Michael Kennedy 00 - USA 2023

Built by acclaimed Canadian luthier Michael Kennedy, this 00-sized acoustic stands among the most refined examples of modern steel string craftsmanship. Kennedy’s instruments are held in the highest regard by players and collectors for their precision voicing, balance and dynamic response, and this one is a stellar representation of his work.

Handcrafted in 2023 in Kennedy’s Montreal workshop, the guitar reflects his meticulous approach to design and tone. After studying mechanical engineering at Cornell University, Kennedy shifted his focus to lutherie under the renowned Sergei de Jonge in Chelsea, Quebec. Since establishing the Mile End Guitar Coop in Montreal in 2008, he has become one of Canada’s most respected modern builders, known for his intelligent use of tonewoods, flawless build quality and consistently inspiring sound.

The 00 is a rare model in Kennedy’s lineup, combining a compact, intimate body with astonishing projection and tonal complexity. Its Redwood soundboard delivers warmth, immediacy and remarkable sensitivity to touch, while the Myrtle back and sides contribute shimmering overtones and articulate clarity. The result is a lush yet highly responsive voice suited equally to fingerstyle or nuanced flatpicking.

Construction is exceptional, from the C profile mahogany neck with its smooth satin finish to the exquisite East Indian and Philippine Rosewood appointments, Royal Blackwood fingerboard and perfectly executed bindings. The inclusion of a sound port and tornavoz adds depth and projection that make the guitar feel alive in the hands.

Playability is first class, with a comfortable 12 fret neck joint, modern setup geometry and feather light action that makes extended playing effortless. Every element reflects Kennedy’s mastery of tone, resonance and refinement. Instruments of this calibre seldom reach the secondary market, and demand for Kennedy’s builds continues to grow among discerning collectors and professional players worldwide.

Features:

Model: 00

Serial #: 53

Back / Sides: Myrtle

Top: Redwood

Neck: Mahogany (adjustable)

Neck Profile: C

Rosette: East Indian Rosewood, Philippine Rosewood, Maple

Fingerboard: Royal Blackwood

Fingerboard Binding: Royal Blackwood

Fret Markers: Aluminium Tube

Frets to Body: 12

Headplate: Myrtle

Headstock Inlay: Philippine Rosewood truss rod cover, EI Rosewood and Maple

Finish: UV Polyester, Satin Neck

Body Bindings: East Indian Rosewood

Tuners: Gotoh 510 Open Back

Sound Port: Yes

Tornavoz: Yes

Pickguard: None

Body Length: 19"

Upper Bout: 10 ½"

Lower Bout: 14 ¼"

Scale Length: 25.4"

Nut Width: 1.75"

String Spacing: 2.25"

Case: Hardshell (TKL)