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Average Price: $1,200

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$1001+

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Description

The 1964 Gibson Melody Maker is a revered icon in the world of vintage guitars, embodying a rich legacy of tone and craftsmanship. This solid body electric guitar is a testament to Gibson's commitment to quality during the 1960s, making it a sought-after piece for collectors and players alike. Known for its simplicity and exceptional playability, the Melody Maker is the perfect blend of form and function, offering a straightforward design that doesn’t compromise on sound.

Its lightweight body and fast neck provide unparalleled comfort, ideal for extended jam sessions and live performances. The single-coil pickup delivers a bright, punchy tone that cuts through the mix, making it a favorite for rock, blues, and punk genres. Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or a vintage guitar enthusiast, the 1964 Gibson Melody Maker offers a unique playing experience that's both authentic and inspiring.

Key Features:

  • Solid body electric guitar design
  • Single-coil pickup for bright and punchy tone
  • Lightweight and comfortable for extended play
  • Fast neck for easy playability
  • Vintage 1964 model, highly collectible
  • Suitable for rock, blues, and punk genres

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Melody Maker
Finish Cherry
Year 1964 - 1965
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Tailpiece, Wrap-Around
Color Family Red
Finish Style Gloss, Satin
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson Melody Maker
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"

FAQs

What kind of pickups does the 1964 Gibson Melody Maker have?

The 1964 Gibson Melody Maker is equipped with a single-coil pickup, known for its bright and clear tone, making it suitable for a variety of music styles including rock and blues.

Is the 1964 Gibson Melody Maker suitable for beginners?

The 1964 Gibson Melody Maker can be a great choice for beginners due to its lightweight body and comfortable neck profile, making it easy to play for extended periods.

How does the tremolo tailpiece on the 1964 Gibson Melody Maker affect playability?

The tremolo tailpiece on the 1964 Gibson Melody Maker allows for subtle pitch variations, adding expressive potential to your playing while maintaining tuning stability.

What is the neck profile of the 1964 Gibson Melody Maker?

The 1964 Gibson Melody Maker features a slim neck profile, which offers a comfortable grip and facilitates fast playing, appealing to both beginners and experienced players.

How does the mahogany body of the 1964 Gibson Melody Maker influence its sound?

The mahogany body of the 1964 Gibson Melody Maker contributes to a warm and resonant tone, providing a rich sound with pronounced midrange frequencies.

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Reviews

PROS

  • Lightweight at under 5.5 lbs, ideal for long playing sessions

  • Fat neck profile similar to 1969 Les Paul, offering great playability

  • Original pickup offers clear and punchy sound, especially with tube amps

  • Resonant body provides rich character for open chords and solos

  • Crafted by the same team as high-end Gibsons, offering excellent build quality

  • Offers a sweet clean sound and explosive tone with overdrive effects

  • Original wrap-around bridge contributes to vintage authenticity

  • Retains original cherry color and good headstock condition despite age

CONS

  • Heavily checked finish may not appeal to all players

  • Original whammy bar not suitable for aggressive tremolo techniques

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1964 Gibson Melody Maker.

Comparisons

  • Some owners recommend cases for Les Paul Junior or Les Paul Special, as their thinner bodies closely match the 1964 Gibson Melody Maker.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners have found that SKB cases may develop chips on the exterior, but the interior remains protective.

    Source
  • Hiscox cases are noted for their durability without the issue of exterior chipping, making them a preferred choice by some owners over SKB.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Gator TSA hardshell case is praised for its perfect fit and extended neck support, reducing awkward pressure on the Melody Maker.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • TKL's LP Jr case can accommodate a Melody Maker if additional padding is added underneath the guitar.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jen Razavi uses 1964 Gibson Melody Maker

Jen Razavi

Singer, Guitarist

The Bombpops

...
Verified via Photo

In this post jen shows off her 1964 melody maker. She states that this guitar made her fall in love with melody makers

Album Usage

The 1964 Gibson Melody Maker 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.

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