Michael Kelly Sojourn 6: Sounding Good on the Go
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Introduction
Are you a guitar enthusiast with an insatiable wanderlust? Do you crave the ability to create music wherever your travels take you? Then the Michael Kelly Sojourn 6 travel guitar might be your perfect companion. This innovative instrument combines portability with surprisingly good sound quality, making it a compelling option for globetrotting musicians.
This in-depth review will take you on a deep dive into the Michael Kelly Sojourn 6. We’ll explore its specifications, delve into its strengths and weaknesses, and answer frequently asked questions to help you decide if this travel guitar is the right fit for your musical adventures.
Built for the Journey: Sojourn 6 Specifications
- Body: Select Mahogany Top, Laminate Mahogany Back & Sides
- Neck: Mahogany with Satin Finish
- Fingerboard: Rosewood with 22 Medium Jumbo Frets
- Scale Length: 24.75″
- Nut Width: 1.69″ (43mm)
- Bridge: Viking Neptune with TUSQ Nut
- Hardware: Chrome Die-Cast Tuners with Butterbean Knobs
- Finish: Open Pore Natural Satin
- Strings: D’Addario EJ16 Light Gauge (.012-.052)
- Gig Bag: Included
Designed to Go Places: Pros of the Michael Kelly Sojourn 6
The Sojourn 6 boasts several features that make it a dream come true for traveling musicians:
- Ultra-Portable: This guitar’s compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to stow in overhead compartments or carry comfortably in a backpack.
- Surprisingly Big Sound: Don’t let the size fool you. The Sojourn 6 produces a surprisingly rich and resonant acoustic tone, thanks to its mahogany body construction.
- Comfortable Playability: Despite the shorter scale length, the Sojourn 6 offers a comfortable playing experience for most guitarists. The satin-finished neck provides a smooth feel, and the medium jumbo frets make chording and single-note playing a breeze.
- Built-in Tuner: The onboard tuner is a convenient feature, eliminating the need for a separate tuner and ensuring you’re always in tune, no matter where you are.
- Stylish Design: The open pore natural satin finish gives the Sojourn 6 a unique and understated aesthetic, perfect for players who appreciate a touch of vintage vibe.
Room for Improvement: Cons of the Michael Kelly Sojourn 6
While the Sojourn 6 excels in portability, there are a few aspects to consider before making your purchase:
- Limited Volume: As with most travel guitars, the Sojourn 6 won’t fill a large venue with sound. It’s perfect for intimate settings, practicing on the go, or recording, but don’t expect it to compete with a full band.
- Shorter Scale Length: The 24.75″ scale length might take some getting used to for players accustomed to full-size guitars. It can feel slightly cramped for those with larger hands or who prefer wider string spacing.
- Action Can Be High: Some users report that the action on the Sojourn 6 can be a bit high out of the box. A professional setup can improve playability and intonation, but this adds an extra cost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Michael Kelly Sojourn 6
Q: Is the Michael Kelly Sojourn 6 durable enough for travel?
A: The Sojourn 6 is built with quality materials and hardware, but it’s still important to treat it with care while traveling. The included gig bag offers some protection, but consider investing in a hard case for added peace of mind.
Q: Can I use the Sojourn 6 for recording?
A: Absolutely! The surprisingly good unplugged sound makes the Sojourn 6 a viable option for recording acoustic tracks or using it as a travel companion for composing on the go.
Q: What kind of music is the Sojourn 6 suited for?
A: The Sojourn 6’s body construction allows it to handle a wide range of musical styles. The warm tones are perfect for fingerpicking and genres like jazz, while its compact size makes it ideal for strumming and more mobile playing styles. With a little EQ tweaking, you can explore genres like indie or folk.
Q: How does the Sojourn 6 compare to other travel guitars?
A: Several travel guitars compete in the market, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a quick comparison to two popular options:
- Journey Instruments Traveler Guitar: Slightly more compact than the Sojourn 6, the Traveler boasts a unique folding design for ultimate portability. However, some users find the playing experience less comfortable due to the unconventional body shape.
- Luna Guitars Vista Travel Guitar: Similar in size to the Sojourn 6, the Luna offers a more budget-friendly option. However, the sound quality might not be as refined.
Ultimately, the best travel guitar depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider factors like portability, sound quality, playing comfort, and budget before making your decision.
Who Should Buy the Michael Kelly Sojourn 6?
The Michael Kelly Sojourn 6 is an excellent choice for:
- Traveling musicians: Guitarists who crave a compact and playable instrument to take on their adventures will find the Sojourn 6 a perfect companion.
- Songwriters and composers: The portability and surprisingly good sound make the Sojourn 6 ideal for composing on the go or capturing musical ideas while traveling.
- Small space dwellers: Guitarists with limited living space will appreciate the Sojourn 6’s compact footprint that allows for easy storage.
- Beginner guitarists: The comfortable playability and included gig bag make the Sojourn 6 a good option for beginners who want a travel-friendly instrument to learn on.
Final Thoughts
The Michael Kelly Sojourn 6 carves a unique niche in the travel guitar market. It offers a compelling blend of portability, surprisingly good sound quality, and comfortable playability. While some limitations exist, like volume and scale length, for the adventurous musician seeking a versatile travel companion, the Sojourn 6 emerges as a strong contender.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore the world with your music, the Michael Kelly Sojourn 6 might be your perfect travel partner, ready to soundtrack your adventures wherever you roam.
