The Rathbone R3SKCE combines the larger dimensions of the Grand Auditorium with the breathtaking tonewood of koa for a spectacular result. A bright, open, and sparkling tone comes from the combination of solid Englemann spruce for the top and koa for the back and sides. This gives the guitar a powerful and linear sound, ideal for both the heavy strummer and the articulate fingerpicker.

A perfect all-rounder, the No. 3 has the same scale length as the Orchestra Model, but its body dimensions are closer to those of a dreadnought. The larger body naturally delivers a stronger bass tone without sacrificing clarity—that's the strength of a Grand Auditorium. However, the larger body doesn't mean this guitar is any less easy to play; quite the opposite is true. Its narrow waist allows the guitar to rest comfortably on the knee or hang easily over the shoulders.

Solid Cedar top

After spruce, cedar is the most commonly used wood for guitar tops. Cedar has a much lower density and is therefore considerably softer than spruce. This translates into a warmer, fuller tone. Cedar also makes softer tones more powerful, thus improving the dynamics of soft playing. A guitar with a cedar top is ideal for players who enjoy fingerpicking. This makes cedar a good match for smaller body shapes such as the Auditorium, Orchestra Model, or Parlor.

Ebony sides and back

Dark, hard, and very dense. Often used for making fretboards and bridges, it can also make a very beautiful guitar. With its dense grain, Ebony produces powerful bass, rich midrange, and unparalleled highs with excellent sustain and projection. Its appearance can range from a solid black to a richly mottled dark brown with caramel-colored stripes.

Bone saddles

Bone saddles and/or nut are much denser and therefore retain better tonal qualities. A bone saddle or nut produces a brighter sound with more resonance and a better attack. A bone saddle and/or nut truly brings a guitar to life.