About the luthier

Martin Bretscher is a German guitar maker whose work is defined by precision craftsmanship, material awareness and a clear ethical stance. His professional path began with an apprenticeship as a cabinet maker, where he developed a deep understanding of wood and structural detail. In 2003 he entered formal training as a plucked instrument maker under Armin Hanika and quickly distinguished himself through the clarity and consistency of his work. In 2007 he received his master certificate as well as the Master Craftsman Prize of the Bavarian State Government, acknowledging both technical skill and artistic maturity.

In 2020 Bretscher founded Soul Guitars in Bavaria, a workshop shaped by principles of sustainability, fair sourcing and individuality. His instruments are conceived as complete musical systems in which construction, ergonomics and visual language serve a coherent acoustic goal. Rather than pursuing excess, Bretscher focuses on balance, comfort and reliability, creating guitars that feel intuitive under the hands while offering a refined and controllable sound palette.

About the guitar

This Soul Cut model from 2025 is a lattice braced concert guitar that reflects Martin Bretscher’s contemporary approach to sound and playability. The spruce top is paired with apple wood back and sides and finished in French polish, resulting in a lightweight yet structurally efficient instrument. The lattice construction allows the soundboard to react freely while maintaining control, supporting a direct and immediate tonal response.

In sound the guitar is notably soft, round and pleasant, with an even response across all registers. The balance is consistent from bass to treble, giving each note the same sense of presence and intensity. Tones emerge easily without physical effort and are supported by a clear and stable sustain. The instrument resonates openly and reacts quickly, making fast passages and dynamic changes feel natural and unforced. Despite its modern construction, the sound remains cohesive and calm, offering a refined voice that rewards attentive shaping rather than sheer volume.

Martin Bretscher

Martin Bretscher - 2025 Soul - Cut