 1970’s. Spurred by a lack of interest in medical school, this move enabled him to combine lifelong interests in both guitars and tools into the challenge of stringed instrument building and repair. After a couple of years in Houston, several guitars and a few banjos later, he headed west to southern California. Making it only as far as Austin, where he shared shops with fellow luthiers Tom Ellis and Mike Stevens. From there, he set up his own small shop in a wooden "one car" garage. His reputation for outstanding quality and meticulous attention to detail quickly spread. In 1989, he rented a 1000 square foot space and hired two helpers. Fast forward to present day where Collings craftsmanship is respected by professional and amateur musicians alike…anyone on the quest for quality. Some of these include artists; Keith Richards, Lyle Lovett, Pete Townshend, Emmylou Harris, Andy Summers, David Crosby, Chris Hillman, Joni Mitchell, Don Felder, John Sebastian, Lou Reed, John Fogerty, Tim O'Brien, Pete Huttlinger, Kenny Smith, Brian May, Joan Baez, John Prine, Nigel Tufnel of Spinal Tap, and Steven Spielberg to name a few. You owe it to yourself to try one.