Custom Iris OGE Black with Hardcase

The Custom Iris OGE is an acoustic guitar from Iris Guitars, a company known for building vintage-inspired, stripped-down instruments with a focus on tone and playability. The "OGE" model is their take on a classic 00-sized guitar, and a "Custom Black" version with a hard case is a specific, non-standard offering.

Here is a detailed breakdown of its key features:

Core Concept & Construction

• 00-Sized Body: The OGE model is based on the compact and comfortable 00-sized body shape. This smaller body makes it very comfortable to play, especially for fingerstyle guitarists, while still producing a surprisingly full and balanced sound.

• Vintage-Inspired Build: Iris guitars are known for their understated, no-frills aesthetic, reminiscent of the "Golden Era" of acoustic guitar building. They often feature a thin, satin finish that allows the wood to resonate freely, contributing to the guitar's responsive and open tone.

• All-Solid Wood Construction: The OGE is built with all-solid woods, which is a key factor in its tonal quality. A common wood combination for this model is a solid Sitka spruce top with solid mahogany back and sides. This combination is a classic for a reason, providing a warm, balanced, and articulate tone with good note separation.

• Black Finish: The "Black" finish is a custom option, as Iris guitars are typically seen in natural wood tones. A flat black finish gives the instrument a unique and striking aesthetic, often paired with a tiger-stripe pickguard.

Components

• Built-in Electronics: A custom OGE often includes built-in electronics. A common choice is a P-90 style pickup, which adds to the guitar's versatility, allowing it to be used for amplified performance with a unique, warm, and slightly gritty tone. The controls for volume and tone are discreetly placed on the guitar's body.

• Hard Case: A hard case is a significant inclusion. It provides superior protection for the instrument compared to a gig bag, which is essential for preserving the guitar's condition, especially during travel.

• Customization: As a "Custom" model, it may feature other unique specifications beyond the black finish, such as specific binding materials, fret markers, or neck profiles, depending on the original order.

Overall Impression

The Custom Iris OGE Black with Hardcase is an excellent choice for:

• Players seeking a boutique, vintage-inspired instrument: It offers the feel and tone of a high-end, hand-built guitar without the brand-name price tag of a vintage instrument.

• Fingerstyle and Blues Players: The 00-sized body and all-solid wood construction make it perfect for these playing styles, delivering great clarity and responsiveness.

• Musicians who need a versatile guitar: The inclusion of a built-in pickup makes it a great option for both acoustic and amplified performance, from the stage to the studio.