I have an old cedar/mahogany Lowden jumbo and a cedar/rosewood Sobell cittern. I love them both. They are both quite old and I have had no problems with splitting or dinging. Both are very loud and are beautifully balanced -- warm, powerful bass and shimmering, clear trebles. I used to play a cedar top Seagull and still think it is the best guitar for the money, although no guitar with laminated back and sides will have the depth of tone available from a good solid wood instrument. The only guitar I've played on recently that I like better than my Lowden is a Goodall.

My wife also has a jumbo Lowden with a cedar top and mahogany back and sides. It's getting a new neck put on it right now and then she's going to sell it so she can get a slightly smaller one. Hers was badly beat up cosmetically by the previous owner but has a glorious sound. If anyone is looking for a funky looking but great sounding Lowden jumbo for a good price, email me.

John Peekstok