For the modern guitarist, the world is the stage. But as any traveling musician knows, bringing a full-sized acoustic on a plane, a train, or even into a cramped hotel room is a logistical nightmare. In 2021, the original Donner HUSH™ I changed the game with its "headless" design and silent practice capabilities.
Today, we are thrilled to introduce the next chapter: The Donner HUSH™ I EVO2. While it retains the iconic silhouette that made the original a bestseller, the EVO2 is far more than a simple facelift. It is a ground-up refinement featuring a more stable neck, a more intuitive preamp, and "tool-free" mechanics that make it the most road-ready guitar we’ve ever built.
Built for the Road: The New 5-Piece Reinforced Neck
The biggest challenge for any travel guitar is environmental stability. Moving from a humid tropical climate to a dry, air-conditioned airplane cabin can wreak havoc on wood.
The original HUSH™ I featured a solid CNC-carved neck, which was excellent. However, the EVO2 takes a massive leap forward with a 5-piece Maple and African Mahogany construction. By laminating these premium woods, we’ve created a core that is significantly more resistant to warping and twisting.
Paired with a high-density HPL (High-Pressure Laminate) fretboard and a natural bone nut, the EVO2 offers a "warm," woody resonance while remaining virtually maintenance-free regardless of where your travels take you.
Superior Tone: The HPS-II Preamp & Custom Pickup
A travel guitar shouldn’t sound "small." The EVO2 debuts the Donner HPS-II Preamp System, paired with a custom-tuned undersaddle pickup.
What’s the difference?
The HPS-II has been specifically calibrated to capture the "air" and "woodiness" that headless guitars sometimes lack. It offers a faster dynamic response, meaning it picks up the subtle nuances of your fingerstyle playing or the aggressive snap of a plectrum with equal clarity. Whether you are plugging into the 3.5mm headphone jack for a private midnight session or the 6.35mm output for a live set, the tone is full-bodied, balanced, and remarkably natural.
No Tools? No Problem. (The Hardware Upgrade)
If you owned the original HUSH™ I, you know that attaching the ergonomic frames required a small wrench. It wasn't difficult, but it was one more thing to keep track of.
The EVO2 listens to player feedback. We’ve introduced new hand-tightened stand screws. You can now assemble or disassemble your guitar in seconds using nothing but your fingers. It turns the transition from "packed in a gig bag" to "ready to play" into a seamless experience.
Furthermore, we’ve addressed the "where is my wrench?" problem. The upgraded T-shaped tuning wrench now lives in a hidden magnetic compartment on the back panel. It’s out of sight but always within reach when you need to tweak your tuning or action.
Integrated Precision: The Built-in Tuner
Perhaps the most requested feature from our community was an onboard tuner. The HUSH™ I EVO2 delivers.
The new preamp interface now includes a bright, high-precision chromatic tuner with a note display. No more clipping vibrating tuners onto the frame or digging through your bag for a pedal. Just press a button, tune up, and play. It’s a small addition that makes a world of difference during a live performance or a quick practice session.
Aesthetic & Comfort Refinements
The EVO2 doesn't just play better; it looks more professional.
- Triple-Layer Binding: The body now features a refined 3-layer edge binding. Not only does this give the guitar a premium, high-end look, but it also increases impact resistance, protecting the edges from the inevitable bumps of travel.
- Satin Finish: Both the body and the "Slim C" neck feature a smooth satin finish. It feels organic to the touch and prevents that "sticky" feeling during long sessions in humid environments.
HUSH™ I vs. HUSH™ I EVO2: At a Glance
The Verdict: Is it worth the upgrade?
If you are a guitarist who values portability without sacrificing the "soul" of an acoustic instrument, the Donner HUSH™ I EVO2 is a masterclass in evolution. It takes everything that worked—the weight, the silence, the ergonomics—and polishes the rough edges.
It’s more stable, easier to set up, and sounds better than ever. The HUSH™ I EVO2 isn't just a travel guitar; it’s your new primary practice and performance partner.
Ready to take your music further?
