2018 McAlister L-12 12-Fret – AAA Koa Back & Sides / Bear Claw Engelmann Spruce Top
Exquisite rarity awaits in this stunning 2018 McAlister L-12, a true gem from one of the most respected independent luthiers in modern acoustic guitar making. Roy McAlister’s instruments are notoriously scarce on the market, as he builds them by hand on a custom-order basis with meticulous attention to detail and voicing—qualities that have earned him a devoted following among discerning players and collectors.
McAlister first honed his craft during a pivotal four-year tenure at Santa Cruz Guitar Company (starting in 1992), where he contributed to their renowned R&D efforts and helped shape some of their most iconic models. His time there, combined with over two decades of prior experience as a fine furniture builder, laid the foundation for his own line of instruments, known for exceptional build quality, balanced tone, and vintage-inspired soul.
This particular L-12—a 12-fret design evoking classic pre-war elegance—delivers that sought-after vintage vibe in abundance. It features a breathtaking set of highly figured AAA Hawaiian koa for the back and sides, paired with a striking bear claw Engelmann spruce top that promises clarity, warmth, and remarkable projection. Ebony appointments grace the fretboard and headplate veneer, while the one-piece mahogany neck offers a comfortable 25” scale length, a generous 1-13/16” nut width, and ample 2-5/16” string spacing at the bridge for effortless fingerstyle or flatpicking. Premium Gotoh 510 tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability.
Roy McAlister has long been the luthier of choice for legendary artists including Jackson Browne, David Crosby (whose early encounter with Roy at Santa Cruz sparked a lasting collaboration and friendship), Graham Nash, Chuck Brodsky, Marc Cohn, and others—testament to the intimate, expressive voice his guitars provide on stage and in the studio.
If you’re chasing that elusive blend of old-world charm and contemporary refinement, this McAlister L-12 stands as a masterpiece that’s as rare as it is rewarding.
Demo Video: https://youtu.be/mjZBvEQ8-dc?si=rtrypOybF59oZ8ax
2018 McAlister L-12 12-Fret – AAA Koa Back & Sides / Bear Claw Engelmann Spruce Top
Exquisite rarity awaits in this stunning 2018 McAlister L-12, a true gem from one of the most respected independent luthiers in modern acoustic guitar making. Roy McAlister’s instruments are notoriously scarce on the market, as he builds them by hand on a custom-order basis with meticulous attention to detail and voicing—qualities that have earned him a devoted following among discerning players and collectors.
McAlister first honed his craft during a pivotal four-year tenure at Santa Cruz Guitar Company (starting in 1992), where he contributed to their renowned R&D efforts and helped shape some of their most iconic models. His time there, combined with over two decades of prior experience as a fine furniture builder, laid the foundation for his own line of instruments, known for exceptional build quality, balanced tone, and vintage-inspired soul.
This particular L-12—a 12-fret design evoking classic pre-war elegance—delivers that sought-after vintage vibe in abundance. It features a breathtaking set of highly figured AAA Hawaiian koa for the back and sides, paired with a striking bear claw Engelmann spruce top that promises clarity, warmth, and remarkable projection. Ebony appointments grace the fretboard and headplate veneer, while the one-piece mahogany neck offers a comfortable 25” scale length, a generous 1-13/16” nut width, and ample 2-5/16” string spacing at the bridge for effortless fingerstyle or flatpicking. Premium Gotoh 510 tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability.
Roy McAlister has long been the luthier of choice for legendary artists including Jackson Browne, David Crosby (whose early encounter with Roy at Santa Cruz sparked a lasting collaboration and friendship), Graham Nash, Chuck Brodsky, Marc Cohn, and others—testament to the intimate, expressive voice his guitars provide on stage and in the studio.
If you’re chasing that elusive blend of old-world charm and contemporary refinement, this McAlister L-12 stands as a masterpiece that’s as rare as it is rewarding.
Demo Video: https://youtu.be/mjZBvEQ8-dc?si=rtrypOybF59oZ8ax
