ARCHIVED • SOLD
1941 Kalamazoo KG-32N
The KG-32N features a solid spruce top that’s pressed into shape and braced. The maple back and sides are most likely laminated, with an outer layer that shows a subtly attractive figure. Cream bindings add a touch of class, along with the shiny nickel-plated tailpiece. Rosewood fretboard and adjustable bridge, mahogany neck, ebony nut, and Kluson tuning machines with the unique mosaic buttons that are unique to the early 1940s, as far as we’ve seen.
This example is 100% original and unmodified. Every part of the guitar remains as it was when it left Kalamazoo in 1941. We particularly love the early ‘hot crossed buns’ looking Philips screws and the rope strap.
Set up in store, this Kalamazoo archtop plays very well with normal action and a correct neck angle. There is no truss rod in the neck, so there is a bit more relief than is ideal but this can easily be corrected with a refret if so desired. Expect a punchy archtop tone with strong mids and a little bit of overtone flower. A medium right hand attack brings out the most warmth and thickest tone.
The neck has the deep and round carve typical of 1941, with a first fret depth of .970” and a nut width of 1-11/16”. The neck depth at the 9th fret is 1.075”, scale is 24.75”, and string spread at the bridge is 2-1/8”.
With original soft shell case
