My thoughts are similar to yours, Jim.
I think the full Koa is better looking, partially because of the gloss finish and “appointments” (As Barry Maz would say) on the headstock. However, if they treated that Opio Acacia with gloss...that might end up looking just as good.
I’m quite pleased with my Opios and I don’t have Koa envy...but I do have Koa plans. When my wife and I visit Hawaii, I’m buying one (or picking one up) in the factory. Maybe a Kamaka at the same time (why not...you’re there). But until then, my main “players” remain my two Opios (concert acacia and tenor sapele). But I play all the other ones, too.
Vic, thanks for doing that recording. I might have done a split screen...recording to a track (beat, bass line, whatever), and played with having both play at the same time, then switching between one and the other.
What this really goes to show is the value you’re getting with an Opio...very similar tone for a huge price reduction.
Thanks again, Vic!