1956 Gibson ES-225TD Electric Guitar

$5,995.00 Price Tier: High-end

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Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

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$5,995.00 14 available Used

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Average Price: $5,995

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1201+

Price Tier

In the Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars category, 1956 Gibson ES-225TD Electric Guitar is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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High-end

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Description

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Step back in time with the 1956 Gibson ES-225TD Electric Guitar, a vintage gem that encapsulates the rich tonal heritage of Gibson's golden era. As a semi-hollowbody electric guitar, the ES-225TD offers a unique blend of warmth and resonance, making it a favorite among aficionados seeking classic rock and jazz sounds. Originally introduced in the mid-50s, this guitar boasts dual P-90 pickups, providing a versatile tonal palette that ranges from smooth, mellow blues to gritty rock and roll.

The ES-225TD features a laminated maple body that contributes to its distinctive acoustic quality, while the mahogany neck ensures comfortable playability. The rosewood fingerboard adds a touch of elegance and smoothness to your playing experience. This model is a testament to Gibson's craftsmanship, offering both aesthetic appeal and robust performance.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or a performing musician, the 1956 Gibson ES-225TD is a reliable companion that delivers authentic vintage sound. Its simplicity in design paired with the powerful tonal range makes it a standout in any musician's lineup.

Key Features:

Semi-hollowbody electric guitar design
Dual P-90 pickups for a wide range of tones
Laminated maple body for enhanced resonance
Mahogany neck for smooth playability
Rosewood fingerboard for a classic feel
Iconic 1950s Gibson craftsmanship

Product specs

Brand	Gibson
Model	ES-225TD
Finish	Natural, Sunburst
Year	1956 - 1959
Made In	United States
Categories	Hollow Body Guitars
Body Material	Maple
Body Shape	Single Cutaway
Body Type	Hollow Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type	Stop-Bar
Color Family	Brown, Tan
Finish Pattern	Sunburst
Finish Style	Gloss
Fretboard Material	Rosewood
Model Family	Gibson ES-225
Model Sub-Family	Gibson ES-225TD
Neck Construction	Set-Neck
Neck Material	Mahogany
Number of Frets	20
Number of Strings	6-String
Pickup Configuration	SS
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed
Scale Length	24.75"
Wood Top Style	Plain

FAQs

What type of pickups does the 1956 Gibson ES-225TD have?: The 1956 Gibson ES-225TD is equipped with two P-90 single-coil pickups, known for their warm, punchy tone and versatility across various music genres.
Is the Gibson ES-225TD suitable for jazz music?: Yes, the Gibson ES-225TD's hollow body and P-90 pickups make it an excellent choice for jazz, providing a rich, resonant sound ideal for smooth, melodic lines.
What is the neck profile of the 1956 Gibson ES-225TD?: The 1956 Gibson ES-225TD features a set-neck construction with a mahogany neck, offering a comfortable grip and smooth playability typical of vintage Gibson guitars.
How does the Gibson ES-225TD compare to other semi-hollowbody guitars?: The Gibson ES-225TD is distinguished by its unique combination of a fully hollow body and P-90 pickups, offering a distinct tonal character that blends the warmth of hollow bodies with the clarity of single-coil pickups.
What finish options are available for the 1956 Gibson ES-225TD?: The 1956 Gibson ES-225TD is available in Natural and Sunburst finishes, both of which enhance the guitar's classic aesthetic and showcase its maple body.

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Reviews

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PROS

Unique stereo capability offers versatile sound options
Stellar craftsmanship from Gibson's "Golden Years"
Neck design provides comfortable play without being too thick
Delivers diverse sound range from R&B to Blues
Excellent fit and finish for a vintage guitar
Minimal feedback even at high volumes
Superior to similar models like the ES 125 in construction
Features like gold bonnet knobs and pearl inlay add elegance

CONS

Potential neck stability issues requiring an expensive reset
High action may need adjustment

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1956 Gibson ES-225TD Electric Guitar.

Features and functionality

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The 1956 Gibson ES-225TD has a distinctive P-90 pickup positioned in the middle, known for its ability to produce a "screaming" tone ideal for expressive playing styles.
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String choice significantly affects tone and sustain; flats last longer but rounds offer more brightness and articulation.
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Build quality

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A replacement pickguard is often noted due to the unique grain pattern of the original mid-to-late 50s tortoise celluloid, which is difficult to replicate accurately.
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Comparisons

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The Gibson ES-125 is mentioned as a similar model, yet it lacks the cutaway found on the ES-225TD, offering a slightly different aesthetic and playing experience.
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Use cases and applications

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The ES-225TD is noted for inspiring players to explore jazz, suggesting its suitability for this genre due to its tonal qualities and playability.
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Flat wound strings deliver a mellow, "thud"-like tone with less sustain, ideal for jazz, whereas round wound strings are brighter and suited for rock and blues.
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Different string compositions impact tone, with stainless steel being the brightest and pure nickel offering a rounder tone without being as dull as flats.
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User experience

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Owners of vintage Gibson models like this often find sentimental value, with stories of rediscovery and historical family connections enhancing the guitar's allure.
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Setup and maintenance

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Round wound strings provide a brighter tone on the ES-225TD, while pure nickel strings balance brightness with a vintage sound.
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Ground-wound strings offer a middle ground by reducing string noise and providing more articulation than flatwounds, although they can initially feel rough.
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