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2003 Gibson CS-356

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Page last updated Aug 10, 2025

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An exceptional blend of craftsmanship and sonic versatility, the 2003 Gibson CS-356 is a semi-hollowbody electric guitar that continues to be a favorite among discerning musicians. Crafted by Gibson's Custom Shop, this guitar combines the resonant qualities of a hollowbody with the sustain and feedback resistance of a solid body, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of musical styles.

The CS-356 features a solid carved maple top which is complemented by a mahogany back and sides, delivering a warm, balanced tone. Its compact body size and lightweight design make it a comfortable option for both stage and studio environments. The 22-fret rosewood fingerboard and a 24.75" scale length provide smooth playability and a familiar feel for Gibson enthusiasts.

Equipped with a pair of Gibson’s renowned '57 Classic humbucking pickups, the CS-356 offers a rich, vintage sound with excellent clarity and dynamic range. These pickups are well-regarded for their ability to produce everything from clean jazz tones to gritty rock and blues sounds. The guitar also features Grover tuners, which ensure stable tuning and reliable performance.

Key Features:

Semi-hollowbody design with a solid carved maple top
Mahogany back and sides for enhanced tone
'57 Classic humbucking pickups for a versatile sound
22-fret rosewood fingerboard with 24.75" scale length
Grover tuners for precise tuning stability
Custom Shop craftsmanship for superior quality and attention to detail

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2003 Gibson CS-356 Custom Shop Part1

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2003 Gibson CS-356 Custom Shop Part2

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2003 Gibson CS-356 Custom Shop Part4

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 2003 Gibson CS-356.

Comparisons

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Some owners prefer the Gibson CS-356 over PRS, citing them as overrated despite their popularity among late Gen X and millennials.
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Epiphone Dots, Casinos, and Sheratons, when upgraded, can rival more expensive Gibsons, offering significant performance at a lower investment.
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Mods and upgrades

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Upgrading Epiphones with Seymour Duncan Seth Lover pickups can dramatically enhance their performance, making them comparable to higher-end models like the Gibson 335.
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Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

Verified via Bonhams

Serial No. CS30483, in cherry red finish, with gold-plated metal parts, semi-hollow mahogany body with double cutaways, laminate maple top with f-holes, mahogany neck, twenty-two fret bound ebony fingerboard with block inlays, headstock facing with split diamond inlay, two humbucking pickups, four rotary controls, selector switch, metal bridge, stud tailpiece and black pickguard; and a black Gibson hardshell contour case with claret plush lining and handwritten label inscribed with various details