Sergei de Jonge cut his teeth working with Jean Larrivée and Patt Lister in Toronto in the 1970s. The luthier's winding path started off in the classical guitar world before expanding to include steel strings. With the SSS model (Standard Steel String), first designed in 1984, it's easy to see that classical influence. Similar in size to an OM, it's a bit wider and deeper, with a gentler curve to the waist. Sergei describes it as having "a beautiful, rich tone, with excellent sustain," and we'd whole-heartedly agree. This 2005 model has a soundboard of European spruce and back and sides of Brazilian rosewood. A delectable combo, and perfectly utilized on this model, providing incredible sustain and overtone-richness. It's also outfitted with what Sergie calls his Presentation options: pearl on the rosette and purfling, decorative pearl inlay on the headstock and bridge, and an unusual choice of snakewood for both bridge and fretboard, for a look that he describes as "like a jewel". A soundport on the side further expands this guitar's voice and allows the player to better hear themselves.

The main issue to note on this pre-owned guitar is that the French polish finish does show signs of wear/reaction on the back and sides from contact with the player's lap and arm. Otherwise, the structural condition and playability are excellent, and it comes with its original tweed hardshell case.