This 2026 Collings D2 Q Top SB Custom is a one-of-a-kind prototype that offers a rare look into the company's design process during the development of its 21-style concepts. Finished with a Shade Top, the guitar was built under the direction of head Collings luthier Nully and differs in several key ways from other prototypes produced during that period. Most notably, it features a Q Sitka spruce top rather than Adirondack spruce, paired with custom-voiced scalloped X-bracing developed specifically for this instrument.
Rather than following the straight-braced design found on some of the other 21-style prototypes, this guitar received an individually voiced bracing pattern intended to explore a different tonal direction. As a prototype, it occupies a unique place within the Collings catalog. The combination of its uncommon specifications, documented history, and singular construction makes this D2 unlike any standard production model.
This instrument is in brand new condition and is being offered by Collings on behalf of restringappalachia.org, a 503c non-profit dedicated to getting quality instruments back in the hands of those who lost them due to natural and economic disasters.
