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Average Price: $3,335
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$500
$1201+
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Description
The 1990 Gibson ES-335 Studio Ebony is a classic semi-hollowbody electric guitar that offers a rich blend of vintage tone and modern playability. Introduced as a more streamlined and affordable version of the iconic ES-335, this model maintains the distinctive double-cutaway shape that players love, while offering a simplified control layout and aesthetic. It is crafted with a laminated maple body that delivers a warm and resonant sound, making it a favorite among blues, jazz, and rock musicians.
Equipped with dual humbucking pickups, the ES-335 Studio provides a versatile tonal palette, from smooth, creamy tones to sharp, biting leads. The mahogany neck features a comfortable '60s slim taper profile, lending itself to fast fretwork and intricate playing. The rosewood fingerboard completes the classic look and feel, ensuring hours of effortless playability. With its minimalist design and robust construction, this guitar promises both durability and reliability for the gigging musician.
Key Features:
- Semi-hollowbody design with laminated maple top, back, and sides
- Dual humbucking pickups for versatile tone
- Mahogany neck with '60s slim taper profile
- Rosewood fingerboard
- Simplified control layout for ease of use
- Iconic double-cutaway shape for easy upper fret access
- Reliable and robust Gibson craftsmanship
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | ES-335 Studio |
| Finish | Cherry, Ebony, White |
| Year | 1986 - 1991 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Body Type | Semi-Hollow Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Stop-Bar |
| Color Family | Black, Red, White |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Gibson ES-335 |
| Model Sub-Family | Gibson ES-335 Studio |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
FAQs
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What are the tonal characteristics of the 1990 Gibson ES-335 Studio Ebony?
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The 1990 Gibson ES-335 Studio Ebony offers a warm, resonant tone typical of semi-hollowbody guitars, with a balanced mix of sustain and clarity. Its dual humbucker configuration provides rich, full-bodied sound suitable for genres ranging from blues and jazz to rock.
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Is the 1990 Gibson ES-335 Studio Ebony suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the 1990 Gibson ES-335 Studio Ebony is well-suited for live performances. Its semi-hollowbody design reduces feedback compared to fully hollow guitars, while the set-neck construction ensures stability and sustain on stage.
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How does the neck profile of the 1990 Gibson ES-335 Studio Ebony affect playability?
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The set-neck construction of the 1990 Gibson ES-335 Studio Ebony typically features a comfortable, rounded profile, making it easy to navigate across the fretboard. This design is ideal for players who prefer a classic Gibson feel with smooth playability.
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What type of music is the 1990 Gibson ES-335 Studio Ebony best suited for?
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The 1990 Gibson ES-335 Studio Ebony excels in blues, jazz, and rock genres due to its versatile tone and rich sound. The dual humbuckers offer a wide range of tones, from warm and mellow to bright and punchy, making it adaptable for various musical styles.
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How does the 1990 Gibson ES-335 Studio Ebony compare to other ES-335 models?
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The 1990 Gibson ES-335 Studio Ebony is a simplified version of the classic ES-335, focusing on essential features with fewer cosmetic appointments. It retains the iconic semi-hollowbody tone and playability, making it a more affordable option without compromising on sound quality.
Videos
Lawman Guitars
Gibson Guitars - ES-335 Studio Original Hardshell Case Jet Black - 515-864-6136
Gibson Guitars - ES-335 Studio Original Hardshell Case Jet Black - 515-864-6136
Lawman Guitars
Luca Meneghello plays Gibson ES 335 Studio.
Luca Meneghello
Reviews
PROS
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Super slim neck for fast playability
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No F-holes reduce feedback, ideal for high gain settings
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Hot 15 and 16 k Dirty Fingers pickups deliver powerful sound
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Ebony fretboard adds clarity to the warm ES-335 tone
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Great finish that ages well, maintaining a classic look
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Back access panel simplifies electronic maintenance
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Plays and sounds like a vintage ES-335 at a lower cost
CONS
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Limited color options: only available in black or red
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Lacks traditional F-holes, which some players prefer for aesthetics
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson ES-335 Studio 1990.
Build quality
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The ES-335 Studio lacks f-holes, differentiating it visually from typical 335 models, and early models feature silk-screened logos instead of inlays.
Source
Mods and upgrades
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It's suggested to swap out Gibson's Kluson-style "Deluxe" tuners for Schaller Kluson-style replacements for improved performance.
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Features and functionality
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The ES-335 Studio's Bill Lawrence “circuit board” pickups from the late 80s/early 90s are unique to this model, providing a distinct tonal character.
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Setup and maintenance
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Owners recommend using a black light to reveal serial numbers obscured by paint, a common issue due to the original nitrocellulose finish.
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Some owners report persistent stickiness on the neck, exacerbated by hand contact, which remains hazy despite frequent polishing with Gibson spray or naptha.
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Use cases and applications
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The ES-335 Studio was designed without binding or fancy inlays, aimed at musicians needing a solid studio guitar without additional adornments.
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Comparisons
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Unlike the BB King Lucille model, the ES-335 Studio lacks the Varitone circuit and TP6 tailpiece, which some users dislike for its complexity.
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User experience
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Some owners report that despite the paint over the serial number, the guitar remains a cherished family heirloom, valued for its durability and sentimental history.
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The guitar's nitro finish may soften and become smudgy due to humidity and temperature changes, specifically around 20°C and 50% humidity levels.
Source
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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Genre Usage
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