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Description
The 1956 Gibson ES-350T is a masterpiece of mid-century craftsmanship, capturing the essence of a golden era in music history. This semi-hollowbody electric guitar is a landmark model for Gibson, introducing a slimmer profile that was a game-changer for musicians seeking both comfort and performance. Its distinctive thinline archtop design not only reduces weight but also enhances the instrument’s tonal clarity, allowing every note to resonate with vibrant character.
This classic instrument originally featured P-90 pickups, with a transition to humbuckers in mid-1957, making those later models particularly coveted. However, the 1956 model stands out for its vintage P-90 pickups, offering a sound that’s both rich and articulate, perfect for jazz aficionados and blues enthusiasts alike. The ES-350T’s construction includes a laminated maple top, back, and sides, producing a warm, balanced tone that pairs well with its versatile pickup configuration.
Whether you're playing smooth jazz chords or ripping through a blues solo, the ES-350T delivers a dynamic range of expressive sounds. Its comfortable neck and finely crafted body make it a joy to play, while its timeless aesthetic ensures it remains a standout piece on any stage or in any collection. This model is not just an instrument; it's a piece of musical history that continues to inspire generations of players.
Key Features:
- Thinline archtop body design
- Vintage P-90 pickups for rich, articulate sound
- Laminated maple top, back, and sides
- Slim, comfortable neck profile
- Ideal for jazz and blues styles
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | ES-350T |
| Finish | Natural, Sunburst |
| Year | 1955 - 1963 |
| 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-350 |
| Model Sub-Family | Gibson ES-350 T |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Wood Top Style | Flamed, Plain |
FAQs
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What are the tonal characteristics of the 1956 Gibson ES-350T?
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The 1956 Gibson ES-350T is known for its warm, rich tones, thanks to its hollow body construction and dual humbucker pickups. It delivers a smooth, jazzy sound ideal for blues and jazz genres, with a clear, articulate voice that resonates well in both clean and slightly overdriven settings.
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How does the 1956 Gibson ES-350T differ from other Gibson ES models?
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The ES-350T features a thinner body and a shorter 23.5" scale neck compared to other ES models, offering a unique playability and tonal response. Its maple body and mahogany neck contribute to its distinctive sound and feel, setting it apart from models like the ES-335.
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Is the 1956 Gibson ES-350T suitable for modern music styles?
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While the 1956 Gibson ES-350T excels in jazz and blues, its versatile tonal range can suit various styles, including rock and pop. However, its vintage design and sound may not fully align with the heavy distortion often used in modern rock or metal.
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What is the neck profile like on the 1956 Gibson ES-350T?
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The 1956 Gibson ES-350T features a compact neck carve with a nut width of 1-5/8", providing a comfortable grip for players who prefer a smaller, more manageable neck, ideal for intricate fingerwork and chord transitions.
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Does the 1956 Gibson ES-350T come in different finishes?
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Yes, the 1956 Gibson ES-350T is available in Natural and Sunburst finishes, both featuring a glossy finish that highlights the maple body's flamed or plain wood top style, adding to its vintage aesthetic appeal.
Videos
Normans Rare Guitars
1956 Gibson ES-350T Sunburst | Guitar of the Day - Happy New Years
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1956 Gibson ES-350T.
Features and functionality
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The 1956 Gibson ES-350T hosts P90 pickups, unique to that year; later models switched to PAFs, impacting tonal warmth and output.
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Use cases and applications
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Its shorter scale length and narrower nut facilitate jazz, soul, and fingerpicking, offering ease in complex chord voicings and muting.
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Comparisons
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Compared to a 1969 Gibson SG Standard, the ES-350T's P90s are warmer due to 50's Alnico 3 magnets, requiring more amp push for rock tones.
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Setup and maintenance
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Owners adjust pole pieces higher on the ES-350T's P90s to counteract top sinking and enhance warmth, a common vintage maintenance practice.
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Artist usage
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