About the luthier

Stephen Eden is a British luthier based in Bexhill on Sea, UK. His path into guitar making began in 2004 with evening classes under Stephen Hill, an experience that led to a traditional two year apprenticeship with Pablo Requena. He established his own workshop in 2008 and has since continuously refined his tonal concepts and construction methods.

Eden’s work reflects close study of historical masters including Antonio de Torres, Santos Hernández, Hermann Hauser, and Daniel Friederich. Through his collaboration with Miles Roberts of Kent Guitar Classics, he gained direct access to important original instruments by Friederich and Hauser, deepening his understanding of structural design and tonal control. His guitars are played internationally and are recognised for their clarity, balance, and carefully considered craftsmanship.

About the guitar

This 2026 instrument, No. 228, is Stephen Eden’s interpretation of a Daniel Friederich 1980 model. Built in traditional construction with a cedar top and Indian rosewood back and sides, and finished entirely in French polish, it follows the structural principles associated with the Paris school while remaining a personal reworking rather than a direct copy.

A defining structural element is the use of doubled sides, formed from two full thickness layers, creating a particularly rigid body. This rigidity supports projection, sustain, and tonal focus. The top is conceived for clarity and controlled power, resulting in a voice that is even, centred, and fundamentally strong. The air resonance at G sharp contributes to a compact and clearly organised tonal structure.

The sound is characterised by long sustain, an even response across the registers, and a refined presence of overtones that never obscures the fundamental. The trebles sing with depth and composure, while the basses remain controlled and supportive. The instrument offers substantial dynamic range and remains stable under increased attack, retaining clarity at higher volume. The slightly shorter scale length contributes to a comfortable playing feel, while the overall construction ensures structural solidity and tonal consistency suitable for demanding concert use.

Stephen Eden

Stephen Eden - 2025 - No.224 Grand Concert

Stephen Eden - 2026 "Daniel Friederich 1980" No. 228