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Average Price: $3,650
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$1201+
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Description
Dive into the melodic realm of the past with the 1965 Gibson ES 330, a masterpiece that marries vintage charm with unparalleled sound quality. This guitar stands out in the realm of semi-hollowbody electric guitars, offering a fully hollow body that resonates with every note. Its distinctive P-90 pickups deliver a warm, rich tone that's as versatile as it is captivating, making it a favorite among musicians who value depth and clarity in their sound. With a design that's both aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior, the Gibson ES 330 is a testament to the craftsmanship and innovation that Gibson guitars are known for. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or a rock enthusiast, this guitar will elevate your music, making every performance unforgettable.
Key Features:
- Fully hollow double cutaway body, devoid of the center wood block found in its semi-hollow counterparts
- Equipped with a pair of rich-sounding P-90 pickups for that vintage, warm tone
- Neck joint at the 17th fret, allowing for easier access to higher notes
- Thinline double pickup model (ES-330TD) for enhanced sound versatility
- Maple body and Rosewood fingerboard construction for a balanced tonal quality
- Features a Tune-o-matic bridge and trapeze tailpiece for superior intonation and sustain
- Decorated with block inlays, adding to its classic aesthetic appeal
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | ES-330TD |
| Finish | Burgundy Metallic, Cherry, Sunburst, Walnut |
| Year | 1965 - 1975 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Hollow Body Guitars |
| Body Material | Maple |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Body Type | Hollow Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Stop-Bar |
| Color Family | Brown, Red |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Gibson ES-330 |
| Model Sub-Family | Gibson ES-330TD Short Neck |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | SS |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
| Wood Top Style | Plain |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile of the 1965 Gibson ES 330?
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The 1965 Gibson ES 330 features a short neck with a set-neck construction, providing a comfortable and vintage feel that is ideal for players who prefer a more compact scale length.
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What type of pickups does the Gibson ES 330 have, and what tones can I expect?
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The Gibson ES 330 is equipped with dual single-coil pickups, delivering warm, rich tones suitable for blues, jazz, and rock genres, with a distinct clarity and articulation.
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Is the Gibson ES 330 suitable for beginners or advanced players?
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The Gibson ES 330 is more suited for intermediate to advanced players due to its vintage design and nuanced tonal characteristics, which may not be ideal for beginners seeking a more straightforward playing experience.
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How does the hollow body design of the Gibson ES 330 affect its sound?
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The hollow body design of the Gibson ES 330 contributes to its resonant, airy sound with a natural acoustic quality, making it ideal for genres like jazz and blues.
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What is the scale length of the 1965 Gibson ES 330, and how does it influence playability?
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The 1965 Gibson ES 330 has a 24.75" scale length, offering a slightly shorter reach that enhances playability and comfort, especially for players with smaller hands.
Videos
Normans Rare Guitars
1965 Gibson ES-330TD Sunburst | Guitar of the Day
Reviews
PROS
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Delivers fantastic vintage sounds with classic P90 hollow body tones
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Offers a unique tone that’s darker and well-balanced, resembling a Gretsch
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Excellent for studio use with a dynamic and tonal range
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Very versatile, suitable for rock, blues, jazz, and country
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Lightweight design makes it easy to handle during long sessions
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Comfortable neck and great attack enhance playability
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Ideal rhythm guitar with impressive open tuning sound
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Beautiful tobacco burst finish adds visual appeal
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Exceptional highs and depth from the fully hollow body
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Budget-friendly alternative to more expensive vintage models
CONS
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Feedback issues due to fully hollow body design
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Original unshielded wiring may cause electronic interference
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Body top may sag, potentially requiring modifications
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High bridge might need adjustments for optimal intonation
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1965 Gibson ES 330.
Setup and maintenance
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Transitioning from .10s to .11s adds 10 lbs of tension; significant adjustments may not be necessary.
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A ruler marked in /64ths is recommended to check truss rod functionality during string gauge changes.
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Owners report fine adjustments may be needed a day or two after increasing string gauge if the guitar is intact.
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User experience
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A user successfully uses .14 gauge Thomastik-Infeld Swing strings on a late '60s ES-330 without structural issues.
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Experienced owners note that walking the stage during soundcheck can help identify feedback-prone areas, useful for managing live performance dynamics.
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The ES-330's double cut maple top is noted for its stiffness, making it easier to control feedback compared to single cut models like the Byrdlands with spruce tops.
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Comparisons
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The ES-330 is favored over the ES-335 by some for its more resonant body, providing a lively feel especially when paired with a good amp.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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So good today, double tracking hollow body guitars side by side with my man...J4, on the title track for #switchfoot #album10 . ????????: @officialgretsch through silverface @fenderguitar Princeton ????????: 65 Gibson 330 through @jhspedals superbolt into Supro 1624
In the official video for "All I Wanna Do Is Rock" you can see Andy Dunlop with a Gibson ES - 330 most likely from 1965, he is also seen with this guitar in his presentation with Travis in "Later With Jools Holland" in 1996, also in his concert at G-mex Arena with Noel Gallagher in 1997. He is seen using this guitar during his early stint with Travis, until 1999 where he is seen with his usual Gibson Les Paul Deluxe.
Album Usage
The 1965 Gibson ES 330 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 1965 Gibson ES 330, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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