Orangewood unveils the launch of the Magnolia Live, their newest artist series model made in collaboration with guitarist, songwriter, and producer Ruben Wan.
Wan has inspired a global community of guitarists through his multicultural approach to music and technical proficiency, garnering a strong following on platforms like YouTube and Instagram. Born and raised in Panama and now based in Los Angeles, California, Wan’s background fuses R&B, gospel, urban Latin, and pop into something uniquely his own. These qualities made him a natural fit with the Orangewood family, which he has been a part of since the very start, even playing the brand’s demo for their first-ever acoustic guitar collection back in 2018.
'Nena Dime' Acoustic Instrumental ft. Ruben Wan | Magnolia Live | Orangewood
Primarily an electric guitarist, Ruben aimed to design an acoustic guitar that emulated the smoothness and comfort of his favorite electrics. His design started with a mini grand concert body shape for its intimate feel and sound.
The Magnolia was then outfitted with a Fishman Flex 2-band EQ system, complete with a built-in tuner. The push-push bass control toggles the phase, improving bass response at lower volumes and minimizing feedback at higher volumes. Similarly, pressing and holding the volume control activates the straightforward onboard tuner.
Key Specs
- Body Shape: Mini Grand Concert
- Top Wood: Solid Sitka Spruce Top
- Back / Sides Wood: Layered Sapele Mahogany
- Electronics: Fishman Flex Plus-T EQ
- Headstock: Custom Artist ‘Panda Logo’ on Back of Headstock
- Finish: Black
- Strings: Ernie Ball Earthwood Phosphor Bronze Extra Light
- Gig Bag Included
Orangewood's in-house guitar technicians professionally set up every Magnolia Livebefore shipment. The guitar retails at $495.00.
For more information, please visit orangewoodguitars.com.
The Magnolia is strung with Wan’s favorite extra light gauge strings to enhance the slinkiness and playability. Ultimately, this guitar is one that beginners can learn on, and professionals will appreciate.
“I wanted to make a guitar that both current me and 15-year-old me would love,” said Wan. “Comfort was key, making it ideal for beginners to learn and grow, while still meeting the demands of what I need to perform now.”
Modern embellishments add unique flair to the Magnolia Live, including a matching gold pickguard and hardware, a sleek black finish, and a special artist graphic featuring Wan’s signature Panda logo on the back of the headstock.
“Ruben's vision for an acoustic guitar with the playability of an electric was a driving force behind this project,” said Eddie Park, Orangewood’s co-founder. “His insights on production and touring helped to create a truly versatile instrument that can take hours of practice while still making a statement on stage. The Magnolia captures the warmth and intimacy of an acoustic while offering the comfort and playability that electric guitarists will appreciate.”