G W Barry OM Koa, 2019

Here we have a brand new G W Barry OM Koa steel string, with a Bearclaw Sitka Spruce top and a fantastic tone.   G W Barry builds some of the finest guitars available,   and as with other top luthiers like William Laskin, worked with Jean Larrivee for years. 

The OM (Orchestra Model) remains one of guitar-doms most versatile instruments. Its classic shape and depth make it comfortable and intimate while retaining good volume and a distinct mid-range presence.  Slightly larger than the Martin ‘OOO’ or triple-O body, the OM also usually has a longer scale length.  

The G W Barry OM Koa shown here in flamed Koa, Bearclaw Spruce and Tasmanian Tiger Myrtle binding and accents also features a sideport for enhanced monitoring and tone.

G W Barry OM Koa Features:

• Bearclaw Sitka Spruce soundboard
• Figured Koa back and sides
• Tasmanian Tiger Myrtle binding, headstock veneer and heel cap
• Abalone and figured Mahogany rosette
• Tropical Mahogany neck
• Ebony fingerboard and pyramid bridge
• Bone nut and saddle
• Ebony bridgepins with Mother of Pearl dot
• Two way (biflex) truss rod
• Hand rubbed Nitro Cellulose Lacquer finish

Here is the builder describing the GW Barry OM Koa:

“The sideport, oddly enough remains a bit of mystery as far as having a definitive explanation. My thought is that starting from the premise that
the guitar functions as an “air” pump, the added sideport aperture allows air to move through the instrument a little more efficiently. It creates a
monitoring effect for the player but also enhances tone across the spectrum…you can hear this by strumming the open strings while moving your
other hand on and off of the port…. I’ve yet ( to my ear) to hear a guitar that doesn’t sound better or fuller with one than without.”