Product: Johnson JM-991S
Price Paid: US $599.50
Submitted
11/25/2003
at
07:41pm
by
Bob Palani Baxter
Features
:
9
The Johnson JM991S Squareneck Tricone is manufactured by AXL at their factory in Shanghai, China. It has a brass bell body with nickel plating that is polished to mirro-like quality. It is styled in the tradition of the original tricone guitars of the 1930s. Mahagony neck with rosewood fretboard. The tuners are gold with pearl-like heads. The tuners are beautiful. It will accomodate the Highlander Magnaphonic-X pick-up (especially designed for a tricone). The hardshell case is top quality as well.
Sound
:
10
The sound of this guitar is impeccable. It has the true Hawaiian sound of the tricones of yesteryears. I have looked for years for that distinct "Hawaiian" tone and this guitar has it. The sustain is incredible - especially harmonics. Soooo sweet! The sound is full and loud. There are NO disappointments here. I am currently using a Shure 57 mic with a Highlander pick-up on order.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
This guitar plays extremely well. Fit and finish is excellent. It is heavy, however. But what would you expect? - it's bell brass and meant to be played on your lap.
Reliability/Durability
:
10
This guitar is a champ on stage. I played it the day after receiving it for a major gig for the City of Tempe, Arizona . I had no reservations about it, had no back-up on standby and it did not let me down. I heard nothing but praise afterwards on how she sounded! (both the other band members and audience.) The guitar is solidly built and I expect to use it for many years to come.
Customer Support
:
10
I was very surprised with the speed of delivery. The packing was excellent. I have had no complaints.
Overall Rating
:
10
I have been playing steel guitar professionally for over 35 years. I have owned and played many steels (Rickenbacher, Fender, Vega, Supro, Regal, etc.) My other main lap steel at this time is a 1939 Vega. I definitely would order another JM991S Tricone if anything ever happened to this guitar. I expect to have a long love affair with this one. The tone and sustain is absolutely beautiful. Other tricone manufacurers may have "the name" (and the price to go with it) but the SOUND and TONE of this one cannot be beat. And after all, isn't that what music is supposed to be about???
