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Average Price: $1,399
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Description
Step back in time with the legendary 1954 Gibson ES-125, a semi-hollowbody electric guitar that captures the spirit of a bygone era with its classic design and timeless sound. Originally reborn in 1946, the ES-125 quickly became a staple for musicians seeking a blend of rich acoustic resonance and the electrifying presence of an electric guitar. This iconic model, renowned for its P-90 pickup, offers a warm, dynamic tone that has resonated through the decades.
The elegant simplicity of the ES-125 is underscored by its beautifully crafted body, offering musicians an instrument that's as visually striking as its sound is soul-stirring. The dot inlays and trapezoid tailpiece elevate its aesthetic while ensuring reliable performance. Whether you're strumming in a cozy studio or performing on stage, the ES-125 delivers a versatile sonic palette suitable for jazz, blues, and rock alike.
With a heritage that includes notable players like George Thorogood and Sheryl Crow, this guitar is more than just an instrument; it's a piece of music history. Its straightforward controls, comprising volume and tone knobs, allow for seamless tonal adjustments, making it a beloved choice for both vintage enthusiasts and contemporary musicians seeking a classic touch.
Key Features:
- Semi-hollowbody electric design
- P-90 single-coil pickup
- Dot inlays for a classic look
- Volume and tone control knobs
- Trapezoid tailpiece for enhanced sustain
- Celebrated by musicians across various genres
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | ES-125 |
| Finish | Ebony, Sunburst |
| Year | 1950 - 1970 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Hollow Body Guitars |
| Body Material | Maple |
| Body Shape | Non Cutaway |
| Body Type | Hollow Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Stop-Bar |
| Color Family | Black, Brown |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Gibson ES-125 |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Number of Frets | 19 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | S |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
| Wood Top Style | Plain |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile like on the 1954 Gibson ES-125?
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The 1954 Gibson ES-125 features a comfortable rounded neck profile typical of its era, providing a smooth playing experience suitable for various styles, especially jazz and blues.
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What kind of tones can I expect from the 1954 Gibson ES-125?
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The 1954 Gibson ES-125, with its single P-90 pickup, offers warm, rich tones with a clear, articulate sound, making it ideal for jazz, blues, and rockabilly genres.
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Is the 1954 Gibson ES-125 suitable for beginners?
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While the 1954 Gibson ES-125 is a high-quality instrument, its vintage nature and unique characteristics might be better appreciated by more experienced players familiar with hollow body guitars.
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What are the primary materials used in the construction of the 1954 Gibson ES-125?
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The 1954 Gibson ES-125 features a maple body, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fretboard, contributing to its warm, resonant sound and classic appearance.
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How does the 1954 Gibson ES-125 differ from other Gibson ES models?
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The 1954 Gibson ES-125 is a hollow body guitar with a single P-90 pickup, offering a distinct vintage tone, whereas other ES models like the ES-335 may feature semi-hollow bodies and dual humbuckers for a broader tonal range.
Videos
GuitarPoint
1954 Gibson ES-125 Sunburst / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars
1954 Gibson ES-125 Sunburst / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars
GuitarPoint
1954 Gibson ES-125
GregsGuitars
Gibson ES-125 1954 - Noodling in D major
Casper Hejlesen
Reviews
PROS
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Vintage ES-175 style tone at a budget price
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Rich, dry "thunk" associated with Gibson archtops
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Versatile P90 pickup, great for various styles
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Excellent playability with no fret buzz
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Perfect harmonics and mellowness for jazz
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High-quality tone pots with responsive control
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Timeless investment piece with lasting value
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Can deliver both 50s rock 'n' roll and mellow jazz sounds
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Maintains excellent condition despite age
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Attractive vintage aesthetic, appealing to collectors and players alike
CONS
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Absence of cutaway may limit upper fret access
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Potential intonation issues without a wound third string
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Risk of structural issues like sagging tops or broken braces
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Some guitars may appear refinished despite clean condition
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1954 Gibson ES-125.
Setup and maintenance
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Owners warn of potential fretboard humps near the neck-body joint on older units; professional luthier adjustments may be necessary.
Source
Comparisons
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Tonally, the ES-125 is noted for its similarity to the more expensive Gibson ES-400, particularly in jazz contexts.
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User experience
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Enthusiasts appreciate the mellow, soft sound of the ES-125's vintage P90 pickups for jazz, likening it to tones in Wes Montgomery's performances.
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Owners suggest keeping the guitar in the family as a cherished heirloom, highlighting its sentimental value beyond monetary worth.
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Owners report a bright acoustic tone compared to other acoustic guitars, making it suitable for hybrid acoustic/electric setups.
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Use cases and applications
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The ES-125's tone is celebrated among jazz players, with historical performances enhancing its reputation.
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A 1954 Gibson ES-125 with original electronics is actively gigged with, indicating its durability and continued performance quality over time.
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The ES-125 can be loud enough for acoustic jamming with a Selmer guitar and an upright bass, showcasing its versatility beyond electric play.
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Value and pricing
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These guitars were once more affordable but are gaining recognition and value, especially in jazz combos.
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A 1954 Gibson ES-125 in near-perfect condition is valued between $2,000 to $3,000, depending on market demand and sale urgency.
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Appraisal values can vary significantly; one owner mentioned an appraisal at $3,500, reflecting the guitar's collectible nature and potential for appreciation.
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Build quality
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Some ES-125s from this era feature unusually figured maple veneers, which were generally not standard, offering a unique visual appeal.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Used as early as 2008 for Pride sessions
This 1954 ES-125 full-sized hollowbody still has its original P-90. The model debuted in 1941 as an entry-level archtop. Later, some ES-125s also got a lower-bout cutaway. For a close-up look at Wonderland playing some old-school blues on this axe, check out her "#quarantunes" video performance of Muddy Waters' "Champagne and Reefer." It's excellent, and also provides a literal living-room listen to her powerful singing.
Album Usage
The 1954 Gibson ES-125 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use 1954 Gibson ES-125, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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