Players who can't get enough of the pure sustain and ringing clarity of ebony or Brazilian rosewood would do well to consider ziricote, especially one crafted by the masterful hands of Jason Kostal. With unique and instantly recognizable figuring, and a lush tone with a strong bass and sparkling trebles, the Central American tonewood has been appreciated by classical guitarists for some time. It's no surprise that it makes for an excellent small-bodied fingerstylist's guitar, especially paired with a warm and balanced top wood like German spruce.

Jason put two year's worth of development into his 00, and that work certainly shows. This is no demure-sounding couch guitar. Inspired by developments and techniques he learned while crafting his Modified Dreadnoughts and OMs, he adjusted the depth, bracing and overall measurements of his 00 to maximize its tonal output. A slightly deeper body measuring 4.25" doesn't detract from comfort when playing while seated, but results in some serious boosts in bass presence and overall dynamic range. The short-scale length makes this an obvious choice for complex chords, and ensures responsiveness for players with a lighter touch, but with no loss of attack and presence while strumming.