Where to start with the McPherson MG 4.5 XP? Like all of their precisely engineered instruments, it sports an offset--and in this case, enlarged--soundhole, a cantilevered neck, and their bespoke over and underpass bracing system in both Rosewood and Spruce. All of these engineering decisions were made to maximize the potential vibration of the soundboard. For this dreadnought-style MG 4.5 XP, McPherson have purposed an exquisite set of flamed bubinga for the back and sides. Nicknamed the "African Rosewood", bubinga is growing in popularity for its similar overtone-rich and nuanced voice. With its curly figuring and light sapline like an arrow down the center, it's as visually striking as it is aurally. Straight, wide-grained red (Adirondack) Spruce brings some pleasing punch and clarity. Like our other new McPhersons, this MG 4.5 XP comes with some major player upgrades to complete the package: EVO gold fretwire, pre-installed L.R. Baggs pickup, and custom Ameritage Hard Case.