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Average Price: $1,966

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The Gibson Melody Maker D is a vintage treasure that continues to captivate both collectors and players. Known for its simplicity and unmistakable vintage tone, this solid body electric guitar is a testament to Gibson's craftsmanship during the mid-60s. Originally designed as a budget-friendly option for budding musicians, the Melody Maker D has since earned a revered status in the guitar community for its classic sound and playability.

With a double cutaway body shape, this guitar provides easy access to higher frets, making it a favorite for lead guitarists. It features dual single-coil pickups, which deliver a bright, punchy sound, perfect for rock and blues. The 1965 Melody Maker D's neck is crafted from mahogany, offering a warm resonance and comfortable playability, while the rosewood fingerboard adds a smooth touch under your fingers. The wraparound bridge contributes to the guitar's sustain, ensuring each note rings out clearly.

Whether you're a vintage guitar enthusiast or a musician looking for a reliable instrument with a rich history, the 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D is sure to impress with its authentic sound and straightforward design.

Key Features:

  • Solid body construction
  • Dual single-coil pickups for bright and punchy sound
  • Mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • Double cutaway design for easy access to higher frets
  • Wraparound bridge for enhanced sustain

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Melody Maker D
Finish Cherry
Year 1964 - 1966
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 SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D?

The 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D features a slim-taper neck profile, which provides comfortable playability and is well-suited for fast playing styles.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D?

The 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D is equipped with single-coil pickups, offering bright, punchy tones ideal for rock and blues genres, with a clear and articulate sound.

Is the 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D suitable for beginners?

While the 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D is a classic model cherished by collectors and experienced players, its lightweight body and simple controls also make it accessible for beginners.

Does the 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D have a tremolo system?

Yes, the 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D features a tremolo tailpiece, allowing for subtle pitch modulation and vibrato effects.

What is the scale length of the 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D?

The 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D has a scale length of 24.75 inches, providing a balance between tension and playability, which is standard for many Gibson guitars.

Lawman Guitars

Lawman Guitars

Gibson Guitars Sale: 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D With Case, Gibson Guitars for Sale (515) 864 6136

Video thumbnail for Gibson Guitars Sale: 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D With Case, Gibson Guitars for Sale (515) 864 6136 by Lawman Guitars

Gibson Guitars Sale: 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D With Case, Gibson Guitars for Sale (515) 864 6136

Lawman Guitars

Lawman Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D Red with Seymour Duncan Red Stack Pickup | Review + Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

1965 Gibson Melody Maker D Red with Seymour Duncan Red Stack Pickup | Review + Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D Red with 1970s Mini Humbucker Pickup Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

1965 Gibson Melody Maker D Red with 1970s Mini Humbucker Pickup Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D | A Modded Player's Guitar | Review + Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

1965 Gibson Melody Maker D | A Modded Player's Guitar | Review + Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D | GuitarPoint Vintage Guitars by GuitarPoint

1965 Gibson Melody Maker D | GuitarPoint Vintage Guitars

GuitarPoint

GuitarPoint

Reviews

PROS

  • Lightweight, offering great playability and comfort.

  • Unique single coil Gibson trademark sound.

  • Vintage appeal with well-preserved finishes and minimal wear.

  • Rare to find in original condition with original Gibson hardshell case.

  • Versatile tone, especially with upgraded pickups like Lollar.

  • Distinct look and feel, offering a nostalgic time capsule experience.

  • Competitive price for a vintage Gibson instrument.

  • Customizable, allowing personal modifications for enhanced sound.

CONS

  • Often requires setup or minor repairs due to age.

  • Limited availability of clean tone reviews online.

  • Original pickups might not suit everyone's taste without modification.

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Melody Maker D (1964-1966).

Build quality

  • The wide 1 11/16th nut width indicates it's from the first half of 1965, offering a distinct feel compared to later models.

    Source
  • The body is crafted from one-piece old growth Honduran mahogany, contributing to its rich tonal characteristics.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The original bridge has been replaced with a Leo Quan Badass Bridge, which offers improved intonation control.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest replacing non-original Grover tuners with era-specific Klusons for authenticity, though they are expensive and hard to find.

    Source
  • Enthusiasts see potential in personalizing the guitar with unique hardware for a one-of-a-kind build.

    Source

User experience

  • The guitar reportedly "plays like butter" and exceeds tonal expectations, making it ideal for enthusiasts seeking vintage sound.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Acquired for $150, a price significantly below market value, highlighting opportunities when sellers are unaware of the guitar's worth.

    Source
  • Some owners believe the husk's value is closer to $200-$300 due to restoration costs, which could exceed its final resale value.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Despite being less popular than a Les Paul, the Melody Maker is valued for its unique vintage appeal and sound quality.

    Source
  • It's suggested as a fun project for luthiers, providing opportunities for customization and restoration skills development.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The guitar often requires a refret and fretboard divot removal, indicating heavy prior use.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how John Dwyer uses Gibson Melody Maker D (1964-1966)

John Dwyer

Singer, Guitarist

Thee OhSees

...
Verified via YouTube

you can clearly see the guitar from multiple angles in the youtube video "OSEES - Live At Red Rocks, May 15 2021"

it is distinctly a Melody Maker with the 'original' neck pickup and 'modified' P90 bridge pickup plus custom tone and volume knobs.

See how Freddie King uses Gibson Melody Maker D (1964-1966)

Freddie King

Guitarist, Singer

Lula Reed & Freddie King

...
Verified via Photo

In the provided photo, Freddie King is seen playing a 1965 Gibson Melody Maker D, accompanied by his Blonde Fender Bandmaster and Blackface Showman amplifier.

See how Brian D'Addario uses Gibson Melody Maker D (1964-1966)

Brian D'Addario

Guitarist, Bassist

The Lemon Twigs

...
Verified via YouTube

Brian D'Addario used this guitar model (with his band "The Lemon Twigs") during a live studio performance on 89.3 The Current.

See how Michael D'Addario uses Gibson Melody Maker D (1964-1966)

Michael D'Addario

Guitarist, Bassist

The Lemon Twigs

...
Verified via Photo

Michael D'Addario is seen here playing the guitar, in which he shares with his brother Brian D'Addario.

See how Paul Draper uses Gibson Melody Maker D (1964-1966)

Paul Draper

Singer, Guitarist

Mansun

...
Verified via Alamy

In this image of Mansun performing at the 1998 Glastonbury Festival, Draper can be seen playing a Melody Maker D.

Album Usage

The Gibson Melody Maker D (1964-1966) 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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