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Average Price: $3,300

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$1201+

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Description

Step back in time with the 1940 Gibson L-7, a semi-hollowbody electric guitar that embodies the rich history and craftsmanship of early 20th-century music. Renowned for its elegant archtop design, the L-7 offers a warm, resonant tone that has captivated jazz and blues musicians for decades. Crafted during a golden era of guitar-making, this instrument is a vintage gem, featuring a carved spruce top and maple back and sides, delivering a balanced and articulate sound that is both timeless and versatile. The L-7's classic trapeze tailpiece and floating bridge provide not only aesthetic charm but also contribute to its distinctive tonal character.

This model is a prized piece for collectors and players alike, representing Gibson's dedication to quality and innovation. The neck is crafted from mahogany, ensuring a comfortable playing experience, while the rosewood fingerboard offers smooth playability for intricate chord progressions and solos. The 1940 Gibson L-7 is not just a guitar; it's a piece of musical history, inviting you to explore the authentic sounds of a bygone era. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, this guitar is sure to make a statement with its authentic vintage appeal.

Key Features:

  • Semi-hollowbody electric guitar with archtop design
  • Carved spruce top with maple back and sides
  • Mahogany neck for comfortable playability
  • Rosewood fingerboard for smooth playing
  • Classic trapeze tailpiece and floating bridge
  • Vintage aesthetic and resonant tone ideal for jazz and blues players

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model L-7
Finish Natural, Sunburst
Year 1935 - 1956
Made In United States
Categories Archtop Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Maple
Body Shape Archtop
Color Family Brown, Tan
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson L-7
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 music genres is the 1940 Gibson L-7 suitable for?

The 1940 Gibson L-7 is ideal for jazz and swing music, offering a powerful yet sweet tone that was popular in the big band era. Its archtop design provides a warm, resonant sound that can cut through ensembles without amplification.

What materials are used in the construction of the 1940 Gibson L-7?

The 1940 Gibson L-7 features a spruce top, maple back and sides, and a mahogany neck with a rosewood fretboard. These materials contribute to its rich, resonant tone and classic appearance.

Does the 1940 Gibson L-7 come with any pickups or electronics?

No, the 1940 Gibson L-7 is an acoustic archtop guitar without any built-in pickups or electronic components. It is designed for pure acoustic performance, typical of its era.

How many frets does the 1940 Gibson L-7 have?

The 1940 Gibson L-7 has 19 frets, providing a comfortable range for jazz and swing playing styles.

What is the finish style of the 1940 Gibson L-7?

The 1940 Gibson L-7 is available in a sunburst finish with a gloss style, enhancing its vintage aesthetic and showcasing the natural beauty of the wood.

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional acoustic volume and pure tone without amplification

  • Long sustain with a sweet final decay

  • Perfectly aged patina enhances aesthetic appeal

  • Deep C neck shape offers comfortable playability

  • 1 3/4 wide nut allows for easier finger placement

  • Clear, deep voice with excellent projection

  • Sweet action allows for responsive bends and vibrato

CONS

  • Requires maintenance for optimal performance

  • Bridge needs proper seating for improved sound quality

  • Upper position bass frets buzz strongly, needing attention

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1940 Gibson L-7.

Features and functionality

  • The guitar is equipped with an old DeArmond 1000 pickup, which might have been added in the 1950s.

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Value and pricing

  • Despite its vintage status, the 1940s Gibson L-7 is priced similarly to a new Les Paul Standard due to lower demand.

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Comparisons

  • Solid carved top models like the L-V and Super 400 fetch higher prices, especially cutaway and CES models, unlike the L-7's generally lower market value.

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Build quality

  • The guitar features a rose pickguard, which is noted for its aesthetic appeal and condition despite the instrument's age.

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Use cases and applications

  • The L-7 is identified as a jazz guitar, potentially offering inspiration from artists like Wes Montgomery for style exploration.

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Setup and maintenance

  • It's recommended to change one string at a time to maintain the floating bridge position during restringing.

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  • Lubricating the machine tuners with light oil can be crucial if they haven't been serviced in decades.

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  • Using medium gauge Monel strings, like Martin Retro, is suggested for preserving the guitar's original acoustic tone.

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  • Consider starting with 13-gauge strings, as lighter gauges like 10s and 12s were not common until the 1960s.

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User experience

  • Acknowledging the guitar's potential value, estimated to be at least $5,000, emphasizes the importance of careful handling and professional maintenance.

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Artist usage

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See how Eric Clapton uses 1940 Gibson L-7

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Christies

Eric Clapton bought this guitar for collecting rather than playing purposes although he did play it occasionally.

Genre Usage

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

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