Description
Steven Walter 2002 Millennium Classical Guitar — Cedar and Brazilian Rosewood
This pre-owned 2002 Steven Walter Millennium is a handbuilt American concert classical guitar in good condition. It pairs a solid cedar soundboard with Brazilian rosewood (Dalbergia nigra) back and sides — a tonewood combination that has become increasingly rare and difficult to source in the years since this instrument was built. After more than two decades, this guitar has had time to open up acoustically in a way that new instruments simply cannot replicate.
The Millennium Elevated Fingerboard Design
The Millennium concept, originated by luthier Thomas Humphrey, raises the fingerboard above the plane of the soundboard. This allows the bridge to be positioned further back on the top, increasing the vibrating area of the soundboard in front of the bridge and changing the geometry of the guitar's sound production. Steven Walter was a personal friend of Thomas Humphrey and is recognized as one of the foremost builders working in this style. The elevated fingerboard also provides improved left-hand access to the upper positions and a slightly different playing feel that many concert players prefer.
About Steven Walter
Steven Walter is one of a small number of American luthiers who is also an accomplished concert performer. He was a prizewinner at the Guitar Foundation of America International Solo Guitar Competition in 1991, and holds music degrees from Augustana College, the Boston Conservatory, and Florida State University. After years of performing and teaching, he turned to building full-time in the mid-1990s. His guitars are currently built on a 2–3 year wait list, and Brazilian rosewood models carry a significant premium over his standard offerings. A 2002 instrument represents his earlier full-time building years, and guitars from this period are well regarded for their projection, balance, and responsiveness.
Cedar Top with Brazilian Rosewood
Cedar and Brazilian rosewood is a classic pairing in high-end classical guitar construction. Cedar tops respond quickly with a warm, dark fundamental and natural complexity in the overtone structure. Brazilian rosewood contributes density, sustain, and a richness in the lower registers that distinguishes it from Indian rosewood and other alternatives. Together, these tonewoods produce a voice that is immediate and warm under the fingers, with depth and color that reward dynamic playing. On a well-maintained instrument of this age, the tonewoods have had years to season and settle, and the sound continues to mature.
Condition and CITES Documentation
This guitar is pre-owned and in good condition. As with any instrument containing Brazilian rosewood, buyers should be aware that Dalbergia nigra is listed under CITES Appendix I, which restricts international trade. Domestic sale within the United States is permitted for pre-Convention instruments and those with proper documentation. Please contact us for details on the documentation accompanying this guitar.
Professional Setup and Inspection by XGuitars
Every guitar sold through XGuitars — new or pre-owned — receives a hands-on professional setup and thorough inspection. Owner Geoff Ferdón personally inspects and sets up each instrument, checking action height, intonation, neck relief, fret condition, tuning machines, and overall structural integrity. All instruments
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