Feed back / opinion on Kohno Guitars (J/Special)

[Scott]

All,
I am considering a Kohno Special (spruce top) and was looking from feedback from the board on the quality, playability, durability, etc. Also as to the personality of them compared to a Spanish made (Bernabe, Contreras, etc - both of which I have owned -- currently have a cedar top Bernabe). I know the best way is to play a guitar yourself, but looking directionally at a place to start since there is such a wide range of options available.
- Scott

[Scott]

All,
To close out this post wanted to let you know I recently got the Kohno Special. It is a fantastic instrument and I love it! Playability is the best I've seen (IMHO of course!) with excellent materials and craftsmanship. The perfect compliment to my cedar top Bernabe -- Now my biggest dilemma is which do I play the Bernabe or the Kohno??? Good problem to have I know!
Regards,
- Scott

:mrgreen: Had to throw in an emoticon for good measure!

[TJ]

It is truly a small world. I have a cedar Bernabe Especial, and just purchased a spruce Sakurai-Kohno Professional J (both from my good friend David at GSI). I have inadvertantly built a collection, including also a Fender strat, Gibson ES-335 and Martin OM-21, so finding time to actually play the guitars is another matter. I agree that the Bernabe and Kohno are wonderful contrasts, and the Kohno doesn't require the same delicate care as the French-polished Bernabe. My only other considerations would have been a Marin or Brogger. What are you using for strings? I have Savarez 500 AJ on both, but think I might want to use something less intense on the Kohno. :o

[Scott]

TJ,
My Bernabe is a Model 30. I love the tone, color and volume so can just image how the Especial is. On my upgrade list for sure. The French polish definitely adds an extra measure of care / concern, especially if you've ever seen one that hasn't been taken care of.

I've only had the Kohno for a couple weeks and haven't changed out the strings yet - thinking about either the La Bella 2001 or Galli.

Good luck with the new axe. I just love getting to know a new guitar and having them open up over time.

[jens]

I would advise you to play your Kohno more often then the Bernabe, for a spruce top needs regular playing to develop its full sonic potential and your cedar guitar won't lose its qualities if it's played more seldom. Maybe this is kind of a "scientific" answer, but the better your Kohno becomes (and I know they are very good instruments), the more fun you will have when playing this guitar.