GJ8: Intro

This 8-string behemoth isn't mine, it's on loan for an appraisal here. This installment serves as an introduction to what my friend, Mr. GJ Kung, has to offer. 

The guitar was crafted in Singapore, it's definitely a product of sweat & toil. However, it's not a recent addition, the instrument was made 3 yrs ago. It sports a 30" scale length so it's as good as dealing with a short scale bass. The neck is also a little wider than what you might come across in the stores here but still very playable. Mr. GJ Kung told me this is strictly a prototype for some introverted moments but in the mean time, he's ready to take orders from you if you wish to customize a 6/ 7/ 8-string guitar: gjkung@hotmail.com

Watch this space for more disclosures.

Ibanez: Artcore AGB200

I've been wanting this bass, honest. So when it was still available during the Swee Lee SALE yesterday, it was a sign. Nobody was interested in it maybe because it sports a shorter scale length (30"), not a solid body instrument in its entirety & the fact that the neck humbucker there, sitting flushed against the neck end, presented a limited slap-&-pop technique applications. The shorter scale length was the key interest for me so without hesitation, the Ibanez AGB200 became mine.

I love all the features the bass has to offer but the plastic tuners were quite a turn-off.

Like all Artcore models, the body is arched at the top...

... & at the rear. I've not played the instrument enough to give a final say in terms of tone & playability. This will happen at a later update. I can feel the strings here are not .045s, will swap them out soon.

PS: Do note, this AGB200 is a pre-2011 model sporting the former headstock decal. In addition to this revision, the current AGB200 features a pair of Sure Grip knobs & the easy access truss rod cover.