When the worlds of pop megastar Ed Sheeran and master luthier George Lowden collided, the result was always going to be something special. Sheeran, known for his chart-topping hits and intimate acoustic performances, already had a successful line of Martin guitars aimed at beginners. But this collaboration with Lowden Guitars, renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, promised something more refined. The Sheeran by Lowden range, built in Northern Ireland, takes inspiration from Sheeran’s beloved Wee Lowden, a custom gift from Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody. Let’s dive into the S02 model to see what this partnership has produced.
The Sheeran by Lowden S02 guitar, while part of a more accessible range, doesn’t compromise on quality. It features a solid Sitka spruce top, known for its bright and clear tone, paired with five-layer laminated Santos rosewood back and sides. This construction, while differing from fully solid wood Lowdens, offers enhanced durability and stability, especially beneficial for a guitar designed for travel and stage use. The S02, slightly larger than the Wee Lowden, boasts a longer 24-4/5 inch scale length, contributing to a fuller sound. From the first glance, the guitar exudes a sense of understated elegance, prioritizing functionality over excessive ornamentation.
Built for the Road: Design and Construction
The choice of laminated back and sides in the Sheeran by Lowden S02 is a pragmatic one. While solid wood is often preferred for its tonal complexity, lamination offers significant advantages in terms of resilience. Laminated wood is far less susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature, making it an ideal choice for musicians who tour frequently or live in varying climates. This construction choice doesn’t equate to a compromise in quality, but rather a smart design decision for a working musician’s guitar.
Despite the use of laminates, the S02 feels substantial and well-built. Weighing in at a comfortable 4.2 lbs, it sits nicely whether you’re practicing on the couch or performing on stage. The inclusion of a bevelled top edge is a thoughtful touch, enhancing playing comfort, especially during extended sessions. The overall fit and finish are impressive, with meticulous attention to detail evident throughout. The ebony fretboard and bridge are substantial and feel premium, while the frets are cleanly finished. Even the tuners, though simple chrome closed gear, operate smoothly and reliably.
Looking inside the soundhole reveals neat bracing and construction. The Sitka spruce top is supported by Lowden’s A-frame bracing, while the layered rosewood back, owing to its inherent rigidity, requires no bracing. This construction highlights the confidence Lowden has in the stability of the laminated materials. The S02 also comes equipped with the L.R. Baggs Element VTC pickup system, seamlessly integrated with unobtrusive soundhole controls and neatly managed wiring. Access to the truss rod is available at the headstock and via the soundhole, demonstrating practical design considerations.
Ed Sheeran by Lowden S02 side profile showcasing the satin finish and body depth
The Sheeran by Lowden S02 presents a somewhat spartan aesthetic, devoid of elaborate binding or purfling, save for a simple wooden soundhole rosette. However, this minimalist approach underscores its purpose as a working instrument. The satin finish beautifully showcases the natural grain of the Santos rosewood, but the guitar is clearly designed for playing, not just display.
Playability and Sound: Stage and Studio Ready
The immediate impression upon playing the Sheeran by Lowden S02 is its surprising resonance. The vibration of the Sitka spruce top is palpable, extending through the neck. While it may lack some of the ornate features of high-end Lowdens, the S02 prioritizes essential elements like a carefully selected solid top. The spruce top on this model exhibits a straight, tight grain and is voiced to deliver a clear and articulate acoustic tone.
The mahogany neck, while simpler in construction than Lowden’s typical multi-piece designs, features a comfortable slim profile, making it accessible for players of all levels, including beginners. The shorter scale length further enhances playability, particularly for those with smaller hands or those who prefer easier fretting. This combination of neck profile and scale length makes chord work and intricate fingerpicking a breeze.
Acoustically, the S02 delivers a pleasing and balanced tone. The bass response is understandably restrained given its smaller body size, and it won’t project quite like a dreadnought. However, the midrange is where this guitar truly shines, offering a distinctive “quack” that’s reminiscent of classic country and folk tones when played with a moderate attack. It’s a sound that is both articulate and engaging.
Plugged in, the Sheeran by Lowden S02 transforms into a stage-ready instrument. The L.R. Baggs Element VTC pickup system effectively captures the guitar’s acoustic character. Through a 1970s Music Man HD-130 amp, the S02 exhibited ample bass response and clarity across the tonal spectrum. The pickup system avoids sounding overly processed or artificial, maintaining the guitar’s natural acoustic voice when amplified. This makes the S02 a versatile option for live performance, equally suited to solo acoustic sets or band settings.
Close-up of the Sheeran by Lowden S02 body, highlighting the Sitka spruce top and soundhole
The Verdict: A Versatile and Valuable Instrument
The Sheeran by Lowden S02 carves out a compelling niche in the acoustic guitar market. Positioned above models like the Taylor Academy and Little Martin, and below guitars such as the Larrivée P-03, the S02 offers a sweet spot of quality, playability, and value. It’s a guitar that will appeal to a wide range of players, from beginners seeking a quality instrument to seasoned professionals in need of a reliable and stage-worthy workhorse.
Whether you’re looking for a comfortable guitar for songwriting at home, a dependable travel companion, or a stage-ready acoustic-electric for gigging, the Sheeran by Lowden S02 delivers on multiple fronts. With its pleasing acoustic tone, robust build quality, quality materials, and excellent onboard electronics, the S02 is an instrument that offers lasting satisfaction.
SPECS
BODY S (small) body (14-3/4″ lower bout, 4″ deep, 19″ long); solid Sitka spruce top with Lowden A-frame bracing; laminated five-layer Santos rosewood back and sides; ebony bridge; Tusq saddle with 11mm (.43″) string spacing; satin polyurethane finish
NECK 14 fret, 24-4/5″-scale mahogany neck; slim C-shape profile; adjustable truss rod; bolt-on neck joint; ebony fretboard; 1-3/4″ Tusq nut; chrome enclosed gear tuners; satin polyurethane finish
OTHER L.R. Baggs Element VTC electronics; Lowden light (.012–.053) phosphor bronze strings; gig bag
PRICE $1,225 street
MADE IN Ireland
