So Kimishima - 2025 - Stella Classic Spruce
So Kimishima - 2025 - Stella Classic Spruce
Details
Details
Overview
Overview
Shipping important note
Shipping important note
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Details about GPSR
Details about GPSR
Video overview
More details about the guitar
About the luthier
So Kimishima is the grandson of legendary Japanese luthier Masaru Kohno. He worked for Masaki Sakurai for the past 15 years until he finally decided to create his own models, which are part of the Kohno Guitar Manufacturing lineup. Kimishima benefits from the research and experience of Masaru Kohno and Masaki Sakurai to continue the quality of their guitars but also to challenge new techniques and develop new models. Like any other excellent craftsman, Kimishima pays particular attention to the details and finish of the guitar.About the guitar
The “Stella” model by So Kimishima pays homage to the legendary Masaru Kohno guitars of the 1950s and 60s, capturing the essence and craftsmanship that made those instruments so revered. At the heart of this guitar lies a beautifully crafted spruce soundboard, reinforced with six fan braces to ensure both durability and sound fidelity. This is elegantly complemented by Kimishima’s signature rosette, a testament to the meticulous attention to detail that defines his work. The choice of Indian rosewood for the back and sides not only enhances the guitar’s visual appeal but also contributes to its warm and resonant sound. Beyond its aesthetic allure, the “Stella” guitar is distinguished by its captivating tonal quality, which achieves a remarkable balance across all registers. This harmonious voicing, paired with its excellent playability, makes the instrument a sheer delight for any guitarist. Whether practicing alone or performing for an audience, the “Stella” model offers a playing experience that is both satisfying and inspiring.Regular care extends the life of the instrument
Even with careful use, a classical guitar may gradually change in appearance or respond to unstable storage conditions. Have a close look at your guitar regularly and be attentif to changes. If your instrument is suffering from its environement, it will let you know.
Protect Your Guitar: Handle with Care
Be mindful when touching your instrument with greasy or unwashed hands: any skin contact is a small attack on the varnish. Of course, a guitar is made to be played, but taking a few precautions helps preserve its beauty: wash your hands before playing, wear long sleeves, and avoid unnecessary direct skin contact with the body of the instrument.
Pro tip: Avoid playing with a button-up shirt, heavy jewelry, or a belt, as these can scratch the guitar. Also, make sure your guitar case is free of any objects that could damage the instrument during storage.
String care
A good habit to adopt is wiping down your strings briefly after each playing session. This small action significantly extends their lifespan and helps maintain a consistent, comfortable feel under your fingers.
Most importantly, clean strings are essential for keeping your instrument in tune. Corrosion, sweat, and dust can affect the uniformity of the strings and interfere with accurate tuning across the entire fingerboard.
Pro tip: If you're having trouble getting your guitar in tune, it might be time to change the strings. A useful test is to compare the pitch of the 12th fret harmonic with the fretted note at the 12th fret; if there's an unusually large gap between them, your strings may have lost their integrity and should be replaced.
Keep Your Shellac Finish Shining!
Got a guitar with a shellac (French polish) finish? Here's a simple trick: Take a clean microfiber cloth and gently breathe on the surface to create a light mist. Then, softly rub to remove fingerprints, sweat, and grease. That’s usually all it takes to keep it looking great, no products needed!
Pro tip: Every few years, treat your guitar to a check-up with a luthier to keep it in top shape.
Storing Your Guitar: Climate Matters
Your guitar can safely stay outside its case, as long as the surrounding environment maintains 42–55% humidity and a temperature between 18–25°C.
Keep in mind that humidity levels can still fluctuate inside the case, especially during seasonal changes.
- Too much humidity may cause overtightened strings and a dull tone.
- Too little humidity can lead to a bulging top, string buzz, or even cracks.
Avoid placing your guitar near radiators, air conditioners, or windows with direct sunlight.
Pro tip: Always close your guitar case while playing. This helps preserve a stable microclimate inside the case, so your instrument is protected the moment you put it back in.