Skip to product information
This vintage 12-string is in exceptional player's condition and has been thoroughly vetted:
Vintage 1970s Kansas B-280 12-String Dreadnought Suzuki Violin Japan w/ Hard Case
$899.00
Sale price
$899.00
Regular price
Up for grabs at the Japanese Guitar Company is a beautiful, late-1970s Kansas B-280 12-String Dreadnought. For players who know vintage MIJ acoustics, the Kansas line represents a golden era of production, individually manufactured by the world-renowned Suzuki Violin Co. (鈴木バイオリン社) for the Kiwawa distribution house.
The B-280 was a premium tier model in the Kansas catalog, boasting high-end aesthetic details rarely found on standard export acoustics. The back features an jaw-dropping three-piece rosewood layout separated by intricate decorative wood marquetry. The neck features a bound rosewood fingerboard adorned with premium pearloid block inlays accented with abalone center triangles.
Tonally, this guitar delivers a massive, choral-like chime with a deep wood resonance and excellent projection. Because it was structurally over-built by violin luthiers, the top remains perfectly flat under full 12-string tension, offering fantastic action and structural stability.
This vintage 12-string is in exceptional player's condition and has been thoroughly vetted:
- Frets & Neck: There is no visible fret wear across the board. The neck is straight and stable, playing beautifully up and down the neck.
- Body & Finish: The gloss finish has aged into a gorgeous amber patina. It displays a few very minor, light surface scuffs on the upper bass-side bout of the top (see photos). These are strictly cosmetic clear-coat marks and do not affect the wood or structural integrity.
- Case: Includes a protective hard shell case for secure shipping and storage.
If you’re looking for a highly articulate, premium-appointed vintage MIJ 12-string dreadnought that stands toe-to-toe with premium builds of the era, this Kansas B-280 is ready to track in the studio or head to the stage.
Case: Hard
Scale Length: 25.5“
Nut Width: 1.89“
Fret Wear: 10/10
Action at 12F (6th): .07“
Action at 12F (1st): .07“
Weight: 5lbs 3oz
Overall Condition: 9/10
Sound Factor: 11 out of 10
USA Seller, check my feedback to see how I value my customers and see my other listings for more rare Japanese Guitars and other unique gear! I use recycled packaging for reduced environmental impact and ship all items 100% insured against loss or damage.
Internal Use (Bin) - PA-9-1