Essential Information About the Ortega RCE159-8 Guitar
- 8-string electro-acoustic classical guitar: ideal for extending the range and enriching arrangements.
- Solid top (cedar, depending on the RCE159-8 configuration) for quick response and warm roundness.
- Venetian cutaway: easy access to the high notes for melodic lines and advanced positions.
- Comfort and stability: neck with 2-way truss rod and multi-hole bridge for optimized break angle.
Ortega Performer Series: Classical Tradition and Modern Design
Founded in 1994, Ortega develops instruments inspired by traditional lutherie while integrating modern choices designed for today's musician. The RCE159-8 follows this logic with a "Performer" approach: refined finishes, enhanced playability, and features usually reserved for higher-end models (such as the multi-hole bridge and truss rod), to offer a versatile, reliable guitar ready for the stage.
Who Is This 8-String For?
The Ortega RCE159-8 mainly targets
intermediate to advanced guitarists who want to explore an
8-string classical without sacrificing the comfort of an electro-acoustic. It is particularly suitable for styles requiring an extended range: modern and instrumental music, nylon fingerstyle, solo arrangements, nylon jazz, compositions, as well as repertoires demanding deeper basses or specific tunings.
Sound
With a
solid top (cedar, depending on the version), projection starts quickly, with a warm grain and excellent sensitivity to fingerstyle playing: perfect for nuances and articulation. The
walnut back and sides generally provide a very musical balance, with clear mids and controlled lows, helping maintain definition despite the two extra strings. The
fan bracing reinforces the "classical" character (attack, natural sustain, dynamics), while the
16-hole bridge improves the string break angle at the saddle for a clearer response and easier setup. Plugged in, the integrated electronics (depending on series:
B.Band A1.2 or
Ortega MagusGo-8) deliver a usable signal for stage and recording while preserving the nylon identity.
Recommended Compatible Accessories
To maintain original tension and balance on an 8-string nylon, favor a dedicated
8-string set such as the
Ortega OCTA-8NS (commonly associated reference with this model).
Technical Specifications
Body
- Type: 8-string classical electro-acoustic guitar
- Size: 4/4
- Cutaway: Venetian
- Top: solid cedar (depending on RCE159-8 configuration)
- Back and sides: walnut
- Bracing: fan bracing
- Body depth: 4.02" / 102 mm
- Finish: natural gloss
Neck
- Neck: mahogany
- Joint: Spanish heel
- Truss rod: 2-way
- Number of frets: 21
- Nut width: 2.76" / 70 mm
- Width at 14th fret: 3.07" / 78 mm
- Scale length: 27.17" / 690 mm
- Fingerboard: Tecwood
Hardware
- Bridge: Tecwood
- Bridge type: Ortega 16-hole
- Saddle width: 3.54" / 90 mm
- Tuners: gold finish, pearl buttons
Electronics
- Pickup / preamp system: depending on series B.Band A1.2 or Ortega MagusGo-8 (8-string configuration)
Miscellaneous
- Strings: Ortega OCTA-8NS (8-string set)
- Case: Deluxe included
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