Kevin Ryan Nightingale Grand Soloist - Bearclaw Sitka Spruce & Honduran Mahogany - NAMM 2025

The Kevin Ryan Nightingale Grand Soloist - Bearclaw Sitka Spruce & Honduran Mahogany is an instrument that stands at the pinnacle of luthiery, a testament to Kevin Ryan’s legendary status in the acoustic guitar world. For decades, Ryan has redefined the possibilities of acoustic tone, pioneering innovations that have influenced an entire generation of builders and players. His designs—renowned for their crystalline articulation, endless sustain, and immersive depth—have been sought after by those who demand not just an instrument, but a sonic masterpiece. This particular Nightingale Grand Soloist, showcased at NAMM 2025, is a shining example of Ryan’s genius, built to the exacting specifications of Matthew Chulka, a connoisseur of fine acoustic guitars and a master of tone.

The heart of this guitar lies in its Bearclaw Sitka Spruce top, a tonewood revered for its unique blend of power and warmth. The striking bearclaw figuring hints at the sonic depth within—crisp highs that shimmer with unparalleled clarity, an articulate midrange that sings with a vocal-like presence, and a bass response that is simultaneously commanding yet controlled. Paired with Honduran Mahogany back and sides, this guitar achieves an incredibly rare tonal balance: an organic, woody sweetness infused with a touch of dry, fundamental punch, making each note feel alive beneath the fingers.

Ryan’s Innovation Suite ensures this instrument is more than just a showcase of premium tonewoods—it is a technological marvel. The EO Bracing, Acoustic Honeycomb, and Titanium Bridge Pins contribute to the guitar’s legendary sustain, allowing notes to bloom with a richness that seems to linger endlessly in the air. The Ryan Ergonomic Bevel with Flutes transforms the playing experience, making this Grand Soloist feel like an extension of the player’s body, effortless and intuitive. The A5 "Racing Stripe" Kerfed Liner enhances structural integrity while maximizing resonance, allowing the full, symphonic voice of the instrument to radiate without constraint.

Visually, this Nightingale is nothing short of breathtaking. The Florentine Cutaway gives it a sleek, aggressive elegance, while the Ebony Binding Theme and Blue Paua Top Purfling offer a touch of regal sophistication. The inlay work is a true celebration of artistry—Dragonfly motifs with Gingko Leaf fret markers dance along the fingerboard, complemented by a Dragonfly Headstock Inlay, creating a thematic unity that speaks of nature’s grace and resilience. The Blue Paua "R" Logo with MOP MicroPearl adds the final touch of refinement, a signature of Ryan’s dedication to aesthetic perfection.

Functionality meets precision with Gotoh Super 510 Black Chrome Machine Heads, adorned with Ebonoid Buttons and an embossed "R" logo, ensuring tuning stability that matches the guitar’s sonic excellence. The Calton Flight Case provides unmatched protection, a necessity for an instrument of this caliber.

With a 25.7” scale length, 1 ¾” nut width, and 2 ¼” bridge spacing, this Nightingale is designed for both technical brilliance and effortless expressiveness. Weighing in at 4 lb 7 oz, it is a lightweight wonder that resonates with a depth and complexity rarely found in even the finest handcrafted guitars. This is not just an instrument; it is a legacy in wood and wire, a collaboration between a master builder and an acoustic guru, a guitar that will inspire for generations to come.

Other specifications include:

Bearclaw Sitka Spruce Top
Honduran Mahogany Back & Sides
Florentine (Sharp) Cutaway
Ebony Binding Theme
Blue Paua Top Purfling
Violin Headstock Purfling
Dragonfly Art Rosette with Blue Paua Purfling
Dragonfly Fingerboard Inlay with Gingko Leaves Fret Markers
Dragonfly Headstock Inlay
Blue Paua R Logo with MOP MicroPearl
Gotoh Super 510 Black Chrome Machine Heads with Ebonoid Buttons and Embossed "R" Logo
Innovation Suite (Ryan Ergonomic Bevel with Flutes, EO Bracing, Acoustic Honeycomb, Ryan Micro Adjustable Truss Rod System, Titanium Bridge Pins and A5 "Racing Stripe" Kerfed Liner)
Calton Flight Case
Showcased at NAMM 2025
25.7" Scale Length
1 3/4" Nut Width
2 1/4" Bridge spacing
4 lb 7 oz
1248

For more information about the Kevin Ryan Nightingale Grand Soloist, please contact us.