The Michael Kelly Forte Port acoustic guitar might initially appear unassuming. With its laminated sapele back and sides, mahogany neck, and a modest price tag, it could be easily overlooked. However, this guitar holds a delightful surprise for players seeking exceptional value.
What sets the Forte Port apart is its innovative Port Technology. This design incorporates a unique soundhole placement – one on the guitar’s side, close to the player’s ear, and another offset on the solid spruce top. Combined with specialized bracing, this system is engineered to produce a sound that Michael Kelly describes as “dynamic,” “responsive,” and remarkably “big.” And in practice, the Forte Port truly lives up to these claims.
Playing the Forte Port reveals a warm and inviting tone that is immediately captivating. Even with vigorous strumming, this guitar maintains its sonic integrity. Whether you’re digging into energetic rhythms reminiscent of Neil Young’s iconic tunes or exploring the chiming trebles suited for Beatles classics, the Forte Port responds admirably.
While the 1 11/16-inch nut width might be considered narrow by some fingerstyle players, the guitar’s inherent warmth is undeniably inspiring. Experimenting with fingerpicking pieces, like adapting Elizabeth Cotton’s “Freight Train” or exploring Greg Brown’s arrangements, highlights the guitar’s versatility. The Forte Port also shines in lower tunings and blues styles, delivering a punchy bass response that’s perfect for genres ranging from blues shuffles in the style of Jimmy Reed to palm-muted grooves. Its ability to maintain clarity even in a drop G6 tuning further demonstrates its sonic integrity across different musical approaches.
The Forte Port’s appeal extends beyond its acoustic performance. When plugged in, utilizing the integrated Fishman Sonotone active preamp, the guitar becomes even more impressive. The Fishman electronics amplify the instrument’s inherent clarity and responsiveness, making it equally suitable for strummed chords and articulate single-note melodies. This feature significantly enhances its versatility, making it stage-ready and adaptable to various amplified performance settings.
Considering its affordable price point, the Michael Kelly Forte Port stands out as an exceptional value. It’s a well-constructed acoustic-electric guitar, equipped with high-quality Fishman electronics and boasting a unique sound-enhancing design. For guitarists mindful of their budget but unwilling to compromise on sound and playability, the Michael Kelly Forte Port is an instrument that deserves serious consideration.
Michael Kelly Forte Port: At a Glance
Body:
- 14-fret cutaway
- Solid spruce top
- Laminated sapele back and sides
- Zero-End Pin bridge
- Black ply binding
Neck:
- Mahogany
- Rosewood fretboard (12-inch radius)
- MK die-cast tuners
- Standard C profile
- 25.5-inch scale
- Fast black nylon nut
- Dual-action truss rod
Extras:
- D’Addario EXP16 Coated Phosphor Bronze, Light, 12-53 gauge strings
- Ultra thin satin natural finish
Price: $299
- Made in China
- michaelkellyguitars.com
