What does "GCS" stand for? 
Guitar Craft Series.

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What defines the Comins GCS line of instruments?
The GCS guitars are designed by Comins and manufactured in South Korea. When the guitars arrive at the Comins US shop, each instrument receives about four hours of bench time, going through a rigorous setup and inspection process. In this way Comins can offer a professional level, "gig-ready" instrument at a relatively affordable price point.

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Where can I find information regarding scale length, weight, and other specifications? 
At this website, listed for each respective model.

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Should I buy a GCS-1 or GCS-1ES? 
The tonal differences are subtle but certainly noticeable. The GCS-1 utilizes a laminated maple top and rosewood fingerboard. This combination is more typically used for guitars in rock and blues genres, as say a Gibson 335. The GCS-1 sounds round and clear, making the GCS-1 especially versatile and therefore also suitable for jazz and country styles.  The GCS-1ES utilizes a laminated spruce top and ebony fingerboard. This combination makes for an instrument that sounds a little tighter and punchier. Many jazz and fusion players may find themselves gravitating towatrd this model. That said, personal tastes vary and there are players of all styles who have opted for either model.

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Where can I try GCS guitars? 
The first place to check is the list of dealers (Where to Purchase) provided at the Comins website. Comins often exhibits guitars at a few annual trade shows, usually announced on social media. Additionally, if you are close to or visiting the Philadelphia area you may schedule an appointment by contacting Comins via email. 

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How can I locate the exact GCS model or color I am looking for?
It is always recommended to inquire with any of the GCS dealers. You can also contact Comins directly to see if there is availability and to help locate a model or to have one shipped to a dealer specifically for you. 

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What strings are on the GCS guitars? 
The stock strings for the GCS-1 and GCS-1ES models come with a D'Addario EXL115 set (.011-.049, nickel round wound, plain 3rd). The stock strings for the GCS-16-1 and GCS-16-2 models are D'Addario EJ21 (.012-.052, nickel round wound, wound 3rd string).

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Can I use heavier or lighter strings on my GCS guitar? 
Sure, whatever your preference. Remember, changing string tension on any guitar will typically require a truss rod adjustment to ensure proper neck relief. Additionally, switching from a plain to a wound G string or a wound to a plain G string will require an adjustment to the G string saddle to maintain correct intonation. Finally, the GCS nut slots are cut in a way where you should be able to alter the string gauges by a very small amount without requiring an adjustment to the nut slots. Larger variations from the stock string gauges may require an adjustment to the nut slots. A pinching string when tuning or an unusual buzz on an open string might be an indication that the nut slots require adjustment.

 

How do I adjust the truss rod?
You may find that changing string gauges or seasonal changes in temperature and humidity will alter the feel of the setup. In this case it is best to consider neck relief before adjusting the bridge to maintain action height. The truss rod adjusting nut can be accessed under the truss rod cap and requires a 4mm hex wrench (supplied). A 4mm wrench is necessary as using an incorrectly sized wrench can damage the adjusting nut. The truss rod is two-way, meaning it can add relief (loosening- counterclockwise) or reduce relief (tightening-clockwise). Adjustments usually only require small, incremental movements of the nut. This procedure is best left to someone with experience and knowledge of neck relief.

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What are the values of the volume and tone pots?
The GCS guitars utilize 500k linear taper pots for volume and 500K audio taper pots for tone.

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What does the push/pull pot do on the GCS-1 style guitars?
The tone control for the neck pickup can be pulled out, turning both pickups into single coil mode. This yields a thinner overall tone with a little more clarity. This feature adds versatility to the guitars and provides nice options for rhythm accompaniment and perhaps slightly dirty overdrive. When the three way switch is set for both pickups, potential for single coil "hum" is cancelled.

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Where can I find replacement parts for my GCS guitar?
In most cases replacement parts are available by contacting Comins directly. Additionally, some components may be available from third-party vendors.

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Where can I have my GCS guitar serviced? 
Routine maintenance is part of guitar ownership and any experienced and qualified technician in your area should be able to accomodate you. Otherwise, Comins remains available to service GCS guitars provided the customer can arrange for transit to and from the Comins workshop. Costs are quoted on an individual basis.