A bold expression of artistry, craftsmanship, and tone innovation, the Black Stallion embodies the untamed beauty of Hawaiʻi’s landscape — where power meets grace. Built with a Port Orford Cedar soundboard and 5000 year old Bog Oak back and sides, this Signature Series Custom Tenor delivers an extraordinary balance of warmth, clarity, and projection. Every note breathes strength and refinement, just like the stallion that inspired it.

Sound Demo

A Symphony of Contrast and Clarity

The Stallion’s body showcases the dynamic pairing of Port Orford Cedar and 5000 year old Bog Oak, woods separated by thousands of years in origin yet united in sound. Master-grade Cedar brings clarity and brilliance, while Bog Oak adds deep tonal body and visual drama. Maple binding, Black Tahitian Pearl purfling, and a Bog Oak armrest create a perfect frame of contrast and elegance.

Inside, Kanileʻa’s TRU-Reduction and TRU-R Bracing systems deliver exceptional resonance and sustain — letting the tone flow as freely as the stallion itself.

Spirit of the Stallion

At the heart of this design is Craig Lavin’s breathtaking inlay — the Black Stallion in motion, galloping freely across the open plains of Mauna Loa, not far from Kanileʻa’s own reforestation project. The scene symbolizes freedom, endurance, and connection to the ʻāina — a reminder that even as we craft instruments of music, we remain rooted to the land that gives them life.

Craftsmanship Guided by Heritage

From its Maple headplate and Bog Oak logo to the Gold Gotoh Stealth Tuners and UV-cured gloss finish, every detail honors precision and performance. This is more than a custom instrument — it’s a symbol of Kanileʻa’s journey: innovation guided by nature, craftsmanship fueled by heritage, and sound shaped by the heart of Hawaiʻi.

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