Manuel Rodriguez Ecología Samba Électro Samba Plano

An Ecología in Samba Plano format

The Manuel Rodriguez Ecología Samba Plano stands out with its extra-thin electro-acoustic body design. It retains the fundamentals of a classical nylon-string guitar while offering ergonomics suited to musicians looking for an instrument that takes up less space against the body. Its Ecología designation is complemented here by an eco-friendly water-based varnish, a defining feature of its finishing.

The design gives prominence to the woods: walnut headstock veneer, maple binding with decorative inlays, and an acacia key and bridge. These elements give the instrument a cohesive visual identity without distracting from its main appeal: combining acoustic craftsmanship with a solid top, a shallow body and built-in electronics.

An electro-acoustic classical guitar for comfortable playing, alone or in a group

This guitar is particularly aimed at intermediate and advanced musicians who want the touch of nylon strings in a more compact format. Beginners may also find it to be a versatile instrument, especially if they prioritise the comfort of an extra-thin body. The 48 mm nut width provides a narrower neck than that of many traditional classical guitars, while the slightly radiused key offers a different feel beneath the fingers.

Its musical territory ranges from bossa nova to Latin music, as well as song accompaniment, fingerpicking arrangements and acoustic repertoires. The ergonomic armrest encourages a relaxed forearm position during extended playing sessions. For guitarists coming from electric or steel-string acoustic guitars, the combination of the neck, radiused key and slimmed-down body can also make the transition to nylon strings easier.

Solid spruce, walnut and Fishman: an acoustic voice ready for amplification

The solid European spruce top promotes a clear attack, good note definition and a sensitive response to the nuances of the picking hand. It works equally well for detailed arpeggios and more rhythmic accompaniment. The walnut back and sides tend to provide a balance between warmth and definition, giving the basses a solid foundation without masking the midrange voices.

The extra-thin format also affects the acoustic response: its shallower body produces a different resonance feel from that of a traditional classical guitar. The aim here is to combine comfort and precision rather than relying solely on natural volume. The 650 mm / 25.59-inch scale length retains familiar reference points for classical playing and phrasing.

For amplified playing, the piezo pickup paired with the Fishman Classica II preamp captures the instrument's vibrations. This configuration allows you to work with an acoustic amplifier or a sound system equipped with a suitable input, while retaining a well-defined attack. The built-in tuner makes it easy to check the tuning between songs without requiring a separate tuner.

The Hannabach 600HTG3C string set includes a carbon G string, which is particularly useful for defining this transitional register between the bass and treble. Finally, the dual-action truss rod allows a professional to adjust the curvature of the neck: an advantage for maintaining playing comfort, not to be confused with a direct adjustment of the string height.

Recommended compatible accessories

To replace the strings while retaining the original setup, choose the Hannabach 600HTG3C set with carbon G string. A soft, non-abrasive cloth is also useful for wiping down the instrument after use, especially around the neck and contact areas. To care for the water-based finishing, avoid household cleaning products and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Technical specifications

Format	4/4	Fingerboard	Stained acacia
Left handed	No	Neck Type	Glued
Cutaway	Yes	Electroacoustic	Yes
Strings	nylon	Color	Natural
Nbr of strings	6	Finishing	Glossy
Top	Spruce	Hardware	Chromed
Back&Sides	Walnut

Type	electro-acoustic classical guitar with nylon strings.	Bridge	acacia.
Model	Samba Plano.	Nut and saddle	Bonoid.
Back and sides	walnut.	Tuners	nickel-plated, with black shafts and buttons.
Binding	maple with decorative inlays.	Pickup	piezo.
Comfort	ergonomic armrest.	Preamp	Fishman Classica II.
Neck wood	maple.	Tuner	built into the preamp.
Neck adjustment	dual-action truss rod.	Brand	Manuel Rodriguez.
Key	acacia, slightly arched.	Range	Ecología.
Scale length	650 mm / 25.59 inches.	Version	Samba electro-acoustic, Samba Plano model.
Nut width	48 mm / 1.89 inches.	Strings fitted	Hannabach 600HTG3C with a carbon G string.
Headstock veneer	walnut.	String manufacture	Germany.