Brand/Model: Kona K2TBL Acoustic Electric
Number of Strings: 6
Hand Orientation: Right
Body Material: Mahogany/Spruce top
Neck Material: Maple
Fretboard Material: Rosewood
Price Range: Under 200
Our Rating: 8.2/10
Kona K2TBL Dreadnought Cutaway Guitar Review
The outstanding and affordable Kona K2TBL Acoustic Electric is part of the new K2 series that still has the newborn smell to it. We are one of the first to brave the early stages of putting in our two cents on the git.
With just one look at the Kona, you’ll instantly notice it’s shiny and translucent finish. Is it blue or is it green? It’s a transparent blue with a high gloss finish that perfectly matches the mahogany back. It’s an eye-catcher for sure.
Next up is the shape and design. While it features the full-size dreadnought cutaway, it also has the sleek and low-profile design of an electric. Kona executed the hybrid guitar perfectly.
While the Kona K1 was 4-5 inches deep, this K2 guitar is only 3 inches deep, making it more comfortable to hold and wield.
Kona really kicked up the quality and doubled the price of the K2 series by adding some really nice features. It has an EQ-505 3-Band Active Piezo Pick-up System, two gold strap pins, and enclosed gold die-cast tuners. Talk about bling!
Furthermore, this quality acoustic electric guitar is rigged for durability. It has a 4-ply body binding and single-ply binding on the headstock and neck.
As far as sound goes, you’re getting the traditional acoustic tones with the feel of an electric. It’s a crossover instrument that will tend to all your music needs when you’re just starting out.
With its luxury features, even an intermediate and pro git player will get some good strummin’ for the pure love of it.
Pros
- Price
- 4-ply body binding
- Piezo Pick-up
- Gold die-cast tuners
- D’Addario strings
Cons
- Quality control issues
Kona K2TBL Reviews
As with all things priced so low, there will be some complaints about defects. Some buyers reported bowed necks, scratches on the paint, and rough frets. However, the complaints are still far outweighed by the raving reviews.
What buyers and players love about the new Kona Acoustic Electric Dreadnought Guitar is that it’s practically near perfect. The added features of the Kona make it possible for more experienced guitar players to make some adjustments to make the most of the affordable and beautiful guitar.
The low profile and thinness of the guitar makes it very easy for all players to hold. The two strap pins are an excellent feature to make sure of shoulder straps a breeze.
As a starter or knock-around guitar, it’s has every potential to be maximized to the limit!
Alternative Acoustic Electric Guitars to Consider
If you’re looking for a package that comes with every accessory you’ll need to get started, the Glen Burton Acoustic Electric Guitar will tease your taste buds. The black finish is chic and vintage, and the guitar is outfitted with an active 4 band 7545 EQ.
It’s new, a best seller, and it’s barely a fingernail length more than the Kona. The extras it comes with are pretty decent too. The tuner that’s included runs in the $20-30 range. Not too shabby!
But, if you’re looking for something under 100 bucks, then the Jameson Blue Full Size Thinline Acoustic Electric Guitar is a steal! We already found it worthy of a full review, which you can find right here. It’s has excellent value, fantastic sound, and a very pretty, glossy finish.
Both these alternative guitars are under 200 bucks and are definitely worth considering. They run in the same budget ranges, and they offer excellent value for the performance, features, and extra accessories. If you want to stretch the budget a little further, your options open up quite a lot.
Kona K2TBL Guitar FAQ
How much does the Kona K2 Acoustic Electric Guitar Weigh?
It only weighs 4.6 pounds. It’s relatively light for an acoustic guitar, but its size also makes it very comfortable to play and wield your stuff!
Are Kona Guitars made in the United States?
This guitar is outsourced in China for manufacturing. However, all specs and quality control is regulated by the Texan company.
Does the K2TBL Acoustic Electric Guitar have High Action?
It does come with high action, however, this can be adjusted for lower action for beginners.
What are the Extra Accessories that the K2 comes with?
The Kona guitar comes with two pick guards, polishing cloth, neck wrench, and a warranty guide.
How Long is the Warranty on the K2TBL Kona Guitar?
You can purchase a 2-year or 3-year warranty for minimal cost. It’s definitely worth it if you have a covered accident or need a replacement at some point in that time frame. For the cost of the warranty, it’s one meal at McDonald’s – it’s a no-brainer.
What Color is the K2 Guitar?
It looks green in the pictures, but we’re telling you it’s more of a very dark blue in real life. Don’t be fooled by the pics.
Is this K2 Guitar Compatible with Rocksmith?
The built-in pickup allows for compatibility with Rocksmith. However, as a tip, you need to turn up and max the volumes and EQ for the software to hear it. You can also buy a guitar headphone amp for better sound quality.
Hardware/Electronics You’ll Need:
We will admit that the extra accessories are pretty scarce with this buy. However, with the savings you’re getting on the guitar itself, you’ll have enough dough left over to get the extra things you need. Here is an exhaustive list of guitar accessories and some suggestions of what to look for next.
Standout Features of the Kona K2TBL Guitar
- Pre-set with shoulder strap pins
- Easy to use
- Easy to tune
Our Verdict on the Kona K2TBL Guitar
To strum it up, the Kona Acoustic Electric Guitar is a great buy! It will get a beginner guitarist learning all the tricks of the trade in no time. All of the Kona’s components will take out the hardships of learning to play while also being maxed to its potential by experienced players.
It’s a win-win!
Further Reading:
- Taylor 224CE-K DLX Review – Koa Acoustic Electric Guitar (Excellent Craftsmanship)
- Fender FA-235E Review – Concert Acoustic-Electric Guitar (Viking Bridge & TUSQ Nut)
- Yamaha FGX800C Review – Solid Top Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Takamine GD30CE Review – NAT Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Martin DRS1 Review – Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar
Trent is a music lover, musical instrument player and passionate audio afficionado.