I acquired this one, which was recently posted here on LTG.
I never played a Koa guitar before and frankly my expectations were not too high. I assumed this guitar was designed as a collector’s guitar with sound quality a secondary consideration. I also was not sure how a Koa-topped guitar would sound. I know Ukes have Koa tops, and there are plenty of mahogany-topped guitars, but my assumption has been that there is a reason why most guitars have different woods for the top and back/sides, since they serve different functions.
And I never played an all hog guitar that I loved.
But this one sounds fantastic. It is a lightly built guitar, and has a nicely balanced tone. Not a loud guitar, but really pleasant sounding.
The end pin is missing because a previous owner (not the seller) decided to install a Fishman Rare Earth soundhole pickup and a jack. If you are going to install a jack, at least install an under saddle pickup or permanent system instead of one that blocks the soundhole. And save the original pin!
I had the jack removed and the guitar is set up beautifully. Hans provided me with helpful information that will allow me to obtain a suitable replacement end pin.
I never played a Koa guitar before and frankly my expectations were not too high. I assumed this guitar was designed as a collector’s guitar with sound quality a secondary consideration. I also was not sure how a Koa-topped guitar would sound. I know Ukes have Koa tops, and there are plenty of mahogany-topped guitars, but my assumption has been that there is a reason why most guitars have different woods for the top and back/sides, since they serve different functions.
And I never played an all hog guitar that I loved.
But this one sounds fantastic. It is a lightly built guitar, and has a nicely balanced tone. Not a loud guitar, but really pleasant sounding.
The end pin is missing because a previous owner (not the seller) decided to install a Fishman Rare Earth soundhole pickup and a jack. If you are going to install a jack, at least install an under saddle pickup or permanent system instead of one that blocks the soundhole. And save the original pin!
I had the jack removed and the guitar is set up beautifully. Hans provided me with helpful information that will allow me to obtain a suitable replacement end pin.
I saw the foot, too!!! Congrats on acquiring this one!! It's a truly beautiful guitar!! I've never played a Koa guitar. Next time I see one I guess I'll pick it up. I love the abalone purfling!!!
