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Average Price: $9,087

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$1201+

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Description

The 1956 Gibson ES-350TN is a captivating blend of vintage allure and sonic versatility, crafted for the discerning guitarist who values both style and substance. Introduced as an evolution of the original ES-350, this semi-hollowbody electric guitar embodies the golden era of Gibson craftsmanship with its thinline archtop design. Initially equipped with P-90 pickups, some models transitioned to humbuckers by mid-1957, making them highly coveted by collectors and musicians alike. This iconic instrument is renowned for its warm, rich tones and exceptional playability, making it a perfect companion for jazz, blues, and rock enthusiasts.

Its elegant maple body and classic finish impart a timeless aesthetic appeal, while the comfortable neck profile ensures effortless playability. Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, the 1956 Gibson ES-350TN offers a dynamic range of sounds that can be tailored to your unique musical expression. This guitar is not just a piece of history; it's a living testament to Gibson's legacy of innovation and excellence.

Key Features:

  • Thinline archtop body design
  • Originally equipped with P-90 pickups; switched to humbuckers in mid-1957
  • Maple body with classic finish
  • Renowned for warm and rich tonal qualities
  • Comfortable neck profile for ease of playability
  • Ideal for jazz, blues, and rock genres

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

What type of music genres is the 1956 Gibson ES-350TN best suited for?

The 1956 Gibson ES-350TN is well-suited for jazz, blues, and rockabilly due to its warm, rich tones and hollow body design, which provides a resonant sound ideal for these genres.

How does the hollow body of the 1956 Gibson ES-350TN affect its sound?

The hollow body of the 1956 Gibson ES-350TN enhances its resonance and sustain, producing a warm, full-bodied tone that is characteristic of vintage jazz and blues guitars.

What pickup configuration does the 1956 Gibson ES-350TN have?

The 1956 Gibson ES-350TN features a dual humbucker (HH) pickup configuration, offering a thick, powerful sound with reduced noise, ideal for a variety of musical styles.

Is the 1956 Gibson ES-350TN suitable for live performances?

Yes, the 1956 Gibson ES-350TN is suitable for live performances, especially in jazz and blues settings, thanks to its rich tone and robust build, though feedback control may be necessary due to its hollow body.

What is the neck profile of the 1956 Gibson ES-350TN like?

The 1956 Gibson ES-350TN typically features a comfortable, rounded neck profile that is conducive to smooth playability, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1956 Gibson ES-350TN.

Features and functionality

  • The 1956 ES-350TN features P90 pickups, the only year this model included them before switching to PAFs.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The ES-350TN is likened to a budget version of the Byrdland, with Chuck Berry favoring it with Humbuckers.

    Source
  • The ES-350TN offers a unique alternative to the more expensive vintage 335s and is less prone to feedback than the full 335 block.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for jazz, soul, and fingerpicking country, benefiting from its shorter scale length and narrower nut for easier chord voicings.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the warmth of the 50's Alnico 3 P90s, which complement the hollow body design.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Adjusting the pole pieces higher on the P90s compensates for top sinking over time, enhancing warmth.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Eric Clapton uses 1956 Gibson ES-350TN

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

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Verified via Christies

Clapton describes this guitar as "Beautiful". He said that he bought this particular instrument as a tribute to one of his heroes, Chuck Berry, and played it in concert with him in 1986. Clapton recalled that he had hoped to impress Berry when he appeared on stage with the model of guitar that Berry is largely associated with and laughingly recounted how Berry didn't even notice! Clapton also said that he had done quite a lot of recording with this guitar.

See how Chuck Berry uses 1956 Gibson ES-350TN

Chuck Berry

Singer, Guitarist

Chuck Berry & His Combo

...
Verified via Photo

In a 1971 photograph, Chuck Berry is seen playing a 1956 Gibson ES-350TN, highlighting his preference for this semi-hollowbody electric guitar.

See how Phil X uses 1956 Gibson ES-350TN

Phil X

Singer, Guitarist

Bon Jovi

...
Verified via YouTube

In a video by Fretted Americana, Phil X plays a 1956 Gibson ES-350TN, noted for its rare carved spruce top and single Venetian cutaway.

Genre Usage

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

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