This Santa Cruz Guitar Co. HT/13 is a slightly custom version of the standard Happy Traum Signature Model. It has all of the features of the standard HT/!3, but instead of Traum’s signature inlaid at the 18th fret, it has the initials of a previous owner. (This is a custom addition that Santa Cruz no longer does on signature models.)
This HT/13 Santa Cruz has an old-growth redwood top, which, when combined with the genuine mahogany back & sides produces a remarkably airy quality to the tone. It also responds immediately to the lightest touch, making it a joy for fingerstyle playing. The deep sides on this model gives it a warmer bass response than you would expect from a guitar of this size, plus the 13-frets-clear layout puts the bridge closer to the center of the active portion of the soundboard, which also aids the tone. This particular model is visually stunning as well, thanks to the rich coloring of the old redwood, bordered with a delicate band of abalone and the wider abalone rosette. Condition is excellent+, almost zero fret wear, just a couple of very light marks to the lacquer. The original hardshell case is equally clean.
The H13 is one of the Santa Cruz Guitar Company’s oldest models and a cult favorite among some very accomplished players. The late Paul Hostetter, who was responsible for SCGC building these deep-bodied 00 size models, signed the label. (The H stands for Paul Hostetter.) Inspired by the Nick Lucas models made by Gibson, it's not only the deep body that makes these special, as they also have 13 frets clear of the body, which places the bridge in the top’s sweet spot. Thanks to the deep sides, the tone is remarkably warm and open while still maintaining the intimate tone of a relatively small guitar (especially by Dreadnought and Jumbo standards).
