The Gibson Hummingbird Custom Koa is an exceptional instrument from the renowned Gibson Custom Shop and is one of the most beautiful interpretations of an absolute classic. Since its introduction in 1960, the Hummingbird has been one of the most sought-after acoustic guitars ever. It is synonymous with the warm, characterful Gibson sound, elegant aesthetics and unmistakable tone that has inspired generations of musicians. This custom model takes the Hummingbird to a new level – with the finest materials, perfect workmanship and a visual presence that immediately inspires.
This Hummingbird Custom Koa was built in 2010 and combines a solid grained AAA Flamed Koa for back and sides with a finely selected AA Sitka spruce top. This combination not only ensures a stunning appearance, but also a warm, clear and dynamically balanced sound. Koa gives the tone an elegant depth, while the Sitka spruce provides transparency, definition and quick response. The result is a full-sounding instrument with strong projection that is equally suited to gentle fingerpicking and expressive strumming. The natural compression is particularly impressive, giving the sound a soft, harmonious roundness.
Visually, the Gibson Hummingbird Custom Koa impresses with its elegant appointments and attention to detail. Elaborate abalone inlays adorn the fingerboard, the bridge, the headstock and the iconic Hummingbird pickguard. The combination of golden Grover tuners with artistic engravings and the natural high-gloss finish of the koa wood creates a harmonious overall look that radiates pure elegance.
The mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard and 12″ radius offers an excellent playing feel and sits comfortably in the hand. The playability is Gibson-typically comfortable, and the string action is perfectly adjusted. With a weight of just 2.14 kg, the guitar is also pleasantly light and excellently balanced.
The condition of this Gibson Hummingbird Custom Koa is very good to near mint. On closer inspection, only minimal traces of strumming can be seen. Technically and visually, it is in excellent condition and presents itself as an exceptionally well-kept example of this rare custom model. Particularly noteworthy is the beautiful grain of the koa wood – such an impressive wood pattern is rarely found even on high-quality custom store guitars.
The Hummingbird Custom Koa is not only a tonal masterpiece, but also a collector’s item of lasting value. It combines traditional Gibson DNA with the exclusivity of hand-selected tonewoods and stands for the unmistakable sound that has inspired artists all over the world for decades.
Specifications
Year built: 2010
Top: AA Sitka spruce
Back & sides: AAA Flamed Koa
Neck: Mahogany
Fretboard: Ebony, 12″ radius
Scale length: 629 mm (24.75″)
Nut width: 43.7 mm
Mother Of Pearl Hummingbird & Flower Inlays
Tuners: Grover Gold, engraved
String spacing at the 12th fret: E = 2.75 mm / e = 2.25 mm
Finish: Natural
Weight: 2.14 kg
Includes original Gibson case and certificate