Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $5,638

High-end/Boutique

$200

$1001+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Discover the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation with the Collings SJ, a masterpiece that redefines the acoustic-electric guitar landscape. Crafted for those who seek a distinctive sound, this instrument merges the robust volume of a Dreadnought with the bright clarity of a classic Jumbo, creating a sonic experience that is both powerful and refined. Whether gracing the stage or enriching your personal collection, the Collings SJ, with its choice of Sitka spruce top and either maple or Indian rosewood body, stands as a testament to superior craftsmanship and auditory excellence.

Key Features:

  • Unique small Jumbo body silhouette offering a blend of powerful projection and clear, bright tonal qualities.
  • Premium Sitka spruce top for exceptional sound clarity and resonance.
  • Choice of maple or Indian rosewood body for versatile sound customization.
  • Pronounced mids, ensuring each note stands out with precision and warmth.
  • Ideal for both stage performances and intimate settings, catering to a wide range of musical styles and preferences.

Product specs

Brand Collings
Model SJ
Made In United States
Categories Jumbo Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Body Shape Jumbo
Fretboard Material Ebony
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
String Type Steel

FAQs

What body shape does the Collings SJ have and how does it affect the sound?

The Collings SJ features a jumbo body shape, which typically provides a rich, full sound with excellent bass response and volume, making it ideal for strumming and fingerstyle playing.

What type of wood is used for the fretboard on the Collings SJ?

The fretboard of the Collings SJ is made from ebony, known for its smooth feel and durability, enhancing playability and tonal clarity.

Does the Collings SJ come with a built-in pickup for amplification?

No, the Collings SJ does not come with a built-in pickup, making it a pure acoustic guitar. External amplification options can be added for live performances if needed.

How many frets does the Collings SJ have?

The Collings SJ has 20 frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and versatile playing styles.

Is the Collings SJ suitable for fingerstyle guitarists?

Yes, the jumbo body shape and ebony fretboard of the Collings SJ make it well-suited for fingerstyle playing, offering a balanced tone with clear articulation.

soundpurestudios

soundpurestudios

Collings SJ Acoustic Guitar - Select Sitka Spruce/East Indian Rosewood

Video thumbnail for Collings SJ  Acoustic Guitar - Select Sitka Spruce/East Indian Rosewood by soundpurestudios

Collings SJ Acoustic Guitar - Select Sitka Spruce/East Indian Rosewood

soundpurestudios

soundpurestudios

Video thumbnail for Collings SJ Comparison by soundpurestudios

Collings SJ Comparison

soundpurestudios

soundpurestudios

Video thumbnail for Collings SJ SS Acoustic Guitar Played By Carl Miner by Carter Vintage Backstage

Collings SJ SS Acoustic Guitar Played By Carl Miner

Carter Vintage Backstage

Carter Vintage Backstage

Video thumbnail for Collings SJ Mh A SS, Mahogany & Adirondack Spruce | Carl Miner by Carter Vintage Backstage

Collings SJ Mh A SS, Mahogany & Adirondack Spruce | Carl Miner

Carter Vintage Backstage

Carter Vintage Backstage

Video thumbnail for Collings SJ by Artisan Guitars

Collings SJ

Artisan Guitars

Artisan Guitars

Video thumbnail for Collings SJ Custom w German Spruce and European Maple by Artisan Guitars

Collings SJ Custom w German Spruce and European Maple

Artisan Guitars

Artisan Guitars

Video thumbnail for Collings SJ Custom - Reclaimed Alaskan Spruce & Ziricote #31306 by Eddie's Guitars

Collings SJ Custom - Reclaimed Alaskan Spruce & Ziricote #31306

Eddie's Guitars

Eddie's Guitars

Video thumbnail for Collings "SJ" - Part1 by GregsGuitars

Collings "SJ" - Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional tone with unique voice, highly responsive and balanced sound

  • Excellent intonation and rich low end comparable to a dreadnought

  • Bright treble notes with quick decay, ideal for finger-style arrangements

  • Versatile for complex chords and finger-picked blues/ragtime music

  • Maple version offers chimey, bell-like sound reminiscent of mid-60s music

  • Elegant design with white trim and Waverly tuning machines

  • Available in multiple wood combinations, each offering distinct tonal qualities

  • High headroom, making it suitable for dynamic playing styles

CONS

  • Maple version lacks warmth and sustain compared to rosewood or mahogany

  • Not ideal for strumming simple, sustained chords in rhythm guitar roles

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Collings SJ.

Build quality

  • Collings guitars are praised for their consistent wood selection and high-quality materials, regardless of the guitar's design or finish.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report a distinct tactile sensation when playing, where the guitar feels resonant and responsive, enhancing the playing experience.

    Source
  • The neck of Collings guitars is often highlighted for its exceptional playability, described as "insanely good" by users.

    Source
  • Some users state they often reach for their Taylor 914 over their Rockbridge SJ, indicating personal preference may outweigh price or brand prestige.

    Source
  • Owners emphasize the visual appeal of Rockbridge SJs, describing the aesthetic experience of playing as enhancing overall enjoyment.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A used Collings CJ was noted for having superior tone compared to two new Collings models, emphasizing the value in pre-owned guitars.

    Source
  • A user experienced a similar level of tonal satisfaction with both a Collings D1 and a Huss and Dalton Rosewood/Adi Dread, highlighting the competition in high-end acoustics.

    Source
  • Owners frequently compare their Rockbridge SJ with high-end models like the Taylor 914ce, noting distinct tonal differences but not necessarily superiority.

    Source
  • The Taylor K24ce is mentioned alongside the Rockbridge SJ, with some owners expressing satisfaction in spending on a custom SJ despite owning other premium acoustics.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A used Rockbridge SJ can be found significantly cheaper than new, with price differences of around $7k, suggesting patience can yield financial savings.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Enthusiasts of specific artists, like Dave Matthews Band fans, may find unique value in owning a guitar modeled after a favorite musician’s instrument.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Conan O'Brien uses Collings SJ

Conan O'Brien

Guitarist, Podcasters & Streamers

The Groundlings

...
Verified via Collingsguitars

On Collings' website, O'Brien is visible with Collings SJ. It says : "Conan O'Brien "on set" with his custom inlaid Collings SJ." O'Brien used this guitar on his "Conan" show for "Something Else", which he played with Slash and Jeff Bridges. Rolling Stone hosted this video.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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