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ULTRA RARE "EL VITO" CSM2-S - TERRIFIC CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH CUTAWAY & PICK-UP
Estimated price for orientation: 2 000 $
Category: Classical Guitars
Class:
Description Condition: New: A brand-new, unused, unopened, undamaged item in its original packaging (where packaging is applicable). Packaging should be the same as what is found in a retail store, unless the item is handmade or was packaged by the manufacturer in non-retail packaging, such as an unprinted box or plastic bag. See the seller's listing for full details. See all condition definitions- opens in a new window or tab ... Read moreabout the condition Brand: El Vito Country/Region of Manufacture: China MPN: 005/2014 UPC: Does not apply
Please read my 3 days return policy at the bottom of the page.If you'd like to see pictures of over 500 classical & flamenco guitars that I've sold in the past, please visit "Victor's Guitar Gallery" on Facebook“El Vito” CSM2-S We can call this guitar a “New Old Stock”. It was made in 2013, but since that time it was stored in its case. Only 2 units of this particular model have ever been made. In terms of response, tonality, note clarity & separation, this guitar matches any high end guitar you can imagine. Acoustically it doesn’t have enough volume to call it a Grand Concert Guitar, but has enough volume to be used in small venues. Since it has L. R. Baggs “Anthem" SL CL (for nylon string guitars) pickup system on board it can be amplified. It plays super easy.If you'd like to see El Vito Concert guitars "in action" please find Youtube Channel "Felix Marin Jr" and listen to his original compositions played on El Vito Concert RL-S, El Vito Concert JS and El Vito Concert BM guitars.Specifications:Guitar Top: Super thin (1.8 – 1.9 mm) AAA German Spruce with Concentrated Lattice BracingSide: Solid Indian Rosewood (90 mm width)Arched Back: Double-Laminated Indian RosewoodBody Bind: Indian Rosewood/Maple Neck: Solid Honduran Mahogany with 2-Way Trust Rod and black carbon fiber stripeFingerboard, Bridge and Armrest: EbonyNut width: 52mmString Scale: 650mmTuning machines: Der Jung with Black ButtonsHeadstock & Logo Designed by Victor K.Nut & Saddle: Bone String: Savarez 540JFinish: GlossElectronics: L.R.Baggs Anthem SL CLCurrent Action: 3.30 mm under E6 & 2.80 mm under E1Guitar will be shipped brand new Archtop Hard Shell case, which is somewhat oversized for regular classical guitars, but can accommodate the thickness of this guitar.Here is what already owners of El Vito Concert guitars say:The RLS came yesterday in great shape, just before the weather turned back rainy and cold. Beginning of the week was "20* F above normal" said the weather person. As soon as the guitar was delivered Wed. noon, it began to drop and now it's "12* below normal!!" Your prompt shipping saved the baby from harm here at the end of the week, Victor -- thanks for the loving care of your instruments to make it happen -- really makes your customers trust you again and again!!This guitar is magnificent!! It's nice and loud but still (given the lattice bracing) can be played quietly and has great note separation/definition across the fingerboard!!! If I take good care of it, it should only grow in depth and resonance over the years.
Speaking of the fingerboard, it is the finest I've owned (or played, for that matter) on a classical instrument!!! I don't know if you lowered the action, knowing my preference, but it's extraordinary!!!!!!!! As I mentioned, practicing for forty years to keep a horizontal picking style -- strictly parallel to the top -- I had zero problem with buzzing at all, anywhere on the neck, even though the action was set quite low. (Me and Segovia, ya know!!! Sorry - I'm a little excited here. But I express in music -- I paint for myself, emotionally, and this instrument is my brush and palette! ) Thank you!!! This could be the ultimate "holy grail" I've been looking for across the decades!!Have good days! Thank you again!! Dave Satre
Thank you for being such a great buyer !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Buyer: Sold 05/08/2017 MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT RF-C LUTHIER MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL GUITAR (#192180329903)
Unbelievable guitar! Better than everything at guitar center.You need to try one Buyer: Sold 04/11/2017 MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT RL-S LUTHIER MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL GUITAR (#201866385351)
Hi Victor. I love the guitar, its sound is just incredible. Adrian
Thank you for being such an awesome buyer !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Buyer: Sold 03/09/2017 HEAVENLY "EL VITO" CONCERT JC - LUTHIER MADE, ALL SOLID WOODS, CLASSICAL GUITAR (#192121914375) --
Thank you for being such an awesome buyer !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Buyer: Sold 10/16/2016
STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT BM - LUTHIER MADE, ALL SOLID WOODS, CLASSICAL GUITAR (#201692616527)Buyer ID: diemquyenle Return ID: 5040670019 Return opened: Oct-24-16 20:54:44 PDT Return shipping: buyer pays Return reason: Changed my mind Comments: I bought this guitar for my sister who is a guitarist because she d been watching it for a while on eBay. She loves how it looks and sounds but she thinks it sounds like the other guitars that she already has. She already owns 6 guitars that she uses to play both classical and flamenco music extensively. She s really looking for a pure classical guitar. I don t really understand it because I don t play guitar. Other than that, this guitar looks stunning and sounds great. I really appreciate the super fast shipping and the courteousness of Victor, I wish it had work for us both ways!
Hi Victor,
I m back again. Last time I got this guitar for my little sister but I had to return it because she could not make up her mind and time had run out. But ever since it was returned, she has been going back on eBay to look at it every single day! I know she was too shy to ask for it again, but today she finally said she wants it back. Any chance I can get it again for the same price for my sister? I m sorry for the lack of communication on my part last purchase. I knew my sister was very picky and I didn t want to get my hopes up because I did not like returning things. But it seems she has bonded with this beautiful guitar!
Please let me know. Thank you Victor.
Thank you for being such a wonderful buyer !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Buyer: Sold 12/06/2016 STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT BM - LUTHIER MADE, ALL SOLID WOODS, CLASSICAL GUITAR (#201740855496)
Thank you for being such a wonderful buyer !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Buyer: Sold09/23/2016
MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT RF-S LUTHIER MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL GUITAR (#191968416805)
Victor continues to amaze - especially with this birdseye model Buyer: sold 07/26/2016
STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT BM - LUTHIER MADE, ALL SOLID WOODS, FLAMENCO GUITAR (#191930446975)
09/05/2016
Hey Victor - hope all is super with you.
I was hesitant to order your Concert BM Maple guitar, as I enjoy your Brazillian Rosewood model so much. I now see why your professional endorser does so many arrangements with it. A bit crisper in the highs, yet still rich, full and "pearly", tons of overtones, without losing much in the lows at all. The low action setup you did is perfect for my picking style. It's a very different and unique sound that I absolutely love. Haven't been able to put the thing down since it arrived. Nick is thin and true as usual - Nice touch on the pearl inlay headstock too - The best, Bob P.S. I tried to pick up a cheap $600 guitar at Guitar Center to keep at my summer place, but returned it. I have been spoiled with your level of refinement on these guitars!
BobEverything including communication with seller went so very well. Buyer:
MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT RS - LUTHIER MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL GUITAR (#191908343441)
Hello Victor,I'll have to send this message in two parts. This is Part One.The El Vito Concert RS is excellent. It only took about 15 minutes to do a preliminary assessment. I have by now set it up according to my personal requirements, and it is just so very good, I am very pleased with the guitar and also your help.Here's some things about it you will find interesting. Keep in mind that I've been a guitarist since 1964 and a classical guitarist since 1970. During that time I've had numerous not-expensive classicals and two Robert Ruck guitars, a 1976 and a 1980, both of which I [regretfully] sold long ago. So I have a wide base for comparison.This El Vito RS is the best guitar I've had since I sold the 1980 Ruck. Here's what I see:The top spruce is very high grade, with a tight, straight grain, and the rosewood sides/back are also very high grade. It looks so very nice. The guitar's finish is very well done, very smooth to the touch. The nut was set at the proper height so the string height at the nut was very low and easy to the touch. I did however, install another nut with 1mm more overall string spacing. I also lowered the bridge saddle action to almost level with the actual bridge, and then the neck really opening up for good playing technique.The volume might work well in ensembles, I will not be doing ensembles though, so I can't fully tell.
but the volume is definitely adequate for home playing. Here is Part 2.The tone is very good, sharp and bright, and that's only with my keyboard-length nails so far. If I were to let them grow out to guitar-length, the volume and tone would open up even more, and with a good thumbnail, the basses would then be very sharp. But even with short nails, this guitar responds very well, the notes are well separated and ring out clearly.When I got my 1980 Ruck, Bob said to play it with force and it will gradually increase in volume until it reaches maximum. So I will be doing that.The only problem I had was that the treble side of the tuners were very difficult to turn. I replaced the tuners with another set I had around, and then put ebony buttons on that set, so that worked out OK.In general, this guitar is far superior to the $1,700 Cordoba C12 and the $1,900 Hanika PF56, both of which were so volume-deficient that I returned them.In all my recent very extended research, in my opinion, the only other affordable guitar that could top this would be a higher-level El Vito. They are doing very excellent craftsmanship in their building and it shows.Thank you again. If I ever decide to buy another guitar, I now know exactly where to look.John Crimi
One thing I did notice and forgot to mention: The frets. They are a good proper size, round, and NOT filed like what I see on Cordoba and others. They have been properly installed and are level. Fret filing after installation is done I guess to eliminate buzzes, but work against someone like me who likes very low action, and also make the frets look bad. The El Vito frets were also properly end-dressed, no rough edges sticking out. All that makes for a good fretboard but is also an indication of quality craftsmanship. I have also noticed that Cordoba, maybe some others, show saw cut riffs on the fretboard whereas the El Vito ebony was properly sanded. The important thing is that this guitar encourages practicing and playing like no other I have ever had since my 1980 Ruck. Thanks again, John
(201575419756) sold 05/15/2016Great guitar for the money. Excellent balance, projection and sustain. Beautiful trebles and strong bass. Very resonant with overtones. I put a Tone Rite on it to help her open up. Upped my playing time to over two hours a day because of how beautiful it sounds and how easy playing it is. Intonation seems perfect. My guitar instructor was impressed with it. Working on Prelude 1 by Villa Lobos and loving it. Excellent intermediate player guitar, don t be scared off by it being made in China. Wish I could play the higher level, bet it is awesome. Will send a audio recording later.DavidSellers website extremely well done,very fast shipping,guitar arrived as perfect Buyer: Sold 04/16/2016 BREATHTAKING "EL VITO" STANDARD C - LUTHIER MADE HIGH GRADE CLASSICAL GUITAR (#191840747497)
Hello Victor,we just received my new guitar and i'm extremely pleased with it. It's even more than I had hoped for. I'm moving up from a Yamaha CG 162s.A HUGE jump in quality of sound and construction. I will be leaving you excellent ratings for my purchase.Thank you,Gary and Janet Legates....
Got the El Vito FN. Best guitar I bought for the money.
I'm impressed. Thanks. Buyer: "EL VITO" F2N - TERRIFIC FLAMENCO GUITAR WITH SOLID SPRUCE TOP AND ROSEWOOD B/S (#201523328132) Sold 03/14/2016
El Vito Concert BM sold 03/10/2016Hey Victor,In all honesty these guitars are underpriced when compared to a lot of other big name brands or luthier built made to order guitars. I don't have to tell you because you know this business way more than I do. Like you I have seen the same guitars with these designs and woods made by luthiers in Germany, England, or Australia going from 6000.00 to 9000.00. I spent a few hours yesterday and today doing the 3 attached recordings. "Horses Running Free" is a song I composed over twenty years ago partly in my head while driving to work. I was an aircraft mechanic then LOL. I don't know why this type of song came to me. I actually can hear an orchestra playing along with it. Sounds kind of cinematic?
Anyway I was able to keep it in my memory until I got home to find it on my guitar. I didn't know how to write music so I had to rely on memory. I have never recorded it before. This is the first time.
I used the new El Vito Maple guitar for the lead and rhythm. I arpeggio second rhythm is the El Vito JS. I have dedicated this song to you because it makes me picture wild horses running free across rolling hills. And I think of how resilient you are and that you are able to keep moving even with the toughest of circumstances.
Crystal City is also an old song. The Bach piece I have done many times. But I do it because guitarists want to hear classical so I try to record and see how it sounds as a purely classical guitar recording.
There are a couple things I noticed about this particular guitar. One is the deep bass it has - which I think is unlike a maple backed guitar. This guy - your luthier did not fall into the trap of making a maple guitar which lacks low end. In fact, he somehow created it with very deep bass - the bass is full of power. You hear it in the rhythm and even lead. This by itself was quite amazing. I also love the clarity/transparency across the midrange. For lead it does wonderful because it is punchy. I could go on and on - this guitar sound very different from my rosewood guitars - different great qualities and is fun to explore what it can do. FelixExcellent guitar, bargain price, as always! Many thanks Victor! Buyer: Sold 11/24/2015 MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT RC - LUTHIER MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL GUITAR (#201455976969)
Hi Victor,
Just to give you some proper feedback on the El Vito Concert RC. It really is, as you say, a magnificent guitar for the price, indeed at any price. It easily blows away the equivalent Ramirez or Alhambra you can get at this price point. I can't wait to try your other models if they are better than this!
Regards
Curt
sold 09/22/2015Dear victork1962,So, he picked up the package at the post office today...he opened it and said I should see his smile- like a kid at Christmas!
- holldocke--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feeback & message regarding El Vito Concert MRC sold on 09/30/2015A beautiful guitar,seller very helpful and patient with my many questions Buyer:
STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT MRC - LUTHIER MADE, ALL SOLID WOODS, CLASSICAL GUITAR (#201433206953)
Dear victork1962, Victor..., sounds& feels beautiful!! Muchas gracias! Hume hum_au2014-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Super-fast delivery, gorgeous-looking,sounding guitar! Awesome, very pleased. Buyer: Sold 07/20/2015 STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT JS - LUTHIER MADE, ALL SOLID WOODS, CLASSICAL GUITAR (#191610703002)
Dear victork1962,Hello Victor,
I thank you again for your excellent service, super-fast delivery and I wanted to comment on my new beautiful 'El Vito' Concert JS, it is an exquisite guitar, I needed some time to let the strings settle in to properly evaluate it, it plays like 'butter', great neck, and has a very nice tone, sustain and volume. It is such a thrill to play it, a delicious experience. Thank you for offering these beautifully hand-made instruments at such a great price. I highly recommend you to others. My best, Ed- jazzyeddy(07/25/2015) Message from Phil, already owner of El Vito Concert F and El Vito Concert JC guitars, who decided to purchase the last El Vito Concert JS guitar.Victor,Words cannot describe how beautiful and sweet sounding this guitar is. The combination of the Engelmann spruce and the jacaranda produces such a heavenly tone! The build quality is absolutely superb. I just dropped the action by a 1/2 mm and it plays like butter. I plan on making years of music with it. Thank you for your great service!-PhilMy response:Phil,Thanks for the message.You have to consider yourself lucky.Just yesterday I received the message from Mr. Yu that he still didn't get Brazilian Rosewood from his suppliers (hence couldn't make my ordered guitars) and it is possible that this model will no longer be made. Another option is that he will charge me for them much more than before.VictorHere is the letter from Felix Marin (07/20/2015)Hello Victor,
Hope your family and you are well. Just wanted to say hello and share a couple thoughts with you.
The other day I did a blind test with my son. He used to take classical guitar lessons from the same concert classical guitarist I used to take
lessons from. I took lessons for much longer but my son didn't continue pursuing classical guitar although he still plays now and then. He is
in college studying computer programming.
Anyway I asked him to listen to me play the exact same piece of music, first on one guitar and then on the other. I had him listen across the room without looking at which guitar I was playing. I told him one was my new el Vito JS and the other is a Hanika with several years
of play-in which, new, runs about $3200.00. But I didn't tell him which was which. Remember the El Vito is still very new.
All 3 times I played the same thing on them one after another he picked the El Vito. He thought he was picking the Hanika because he knows
the Hanika is a powerful and rich sounding guitar. But when I told him he had picked the El Vito he looked surprised. He told me that although the Hanika sounded like it was slightly louder with a little more bass, the El Vito sounded clearer and the trebles sounded richer and he said it just sounded better.
I'm sure this is no surprise to you. I know the El Vito is much higher because it is still brand new and it wasn't really a fair comparison.
The bass is the last thing that develops as guitar opens up. But it still won. Also a lattice braced guitar is very different than a fan-braced
guitar so maybe the comparison is somewhat off? But I should also clarify is that the neck profile is flatter on the El Vito making it more easy to play with lower action while having no fret buzz. You can say this but it's different when you are comparing it with another high quality guitar and see/feel the difference.
The other thing I'll have to mention is I can tune this guitar to alternate turnings such as open G, open D, and even a low C and the guitar still sings. It's very difficult to describe sound but it wasn't until I got these two el Vito guitars that I came to understand that the most important qualities in a guitar are first ease of playing when you consider the amount of hours you may spend practicing on it. And next that a guitar sounds clear and balanced across fretboard so that it records well and sounds well when it is heard from a distance.
I am sure you are familiar with all this since you have handled a lot of high end guitars. I would like to hear your opinion or insights you have gained from working with so many guitars. I hope I don't come across as over enthusiastic about these guitars. I don't mean to overstate these guitars as I am sure there are many great guitars but it is just that I can't believe how good they sound in my recordings and how harmonious they sound. I have several classical guitars of varying qualities and there are things I like in each of them. But the two el Vito's sing with a harmony I haven't heard in other guitars. I wonder what is it about them that allows them to have such a great balance?
My other guitars are fan braced and I think maybe the fan braced guitars tend to have more depth inside and more low end whereas the
lattice braced guitars tend to have more clarity, balance, and the sound seems to exist more at the top than inside? Both I have are real
eauties. But again these el Vito guitars are to me at a much high lever. These guitars might be even better than you realize?
Please tell me what you think about my observations and how do they compare to some of the top guitars you have handled. Are they close to or do some of these super high end guitars sound much different? I'm sure some of the guitars you have that sale for severalthousands are wonderful. But I imagine sometimes it is the history and name that brings up their value.
Hey there is one more thing I want to mention. And I'll share this just with you. I like my el Vito JS slightly more than my RS but they are
very close. They have some difference but both share similar great qualities. And they both show that someone really knows what they are
doing. I can't believe it is luck or coincidence that both these guitars are so great.
Okay I rambled on and on. Please tell me your thoughts.
Regards,Felixmy responseFelix,Naturally your “discoveries” regarding El Vito guitars are not a surprise to me. It is true that I do have quite unique experience with classical guitars. Before I became a professional guitar seller on E-bay (February 2013)I had owned or experienced (purchased and rather quickly returned to Guitar Center and similar US dealers) several guitars priced $500 -$4000. I was simply trying to find a decent quality guitar at affordable price. As many of my current clients, I also had to learn “the hard way”that it is actually very difficult (if possible at all) to achieve goal. In the meantime I started to buy (repair, upgrade & sell) used vintageJapanese guitars. As professional guitar seller and importer of Japanese & Chinese made guitars I have already handled over 400 guitars, priced from $100 to $5000. Naturally I have learned a lot along the way and now feel entitled to share my unique knowledge with everyone “who wants to listen”. In terms of the sound properties, the contrast between Japanese “vinties” and modern era main stream “junkies” is simply stunning. TheseJapanese guitars are nothing but excellent copies of Spanish made guitars, very often surpassing the quality of original ones. Modern era Japanese made guitars are still absolutely superb instruments. They however became more and more expensive in recent decades. Currentlyhigh end guitars made by well-known Japanese luthiers are only 20-30% less expensive than guitars made by leading American and Europeanluthiers. In great majority of cases, major Japanese guitar “factories” have most of their models made in China, while only the highest endmodels are still made in Japan. The only known to me exception is Asturias Gakki. As the result really high end Japanese made guitars are beyond the reach of great majority of guitar enthusiasts. Knowing all of that I started my El Vito guitar project. I have contacted several Chinese guitar distributors and tried their products. Now-daysin China there are hundreds of huge guitar factories producing various quality instruments. But there are also many individual luthier workshops capable of producing very high quality guitars. After I found Mr. Youlong Yu, I have terminated my cooperation with my previousChinese suppliers. The reason was that guitars made by Mr. Yu are from much higher shelf than all other Chinese made guitars that I everexperienced. As you remember well, your opinion about first ever sold in US El Vito Concert RS guitar, was a very important factor inmaking this decision. Mr. Yu is as talented and experienced luthier as was Masaru Kohno. This is the major reason his guitars are of so high quality. He is using wellseasoned high quality woods, which are tested for their tonality before being selected for particular model. He is choosing what kind of bracingwill be the best in order to achieve certain quality of sound. He is also making his guitars very traditional way, without using any sophisticatedcomputer run machinery. He is being helped by a few well trained associates. The “weakest link” in this guitar making process is attention to tiny cosmetic imperfections. Mr. Yu is working hard on bringing his guitars also to cosmetic perfection. Nevertheless, his guitars as musicalinstruments represent the highest imaginable quality and can very easily compete with guitars made by the most famous luthiers in the world.If we compare the prices of all these high end guitars, then every logically thinking and honest person will admit that Mr.Yu’s guitars offerexceptional opportunity to every true guitar lover who is unable to spend $8000 - $20000+ for a guitar. Regards,VictorHere is a review from a new owner of El Vito Concert JS (sold 06/06/2014)Hello Victor,
Hey it’s been about two weeks since I received the new El Vito Spruce Jacaranda guitar. I wanted to give myself some time to play it before I wrote you back to tell you what I think: I've had a change to play it and even compare it to my other existing guitars. I'm afraid to say this one beats all of them in rich color and sustain. And it’s so much fun to play. A little bit about myself: I'm 51 and have been playing since my teens. I also had a few guitar teachers over the years including one who was a concert classical guitarist who was very strict. I have also had a chance to own and sample a number of classical guitars over the years including a couple high end guitars so with that I offer my opinion of this guitar. The trebles are crisp sweet and bell-like without sounding thin. The mids and basses are all very rich and full but never overpowering. The sustain and overtones just go on and on. I don't believe there is any guitar that does it all and each good guitar has its particular strengths. But man this guitar has a bunch of winning points. This is a keeper! It is lightweight and looks even better in person than in the pictures. The action is extremely easy and comfortable. And to think this guitar is new and in my experience, new guitars improve as you play them - I wonder how this guitar can get any better! LOL! Thanks Victor!
Regards,
FMJ Quick delivery. Excellent communication.Very happy! Buyer: ( ) Sold 05/05/2015 LUTHIER MADE STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT Js CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH JACARANDA B/S (#201325487642)
Dear victork1962,Hi Victor, I wanted to thank you for the very quick delivery of the Concert Js. It arrived within 5 minutes of the exact time you mentioned in your email. It is truly a beautiful instrument, and it is as you described it: easy to play, excellent volume, and gorgeous tone. I especially like the clarity of the individual notes – they sustain well and don’t get muffled or covered in a woofy bass sound. Of course, I like the brilliance of spruce and the jacaranda back and sides are ‘stunning’. There is a depth, or body to the sound compared to my other guitars. It is difficult to find the words, but it sounds elegant, refined, or regal. Knowing the nature of spruce, it will just get better sounding. In any case, I have felt comfortable dealing with you. You even tried to talk me down from the Convert Js because I am not a concert guitarist. This developed my trust in you; you aren’t after a sale, but are actually attempting to supply the right and perfect guitar for an individual. I probably would have been happy with your CAS2-S, as you originally suggested, but I wanted the best guitar I could afford. I am the minister at our small church and I am also the ‘minister of music’ as well. I accompany my singing with the guitar so I thought the congregation deserved the finest music I could offer. This instrument will help to serve that purpose nicely. You are providing a wonderful service and product. I am glad you are able to pursue your dreams as you bring joy to your clients, and I wish you much success and happiness on your journey. Patrick Jolly 05/08/15 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Message from a buyer of El Vito Concert JC guitar sold on 05/05/2105Victor,Words cannot describe how wonderful this guitar is !!! The sound is tonal heaven, and it is unbelievably loud !!! It is so beautifully made !!! This is by far the best sounding guitar that I have ever owned !!! It is a keeper !!! Thanks for the deal !!! -Phil-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Message from the owner of first ever sold El Vito Concert RS guitar (s.n.0000)Hello Victor, April 24th, 2015I hope your family and you are all doing well.I was looking at guitars on eBay and saw some of the guitars you are selling so I decided to send you an update on the one you sold me about a year ago.When I first got it I was very happy with it but I have to tell you about a month ago I was playing it for a few hours straight and I noticed a change in the trebles. It is hard to describe but the trebles seem to have developed a sweetness that exceeds all the other guitars I have or have ever owned. The guitar also has a harmonious sound that is very smooth. Again it is very hard to describe but it has improved. And the low e bass has become stronger. I have heard that guitars open up in the first year or two but since this guitar already sounded so good I didn't expect it to change any. I am so glad I bought it. I expect it will mature a little more over time. I have researched online about spruce tops changing over time. Although there are debates about it, most luthiers and guitarist say that spruce tops take about a year or two to open up. They also say that there will be some dramatic shifts and then mostly gradual changes as it is played in. Thanks again for the great service and business you run. This had made me think when I look for my next guitar I will need to look you up. LOL!Take care,FelixDear victork1962,Victor, April 15th, 2015I want to give you some more good feedback. I had one of my friends who plays classical guitar and is a real guitar enthusiast over with me yesterday. He has a Jon Price lattice braced guitar that he got a few years ago for ~$10K. It is cedar top, has a very nice arched back and is really a nice (both aesthetically and soundwise) instrument. I had not seen his guitar close up until yesterday. We both played both guitars (his Jon Price and my El Vito Jc). Similar to other lattice braced guitars, his guitar certainly felt heavier than El Vito Jc. We both agreed that the sound of El Vito Jc and his Jon Price had a lot of similarity both in tone and in brightness. His guitar sounded a bit louder and richer, and had slightly more clear note separations to my ears. Their sustains felt otherwise very similar to me. I thought you were interested in the comparison. He commented that in his mind El Vito easily competes with guitars that he had come across in the price range $5K-$8K. He was advocating that I should consider replacing the tuners with a more advanced type of tuner that he had got on his guitar. For me, those kind of things are secondary, although they could influence the accuracy of the instrument.Thanks for the guitar and for making it available to a lot of folks. I will be in touch.
-MG- mitrag-0Very knowledgable, honest and transparent, and forthcoming seller Buyer: ( )
During past month
Sold 03/28/2015 LUTHIER MADE STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT Jc CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH JACARANDA B/S (#191539826754)Victor,I have been playing your Jc guitar for the past two days. First of all, let me give both Youlong Yu and you big kudos for this creation; for its superb playability, tone brightness and warmth, and excellent sustain both in the base notes and overtones (some people may not like this but I do).
My database for the guitars that I have touched and played is very limited (Ramirez R1, R2 and NE; Matsuoka M-100, Francisco Navarro Student Concert and Grand Concert, Yulong Guo Soloist) and does not include any fancy or very high-end guitars. For whatever it is worth: I would certainly put El Vito Jc playability and responsiveness above all these guitars. Comparing the sound of different guitars is a matter of taste (if you knew German, the term "geschmak sache" is the best descriptor). To mine, and without any hesitations, I would put the tone color of El Vito above those of Ramirezes, Matsuoka, Guo and Francisco Navarro Concert series. El Vito Jc is certainly a valuable asset, not only at its current price range, but even competing with guitars out there at 3X this nominal value. I am sure you know that well and you have got the same feedback from many other buyers.For the past two days, I have played on your guitar Prelude No. 1 from Lobos, Recuerdos de la Alhambra, Caprico Arabe and El Testament de Amelia. Each time I play these on this guitar, I hear and discover tones that are kind of new. The sonorities on the 5th and 4th strings in Prelude no.1 come out so beautiful on this guitar. The sound of this guitar make even someone like me sound good! It simply fills the space. I can't wait to find someone to play this guitar for me and I become the audience.I can get back to you with more feedback on this guitar as I become more familiar with it. For now, a big THANK-YOU. I wish I could try your Js as well but am unsure if that could work for you in any form. I am unable to keep both guitars.-MGPS: Needless to spell it out that I am keeping this guitar.
Feedback from a buyer who on March 28th,2015 oredered Teruaki Nakade C15 and El Vito Concert JS guitars, and tested them against each other. He decided to keep far more expensive Nakade guitar:Victor,I just want you to know that I am extremely happy with my purchase and with the Nakade guitar. It has been an absolute pleasure to deal with a person who is completely, 100% transparent and sees his client's happiness as a number one priority.I was very hesitant to spend several thousand $ on E-bay.It has been a pleasure to deal with a person who absolutely does NOT pressure his clients, gives very ample time to test the guitar, and provides guidance during the whole time.It is also a pleasure to deal with someone who is not only knowledgeable in how the guitar should sound (when I asked for trebles to my play La Catedral, you showed me the perfect guitar), but also knowledgeable in guitar construction, hardware and setup.From my experiences with you I realized that you live by a motto: "if someone does not love the guitar I don't want them to buy it". You really want your customer 100% happy with their guitar purchase. Keep up the great job!!!I have been playing guitar for a while and has been playing many guitars at: GSP in San Francisco, stores in Philadelphia, Boston and Seattle. The guitars that you sell and praise completely deserve your description.El Vito guitar was outstanding, top level craftsmanship, beautiful spruce top and Jacaranda. I can tell you without hesitation that El Vito has the best playability that I have ever seen. Minimal action, zero buzz. Easily a $5000-$8000+ instrument. There is ABSOLUTELY NO FACTORY guitar that can even closely match EL Vito. Giambattista, Alhambra, Asturias and Cervantes don't come close. This is really Kenny Hill Signature / Kohno level guitar.Thank you very much, if I am ever in GA, I would love to stop by and shake your hand. It’s a pleasure to deal with a professional.DPFeedback from the owner of El Vito Concert RC guitar, sold on March 15th,2015Victor,
Been playing your new creation. Wow, can't put it down!! But on to my thoughts, as I'm sure you are always interested in feedback.Playability: Top notch. You really have a winner here. Your setup is right on target! At least for now I have absolutely no need to change anything. The string spacing and neck size (thin) has an outstanding feel. I just fell right into it like I'd been playing it for years. The high tension strings I really like. Much easier to be accurate with timing, but also a bit more sensitive to finger placement, so I'll have to clean up my act in that regard. Very, very responsive, and sings with a very light touch. My previous guitar was fairly dead in the high range, so I became accustomed to much more emphasis on the melody notes. I'll have to learn to back that off a bit, but it's a good thing, and makes playing chords feel more balanced physically. No unwanted overtones, probably best described with the phrase "good note separation", with just the right amount of sustain for my taste. But that's getting into my next topic...Tone: Well, now I know what you meant when you said "they have a sound all their own." It's unique. In comparison to the Matano, I would classify it as the sound of a new instrument, as opposed to one that has aged for 40 years. The Matano had a more mature sound, but to produce that sound it had to be played very aggressively, and that may be the reason for it having been made with a very high action. The El Vito, on the other hand, while having a somewhat less mature sound does not, as you put it, "require you to muscle a tone out of it". The light touch with the right hand is much more forgiving for those of us with less technical experience.Quality of the build: Top notch! 99.9% flawless. Beautiful instrument! Although by nature I am a perfectionist, I have learned over the years that perfection is an elusive thing. In fact, I don't think it actually exists. What matters is that you at least try to attain perfection in all that you do, and no one (with any intelligence) will ask any more of you, regardless of your skill.Totally happy!!! You called it, and so it is. A big thank you my friend, this one's a keeper!!!
JoeHonest & accurate ebayer, great El Vito guitars at great price's,AAA+ Buyer: ( ) During past month
sold 03/16/2015 LUTHIER MADE "EL VITO" CONCERT FC - ALL SOLID WOODS FLAMENCO GUITAR WITH CUTAWAY (#201309379266)
One of eBays best, fast shipping, simply awesome customer service A+++ Buyer: ( ) During past month
02/19/2015 LUTHIER MADE STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT Js CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH JACARANDA B/S (#191511228435)
Outstanding jazz design! Exceptional service! Buyer: ( ) During past month
01/23/204 HAND MADE ALL SOLID WOODS "EL VITO" CAS2-S CLASSICAL GUITAR with HARD CASE (#201270997855)
Wow! What an incredible guitar! Quick shipping! Thank you Victor! Buyer: ( ) During past month
01/13/2015 LUTHIER MADE "EL VITO" CONCERT F - POWERFUL AND PUNCHY FLAMENCO GUITAR WITH HSC (#191450706018)
Dear victork1962,Victor, I just want to tell you how happy I am with this El Vito guitar! The sound and quality it top notch. It is perfect in every way, including playability. This will be one that I keep for the rest of my life. Thank you so much!-Phil- phil204011********************************************************************************************************************************************************************** AAAA+AbsolutelyRemarkableInstrument IncredibleSoundQualityBestSellerEver Buyer: ( ) During past month
01/13/15 LUTHIER MADE STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT Jc CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH JACARANDA B/S (#201260867960)
Dear victork1962,Victor,
I want to thank you for making this the absolute best eBay purchase I've ever made. This guitar has a tone and sustain that far exceeds everything I expected or have ever had the pleasure to play. Words cannot describe it...one must hear for themselves to fully appreciate. I never heard or played a $10,000 instrument but its impossible to imagine there could be any improvement. The quality is top-notch right down to the tuners. They are simply gorgeous and actually a joy to turn. Waiting for the strings to stretch is now going to be a pleasure because I get to turn em. The rosette is beautiful. The neck shape and your setup of the string action is incredible. It fingers so much better than my other classical it is like night and day. My playing and practice time will definitely increase. Your communication, knowledge, advice, and packaging for shipment are second to none. This will definitely not be the last purchase I make from you. You will be selling me a Flamenco guitar in the future as soon as I replenish my wallet! My 3 year old Yorkshire Terrior is my most prized possession. This guitar has taken over 2nd place. She cannot be dethroned by any guitar or person! I know you'll understand. The day will come when the right person plays or buys one of these fine instruments. The word will spread through the proper channels and you will be able to charge what these guitars are actually worth. That will be several thousand dollars more. I wish you the best of luck and will grab another before that day arrives. Thanks again,
Todd- 717rooster24 ***************************************************************************************************************************************************************AAAAA.i strongly recommend victor as an honest knowledgable guitar man. Buyer: ( ) During past month
12/28/14 LUTHIER MADE STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT Jc CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH JACARANDA B/S (#191450703491)
Dear victork1962,Hi Victor. I have decided to keep the guitar.You are right when you say that it is better than khono.I had a 1980 no.10 some time ago and was not that impressed. I know a very respected guitar dealer here who also thinks that most Spanish guitars are mostly made in a couple of factories in spain and leading names have their labels applied and sell them for what the buyers will pay for a famous name. one has to pay well over $10,000 to get a luthier made guitar from spain these days. i think I will be very happy with the el vito as it improves with playing.Thank you again.you deserve to do well. Regards Ted- tedhill154c4 *****************************************************************************************************************************************************************This is a great guitar with a spectacular sound. Will do business again. Buyer: ( ) During past month
12/31/14 "EL VITO" STANDARD FP - HAND MADE ALL SOLID WOODS FLAMENCO GUITAR w. EBONY PEGS (#191443074630)
"I Love This Guitar....Better Than Expected" Plays like Butter Buyer: ( ) During past month
12/13/14 LUTHIER MADE "EL VITO" CONCERT F - POWERFUL FLAMENCO GUITAR - AT REDUCED PRICE (#191413357674) it' is a great guitar. sorry for the late feedback, unexpected problem in my pc Buyer: ( ) During past month HAND MADE SOLID TOP "EL VITO" F2N CLASSICAL FLAMENCO GUITAR WITH HARD FOAM CASE (#191307324053)
This guitar has Extremely clear tones.Projects very well.Try and save Thousands! Buyer: ( ) Past 1 month LUTHIER MADE MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT Rc CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH HARD CASE (#201164088720)
Great dealer! Offers wise advice and excellent prices. Buyer: ( ) Past 1 month LUTHIER MADE MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT Rc CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH HARD CASE (#201149198659)
Dear Victor:Sold 09/05/2014 The El Vito Concert RC guitar arrived this week in perfect shape. I would say it lives up to your billing entirely--perhaps exceeding anything you led me to expect. This is a stunning instrument. It is in the same class, though only slightly bettered by my old 1972 Kohno #30. Its voice is different--stronger, less mellow, but precise and lovely in its own way. The action is just wonderful. Every classical guitar student should have the chance to work on an instrument that responds to ones touch so readily and accurately. In hindsight, the price of the El Vito seems very reasonable, even amazingly low. You were right when you said I would not want to think of returning this instrument after I had the chance to work with it. Thanks for pointing me in a right direction. Good wishes, Robert Weigl (Alexandria, VA) (201145854896) sold August 16th 2014Dear Victor,I have received the specification by email on 26 Aug. Thank you so much. I have also received my new baby on 27 Aug. It is as what you describe "incredible". The more I look at it the more I love it. The wood is so beautiful. It is a piece of art. This guitar is really singing. The 1E is ringing with metallic sound and so clear and sweet. It has good power and sustain is really incredible. I am so happy with this guitar. It is what I am looking for and you save me thousands $$$$$. You thank me for my trust. I thank you for your kindness and honesty. I wish you well and I am looking forward for you next level "EL VITO" guitar.Best regards William For my money, sound close to Smallman, yet 5 times less expensive. A rare find. Buyer: ( ) Aug-19-14 14:44 LUTHIER MADE STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT Js CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH JACARANDA B/S (#201145852214)Victor,Got the Guitar. Wow! I played every single classical in Guitar Center in Boston and walked out totally discouraged. Even the Kremona Coco wood. I have two Martin D-41's and have played all over the Country for years but never owned a good classical guitar. Wow. No substitute for the Brazillian Rosewood, Engleman or Adarondack Spruce and Lattice Bracing. I heard that $22,000 guitar that Smallman or whatever his name is makes and was hoping for something close to that sound. And this guitar has it. Wow. Thos transparent haunting highs with the overtones without losing the base or midrange. Tough to do. I will send you a sound clip on an unaltered recording that you can put on your website. People should hear this guitar. And unlike alot of the videos, this one sound better in person. Enough of the "well it's all subjective". World class gorgeous will always be world class gorgeous. And this has the magic in spades. Amazing. Bob
honest , a good man and expert guitar seller!! Buyer: ( ) Aug-19-14 11:33 LUTHIER MADE MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT Rc CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH HARD CASE (#191278639952)
Crisp clear sweet highs.Rich full bass.Responsive and sings for days.Quality A+ Buyer: ( ) Jul-29-14 20:53 MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT Rs HAND MADE CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH LATTICE BRACING (#191248508104)
here is the feedback from a Swiss buyer, who purchased "El Vito" Concert Rs serial#001/2014 for his daughter:Victor, Here is the feedback on the guitar. Katherine tried it out for several days and we could tell when she played the same tune on the new and old one that the sound of her old guitar was quite fuzzy and imprecise. Yesterday she showed it to her guitar teacher and he loved it so much that he took it over for half an hour to give his lesson with it ! Apparently it is in par with his 5000 even his 7000 franc guitar. But not as good as his 14'000 franc guitar. I thought you would be happy to hear that :) Best,Luiggi A terrific guitar for a excellent price. I highly recommend "El Vito" guitars. Buyer: ( ) Aug-05-14 08:25 HAND MADE SOLID SPRUCE TOP "EL VITO" C17CE-S CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH CUTAWAY (#191249341082)
Exceptional very trustworthy seller. High quality guitar with Duende. fast ship Buyer: ( ) Jun-26-14 11:28 HAND MADE ALL SOLID "El VITO” MASTER SERIES F1/2013 CLASSICALl/FLAMENCO GUITAR (#191198109317)
Great guitar and great service and communication! Highly recommended seller! Buyer: ( ) May-31-14 13:12 HAND MADE SOLID SPRUCE TOP "EL VITO" C17CE-S CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH CUTAWAY (#201096236185)
Honest Ebayer! Great guitar. Great communication. Thank you! Buyer: ( ) Apr-13-14 14:16 POWERFUL "EL VITO" CSM4-S CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH SMALLMAN BRACING & HARD CASE (#201064876301)
"El Vito" guitar are an outstanding value, and Victor is a joy to deal with. A+ Buyer: ( ) Mar-23-14 17:39 "EL VITO" CAS2-S HAND MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL GUITAR with Hard Case (#201046938666)
Vito Ninivaggi owns 2 “fantastic” Cordoba C10 guitars, SP and CD (also made in China). Why has he decided to look for another guitar, purchase “EL Vito” CAS1 model and keep it? Moreover, 2 weeks later he purchased “El Vito” CSM model. What has he discovered in these unknown “El Vito” guitars?Here is what he says:My best purchase ever on EBay. When Victor tells you guitar will sing, it does. Buyer: ( ) Nov-27-13 06:12 "EL VITO" CAS1-S HAND MADE ALL SOLID WOOD CLASSICAL GUITAR with Hard Foam Case (#200980886598)Victor, the guitar arrived today and I had to tell you straight away that it just sings and is everything you said it would be. I will leave feedback on E-Bay, of course. You are a very rare human being in today's world. It was delightful just talking with you.You have put a smile on the heart of an old man. After all these years to finally get a guitar that I could afford with "that" sweet sound.I will heartily recommend you whenever I get the opportunity. Vito Ninivaggi
Here is what others say:This seller really knows classical guitars. He helped me select the best guitar Buyer: ( ) Nov-30-13 09:17 "EL VITO" C17S HAND MADE SOLID SPRUCE TOP CLASSICAL GUITAR with Hard Foam Case (#200980886597)
Excellent transaction.Considerate and attentive seller.A+++++ Buyer: ( ) Oct-29-13 17:35 "EL VITO" F1N HAND MADE ALL SOLID WOOD CLASSICAL FLAMENCO GUITAR with Hard Case (#200975447080)
This seller is the best , totally honest and it's been my best experience. Buyer: ( ) Oct-30-13 10:39 "EL VITO" A1-ST SOLID SPRUCE TOP ACOUSTIC GUITAR with CUTAWAY (#200973428190)
Brilliant, balanced sound, wonderful instrument, excellent workmanship! Buyer: ( ) Nov-11-13 01:23 "EL VITO" F1 HAND MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL FLAMENCO GUITAR WITH HARD CASE (#200963840898) US $1,250.00Best Offer Price was Accepted Fine, rich, strong and balanced sound over all strings, a joy to play! Buyer: ( ) Nov-11-13 01:15 "EL VITO" F1N HAND MADE ALL SOLID WOOD CLASSICAL FLAMENCO GUITAR with Hard Case (#200963842576) US $1,250.00Best Offer Price was Accepted
Here is what I say:All “El Vito” guitars are excellent alternative for any player looking for a high quality instrument at affordable price. They are hand made by skilled luthiers and only because these luthiers live and work in China, these guitars offer such a great value. If exactly the same guitars were made in Japan or Spain their prices would have be much higher, simply because of a significant difference in cost of labor.All “El Vito” guitars are inspected and set up at my workshop in Alpharetta,GA. They are ready to be played right away. They not only have a luxurious look, but also due to their construction (lattice bracing, thin soundboards, high grade woods) offer an exceptional responsiveness and tonality. With my set-up they are also very comfortable to play. There is no need for driving a string into the fingerboard with the left hand or muscle the strings with the right hand to make them sound. They will help any student to reach a desired level of guitar mastery the same way as custom made by US luthiers or high grade Spanish made guitars.All of these guitars have undergone weekly Tone-Rite treatment, which made them 2 times louder and produce even better sound than before (just brand new). Hence, in one package, you can get all benefits of brand new guitar with all benefits of a guitar already played for years and therefore fully opened. Thanks to their construction, lattice bracing and high grade woods they have exceptional tonality and response. All of which combined with low action makes them very easy to play.You wouldn’t do me a favor by buying one of these guitars. You would do a favor to yourself.Victor KowalczykReturnsIf you are not happy with your purchase you may return the guitar for a refund of a purchase price of a guitar. The cost of shipping both ways will not be refunded.All you need to do is:1. Notify me within 48 hours days after delivery2. Pack guitar the same way I do it, using the same box and materials3. Ship it back to me no later than 72 hours after delivery. Another words I expect this “trail” period to occur within +/- 3 days. Naturally if you expect to receive a full refund, guitar has to be returned in the same condition as I ship it to you. Victor
Description
| Condition: | New: A brand-new, unused, unopened, undamaged item in its original packaging (where packaging is applicable). Packaging should be the same as what is found in a retail store, unless the item is handmade or was packaged by the manufacturer in non-retail packaging, such as an unprinted box or plastic bag. See the seller's listing for full details. See all condition definitions- opens in a new window or tab ... Read moreabout the condition | Brand: | El Vito |
| Country/Region of Manufacture: | China | MPN: | 005/2014 |
| UPC: | Does not apply |
Please read my 3 days return policy at the bottom of the page.If you'd like to see pictures of over 500 classical & flamenco guitars that I've sold in the past, please visit "Victor's Guitar Gallery" on Facebook“El Vito” CSM2-S We can call this guitar a “New Old Stock”. It was made in 2013, but since that time it was stored in its case. Only 2 units of this particular model have ever been made. In terms of response, tonality, note clarity & separation, this guitar matches any high end guitar you can imagine. Acoustically it doesn’t have enough volume to call it a Grand Concert Guitar, but has enough volume to be used in small venues. Since it has L. R. Baggs “Anthem" SL CL (for nylon string guitars) pickup system on board it can be amplified. It plays super easy.If you'd like to see El Vito Concert guitars "in action" please find Youtube Channel "Felix Marin Jr" and listen to his original compositions played on El Vito Concert RL-S, El Vito Concert JS and El Vito Concert BM guitars.Specifications:Guitar Top: Super thin (1.8 – 1.9 mm) AAA German Spruce with Concentrated Lattice BracingSide: Solid Indian Rosewood (90 mm width)Arched Back: Double-Laminated Indian RosewoodBody Bind: Indian Rosewood/Maple Neck: Solid Honduran Mahogany with 2-Way Trust Rod and black carbon fiber stripeFingerboard, Bridge and Armrest: EbonyNut width: 52mmString Scale: 650mmTuning machines: Der Jung with Black ButtonsHeadstock & Logo Designed by Victor K.Nut & Saddle: Bone String: Savarez 540JFinish: GlossElectronics: L.R.Baggs Anthem SL CLCurrent Action: 3.30 mm under E6 & 2.80 mm under E1Guitar will be shipped brand new Archtop Hard Shell case, which is somewhat oversized for regular classical guitars, but can accommodate the thickness of this guitar.Here is what already owners of El Vito Concert guitars say:
09/05/2016
Hey Victor - hope all is super with you.
I was hesitant to order your Concert BM Maple guitar, as I enjoy your Brazillian Rosewood model so much. I now see why your professional endorser does so many arrangements with it. A bit crisper in the highs, yet still rich, full and "pearly", tons of overtones, without losing much in the lows at all. The low action setup you did is perfect for my picking style. It's a very different and unique sound that I absolutely love. Haven't been able to put the thing down since it arrived. Nick is thin and true as usual - Nice touch on the pearl inlay headstock too - The best, Bob P.S. I tried to pick up a cheap $600 guitar at Guitar Center to keep at my summer place, but returned it. I have been spoiled with your level of refinement on these guitars!
Bob
(201575419756) sold 05/15/2016Great guitar for the money. Excellent balance, projection and sustain. Beautiful trebles and strong bass. Very resonant with overtones. I put a Tone Rite on it to help her open up. Upped my playing time to over two hours a day because of how beautiful it sounds and how easy playing it is. Intonation seems perfect. My guitar instructor was impressed with it. Working on Prelude 1 by Villa Lobos and loving it. Excellent intermediate player guitar, don t be scared off by it being made in China. Wish I could play the higher level, bet it is awesome. Will send a audio recording later.David
El Vito Concert BM sold 03/10/2016Hey Victor,In all honesty these guitars are underpriced when compared to a lot of other big name brands or luthier built made to order guitars. I don't have to tell you because you know this business way more than I do. Like you I have seen the same guitars with these designs and woods made by luthiers in Germany, England, or Australia going from 6000.00 to 9000.00. I spent a few hours yesterday and today doing the 3 attached recordings. "Horses Running Free" is a song I composed over twenty years ago partly in my head while driving to work. I was an aircraft mechanic then LOL. I don't know why this type of song came to me. I actually can hear an orchestra playing along with it. Sounds kind of cinematic?
Anyway I was able to keep it in my memory until I got home to find it on my guitar. I didn't know how to write music so I had to rely on memory. I have never recorded it before. This is the first time.
I used the new El Vito Maple guitar for the lead and rhythm. I arpeggio second rhythm is the El Vito JS. I have dedicated this song to you because it makes me picture wild horses running free across rolling hills. And I think of how resilient you are and that you are able to keep moving even with the toughest of circumstances.
Crystal City is also an old song. The Bach piece I have done many times. But I do it because guitarists want to hear classical so I try to record and see how it sounds as a purely classical guitar recording.
There are a couple things I noticed about this particular guitar. One is the deep bass it has - which I think is unlike a maple backed guitar. This guy - your luthier did not fall into the trap of making a maple guitar which lacks low end. In fact, he somehow created it with very deep bass - the bass is full of power. You hear it in the rhythm and even lead. This by itself was quite amazing. I also love the clarity/transparency across the midrange. For lead it does wonderful because it is punchy. I could go on and on - this guitar sound very different from my rosewood guitars - different great qualities and is fun to explore what it can do. Felix
sold 09/22/2015Dear victork1962,So, he picked up the package at the post office today...he opened it and said I should see his smile- like a kid at Christmas!
- holldocke--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feeback & message regarding El Vito Concert MRC sold on 09/30/2015
Victor..., sounds& feels beautiful!! Muchas gracias! Hume hum_au2014-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear victork1962,Hello Victor,
I thank you again for your excellent service, super-fast delivery and I wanted to comment on my new beautiful 'El Vito' Concert JS, it is an exquisite guitar, I needed some time to let the strings settle in to properly evaluate it, it plays like 'butter', great neck, and has a very nice tone, sustain and volume. It is such a thrill to play it, a delicious experience. Thank you for offering these beautifully hand-made instruments at such a great price. I highly recommend you to others. My best, Ed- jazzyeddy(07/25/2015) Message from Phil, already owner of El Vito Concert F and El Vito Concert JC guitars, who decided to purchase the last El Vito Concert JS guitar.Victor,Words cannot describe how beautiful and sweet sounding this guitar is. The combination of the Engelmann spruce and the jacaranda produces such a heavenly tone! The build quality is absolutely superb. I just dropped the action by a 1/2 mm and it plays like butter. I plan on making years of music with it. Thank you for your great service!-PhilMy response:Phil,Thanks for the message.You have to consider yourself lucky.Just yesterday I received the message from Mr. Yu that he still didn't get Brazilian Rosewood from his suppliers (hence couldn't make my ordered guitars) and it is possible that this model will no longer be made. Another option is that he will charge me for them much more than before.VictorHere is the letter from Felix Marin (07/20/2015)Hello Victor,
Hope your family and you are well. Just wanted to say hello and share a couple thoughts with you.
The other day I did a blind test with my son. He used to take classical guitar lessons from the same concert classical guitarist I used to take
lessons from. I took lessons for much longer but my son didn't continue pursuing classical guitar although he still plays now and then. He is
in college studying computer programming.
Anyway I asked him to listen to me play the exact same piece of music, first on one guitar and then on the other. I had him listen across the room without looking at which guitar I was playing. I told him one was my new el Vito JS and the other is a Hanika with several years
of play-in which, new, runs about $3200.00. But I didn't tell him which was which. Remember the El Vito is still very new.
All 3 times I played the same thing on them one after another he picked the El Vito. He thought he was picking the Hanika because he knows
the Hanika is a powerful and rich sounding guitar. But when I told him he had picked the El Vito he looked surprised. He told me that although the Hanika sounded like it was slightly louder with a little more bass, the El Vito sounded clearer and the trebles sounded richer and he said it just sounded better.
I'm sure this is no surprise to you. I know the El Vito is much higher because it is still brand new and it wasn't really a fair comparison.
The bass is the last thing that develops as guitar opens up. But it still won. Also a lattice braced guitar is very different than a fan-braced
guitar so maybe the comparison is somewhat off? But I should also clarify is that the neck profile is flatter on the El Vito making it more easy to play with lower action while having no fret buzz. You can say this but it's different when you are comparing it with another high quality guitar and see/feel the difference.
The other thing I'll have to mention is I can tune this guitar to alternate turnings such as open G, open D, and even a low C and the guitar still sings. It's very difficult to describe sound but it wasn't until I got these two el Vito guitars that I came to understand that the most important qualities in a guitar are first ease of playing when you consider the amount of hours you may spend practicing on it. And next that a guitar sounds clear and balanced across fretboard so that it records well and sounds well when it is heard from a distance.
I am sure you are familiar with all this since you have handled a lot of high end guitars. I would like to hear your opinion or insights you have gained from working with so many guitars. I hope I don't come across as over enthusiastic about these guitars. I don't mean to overstate these guitars as I am sure there are many great guitars but it is just that I can't believe how good they sound in my recordings and how harmonious they sound. I have several classical guitars of varying qualities and there are things I like in each of them. But the two el Vito's sing with a harmony I haven't heard in other guitars. I wonder what is it about them that allows them to have such a great balance?
My other guitars are fan braced and I think maybe the fan braced guitars tend to have more depth inside and more low end whereas the
lattice braced guitars tend to have more clarity, balance, and the sound seems to exist more at the top than inside? Both I have are real
eauties. But again these el Vito guitars are to me at a much high lever. These guitars might be even better than you realize?
Please tell me what you think about my observations and how do they compare to some of the top guitars you have handled. Are they close to or do some of these super high end guitars sound much different? I'm sure some of the guitars you have that sale for severalthousands are wonderful. But I imagine sometimes it is the history and name that brings up their value.
Hey there is one more thing I want to mention. And I'll share this just with you. I like my el Vito JS slightly more than my RS but they are
very close. They have some difference but both share similar great qualities. And they both show that someone really knows what they are
doing. I can't believe it is luck or coincidence that both these guitars are so great.
Okay I rambled on and on. Please tell me your thoughts.
Here is a review from a new owner of El Vito Concert JS (sold 06/06/2014)Hello Victor,
Hey it’s been about two weeks since I received the new El Vito Spruce Jacaranda guitar. I wanted to give myself some time to play it before I wrote you back to tell you what I think: I've had a change to play it and even compare it to my other existing guitars. I'm afraid to say this one beats all of them in rich color and sustain. And it’s so much fun to play. A little bit about myself: I'm 51 and have been playing since my teens. I also had a few guitar teachers over the years including one who was a concert classical guitarist who was very strict. I have also had a chance to own and sample a number of classical guitars over the years including a couple high end guitars so with that I offer my opinion of this guitar. The trebles are crisp sweet and bell-like without sounding thin. The mids and basses are all very rich and full but never overpowering. The sustain and overtones just go on and on. I don't believe there is any guitar that does it all and each good guitar has its particular strengths. But man this guitar has a bunch of winning points. This is a keeper! It is lightweight and looks even better in person than in the pictures. The action is extremely easy and comfortable. And to think this guitar is new and in my experience, new guitars improve as you play them - I wonder how this guitar can get any better! LOL! Thanks Victor!
Regards,
FMJ
Dear victork1962,Hi Victor, I wanted to thank you for the very quick delivery of the Concert Js. It arrived within 5 minutes of the exact time you mentioned in your email. It is truly a beautiful instrument, and it is as you described it: easy to play, excellent volume, and gorgeous tone. I especially like the clarity of the individual notes – they sustain well and don’t get muffled or covered in a woofy bass sound. Of course, I like the brilliance of spruce and the jacaranda back and sides are ‘stunning’. There is a depth, or body to the sound compared to my other guitars. It is difficult to find the words, but it sounds elegant, refined, or regal. Knowing the nature of spruce, it will just get better sounding. In any case, I have felt comfortable dealing with you. You even tried to talk me down from the Convert Js because I am not a concert guitarist. This developed my trust in you; you aren’t after a sale, but are actually attempting to supply the right and perfect guitar for an individual. I probably would have been happy with your CAS2-S, as you originally suggested, but I wanted the best guitar I could afford. I am the minister at our small church and I am also the ‘minister of music’ as well. I accompany my singing with the guitar so I thought the congregation deserved the finest music I could offer. This instrument will help to serve that purpose nicely. You are providing a wonderful service and product. I am glad you are able to pursue your dreams as you bring joy to your clients, and I wish you much success and happiness on your journey. Patrick Jolly 05/08/15 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Message from a buyer of El Vito Concert JC guitar sold on 05/05/2105Victor,Words cannot describe how wonderful this guitar is !!! The sound is tonal heaven, and it is unbelievably loud !!! It is so beautifully made !!! This is by far the best sounding guitar that I have ever owned !!! It is a keeper !!! Thanks for the deal !!! -Phil-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Message from the owner of first ever sold El Vito Concert RS guitar (s.n.0000)Hello Victor, April 24th, 2015I hope your family and you are all doing well.I was looking at guitars on eBay and saw some of the guitars you are selling so I decided to send you an update on the one you sold me about a year ago.When I first got it I was very happy with it but I have to tell you about a month ago I was playing it for a few hours straight and I noticed a change in the trebles. It is hard to describe but the trebles seem to have developed a sweetness that exceeds all the other guitars I have or have ever owned. The guitar also has a harmonious sound that is very smooth. Again it is very hard to describe but it has improved. And the low e bass has become stronger. I have heard that guitars open up in the first year or two but since this guitar already sounded so good I didn't expect it to change any. I am so glad I bought it. I expect it will mature a little more over time. I have researched online about spruce tops changing over time. Although there are debates about it, most luthiers and guitarist say that spruce tops take about a year or two to open up. They also say that there will be some dramatic shifts and then mostly gradual changes as it is played in. Thanks again for the great service and business you run. This had made me think when I look for my next guitar I will need to look you up. LOL!Take care,FelixDear victork1962,Victor, April 15th, 2015I want to give you some more good feedback. I had one of my friends who plays classical guitar and is a real guitar enthusiast over with me yesterday. He has a Jon Price lattice braced guitar that he got a few years ago for ~$10K. It is cedar top, has a very nice arched back and is really a nice (both aesthetically and soundwise) instrument. I had not seen his guitar close up until yesterday. We both played both guitars (his Jon Price and my El Vito Jc). Similar to other lattice braced guitars, his guitar certainly felt heavier than El Vito Jc. We both agreed that the sound of El Vito Jc and his Jon Price had a lot of similarity both in tone and in brightness. His guitar sounded a bit louder and richer, and had slightly more clear note separations to my ears. Their sustains felt otherwise very similar to me. I thought you were interested in the comparison. He commented that in his mind El Vito easily competes with guitars that he had come across in the price range $5K-$8K. He was advocating that I should consider replacing the tuners with a more advanced type of tuner that he had got on his guitar. For me, those kind of things are secondary, although they could influence the accuracy of the instrument.Thanks for the guitar and for making it available to a lot of folks. I will be in touch.
-MG- mitrag-0
Feedback from a buyer who on March 28th,2015 oredered Teruaki Nakade C15 and El Vito Concert JS guitars, and tested them against each other. He decided to keep far more expensive Nakade guitar:Victor,I just want you to know that I am extremely happy with my purchase and with the Nakade guitar. It has been an absolute pleasure to deal with a person who is completely, 100% transparent and sees his client's happiness as a number one priority.I was very hesitant to spend several thousand $ on E-bay.It has been a pleasure to deal with a person who absolutely does NOT pressure his clients, gives very ample time to test the guitar, and provides guidance during the whole time.It is also a pleasure to deal with someone who is not only knowledgeable in how the guitar should sound (when I asked for trebles to my play La Catedral, you showed me the perfect guitar), but also knowledgeable in guitar construction, hardware and setup.From my experiences with you I realized that you live by a motto: "if someone does not love the guitar I don't want them to buy it". You really want your customer 100% happy with their guitar purchase. Keep up the great job!!!I have been playing guitar for a while and has been playing many guitars at: GSP in San Francisco, stores in Philadelphia, Boston and Seattle. The guitars that you sell and praise completely deserve your description.El Vito guitar was outstanding, top level craftsmanship, beautiful spruce top and Jacaranda. I can tell you without hesitation that El Vito has the best playability that I have ever seen. Minimal action, zero buzz. Easily a $5000-$8000+ instrument. There is ABSOLUTELY NO FACTORY guitar that can even closely match EL Vito. Giambattista, Alhambra, Asturias and Cervantes don't come close. This is really Kenny Hill Signature / Kohno level guitar.Thank you very much, if I am ever in GA, I would love to stop by and shake your hand. It’s a pleasure to deal with a professional.DPFeedback from the owner of El Vito Concert RC guitar, sold on March 15th,2015Victor,
Been playing your new creation. Wow, can't put it down!! But on to my thoughts, as I'm sure you are always interested in feedback.Playability: Top notch. You really have a winner here. Your setup is right on target! At least for now I have absolutely no need to change anything. The string spacing and neck size (thin) has an outstanding feel. I just fell right into it like I'd been playing it for years. The high tension strings I really like. Much easier to be accurate with timing, but also a bit more sensitive to finger placement, so I'll have to clean up my act in that regard. Very, very responsive, and sings with a very light touch. My previous guitar was fairly dead in the high range, so I became accustomed to much more emphasis on the melody notes. I'll have to learn to back that off a bit, but it's a good thing, and makes playing chords feel more balanced physically. No unwanted overtones, probably best described with the phrase "good note separation", with just the right amount of sustain for my taste. But that's getting into my next topic...Tone: Well, now I know what you meant when you said "they have a sound all their own." It's unique. In comparison to the Matano, I would classify it as the sound of a new instrument, as opposed to one that has aged for 40 years. The Matano had a more mature sound, but to produce that sound it had to be played very aggressively, and that may be the reason for it having been made with a very high action. The El Vito, on the other hand, while having a somewhat less mature sound does not, as you put it, "require you to muscle a tone out of it". The light touch with the right hand is much more forgiving for those of us with less technical experience.Quality of the build: Top notch! 99.9% flawless. Beautiful instrument! Although by nature I am a perfectionist, I have learned over the years that perfection is an elusive thing. In fact, I don't think it actually exists. What matters is that you at least try to attain perfection in all that you do, and no one (with any intelligence) will ask any more of you, regardless of your skill.Totally happy!!! You called it, and so it is. A big thank you my friend, this one's a keeper!!!
Joe
Dear victork1962,Victor, I just want to tell you how happy I am with this El Vito guitar! The sound and quality it top notch. It is perfect in every way, including playability. This will be one that I keep for the rest of my life. Thank you so much!-Phil- phil204011**********************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Dear victork1962,Victor,
I want to thank you for making this the absolute best eBay purchase I've ever made. This guitar has a tone and sustain that far exceeds everything I expected or have ever had the pleasure to play. Words cannot describe it...one must hear for themselves to fully appreciate. I never heard or played a $10,000 instrument but its impossible to imagine there could be any improvement. The quality is top-notch right down to the tuners. They are simply gorgeous and actually a joy to turn. Waiting for the strings to stretch is now going to be a pleasure because I get to turn em. The rosette is beautiful. The neck shape and your setup of the string action is incredible. It fingers so much better than my other classical it is like night and day. My playing and practice time will definitely increase. Your communication, knowledge, advice, and packaging for shipment are second to none. This will definitely not be the last purchase I make from you. You will be selling me a Flamenco guitar in the future as soon as I replenish my wallet! My 3 year old Yorkshire Terrior is my most prized possession. This guitar has taken over 2nd place. She cannot be dethroned by any guitar or person! I know you'll understand. The day will come when the right person plays or buys one of these fine instruments. The word will spread through the proper channels and you will be able to charge what these guitars are actually worth. That will be several thousand dollars more. I wish you the best of luck and will grab another before that day arrives. Thanks again,
Todd- 717rooster24 ***************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Dear victork1962,Hi Victor. I have decided to keep the guitar.You are right when you say that it is better than khono.I had a 1980 no.10 some time ago and was not that impressed. I know a very respected guitar dealer here who also thinks that most Spanish guitars are mostly made in a couple of factories in spain and leading names have their labels applied and sell them for what the buyers will pay for a famous name. one has to pay well over $10,000 to get a luthier made guitar from spain these days. i think I will be very happy with the el vito as it improves with playing.Thank you again.you deserve to do well. Regards Ted- tedhill154c4 *****************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Dear Victor:Sold 09/05/2014 The El Vito Concert RC guitar arrived this week in perfect shape. I would say it lives up to your billing entirely--perhaps exceeding anything you led me to expect. This is a stunning instrument. It is in the same class, though only slightly bettered by my old 1972 Kohno #30. Its voice is different--stronger, less mellow, but precise and lovely in its own way. The action is just wonderful. Every classical guitar student should have the chance to work on an instrument that responds to ones touch so readily and accurately. In hindsight, the price of the El Vito seems very reasonable, even amazingly low. You were right when you said I would not want to think of returning this instrument after I had the chance to work with it. Thanks for pointing me in a right direction. Good wishes, Robert Weigl (Alexandria, VA) (201145854896) sold August 16th 2014Dear Victor,I have received the specification by email on 26 Aug. Thank you so much. I have also received my new baby on 27 Aug. It is as what you describe "incredible". The more I look at it the more I love it. The wood is so beautiful. It is a piece of art. This guitar is really singing. The 1E is ringing with metallic sound and so clear and sweet. It has good power and sustain is really incredible. I am so happy with this guitar. It is what I am looking for and you save me thousands $$$$$. You thank me for my trust. I thank you for your kindness and honesty. I wish you well and I am looking forward for you next level "EL VITO" guitar.Best regards William
here is the feedback from a Swiss buyer, who purchased "El Vito" Concert Rs serial#001/2014 for his daughter:Victor, Here is the feedback on the guitar. Katherine tried it out for several days and we could tell when she played the same tune on the new and old one that the sound of her old guitar was quite fuzzy and imprecise. Yesterday she showed it to her guitar teacher and he loved it so much that he took it over for half an hour to give his lesson with it ! Apparently it is in par with his 5000 even his 7000 franc guitar. But not as good as his 14'000 franc guitar. I thought you would be happy to hear that :) Best,Luiggi
Vito Ninivaggi owns 2 “fantastic” Cordoba C10 guitars, SP and CD (also made in China). Why has he decided to look for another guitar, purchase “EL Vito” CAS1 model and keep it? Moreover, 2 weeks later he purchased “El Vito” CSM model. What has he discovered in these unknown “El Vito” guitars?Here is what he says:
Here is what others say:
Here is what I say:All “El Vito” guitars are excellent alternative for any player looking for a high quality instrument at affordable price. They are hand made by skilled luthiers and only because these luthiers live and work in China, these guitars offer such a great value. If exactly the same guitars were made in Japan or Spain their prices would have be much higher, simply because of a significant difference in cost of labor.All “El Vito” guitars are inspected and set up at my workshop in Alpharetta,GA. They are ready to be played right away. They not only have a luxurious look, but also due to their construction (lattice bracing, thin soundboards, high grade woods) offer an exceptional responsiveness and tonality. With my set-up they are also very comfortable to play. There is no need for driving a string into the fingerboard with the left hand or muscle the strings with the right hand to make them sound. They will help any student to reach a desired level of guitar mastery the same way as custom made by US luthiers or high grade Spanish made guitars.All of these guitars have undergone weekly Tone-Rite treatment, which made them 2 times louder and produce even better sound than before (just brand new). Hence, in one package, you can get all benefits of brand new guitar with all benefits of a guitar already played for years and therefore fully opened. Thanks to their construction, lattice bracing and high grade woods they have exceptional tonality and response. All of which combined with low action makes them very easy to play.You wouldn’t do me a favor by buying one of these guitars. You would do a favor to yourself.Victor Kowalczyk
The RLS came yesterday in great shape, just before the weather turned back rainy and cold. Beginning of the week was "20* F above normal" said the weather person. As soon as the guitar was delivered Wed. noon, it began to drop and now it's "12* below normal!!" Your prompt shipping saved the baby from harm here at the end of the week, Victor -- thanks for the loving care of your instruments to make it happen -- really makes your customers trust you again and again!!This guitar is magnificent!! It's nice and loud but still (given the lattice bracing) can be played quietly and has great note separation/definition across the fingerboard!!! If I take good care of it, it should only grow in depth and resonance over the years. Speaking of the fingerboard, it is the finest I've owned (or played, for that matter) on a classical instrument!!! I don't know if you lowered the action, knowing my preference, but it's extraordinary!!!!!!!! As I mentioned, practicing for forty years to keep a horizontal picking style -- strictly parallel to the top -- I had zero problem with buzzing at all, anywhere on the neck, even though the action was set quite low. (Me and Segovia, ya know!!! Sorry - I'm a little excited here. But I express in music -- I paint for myself, emotionally, and this instrument is my brush and palette! ) Thank you!!! This could be the ultimate "holy grail" I've been looking for across the decades!!Have good days! Thank you again!! Dave Satre |
| Thank you for being such a great buyer !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | Buyer: | Sold 05/08/2017 | |
| MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT RF-C LUTHIER MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL GUITAR (#192180329903) |
| Unbelievable guitar! Better than everything at guitar center.You need to try one | Buyer: | Sold 04/11/2017 | ||
MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT RL-S LUTHIER MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL GUITAR (#201866385351)
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| Thank you for being such an awesome buyer !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | Buyer: | Sold 03/09/2017 | |
| HEAVENLY "EL VITO" CONCERT JC - LUTHIER MADE, ALL SOLID WOODS, CLASSICAL GUITAR (#192121914375) | -- |
Thank you for being such an awesome buyer !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT BM - LUTHIER MADE, ALL SOLID WOODS, CLASSICAL GUITAR (#201692616527)
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| Thank you for being such a wonderful buyer !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | Buyer: Sold09/23/2016 | ||
| MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT RF-S LUTHIER MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL GUITAR (#191968416805) |
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Hey Victor - hope all is super with you.
I was hesitant to order your Concert BM Maple guitar, as I enjoy your Brazillian Rosewood model so much. I now see why your professional endorser does so many arrangements with it. A bit crisper in the highs, yet still rich, full and "pearly", tons of overtones, without losing much in the lows at all. The low action setup you did is perfect for my picking style. It's a very different and unique sound that I absolutely love. Haven't been able to put the thing down since it arrived. Nick is thin and true as usual - Nice touch on the pearl inlay headstock too - The best, Bob P.S. I tried to pick up a cheap $600 guitar at Guitar Center to keep at my summer place, but returned it. I have been spoiled with your level of refinement on these guitars!
Bob
| Everything including communication with seller went so very well. | Buyer: | ||
| MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT RS - LUTHIER MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL GUITAR (#191908343441) |
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| Got the El Vito FN. Best guitar I bought for the money. I'm impressed. Thanks. | Buyer: | ||
| "EL VITO" F2N - TERRIFIC FLAMENCO GUITAR WITH SOLID SPRUCE TOP AND ROSEWOOD B/S (#201523328132) | Sold 03/14/2016 |
Anyway I was able to keep it in my memory until I got home to find it on my guitar. I didn't know how to write music so I had to rely on memory. I have never recorded it before. This is the first time.
I used the new El Vito Maple guitar for the lead and rhythm. I arpeggio second rhythm is the El Vito JS. I have dedicated this song to you because it makes me picture wild horses running free across rolling hills. And I think of how resilient you are and that you are able to keep moving even with the toughest of circumstances.
Crystal City is also an old song. The Bach piece I have done many times. But I do it because guitarists want to hear classical so I try to record and see how it sounds as a purely classical guitar recording.
There are a couple things I noticed about this particular guitar. One is the deep bass it has - which I think is unlike a maple backed guitar. This guy - your luthier did not fall into the trap of making a maple guitar which lacks low end. In fact, he somehow created it with very deep bass - the bass is full of power. You hear it in the rhythm and even lead. This by itself was quite amazing. I also love the clarity/transparency across the midrange. For lead it does wonderful because it is punchy. I could go on and on - this guitar sound very different from my rosewood guitars - different great qualities and is fun to explore what it can do. Felix
| Excellent guitar, bargain price, as always! Many thanks Victor! | Buyer: | Sold 11/24/2015 | |
| MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT RC - LUTHIER MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL GUITAR (#201455976969) Hi Victor, Just to give you some proper feedback on the El Vito Concert RC. It really is, as you say, a magnificent guitar for the price, indeed at any price. It easily blows away the equivalent Ramirez or Alhambra you can get at this price point. I can't wait to try your other models if they are better than this! Regards Curt |
- holldocke--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feeback & message regarding El Vito Concert MRC sold on 09/30/2015
| A beautiful guitar,seller very helpful and patient with my many questions | Buyer: | ||
| STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT MRC - LUTHIER MADE, ALL SOLID WOODS, CLASSICAL GUITAR (#201433206953) |
Dear victork1962,
| Super-fast delivery, gorgeous-looking,sounding guitar! Awesome, very pleased. | Buyer: | Sold 07/20/2015 | |
| STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT JS - LUTHIER MADE, ALL SOLID WOODS, CLASSICAL GUITAR (#191610703002) |
I thank you again for your excellent service, super-fast delivery and I wanted to comment on my new beautiful 'El Vito' Concert JS, it is an exquisite guitar, I needed some time to let the strings settle in to properly evaluate it, it plays like 'butter', great neck, and has a very nice tone, sustain and volume. It is such a thrill to play it, a delicious experience. Thank you for offering these beautifully hand-made instruments at such a great price. I highly recommend you to others. My best, Ed- jazzyeddy(07/25/2015) Message from Phil, already owner of El Vito Concert F and El Vito Concert JC guitars, who decided to purchase the last El Vito Concert JS guitar.Victor,Words cannot describe how beautiful and sweet sounding this guitar is. The combination of the Engelmann spruce and the jacaranda produces such a heavenly tone! The build quality is absolutely superb. I just dropped the action by a 1/2 mm and it plays like butter. I plan on making years of music with it. Thank you for your great service!-PhilMy response:Phil,Thanks for the message.You have to consider yourself lucky.Just yesterday I received the message from Mr. Yu that he still didn't get Brazilian Rosewood from his suppliers (hence couldn't make my ordered guitars) and it is possible that this model will no longer be made. Another option is that he will charge me for them much more than before.VictorHere is the letter from Felix Marin (07/20/2015)Hello Victor,
Hope your family and you are well. Just wanted to say hello and share a couple thoughts with you.
The other day I did a blind test with my son. He used to take classical guitar lessons from the same concert classical guitarist I used to take
lessons from. I took lessons for much longer but my son didn't continue pursuing classical guitar although he still plays now and then. He is
in college studying computer programming.
Anyway I asked him to listen to me play the exact same piece of music, first on one guitar and then on the other. I had him listen across the room without looking at which guitar I was playing. I told him one was my new el Vito JS and the other is a Hanika with several years
of play-in which, new, runs about $3200.00. But I didn't tell him which was which. Remember the El Vito is still very new.
All 3 times I played the same thing on them one after another he picked the El Vito. He thought he was picking the Hanika because he knows
the Hanika is a powerful and rich sounding guitar. But when I told him he had picked the El Vito he looked surprised. He told me that although the Hanika sounded like it was slightly louder with a little more bass, the El Vito sounded clearer and the trebles sounded richer and he said it just sounded better.
I'm sure this is no surprise to you. I know the El Vito is much higher because it is still brand new and it wasn't really a fair comparison.
The bass is the last thing that develops as guitar opens up. But it still won. Also a lattice braced guitar is very different than a fan-braced
guitar so maybe the comparison is somewhat off? But I should also clarify is that the neck profile is flatter on the El Vito making it more easy to play with lower action while having no fret buzz. You can say this but it's different when you are comparing it with another high quality guitar and see/feel the difference.
The other thing I'll have to mention is I can tune this guitar to alternate turnings such as open G, open D, and even a low C and the guitar still sings. It's very difficult to describe sound but it wasn't until I got these two el Vito guitars that I came to understand that the most important qualities in a guitar are first ease of playing when you consider the amount of hours you may spend practicing on it. And next that a guitar sounds clear and balanced across fretboard so that it records well and sounds well when it is heard from a distance.
I am sure you are familiar with all this since you have handled a lot of high end guitars. I would like to hear your opinion or insights you have gained from working with so many guitars. I hope I don't come across as over enthusiastic about these guitars. I don't mean to overstate these guitars as I am sure there are many great guitars but it is just that I can't believe how good they sound in my recordings and how harmonious they sound. I have several classical guitars of varying qualities and there are things I like in each of them. But the two el Vito's sing with a harmony I haven't heard in other guitars. I wonder what is it about them that allows them to have such a great balance?
My other guitars are fan braced and I think maybe the fan braced guitars tend to have more depth inside and more low end whereas the
lattice braced guitars tend to have more clarity, balance, and the sound seems to exist more at the top than inside? Both I have are real
eauties. But again these el Vito guitars are to me at a much high lever. These guitars might be even better than you realize?
Please tell me what you think about my observations and how do they compare to some of the top guitars you have handled. Are they close to or do some of these super high end guitars sound much different? I'm sure some of the guitars you have that sale for severalthousands are wonderful. But I imagine sometimes it is the history and name that brings up their value.
Hey there is one more thing I want to mention. And I'll share this just with you. I like my el Vito JS slightly more than my RS but they are
very close. They have some difference but both share similar great qualities. And they both show that someone really knows what they are
doing. I can't believe it is luck or coincidence that both these guitars are so great.
Okay I rambled on and on. Please tell me your thoughts.
Regards,Felixmy responseFelix,Naturally your “discoveries” regarding El Vito guitars are not a surprise to me. It is true that I do have quite unique experience with classical guitars. Before I became a professional guitar seller on E-bay (February 2013)I had owned or experienced (purchased and rather quickly returned to Guitar Center and similar US dealers) several guitars priced $500 -$4000. I was simply trying to find a decent quality guitar at affordable price. As many of my current clients, I also had to learn “the hard way”that it is actually very difficult (if possible at all) to achieve goal. In the meantime I started to buy (repair, upgrade & sell) used vintageJapanese guitars. As professional guitar seller and importer of Japanese & Chinese made guitars I have already handled over 400 guitars, priced from $100 to $5000. Naturally I have learned a lot along the way and now feel entitled to share my unique knowledge with everyone “who wants to listen”. In terms of the sound properties, the contrast between Japanese “vinties” and modern era main stream “junkies” is simply stunning. TheseJapanese guitars are nothing but excellent copies of Spanish made guitars, very often surpassing the quality of original ones. Modern era Japanese made guitars are still absolutely superb instruments. They however became more and more expensive in recent decades. Currentlyhigh end guitars made by well-known Japanese luthiers are only 20-30% less expensive than guitars made by leading American and Europeanluthiers. In great majority of cases, major Japanese guitar “factories” have most of their models made in China, while only the highest endmodels are still made in Japan. The only known to me exception is Asturias Gakki. As the result really high end Japanese made guitars are beyond the reach of great majority of guitar enthusiasts. Knowing all of that I started my El Vito guitar project. I have contacted several Chinese guitar distributors and tried their products. Now-daysin China there are hundreds of huge guitar factories producing various quality instruments. But there are also many individual luthier workshops capable of producing very high quality guitars. After I found Mr. Youlong Yu, I have terminated my cooperation with my previousChinese suppliers. The reason was that guitars made by Mr. Yu are from much higher shelf than all other Chinese made guitars that I everexperienced. As you remember well, your opinion about first ever sold in US El Vito Concert RS guitar, was a very important factor inmaking this decision. Mr. Yu is as talented and experienced luthier as was Masaru Kohno. This is the major reason his guitars are of so high quality. He is using wellseasoned high quality woods, which are tested for their tonality before being selected for particular model. He is choosing what kind of bracingwill be the best in order to achieve certain quality of sound. He is also making his guitars very traditional way, without using any sophisticatedcomputer run machinery. He is being helped by a few well trained associates. The “weakest link” in this guitar making process is attention to tiny cosmetic imperfections. Mr. Yu is working hard on bringing his guitars also to cosmetic perfection. Nevertheless, his guitars as musicalinstruments represent the highest imaginable quality and can very easily compete with guitars made by the most famous luthiers in the world.If we compare the prices of all these high end guitars, then every logically thinking and honest person will admit that Mr.Yu’s guitars offerexceptional opportunity to every true guitar lover who is unable to spend $8000 - $20000+ for a guitar. Regards,Victor
Hey it’s been about two weeks since I received the new El Vito Spruce Jacaranda guitar. I wanted to give myself some time to play it before I wrote you back to tell you what I think: I've had a change to play it and even compare it to my other existing guitars. I'm afraid to say this one beats all of them in rich color and sustain. And it’s so much fun to play. A little bit about myself: I'm 51 and have been playing since my teens. I also had a few guitar teachers over the years including one who was a concert classical guitarist who was very strict. I have also had a chance to own and sample a number of classical guitars over the years including a couple high end guitars so with that I offer my opinion of this guitar. The trebles are crisp sweet and bell-like without sounding thin. The mids and basses are all very rich and full but never overpowering. The sustain and overtones just go on and on. I don't believe there is any guitar that does it all and each good guitar has its particular strengths. But man this guitar has a bunch of winning points. This is a keeper! It is lightweight and looks even better in person than in the pictures. The action is extremely easy and comfortable. And to think this guitar is new and in my experience, new guitars improve as you play them - I wonder how this guitar can get any better! LOL! Thanks Victor!
Regards,
FMJ
| Quick delivery. Excellent communication.Very happy! | Buyer: ( ) | Sold 05/05/2015 | |
| LUTHIER MADE STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT Js CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH JACARANDA B/S (#201325487642) |
-MG- mitrag-0
| Very knowledgable, honest and transparent, and forthcoming seller | Buyer: ( ) | During past month Sold 03/28/2015 | |
| LUTHIER MADE STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT Jc CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH JACARANDA B/S (#191539826754)Victor,I have been playing your Jc guitar for the past two days. First of all, let me give both Youlong Yu and you big kudos for this creation; for its superb playability, tone brightness and warmth, and excellent sustain both in the base notes and overtones (some people may not like this but I do). My database for the guitars that I have touched and played is very limited (Ramirez R1, R2 and NE; Matsuoka M-100, Francisco Navarro Student Concert and Grand Concert, Yulong Guo Soloist) and does not include any fancy or very high-end guitars. For whatever it is worth: I would certainly put El Vito Jc playability and responsiveness above all these guitars. Comparing the sound of different guitars is a matter of taste (if you knew German, the term "geschmak sache" is the best descriptor). To mine, and without any hesitations, I would put the tone color of El Vito above those of Ramirezes, Matsuoka, Guo and Francisco Navarro Concert series. El Vito Jc is certainly a valuable asset, not only at its current price range, but even competing with guitars out there at 3X this nominal value. I am sure you know that well and you have got the same feedback from many other buyers.For the past two days, I have played on your guitar Prelude No. 1 from Lobos, Recuerdos de la Alhambra, Caprico Arabe and El Testament de Amelia. Each time I play these on this guitar, I hear and discover tones that are kind of new. The sonorities on the 5th and 4th strings in Prelude no.1 come out so beautiful on this guitar. The sound of this guitar make even someone like me sound good! It simply fills the space. I can't wait to find someone to play this guitar for me and I become the audience.I can get back to you with more feedback on this guitar as I become more familiar with it. For now, a big THANK-YOU. I wish I could try your Js as well but am unsure if that could work for you in any form. I am unable to keep both guitars.-MGPS: Needless to spell it out that I am keeping this guitar. |
Been playing your new creation. Wow, can't put it down!! But on to my thoughts, as I'm sure you are always interested in feedback.Playability: Top notch. You really have a winner here. Your setup is right on target! At least for now I have absolutely no need to change anything. The string spacing and neck size (thin) has an outstanding feel. I just fell right into it like I'd been playing it for years. The high tension strings I really like. Much easier to be accurate with timing, but also a bit more sensitive to finger placement, so I'll have to clean up my act in that regard. Very, very responsive, and sings with a very light touch. My previous guitar was fairly dead in the high range, so I became accustomed to much more emphasis on the melody notes. I'll have to learn to back that off a bit, but it's a good thing, and makes playing chords feel more balanced physically. No unwanted overtones, probably best described with the phrase "good note separation", with just the right amount of sustain for my taste. But that's getting into my next topic...Tone: Well, now I know what you meant when you said "they have a sound all their own." It's unique. In comparison to the Matano, I would classify it as the sound of a new instrument, as opposed to one that has aged for 40 years. The Matano had a more mature sound, but to produce that sound it had to be played very aggressively, and that may be the reason for it having been made with a very high action. The El Vito, on the other hand, while having a somewhat less mature sound does not, as you put it, "require you to muscle a tone out of it". The light touch with the right hand is much more forgiving for those of us with less technical experience.Quality of the build: Top notch! 99.9% flawless. Beautiful instrument! Although by nature I am a perfectionist, I have learned over the years that perfection is an elusive thing. In fact, I don't think it actually exists. What matters is that you at least try to attain perfection in all that you do, and no one (with any intelligence) will ask any more of you, regardless of your skill.Totally happy!!! You called it, and so it is. A big thank you my friend, this one's a keeper!!!
Joe
| Honest & accurate ebayer, great El Vito guitars at great price's,AAA+ | Buyer: ( ) | During past month sold 03/16/2015 | |
| LUTHIER MADE "EL VITO" CONCERT FC - ALL SOLID WOODS FLAMENCO GUITAR WITH CUTAWAY (#201309379266) |
| One of eBays best, fast shipping, simply awesome customer service A+++ | Buyer: ( ) | During past month 02/19/2015 | |
| LUTHIER MADE STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT Js CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH JACARANDA B/S (#191511228435) |
| Outstanding jazz design! Exceptional service! | Buyer: ( ) | During past month 01/23/204 | |
| HAND MADE ALL SOLID WOODS "EL VITO" CAS2-S CLASSICAL GUITAR with HARD CASE (#201270997855) |
| Wow! What an incredible guitar! Quick shipping! Thank you Victor! | Buyer: ( ) | During past month 01/13/2015 | |
| LUTHIER MADE "EL VITO" CONCERT F - POWERFUL AND PUNCHY FLAMENCO GUITAR WITH HSC (#191450706018) |
| AAAA+AbsolutelyRemarkableInstrument IncredibleSoundQualityBestSellerEver | Buyer: ( ) | During past month 01/13/15 | |
| LUTHIER MADE STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT Jc CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH JACARANDA B/S (#201260867960) |
I want to thank you for making this the absolute best eBay purchase I've ever made. This guitar has a tone and sustain that far exceeds everything I expected or have ever had the pleasure to play. Words cannot describe it...one must hear for themselves to fully appreciate. I never heard or played a $10,000 instrument but its impossible to imagine there could be any improvement. The quality is top-notch right down to the tuners. They are simply gorgeous and actually a joy to turn. Waiting for the strings to stretch is now going to be a pleasure because I get to turn em. The rosette is beautiful. The neck shape and your setup of the string action is incredible. It fingers so much better than my other classical it is like night and day. My playing and practice time will definitely increase. Your communication, knowledge, advice, and packaging for shipment are second to none. This will definitely not be the last purchase I make from you. You will be selling me a Flamenco guitar in the future as soon as I replenish my wallet! My 3 year old Yorkshire Terrior is my most prized possession. This guitar has taken over 2nd place. She cannot be dethroned by any guitar or person! I know you'll understand. The day will come when the right person plays or buys one of these fine instruments. The word will spread through the proper channels and you will be able to charge what these guitars are actually worth. That will be several thousand dollars more. I wish you the best of luck and will grab another before that day arrives. Thanks again,
Todd- 717rooster24 ***************************************************************************************************************************************************************
| AAAAA.i strongly recommend victor as an honest knowledgable guitar man. | Buyer: ( ) | During past month 12/28/14 | |
| LUTHIER MADE STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT Jc CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH JACARANDA B/S (#191450703491) |
| This is a great guitar with a spectacular sound. Will do business again. | Buyer: ( ) | During past month 12/31/14 | |
| "EL VITO" STANDARD FP - HAND MADE ALL SOLID WOODS FLAMENCO GUITAR w. EBONY PEGS (#191443074630) |
| "I Love This Guitar....Better Than Expected" Plays like Butter | Buyer: ( ) | During past month 12/13/14 | ||
| LUTHIER MADE "EL VITO" CONCERT F - POWERFUL FLAMENCO GUITAR - AT REDUCED PRICE (#191413357674) | ||||
| it' is a great guitar. sorry for the late feedback, unexpected problem in my pc | Buyer: ( ) | During past month | ||
| HAND MADE SOLID TOP "EL VITO" F2N CLASSICAL FLAMENCO GUITAR WITH HARD FOAM CASE (#191307324053) | ||||
| This guitar has Extremely clear tones.Projects very well.Try and save Thousands! | Buyer: ( ) | Past 1 month | |
| LUTHIER MADE MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT Rc CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH HARD CASE (#201164088720) |
| Great dealer! Offers wise advice and excellent prices. | Buyer: ( ) | Past 1 month | |
| LUTHIER MADE MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT Rc CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH HARD CASE (#201149198659) |
| For my money, sound close to Smallman, yet 5 times less expensive. A rare find. | Buyer: ( ) | Aug-19-14 14:44 | |
| LUTHIER MADE STUNNING "EL VITO" CONCERT Js CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH JACARANDA B/S (#201145852214)Victor,Got the Guitar. Wow! I played every single classical in Guitar Center in Boston and walked out totally discouraged. Even the Kremona Coco wood. I have two Martin D-41's and have played all over the Country for years but never owned a good classical guitar. Wow. No substitute for the Brazillian Rosewood, Engleman or Adarondack Spruce and Lattice Bracing. I heard that $22,000 guitar that Smallman or whatever his name is makes and was hoping for something close to that sound. And this guitar has it. Wow. Thos transparent haunting highs with the overtones without losing the base or midrange. Tough to do. I will send you a sound clip on an unaltered recording that you can put on your website. People should hear this guitar. And unlike alot of the videos, this one sound better in person. Enough of the "well it's all subjective". World class gorgeous will always be world class gorgeous. And this has the magic in spades. Amazing. Bob |
| honest , a good man and expert guitar seller!! | Buyer: ( ) | Aug-19-14 11:33 | |
| LUTHIER MADE MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT Rc CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH HARD CASE (#191278639952) |
| Crisp clear sweet highs.Rich full bass.Responsive and sings for days.Quality A+ | Buyer: ( ) | Jul-29-14 20:53 | |
| MINDBLOWING "EL VITO" CONCERT Rs HAND MADE CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH LATTICE BRACING (#191248508104) |
| A terrific guitar for a excellent price. I highly recommend "El Vito" guitars. | Buyer: ( ) | Aug-05-14 08:25 | |
| HAND MADE SOLID SPRUCE TOP "EL VITO" C17CE-S CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH CUTAWAY (#191249341082) |
| Exceptional very trustworthy seller. High quality guitar with Duende. fast ship | Buyer: ( ) | Jun-26-14 11:28 | |
| HAND MADE ALL SOLID "El VITO” MASTER SERIES F1/2013 CLASSICALl/FLAMENCO GUITAR (#191198109317) |
| Great guitar and great service and communication! Highly recommended seller! | Buyer: ( ) | May-31-14 13:12 | |
| HAND MADE SOLID SPRUCE TOP "EL VITO" C17CE-S CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH CUTAWAY (#201096236185) |
| Honest Ebayer! Great guitar. Great communication. Thank you! | Buyer: ( ) | Apr-13-14 14:16 | |
| POWERFUL "EL VITO" CSM4-S CLASSICAL GUITAR WITH SMALLMAN BRACING & HARD CASE (#201064876301) |
| "El Vito" guitar are an outstanding value, and Victor is a joy to deal with. A+ | Buyer: ( ) | Mar-23-14 17:39 | |
| "EL VITO" CAS2-S HAND MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL GUITAR with Hard Case (#201046938666) |
| My best purchase ever on EBay. When Victor tells you guitar will sing, it does. | Buyer: ( ) | Nov-27-13 06:12 | |
| "EL VITO" CAS1-S HAND MADE ALL SOLID WOOD CLASSICAL GUITAR with Hard Foam Case (#200980886598)Victor, the guitar arrived today and I had to tell you straight away that it just sings and is everything you said it would be. I will leave feedback on E-Bay, of course. You are a very rare human being in today's world. It was delightful just talking with you.You have put a smile on the heart of an old man. After all these years to finally get a guitar that I could afford with "that" sweet sound.I will heartily recommend you whenever I get the opportunity. Vito Ninivaggi |
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| Brilliant, balanced sound, wonderful instrument, excellent workmanship! | Buyer: ( ) | Nov-11-13 01:23 | |
| "EL VITO" F1 HAND MADE ALL SOLID WOODS CLASSICAL FLAMENCO GUITAR WITH HARD CASE (#200963840898) | US $1,250.00Best Offer Price was Accepted | ||
| Fine, rich, strong and balanced sound over all strings, a joy to play! | Buyer: ( ) | Nov-11-13 01:15 | |
| "EL VITO" F1N HAND MADE ALL SOLID WOOD CLASSICAL FLAMENCO GUITAR with Hard Case (#200963842576) | US $1,250.00Best Offer Price was Accepted |
ReturnsIf you are not happy with your purchase you may return the guitar for a refund of a purchase price of a guitar. The cost of shipping both ways will not be refunded.All you need to do is:1. Notify me within 48 hours days after delivery2. Pack guitar the same way I do it, using the same box and materials3. Ship it back to me no later than 72 hours after delivery. Another words I expect this “trail” period to occur within +/- 3 days. Naturally if you expect to receive a full refund, guitar has to be returned in the same condition as I ship it to you. Victor