Michael Kelly Guitar Co. is introduced its 2017 acoustic guitar line, which features the 3D Grand Auditorium, the Forte Exotic in Java Ebony, and the Koa Special in Hickory Sunset. These brand-new models offer eye-catching designs and Fishman electronics for reasonable prices.
The 3D Grand Auditorium cutaway has a slightly deeper design than usual and a torrefied solid spruce top that’s specially treated with an aging process that results in the mature tone of a vintage guitar. Michael Kelly adds an arched back and scalloped, hand-finished bracing for a bold tone. The sides and back are made from java ebony while a black ABS binding with triple-ply purfling to add a touch of sophistication and is finished in natural gloss.
The Forte Exotic in Java Ebony has the distinct feature of an offset soundhole with an enhanced soundboard area. It features a java ebony top and sapele wood back and sides with a solid black satin finish. Accents define the Java Ebony including black diecast machine heads and hardware. It also includes black binding with bright white purfling.
The Koa Special in Hickory Sunset is a grand auditorium cutaway that brings the popular look and performance of a koa wood acoustic to the Michael Kelly line for the first time. The figured, flame koa top is finished in an aged cherryburst to highlight the wood’s natural beauty. The back and sides are sapele wood with dark red finish. A three-ply bright white top binding, white button tuners, and gold hardware add a lighter touch to this model.
All three guitars are equipped with the Discrete Fishman Sonitone Active System. Mounted within the soundhole, this system tucks away volume and tone control to avoid any holes in the side of the instrument. The single side soundport provides a personal monitor for players. Other shared features include X-scalloped bracing, mahogany neck with dovetail neck joint, rosewood fingerboard with dot-inlayed nickel frets, dual-action truss rod, and a Michael Kelly Zero End Pin Bridge specially designed to enhance sound while making it easier to change the strings.
The 3D Grand Auditorium is priced at $745.00 MSRP; the Forte Exotic in Java Ebony at $449.00 MSRP; and the Koa Special in Hickory Sunset at $580.00 MSRP.
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