This is as close to a new Kostal you’re likely to get without shaking hands with Jason himself when he finishes a build. OM #131 was built only a few months ago in 2017 with eye-catching Flamed Mahogany back and sides and a German Spruce top. Jason’s hallmark Stained Glass Rosette sets off the creamy palette of the German top, and the extra thin finish which protects it from the elements (ditto for the Hoffee flight case) keeps that Spruce as lively and responsive as possible. The C profile neck has well-rounded cheeks, and the crest flattens just a smidgen.
The voice is a bit of a firecracker: the bass response has a distinct pop that projects out from the guitar, rather than enveloping the player. Similarly, the upper mids have lots of punch, and you’ll be surprised how well this Kostal OM responds to a medium to aggressive attack. Digging in, you really have to try hard to make it top out. All this crispness, and in a 14-fret, short scale 25 inch package, is further proof of Jason’s formidable lutherie chops. Top of the line fingerstyle guitar that’ll cut right through the mix? Look no further, your finely-honed axe has arrived.
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