YAMAHA DEBUTS CG171SF AND CGX171SF FLAMENCO GUITARS

—First Flamencos Shatter Quality/Price Barrier—

CG171 Flamenco

BUENA PARK, CA (November 12, 2002)—Traditionally, guitarists interested in a Flamenco guitar had two options: get a good one, or get an affordable one. Inexpensive Flamenco guitars were plentiful, but generally suffered from quality control problems. Yamaha Guitars has unveiled two Flamenco nylon string models: the fully acoustic CG171SF and the electro-acoustic CGX171SF. Both are highly affordable instruments sure to continue Yamaha's heritage of playability, tone, and reliability.

"Yamaha has a long tradition of apprenticeship with the Masters in Spain," notes Joseph Brasler, marketing manager, Yamaha Guitars. "It's the reason we make such fine classical guitars at all price points, from student models to concert Handcrafteds. We have now applied that expertise to a Flamenco model."

Except for the electronics, both guitars are identical. Materials include white Sycamore backs and sides with a solid Spruce top. White Sycamore offers many of the acoustical properties of Cypress, the traditional Flamenco wood, while keeping the guitar's price within easy reach.

The Nato neck and Rosewood fingerboard boast very low action that should be especially appealing to traditional Flamenco players, as well as jazz players looking to expand their sonic horizons. Both instruments feature a bright sound with a strong attack—a voice that should appeal to nylon string players who crave a more defined sound.

"The electrified version is really the only instrument of this quality at this price point," adds Gary Cook, product manager, Yamaha Guitars. "The clarity of these instruments makes them stand out, regardless of the player's application."

Both models are currently available.

For more information on the CG171SF and CGX171SF, write Yamaha Corporation of America, Pro Audio & Combo Division, Guitar Products, P.O. Box 6600, Buena Park, CA 90622; telephone (714) 522-9011; email infostation@yamaha.com; or visit www.yamaha.com/guitars.