A Beginner's Guide to Lowden Guitars

Lowden Guitars have been a favourite among professional musicians for decades. Founded in Ireland in 1974 by luthier George Lowden, the company has built a reputation for producing high-quality, handcrafted acoustic guitars. In this beginner's guide, we'll look closer at Lowden Guitars and what makes them so special.

History of Lowden Guitars

George Lowden was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in 1949. He began building guitars in the mid-1970s and quickly gained a reputation for his remarkable craftsmanship. 

In 1976, he built a guitar for the Irish folk band, The Bothy Band. Word of mouth spread, and soon Lowden Guitars became the go-to instrument for many professional musicians.

Over the years, Lowden has worked with many famous musicians, including Eric Clapton, Pierre Bensusan, and Alex de Grassi. Lowden Guitars have been used on countless recordings and have become synonymous with quality and craftsmanship.

Design and Construction

Lowden Guitars are known for their unique design and construction. The company uses traditional and modern building techniques to create guitars that sound amazing and are built to last.

One of the key features of Lowden Guitars is the use of a unique "fan" bracing system. This system allows the guitar to produce a rich, complex tone while maintaining clarity and balance. It also allows for a greater dynamic range, meaning that the guitar can be played softly and loudly easily.

Lowden Guitars are also known for their beautiful aesthetics. The company uses a variety of exotic woods, including Indian rosewood, African blackwood, and Brazilian rosewood, to create stunning instruments. The attention to detail is apparent in every aspect of the guitar, from the inlays to the binding and rosette.

Types of Lowden Guitars

Lowden Guitars produce a range of acoustic guitars, from small-bodied instruments to large jumbos. Each guitar is handcrafted to the highest standards and designed to suit various playing styles.

The F Series is one of Lowden's most popular lines. These guitars have a full and rich tone and are perfect for fingerstyle playing. They are available in various sizes, from the small-bodied F-23 to the jumbo-sized F-50.

The O Series is another popular line of Lowden Guitars. These instruments have a more traditional sound and are perfect for strumming and flatpicking. They are available in various sizes, from the small-bodied O-22 to the large-bodied O-50.

Lowden Guitars also produce a range of special edition guitars, including the Pierre Bensusan Signature Model and the Alex de Grassi Signature Model. These guitars are designed in collaboration with famous musicians and built to their specifications.

Pricing

Lowden Guitars are not cheap, but they are worth the investment. The company uses only premium materials and the most skilled artisans to produce guitars. Prices range from around £3,000 for an entry-level instrument to over £10,000 for a custom model.

Maintenance

To keep your Lowden Guitar in top condition, it's crucial to take good care of it. The company recommends storing your guitar in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It's also an excellent idea to keep it in a case when not in use to protect it from dust and moisture.

Lowden Guitars should be cleaned regularly with a soft, dry cloth. You can also use a specialised guitar polish to keep the finish looking its best. It's critical to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the wood.

Conclusion

Lowden Guitars are some of the finest acoustic guitars available today. Their unique design and construction, combined with using only the finest materials, make them a favourite among professional musicians. You can't go wrong with a Lowden if you're in the market for a high-quality acoustic guitar.