Michael Kelly Forte Exotic Java Ebony
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- This item is covered for 3 years
What you need to know
What you need to know
- Port Technology: offset soundhole on the upper bout for better self-monitoring, with more direct projection towards the player
- Java Ebony and Mahogany Top: precise attack, beautiful definition, and warmth in the midrange
- Cutaway: easier access to the upper frets for melodic lines and solos
- Fishman + under-saddle pickup: clear and reliable amplified sound for stage and rehearsal
Manufacturer Information
Michael Kelly
https://samsontech.com
------------------------
Safety manager:
Mogar Music France
Email: info@mogarmusic.fr
Address:
An Exotic-Looking Forte Designed for Both Plugged-In and Acoustic Playing
In the Forte range, Michael Kelly focuses on modern luthiery aimed at comfort and efficiency, with an immediately recognizable design. On this "Exotic JE" version, the combination of a Java Ebony and mahogany top, an okoume body, and an elegant dark finish is paired with a key brand concept: Port Technology, which relocates the soundhole to enhance the player's sense of projection without losing the character of a high-performance folk guitar.
Who Is It For, and What Styles?
This electro-acoustic guitar is aimed at advanced beginners to intermediate guitarists seeking an inspiring instrument that is easy to handle and ready to be amplified. The cutaway and comfortable neck profile facilitate playing beyond the 12th fret. It is particularly suited for pop, folk, variety, pick accompaniment as well as fingerstyle, offering good clarity for chords and arpeggios.
Sound
The Java Ebony and mahogany top provides an interesting balance: Java ebony enhances definition and attack, while mahogany adds warmth and a rounder response in the midrange. The okoume back and sides contribute to a homogeneous, musical, and responsive tone, ideal for versatile playing. The Port Tech design improves the player's perception of the sound (useful for singing/playing or ensemble settings), and the Fishman electronics with under-saddle pickup deliver a precise and usable amplified signal while preserving the acoustic identity of the instrument.
Recommended Compatible Accessories
To maintain the original feel and balance, choose a set of D'Addario XTAPB1253 strings (phosphor bronze, light gauge 12-53). A capo for steel strings will also suit this scale and nut width.
Technical specifications
| Type | electro-acoustic guitar | Scale length | 25.5" / 647.7 mm |
| Cutaway | yes | Truss rod | double action |
| Top | blend of Java ebony and mahogany | Nut | Black Tusq |
| Back | okoume | Nut width | 1 11/16" / 43 mm |
| Sides | okoume | Inlays | mini dots |
| Soundhole | "Port Tech" (opening on the upper bout) | Original strings | D'Addario XTAPB1253, phosphor bronze, light 12-53 |
| Binding | triple-ply black | Finish | black |
| Neck | mahogany | Tuners | MK Diecast |
| Fingerboard | ovangkol | Bridge | ovangkol |
| Profile | Comfort C | Bridge type | Zero-End Pin ("Zero Pin Bridge" tailpiece without pins) |
| Number of frets | 20 | System | Fishman (preamp and under-saddle pickup) |
| Radius | 12" / 304.8 mm | Model | Forte Port Exotic JE |
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Questions frequently asked
Is the Michael Kelly Forte Exotic Java Ebony ready to be plugged into an amplifier?
The Fishman electronics combine a preamp with an under-saddle pickup to provide a usable amplified signal. The guitar maintains an electro-acoustic design with a Java ebony top and mahogany body.
What does the Port Technology change on this guitar?
The Port Tech opening is placed on the upper bout rather than at the center of the top. This arrangement enhances the perception of sound projection on the player's side, especially when singing while playing.
What sound does the Java Ebony and mahogany top produce?
The blend of Java ebony and mahogany promotes a defined attack with warmer midrange. The okoume back and sides contribute to a balanced response.
Is the neck suitable for playing beyond the 12th fret?
Thanks to the cutaway, access to the higher frets is easier. The mahogany neck with a Comfort C profile has 20 frets, a scale length of 647.7 mm, and a nut width of 43 mm. The ovangkol fingerboard features a 304.8 mm radius.
What strings should be used on the Forte Port Exotic JE?
The original setup uses DâAddario XTAPB1253 phosphor bronze light gauge 12-53 strings. A capo designed for steel strings is compatible with this 43 mm Black Tusq nut.
