Guitar Bouzouki
NK Forster guitar bouzouki – there is no better guitar bouzouki
The guitar bouzouki that cuts through sessions and holds its own in the studio.
WHAT IT IS
The NK Forster guitar bouzouki combines the tonal power of a traditional Irish bouzouki with the responsiveness and balance of a fine acoustic guitar. Available in two distinct versions: the GZ-HO and the GZ-SS. Each one is hand-built to deliver dynamic range, strong projection, and a voice that fits any traditional setting.
WHY YOU NEED IT
Backing fiddles, flutes, or Uilleann pipes? Battling banjos? This instrument won’t get buried.
Need studio-level nuance without losing volume? You’re covered.
Whether you play 8 or 10 strings, a Forster guitar bouzouki delivers depth, punch, and clarity in any setting.
It’s made to drive a session and reward subtle playing.
WHAT YOU GET
A fully hand-built GZ bouzouki with your choice of body style and string configuration.
GZ-HO: Bright, punchy, and full of presence with a warm bottom end. Cylinder-top soundboard with X-bracing, ideal for traditional rhythm work.
GZ-SS: Slightly darker tone with more midrange weight. The Sobell-style soundboard is perfect for solo work and recording.
8 or 10 string options.
Built using top-tier materials and over 35+ years of lutherie experience.
Made to endure real-world use, on stage, in sessions, or in the studio.
A lifetime warranty.
WHY IT’S WORTH IT
Every instrument is built by me – no production runs, no shortcuts. Each design has been refined through years of feedback from professional players who rely on their instruments night after night.
You’re not just buying materials and labour; you’re buying the sound, playability, and longevity that come from over three decades of experience.
If you’re unsure which model fits your playing, I’ll help you figure it out. And if you want proof these instruments hold up over time, scroll down and read what players have said.
HOW MUCH IT COSTS
Prices include premium tonewoods, full customisation, and direct updates from me throughout the process.
If you’d like the current price list, scroll down and fill in the contact form at the foot of the page.
HOW TO BUY
Every great build starts with a quick chat.
Use the form below to tell me a little about what you’re after. I’ll follow up with honest answers.
Material
Soundboard – mature seasoned European spruce or Western red cedar.
Back and sides – there are many options - mahogany, maple, figured mahogany, wenge, ziricote or figured bubinga.
Neck - New Guinea rosewood, Fiji mahogany.
Fretboard - fine Sri Lanka ebony or ancient bog oak.
Bridge - rocklite ebano.
Hardware
Tuners - Gold Gotoh 510.
Frets - hand polished Evo gold frets.
Nut and saddle - hand polished bone.Dimensions
body width: 395mm 15 1/2″
body depth: 120mm 4.7″
scale: 24.75″ or 650mm or custom
nut: 36mm or custom
tuning: GDAE, GDAD, ADAD or similar