Guitares Laramée is a one-person operation based in Quebec, Canada. Known primarily for high-quality classical guitars and guitarmaking kits, François Laramée also builds fine steel-string guitars by custom order.
Francois built this Custom 12-Fret in the summer of 2023 by a customer's request for a 12-fret steel-string Orchestra Model. The top is tempered Adirondack spruce, and the back and sides are East Indian Rosewood. The scale length measures 25-1/2", and the body is 19-1/4" long and 15-1/8" at the lower bout. The depth at the end block is 4". Because of the long scale and traditional OM size, the bridge is positioned closer to the widest part of the top. That placement helps this Laramee produces more bass and power than we typically expect from an OM.
All around, the workmanship on this guitar is impressive—hardwood binding and a matching wood rosette. The tuners are Guyker 21:1 ratio machines that are super prices The neck feels full and round, and the nut width is just a hair wider than 1-3/4" (1.767 on the digital calipers). The guitar plays nicely with low action, and it feels articulate and responsive but also solid and built to last. It was made with a thin, satin finish, and it has been used professionally so it shows some unfortunate top dings and cosmetic wear (see photos). With a pick or fingerstyle, it produces a rich nuanced sound with body, depth, and character. At this price point, it feels like a steal for a custom, hand-built guitar.
The previous owner installed a strap button on the neck heel and K&K Pure Mini pickup under the hood. This 2023 François Laramée Custom 12-Fret includes a hardshell case.