I agree with Bruce, nothing sounds quite like a good all Koa guitar. I had tried a number of modern ones over the years and never liked any of them. Then I had the chance to try a 1923 Martin 0-18K. It had a unique voice, unlike any other guitar I had played, and was stunningly beautiful to boot. It's one of the few guitars I still regret not buying. Years later I bought a much cheaper all Koa 1930 Galiano Grand Concert Hawaiian guitar that had been converted to Spanish style. Not in the same league quality wise as the Martin of course, but still very lightly built at 3.75 lbs (and that's with a HUGE neck and thick ebony fretboard mind you). It also had a unique sound,lots of sustain, and interesting overtones like the Martin 0-18.
So now I'm really interested to hear Bruce's all Koa guitar when it's finished!
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