Michael Kelly Guitars Hybrid

Specifications
CONSTRUCTION: Set-neck
BODY: Carved / Chambered Mahogany
TOP: Flame Maple
NECK: Mahogany
FRETBOARD: Rosewood
FRETS: 22 medium jumbo
SCALE: 24-¾”
BRIDGE: Rosewood acoustic bridge
INLAY: Real pearl dots
TUNERS: Grover
PICKUP: Rockfield SWC and Fishman
ELECTRONICS: Fishman active Powerchip
STRINGS: D’Addario
HARDWARE: Chrome

UTILIZATION

This is an interesting entry into the world of hybrid electric/acoustic guitars. There have been all sorts of guitar models that have put a piezo system into the bridge, for acoustic-type sounds. The Parker Fly has been one of the most dramatic and earliest of these type instruments, but there have been many others since the Fly was introduced, such as the Taylor T5 and PRS Hollowbody. This Hybrid from Michael Kelly has a bit more of a Gibson vibe than most other guitars of its ilk - it has a mahogany neck and body, flame maple top, and rosewood fretboard, not to mention the 24 3/4" scale length. The smaller scale leads some "sponginess" to the feel - the strings are very buttery feeling, but in a nice, bluesy bending kind of way.

SOUNDS

The sounds are fantastic from this guitar. The single Rockfield humbucker is versatile, getting great cleans, crunchy blues tones, and even some saturated lead tones, all with different amp settings. It seems an odd choice with the pickup located in the middle position, but it sounds very good with the guitar's overall sonic package.

The Fishman circuit is also a winner - the acoustic tones are very convincing. Plugged into a PA system, one could close one's eyes and not know that the acoustic strumming coming from the speakers actually originated in an electric guitar. The tones were bright and bouncy, but with some good upper midrange sparkle.

OVERALL OPINION

For the price point of this guitar, I'd rate it a 9. It is an incredibly versatile instrument that looks fantastic, and is equally at home in the studio, stage, or just for bedroom jamming. Highly recommended.