Specs

Model: SJ-200 Koa Custom
Finish: Natural Koa
Body: Solid Spruce Top with AAA Koa Back and Sides
Neck: Mahogany, Rounded Profile
Fingerboard: Rosewood, 20 Medium Jumbo Frets
Inlays: Abalone Crown
Bridge: Rosewood Moustache with Abalone Inlays
Pickguard: Tortoiseshell with Floral Engraving
Electronics: L.R. Baggs Anthem Pickup System
Nut Width: 1.725”
Scale Length: 25.5”
Tuners: Gold Grover Rotomatics
Case: Gibson Custom Shop Hardshell Case

Personal Reflection

The Koa Custom SJ-200 from Gibson’s Custom Shop is a stunning, limited-run masterpiece that combines the timeless design of the "King of the Flat-Tops" with the rich tonal and aesthetic beauty of AAA koa. The koa back, and sides create a warm, articulate sound with excellent clarity and projection, making this guitar perfect for everything from delicate fingerpicking to bold, dynamic strumming. The rosewood fingerboard adds a smooth, balanced tonal depth, while the mahogany neck ensures comfortable playability.

Visually, the Natural Koa finish showcases the exquisite figuring of the wood, complemented by elegant mother-of-pearl crown inlays and the classic moustache bridge. The tortoiseshell pickguard with floral engraving adds an extra touch of artistry, making this SJ-200 as much a showpiece as a performer. The built-in L.R. Baggs Anthem system ensures a studio-quality amplified tone, making this guitar equally suited for the stage or the studio.

Ben described the guitar as “an absolute joy to play, with exceptional resonance and clarity,” noting that the koa’s tonal characteristics “offer a unique balance of brightness and warmth.” He also praised the craftsmanship, particularly the stunning detail in the wood grain and inlays, calling it “a visual and sonic masterpiece.”

Condition Report

This guitar is in excellent condition, with only minor signs of careful use. The Natural Koa finish is vibrant and well-preserved, showcasing the stunning figuring of the koa top, back, and sides. The frets and fingerboard are in superb shape, ensuring smooth playability, and the L.R. Baggs Anthem system works flawlessly for natural, balanced amplification. This is a rare and impeccably maintained Custom Shop acoustic that delivers iconic tone, breathtaking aesthetics, and unparalleled craftsmanship.