Classical Guitars 1999 Ian Kneipp
	Top	Cedar
	Sides & Back	Brazilian rosewood
	Scale	650 mm
	Origin	Australia
	Price	$6,000
	While many Australian guitar makers have been influenced by Greg Smallman, only two, Eugene Philp and Ian Kneipp actually worked with Smallman himself. With Philp's untimely passing it must be said that Ian Kneipp produces the guitars most similar to those of Smallman. Ian's guitars indeed so closely duplicate the sound of a fine Smallman that even the experienced ear would be hard-pressed to tell the difference. This guitar, like all Smallman's is heavier than typical Spanish style instruments, having thick, rigid sides and a carved, arched back designed to reflect the sound rather than absorb it. The top is slightly thinner cedar reinforced with the Smallman style latticed carbon fiber bracing. The result is surely one of the loudest guitars available, with a depth of sound seemingly unparalleled by conventionally constructed instruments. Those seeking maximum volume and depth of tone must seriously consider the fine instruments of Ian Kneipp.