(C2) Agnaldo Luz Cavaquinho, 2015

São Paulo-based Agnaldo Luz is one of Brazil's most in-demand builders, with a waiting list of a couple years for a new instrument, so we're always happy to be able to offer you one you can have right away. Word of warning: they seldom last long here in the shop. This 2015 cavaquinho is of particular historical interest because, according to our research, it's the first cavaquinho Agnaldo made under his own name. It has high-quality Imbuia back and sides and a very tight-grained European spruce top. A clear pickguard has kept the top from getting scratched. The only clear sign of use is on the back of the neck, where the finish is worn in two spots near the headstock. Two thin cracks in the top were professionally repaired before the instrument came to us. In our shop, Adam lowered the saddle (though plenty remains), tweaked the intonation and set it up. This gem of a cavaco has a sweet, clear voice, and miles to go before it sleeps. Top: European Spruce Back & sides: Imbuia Neck: Cedro rosa (cedar) Fingerboard: Ebony Nut: bone Saddle: bone Scale length: 338mm Nut width: 30mm Body depth: 74mm Widest body width: 222mm Finish: shellac Tuners: Waverly Pickup: nodcase Case: AMS har