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Average Price: $1,850

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$200

$601+

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High-end

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Description

Crafted during the golden era of acoustic guitar design, the 1940 Gibson L-50 is a testament to timeless craftsmanship and enduring sound. This archtop acoustic guitar seamlessly merges vintage allure with rich, resonant tones, making it a cherished piece for collectors and musicians alike. The L-50's unique history is marked by its evolution through the '30s and '40s, reflecting changes in hardware and body dimensions that Gibson experimented with during this period. Despite the manufacturing inconsistencies of World War II, this model emerged as a steadfast favorite, known for its distinctive tonal quality and exceptional build.

The Gibson L-50 captures the essence of pre-war acoustics with its solid spruce top and maple back and sides, delivering a bright, articulate sound perfect for jazz, blues, and more. Its responsive nature allows for outstanding dynamic control, whether you're playing delicate fingerstyle or vigorous strumming. The comfortable neck and classic finish make it not only a joy to play but also a centerpiece in any guitar collection.

For musicians seeking a piece of history with a voice that has aged like fine wine, the 1940 Gibson L-50 stands as a beacon of vintage charm and sonic excellence.

Key Features:

  • Archtop acoustic body style
  • Solid spruce top with maple back and sides
  • Comfortable neck for enhanced playability
  • Iconic design with vintage appeal
  • Known for its rich, resonant tone perfect for various musical genres

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model L-50 F-Hole
Finish Sunburst
Year 1935 - 1971
Made In United States
Categories Archtop Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Maple
Body Shape Archtop
Color Family Brown
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson L-50
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 19
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Gibson Kalamazoo Factory Era
Sides Material Maple
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the 1940 Gibson L-50?

The 1940 Gibson L-50 delivers a rich, warm tone typical of archtop guitars, with a focus on midrange frequencies. Its spruce top and maple back and sides contribute to a balanced sound suitable for jazz and blues.

Is the 1940 Gibson L-50 suitable for modern playing techniques?

While the 1940 Gibson L-50 is a vintage instrument, its 19-fret rosewood fretboard and comfortable neck shape make it versatile enough for various playing styles, though it excels in traditional jazz and blues settings.

What is the body shape of the 1940 Gibson L-50, and how does it affect the sound?

The 1940 Gibson L-50 features an archtop body shape, which enhances its projection and produces a resonant, clear tone ideal for ensemble playing.

Does the 1940 Gibson L-50 come with any pickups?

No, the 1940 Gibson L-50 is an acoustic archtop guitar without any built-in pickups, designed for acoustic performance rather than amplified use.

What materials are used in the construction of the 1940 Gibson L-50?

The 1940 Gibson L-50 is constructed with a spruce top, maple back and sides, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fretboard, all contributing to its distinctive sound and playability.

Reviews

PROS

  • Rich, full sound ideal for rhythm and standards

  • Retains tune excellently despite age

  • Distinctive harmonic overtones similar to a mandolin

  • Perfect for jazz, blues, and swing genres

  • Custom Mother of Pearl inlay adds unique aesthetic

  • Comfortable neck and manageable body size

  • Articulate tone that enhances single notes and chords

  • Sweet and non-harsh sound compared to other archtops

CONS

  • May require fret and neck work upon purchase

  • Potential for repair needs like soldering cracks in the tailpiece mount

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1940 Gibson L-50.

Setup and maintenance

  • It's crucial to remove headstock-attached straps to avoid unnecessary stress on the neck and potential tuning instability.

    Source
  • Regular check-ups by a luthier are recommended to maintain playability, especially replacing old bridges or saddles.

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  • Decades-old strings should be replaced to improve playability and sound.

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Value and pricing

  • Although not exceptionally high in current value, maintaining an L-50 in good condition could significantly increase its worth over time.

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Artist usage

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See how Eric Clapton uses 1940 Gibson L-50

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

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Verified via Christies

Eric Clapton purchased this guitar as a tribute to one of his heroes Snooks Eaglin, who was pictured playing one of these models on an album cover. Clapton said that he bought this guitar because "... he wanted to sound like him..". He also remarked that he has played this guitar a great deal.

See how Frank Sidoris uses 1940 Gibson L-50

Frank Sidoris

Guitarist

The Cab

...
Verified via Twitter

Frank Sidoris can be seen playing a 1940 Gibson L-50 in a video shared on his Twitter, highlighting its use during a filming session with Gibson Guitars.

Genre Usage

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

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