Les Korn Archtop

Description

Offered for sale:
Used Les Korn Archtop serial number 11303.
This guitar is in very good condition showing limited playing time. The hard case is slightly oversized and has one damaged latch.
Les Korn is known as a reclusive character who produced a small number of very high-quality instruments a year. This Archtop is reminiscent of the D’Angelico archtops but with a contemporary vibe. The quite pronounced arch in the top and back is reminiscent of the Wilkanowskis of the ‘30s and ‘40s, giving it good projection with but with mellower jazz tone. The 1 15/16” nut with is 1/16” shy of a classical guitar. The shallow neck profile [.800” at the first fret, .085” at the 9
th
] is reminiscent of a 1961 SG Les Paul.
There is some talk out there that Mr. Korn had a conflict or two with a couple of clients that he built instruments for. Perhaps they were unreasonable. Perhaps his ego got in the way. Not for us to say. But here’s what we do know. His fit and finish is a touch under par compared with the Sadowskys and Benedettos of twice the price. But this guitar’s overall integrity in construction, beauty and tone makes it a worthy instrument for a player who appreciates the unique artistry of the constructor.
Hard-shell case included. (Case is slightly oversized and has one damaged buckle)
“We carefully inspect every instrument when we buy it and bring it up to our standards before we offer it for sale. We also do a full set up before we ship. If you decide to purchase this guitar, please let us know what gauge strings you prefer.”
Features:
16” lower bout
3 3/8” body depth
25 1/2 " scale length
10” radius
1 15/16" neck width @ nut
22 frets
Hand carved AAAA Master Grade Engelmann Spruce
Back: Hand carved figured curly Maple
Sides & Neck: figured curly Maple
Ebony Fingerboard, tailpiece, pick guard & bridge
Gold Schaller M-6 tuning machines with ebony buttons
Custom Lindy Fralin single coil floating pickup
Medium amber stain
5.8 lbs.
*Please note: we do our best giving descriptions of used pieces. We have found it impossible to describe every mark on an instrument or amp that is not in the "mint" category. Also, what's important to you may not be important to someone else. For example, you may say, "I don't care what it looks like as long as it plays or sounds well." Another person may say, "Body cosmetics are very important to me so tell me about every scratch, nick and blemish." So, please ask the questions that are most important to you. If you ask they will be answered. They are free and there's no limit. Additional photos can also be made available.
This is a specific item that is also being offered for sale in our brick & mortar location. It is possible that it has just been sold. Please ask if it is still available before purchasing.
*It is our policy to require a signature on delivery of all musical instruments. Please let us know if you prefer no signature required when ordering or we will automatically require a signature.
If you prefer your item to be sent without a required signature Imperial Guitar and the selected carrier can no longer be responsible for the security of the package once it has been delivered.