Godin 5th Avenue Kingpin II Archtop Hollowbody Electric Guitar (with Case)
This humbucker-loaded archtop is comprised of Canadian wild cherry, silver leaf maple and rosewood for rich midrange warmth and seemingly infinite sustain.
Overall User Ratings (based on 1 ratings)
Submitted September 2, 2016 by Robert I in Nocona, TX
"Feels, sounds and plays like twice the price"
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Without a doubt, this is the best jazz instrument that I have played in 45 years at any price. What's really impressive is the quality of the components that Godin uses. The pots are mechanically dampened for accuracy to touch, the selector switch moves to position with a satisfying, dampened 'clop', the humbuckers are high-output with all the punch you expect and wide tonal range, the tuning machines are smooth and pinpoint accurate to adjust. The action was set perfectly at 5/64ths when I opened the case but I did move the bridge about 1cm on the treble side for perfect intonation. Godin puts its own round-wound strings on these but, although they sound great, I prefer flat wound strings on jazz instruments so I switched them to LaBella Flats. It easily matches the feel, playability and sound from the best and most expensive instruments that I have ever played. What a great value.
Sound
The instrument is capable of smooth, mellow jazz timbre, stinging bright chops, and anything in between. A phase switch, individual pickup volume/tone controls and master volume aren't there, but I don't miss them.
Features
The Tusq nut and bridge probably help the sound. The electronic components feel and sound like the best.
Ease of Use
Plays very smoothly.
Quality
Quality of build and detailing is first rate. The fingerboard, in particular, is carefully contoured and finished. The frets are properly crowned.
Value
Well worth the price and more.
Manufacturer Support
I emailed the company support address for advice on maintenance and they answered the following day.
The Wow Factor
The fit and finish on this instrument are impressive.
Musical Background:
Hobbyist, casual entertainer for 45 yrs
Musical Style:
mostly jazz and fingerstyle
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