This is a ‘big fella’ - so please be aware that it will be more comfortable for persons with longer arms and torsos. More important - the new guitar was proving to the world that a ‘budget instrument’ maker could attract interest from ‘serious players’.Īs more recent 'HC' reviews confirm, the “Hondo L5 copy” has repeatedly met, and exceeded expectations of actual player-owners. As USA Guild had done (just a few years earlier) - Hondo contracted Dimarzio Pickups to produce a model that could be offered as an ‘option’.īy this time - the ‘HL5’ had assumed ’flagship’ status for Hondo - and was getting attention from buyers on the world market.
Unlike previous models - their “L5 tribute" was designed for an experienced player - one who would know the sound and feel of a ‘real jazz guitar’. Although their colorful trade name has faded to obscurity - Hondo Guitars went thundering past 100,000 units per year by 1979! Automation was introduced - and along with it - a re-focus on quality.Īs the story goes, it was the ‘HL5 Fat Boy’ project that pushed Hondo to a new standard. While ‘budget guitars’ made the brand - very few models rose much above these humble aspirations until the late seventies (Hondo II). One can see their craftsmanship in this ‘Fat Boy’s’ neck carve flawless triple binding and handsome burst finish! Notice how well these features are holding up against the ravages of time!? Apparently the original Hondo builders reorganized as ‘Samick’ - in the early nineties.
The story dovetails with that of a more recent powerhouse of Asian guitar making. Years later - a roman numeral “II” was appended (to avoid copyright infringement?) - but listings show up now mostly as just “Hondo". Thus the name that celebrates a legend - and their views on ‘pioneering’ the manufacture of affordable guitars in Korea. Founding partners had roots in the American Southwest. => The company started way back in the heyday of rock ‘n roll, ca. More like a semi than a big body jazz guitar! The play action is amazingly smooth and low. Will say that this instrument in particular has been ‘transformed’ by recent work done. Spec’d with a high grade spruce top, and figured maple laminates - its overall look is bold - if not original. This was a 'breakout model' for a label that has since disappeared from the scene - and they really did a good job - reproducing the ‘jazzbeau’ vibe and feel of the venerable Gibson. We’re offering this one straight from a full fret mill and adjustments.
MarinGuitars offers a true vintage Korean L5 tribute - in exceptionally good condition.
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