About James Koontz Expertise Acoustic guitar, electric guitar, Amplifiers, Most anything Music related... Also most anything related to security, Fire and access control, as well as CCTV system.
Experience 20 years as a sound engineer, part time luthier, and general all around technical dude for many local bands. One of which was fairly large in the 80's and 90's with multiple recordings, and was the opening act for David Allen Coe, as well as got a nashville recording opportunity. The band disbanded before making it mainstream.
Organizations Loyal Order of the Moose, Boy Scouts,BMI
Publications Highlights for Children, Mystery Magazine,several online Publications, multiple cd's from various artists.
Education/Credentials I have 20 years experience, some electrical college experience. Studied Law, philosophy, and theology.
Awards and Honors well, too many to listm and none worth much more than a paperweight to hold down the ones that are on paper.
Expert: James Koontz Date: 9/25/2007 Subject: Gibson 12 string acoustic
Question I have a the above with stamped head of 870750. Can you tell me anything about this guitar? Like the other questioner it has no label inside the sound hole. I have a few very old wind instruments and have full histories on them. I believe this is maybe 20-30 years old but would like some more definitive info on it. Finally, with Martin Marquis the sound is very mellow but the action is great. What would you recommend for a more "full" sound? Thank you.
Answer Well, on the Gibson, It looks like it was made in Kalamazoo in 1968... So, it's 39 years old.. As for the Martin strings, The best thing to do, is experiment with different strings, not just brands, but composition, I prefer D'Addario Phosphor Bronze to get a nice full sound... Though, it also matters on gauge.. If you are using too light a gauge it will sound more mellow and soft, and less full.. Try using a set of 13's.. If it's too much, I like to customize my strings.. I will go with .47 .39 .30 .26 .17 .13 This will make it a bit easier on the hands, and yet, give me a fuller sound... Try experiments, don't be afraid... As long as the Gibbie isn't too dry, it should be able to handle it...
