We’re more than excited to announce our latest partnership with builder Drew Heinonen—and what better way to cut the ribbon to this enterprise than with a brand new 2018 SJ in Bubinga and Sinker Redwood? Bedecked with MOP and Paua Abalone trim and a 42-style treatment across the fretboard, our first Heinonen proves that good looks can get you pretty far in life, but what about that tone? With an aesthetic sympathetic to Jim Olson’s own, it’s not a stretch to expect a similar flavor to the voice as well, which is exactly what we’re here to report.
The name of the game here is clarity. That, and balance. And dynamism. This Heinonen SJ offers a colorful tone palette that works well for a wide range of styles, and we found this guitar soaked up a heavy attack as easily as a gentler touch without topping out. There’s a touch of the Olson smoothness here, but a different brand of energetic response that’s all Drew’s own. The smooth contour of the C profile neck felt like glass in our hands. Speaking of glass, the UV-cured Cardinal finish Drew uses is here buffed to a mirror sheen that’s velvet smooth to the touch.
The experience of playing this Heinonen SJ is one characterized by easy playability, responsiveness, and an expansive dynamic range.

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