Fernando A. Jaén is a master luthier based out of Cuenca, Spain. His instruments are a blend of true old-world craftsmanship mixed with the passion and desire to build the most functional and forward-thinking guitar designs possible. To Fernando, function is always the most important part of the design process. As you examine a Jaén guitar, it quickly becomes evident that no detail has been overlooked. Nearly every component of this instrument was conceptualized and crafted by Fernando himself. This is another stunning Jaén Siracusa 16E model we have the privilege of showcasing, and once again, it exceeds all expectations.
The Siracusa 16E is a fully carved, hollow archtop with a 16” lower bout. It features meticulously carved sapele back and sides, a spruce top, and a hard maple neck. The fretboard, bridge, peghead face, pickups, and tailpiece are crafted from premium ebony, while the ziricote pickguard with its hidden carbon core adds a touch of understated elegance. The innovative design extends to the soundhole, placed on the bass side to avoid weakening the top, which is finely carved for optimal resonance. This design not only enhances the guitar’s structural integrity but also makes it a delight to play acoustically, with remarkable volume and clarity.
The electronics are nothing short of exceptional. The Siracusa 16E features custom-wound magnetic pickups by Jaén, offering exceptional clarity and versatility. The neck pickup includes an enhanced single-coil mode (mini switch on the pickguard) and the bridge pickup provides a broad, dynamic tonal palette.
A unique wiring system allows for independent control of the middle position; which includes the outer two coils of each pickup wired in series. This delivers a lively and fat mid-focused position that differs in tone more dramatically than if both pickups were wired in parallel.
The high-quality switches and potentiometers ensure reliability and precision. These pickups, floating on an ebony pickguard, offer tones ranging from warm, clean jazz voicings to dynamic rockabilly twang, and even a crisp, biting bridge sound reminiscent of Chuck Berry‘s ES-350T.
The attention to detail continues with the ebony bridge, which is fully height-adjustable and pre-compensated for exceptional intonation. Reinforced with graphite, the saddle is engineered for maximum stability. The floating tailpiece, with its brass reinforcements, complements the guitar’s sophisticated design while ensuring durability.
Playability is where the Siracusa truly shines. The low action and flawless fretwork make for an effortless playing experience. Harmonics leap off the fretboard with uncanny vibrancy, almost as if the guitar has a life of its own. Whether played acoustically or amplified, this instrument delivers an inspiring musical experience.
The Jaén Siracusa 16E is a masterwork of luthiery, combining aesthetic beauty, cutting-edge functionality, and impeccable craftsmanship. It promises to be a source of endless inspiration for its fortunate owner.
Specifications
Materials
• Wood:
⁃ Carved sapele back and sides, carved spruce top, and hard maple neck.
⁃ Ebony fretboard, peghead face, bridge, pickups, and tailpiece. Ziricote pickguard skin with a carbon core.
⁃ Sapele bindings with fiber and plastic purflings. Stabilized fretboard binding to prevent rotting.
⁃ Maple wood inlays (custom name on peghead).
⁃ Mahogany kerfing, covered with walnut, installed using a proprietary method for strength without added mass.
⁃ Ebony chicken-head knob for the pickup selector.
• Carbon:
⁃ Carbon tuning machine covers with ebony lamination.
⁃ Internal carbon reinforcements in the peghead for tuner attachment.
⁃ Carbon base inside the bridge saddle.
⁃ Hollow ebony bridge feet joined by carbon fiber rods.
⁃ Carbon core in the pickguard beneath its wooden exterior.
⁃ Ebony truss rod cover on a fiberglass base.
• Other Materials:
⁃ Cow bone nut.
• Metal Parts:
⁃ Blacksmith DHP24 stainless steel frets.
⁃ Modified Schertler tuning machines with hidden mechanisms and ebony knobs.
⁃ Aluminum tailpiece bracket with an ebony veneer.
⁃ Blackened steel main pickguard bracket and brass neck bracket.
• Electronics:
⁃ Magnetic pickups: Neck PU with 50 mm, Bridge PU with 52 mm polepiece spread. Neck pickup includes enhanced single-coil mode. Independent volume control for mid pickup.
⁃ Potentiometers by TT Electronics (long life, conductive polymer).
⁃ Switches by NKK (HB/SC) and Grayhill (PU selector).
• Finish: Nitrocellulose (Votteler).
• Strings: Pyramid Maximum Performance D508 (Pure Nickel, 12-52).
• Case: Hiscox Pro II.
Measurements
• Soundbox depth: 73 mm.
• Soundbox size: 16 inches at lower bout.
• Scale length: 25.5” (648 mm).
• Nut width: 1 11/16” (43 mm).
- Frets: Jescar FW47104SS (Stainless Steel)
- Fingerboard Radius: 12"
- Neck profile: Jaén Med C .84“ - .96”
- Weight: 4lbs 10oz
- HSC Included
