2022 McNally S Spruce / Rosewood – £2249

NEW ARRIVAL  Ciaran McNally has a fascinating background – working as a senior craftsman for Lowden guitars and then production manager for Atkin guitars, all before he was 30. Now under his own name he makes a really interesting range of guitars. They’re clearly inspired by the Irish school creating a Celtic vibe, but also with a nod to Americana which is what Atkin specialises in. You could argue it’s the best of both worlds. The S size model is his small body guitar, and with a Spruce top and Indian Rosewood back and sides, it produces a bright, articulate tone with great presence, clarity and sustain, The guitar features an Ebony fingerboard and bridge, Koa body binding, a Celtic inlay on the headstock and 12th fret, and Gotoh 510 tuners. The Mahogany neck feels very comfortable in the left hand, and the action is just right, making the guitar a joy to play. It’s in excellent condition, has a Fishman Matrix Infinity VT pickup fitted, and comes in it’s original Hiscox flight case.