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Average Price: $3,376

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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High-end

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Description

The 1973 Gibson SG is a classic icon in the world of electric guitars, revered for its distinctive design and powerful sound. This solid body electric guitar is a testament to Gibson's craftsmanship during an era that defined rock music. With its devilish double-cutaway body, the SG allows for easy access to the upper frets, making it a favorite among lead guitarists. The guitar's slim neck profile offers a fast playing experience, ideal for solos and complex chord progressions.

Equipped with the original Gibson humbucking pickups, the 1973 SG delivers a rich and warm tone that has become synonymous with classic rock. These pickups are particularly well-suited for overdriven sounds, providing that iconic crunch that many guitarists crave. The vintage hardware and the meticulous attention to detail in its construction ensure that this guitar not only looks the part but plays beautifully as well.

Collectors and musicians alike appreciate the 1973 Gibson SG for its historical significance and reliable performance. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, this guitar is designed to deliver exceptional sound and a timeless aesthetic.

Key Features:

  • Solid body electric guitar with double-cutaway design
  • Original Gibson humbucking pickups
  • Slim neck profile for fast playing
  • Vintage hardware with meticulous craftsmanship
  • Iconic sound ideal for rock and blues genres

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model SG Pro
Finish Cherry, Natural, Walnut
Year 1971 - 1973
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
Color Family Brown, Red, Tan
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson SG
Model Sub-Family Gibson SG Pro
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"
Series Gibson Norlin Era

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on a 1973 Gibson SG?

The 1973 Gibson SG typically features a slim neck profile, which is known for its fast playability, making it suitable for lead guitarists who prefer quick access to higher frets.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on a 1973 Gibson SG?

The 1973 Gibson SG is equipped with single-coil pickups, delivering bright, cutting tones that are ideal for rock and blues genres, with a distinct midrange presence.

Is the 1973 Gibson SG suitable for beginners?

While the 1973 Gibson SG offers excellent playability and classic tones, its vintage nature and potential maintenance requirements may be better suited for experienced players or collectors.

How does the mahogany body affect the sound of the 1973 Gibson SG?

The mahogany body of the 1973 Gibson SG contributes to its warm, resonant sound with a pronounced midrange, offering sustain and depth that are characteristic of Gibson guitars.

Does the 1973 Gibson SG have a tremolo tailpiece?

Yes, the 1973 Gibson SG features a tremolo tailpiece, allowing for pitch modulation and vibrato effects, which can enhance expressive playing styles.

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Video thumbnail for 1973 Gibson SG Std. / Bigsby Part1 by GregsGuitars

1973 Gibson SG Std. / Bigsby Part1

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Video thumbnail for Vintage Original Gibson SG Standard (1973-74) "Just the Tones" by Aaron Cowan

Vintage Original Gibson SG Standard (1973-74) "Just the Tones"

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Aaron Cowan

Video thumbnail for 1973 Gibson SG by Breja ToneWorks

1973 Gibson SG

Breja ToneWorks

Breja ToneWorks

Reviews

PROS

  • P-90 pickups offer a unique, versatile sound between single coil and Humbucker

  • Slim neck provides fast, comfortable playability

  • Resonant old mahogany body contributes to rich, sustained tones

  • Distinctive rear-routed body design without a front plate

  • Vintage aesthetic with unique styling, like Les Paul style pick guard

  • Cherry color ages beautifully to a Pinot Noir hue

  • High demand and desirability among guitar enthusiasts

  • Exceptional sustain, possibly due to Bigsby placement

CONS

  • Quality control issues with neck and body joint in some models

  • Slim neck and 180-degree neck pitch require adjustment for traditional Gibson users

  • Bridge pickup placement can create an unusual, "quacky" tone

  • Bigsby positioning limits string options and can detune with aggressive use

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1973 Gibson SG.

User experience

  • Owners report a quality refret job, enhancing playability without compromising the guitar's vintage charm.

    Source
  • Despite modifications, SGs from 1972-74 are praised for their excellent playability and thin necks, making them desirable as playable instruments rather than collector's items.

    Source
  • The translucent red finish paired with the ebony board is noted for its classy and visually striking appearance.

    Source
  • One owner noted no pitting on the chrome and no ambering on the lacquer, highlighting excellent preservation.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Due to modifications and refinishing, the guitar's value is significantly reduced, with some suggesting not paying more than $1,000.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • It's noted that SGs from this era often have Grover tuners, suggesting a common upgrade path for improved tuning stability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The original bridge studs from the harmonica bridge remain, which are considered valuable despite the non-original bridge.

    Source
  • The 1973 Gibson SG has a smaller 1" 9/16 nut width, making it easier to play compared to an Epiphone SG Pro.

    Source
  • This model features "Tarback" Super Humbuckers designed by Bill Lawrence, known for clear tones and reduced microphonic feedback.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The refinishing process was poorly executed, impacting the guitar's aesthetic and possibly its resale value by up to 50%.

    Source

Build quality

  • The presence of non-original tuners and a non-original bridge indicates potential past modifications, potentially affecting its vintage authenticity and value.

    Source
  • The 1973 SG's neck is chunkier and more rounded compared to modern slim-tapered necks, offering a unique playing feel.

    Source
  • The ebony fretboard provides a dark contrast to the cherry body, adding a touch of elegance to the overall appearance.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the vintage look of the harmonica bridges and the intonation space they provide.

    Source
  • The cherry finish on this 1973 model has no fade, a rarity as most 70s SGs show fade resembling walnut finishes.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A 1974 SG custom with an ebony fretboard is cited for superb playability, suggesting similar qualities in the 1973 model.

    Source
  • Compared to the 70s ES-335, the SG has similar shorter frets and smaller nut width, appealing to some players.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners report the guitar delivers articulate pickups and defined tones for both clean and distorted styles.

    Source

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Artist usage

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S

Spence Koehler

Guitarist

The Stone Foxes

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

In this interview for Premier Guitar, Spence Koehler talks about his 1973 Gibson SG bought to get that Angus Young tone on High Voltage.

Genre Usage

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