About the luthier

Dennis Tolz is one of the most respected figures in contemporary German guitar making. Based in Kiel, his work builds on the double-top tradition pioneered by Gernot Wagner, whose influence is evident in Tolz's early adoption and personal refinement of the Nomex sandwich top. His instruments combine structural precision with a distinct tonal identity that merges modern projection and clarity with lyrical warmth. Material selection, resonance tuning, and structural innovation are core aspects of his approach. Today, Tolz guitars are played by acclaimed artists such as David Russell, René Izquierdo, Giampaolo Bandini, and Thibaut Garcia. With a waiting list exceeding a decade, his guitars are among the most sought-after in the field.

About the guitar

This 2024 double-top guitar by Dennis Tolz is an exemplary modern concert instrument, distinguished by its clarity, projection, and tonal depth. The top features an outer spruce layer and an inner cedar layer with a Nomex core, supported by a lightweight fan bracing system. The result is a highly responsive voice with excellent separation and sustain, particularly across dynamic extremes. Indian rosewood back and sides provide a broad harmonic foundation, while doubled cypress linings increase both projection and structural integrity. The top is traditionally French-polished with shellac to preserve its acoustic transparency, while the back and sides are finished in polyurethane for durability.

An internal WaveGuide—a carbon fibre tornavoz—lowers the air resonance frequency to just below the low E string. This contributes to a powerful, grounded bass and enhances the overall tonal cohesion of the instrument. The neck profile and setup offer refined playability tailored for long performances, ensuring a fluid tactile experience. This guitar showcases Tolz’s distinctive blend of acoustic engineering and tonal artistry.

Dennis Tolz

Dennis Tolz - 2024 Doubletop