Drew Lowry is an Irish luthier now based in France, where he handcrafts his guitars with the finest tonewoods available. You can see the influence of Irish lutherie in his guitars, but the painstaking perfectionist brings an elegant, modern tone and look of his own. Named for the river that runs through his home village in Northern Ireland, the Braid is a small-bodied, 13-fret model comparable to a 00. The 13th fret join further eases the playing position and also shifts the bridge to a more central location in the lower bout, opening up the bass response. An easier playing guitar couldn't be imagined—the short scale, small body, and C shape neck profile offer up excellent playability and quick response. But limited to fingerstyle, it certainly is not. It is surprisingly warm for cocobolo and Adirondack, with an expansive mid-range. A stronger attack, whether with a pick or nails, draws out pleasing brightness and clarity in the trebles and a commanding bass.

If you're looking for a modern and versatile 00-size guitar with a voice all its own, this Braid may be the one. Ships out in a Visesnut hardshell case.