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Average Price: $3,200

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$200

$1001+

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Description

Step back in time with the 1942 Gibson ES-150, a classic acoustic-electric guitar that has left an indelible mark on music history. Originally designed to amplify the sound of acoustic guitars for jazz ensembles, the ES-150 quickly became a favorite among musicians seeking to blend the rich tones of an acoustic with the amplified voice of an electric guitar. This vintage gem is notable for its P-90 single-coil pickup, which delivers a warm, rich tone that stands out in any ensemble.

Crafted with a solid spruce top and maple back and sides, the ES-150's construction contributes to its unique tonal characteristics. Its large, hollow body not only aids in its acoustic projection but also adds a resonant warmth that makes it suitable for a variety of musical styles, from jazz to blues and beyond. The mahogany neck and rosewood fingerboard offer smooth playability, making it a joy to perform intricate melodies or soulful chords. This guitar is not just an instrument; it's a piece of musical heritage, offering a sound that's both nostalgic and timeless.

Whether you're a collector, a performer with a penchant for vintage sound, or a musician simply longing for that classic Gibson feel, the 1942 ES-150 is a remarkable choice. Its historical significance and distinctive sound profile make it a worthy addition to any guitarist's collection.

Key Features:

  • P-90 single-coil pickup for warm, rich tones
  • Spruce top with maple back and sides
  • Hollow body design for enhanced acoustic projection
  • Mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • Ideal for jazz, blues, and vintage music enthusiasts

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model ES-150
Finish Sunburst
Year 1936 - 1942
Made In United States
Categories Hollow Body Guitars
Body Material Maple
Body Shape Non Cutaway
Body Type Hollow Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Brown
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson ES-150
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What type of music is the 1942 Gibson ES-150 best suited for?

The 1942 Gibson ES-150 is particularly well-suited for jazz and blues, thanks to its warm, resonant tone and hollow body design. It's also favored for its historical association with jazz guitarist Charlie Christian.

What is the pickup configuration of the 1942 Gibson ES-150?

The 1942 Gibson ES-150 features a single-coil pickup, known for delivering a clear and articulate sound that complements its hollow body construction.

How does the body material of the 1942 Gibson ES-150 affect its sound?

The maple body of the 1942 Gibson ES-150 contributes to its bright and clear tone, with enhanced resonance and sustain, making it ideal for jazz and blues genres.

Is the 1942 Gibson ES-150 suitable for modern music styles?

While the 1942 Gibson ES-150 excels in jazz and blues, its warm, vintage tone can be adapted to some modern music styles, though it may not suit high-gain genres like metal.

What is the neck profile of the 1942 Gibson ES-150 like?

The 1942 Gibson ES-150 features a set-neck construction with a mahogany neck, providing a comfortable grip and smooth playability, ideal for intricate jazz chord progressions.

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Gibson ES-150 from 1942 presented by Tobias Hoffmann at Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES-150 from 1942 presented by Tobias Hoffmann at Vintage Guitar Oldenburg by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Gibson ES-150 from 1942 presented by Tobias Hoffmann at Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson 1942 Gibson ES-150.

Build quality

  • The ink-stamped serial markings inside the f-hole indicate its manufacturing style from the era, a detail true to vintage Gibson guitars.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A small buzz on the 11th fret A string suggests a potential need for a fret dress to improve playability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The guitar features pearl trapezoid inlays, a rare and sought-after detail from earlier models, contributing to its uniqueness.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The tailpiece may have been replaced with an after-market part, possibly affecting the guitar's value depending on its originality and the buyer's perspective.

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User experience

  • The fretboard is described as smooth and easy to play, with low pressure needed on the strings, enhancing the playing experience despite the guitar's age.

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Use cases and applications

  • This guitar retains its impressive sound quality even with old strings, suggesting its suitability for both collectors and active musicians.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Tom Waits uses Gibson 1942 Gibson ES-150

Tom Waits

Singer, Guitarist

Roy Orbison And Friends

...
Verified via Photo

In this live photo, Waits can be seen playing a 1942 Gibson ES-150.

See how Robert Levon Been uses Gibson 1942 Gibson ES-150

Robert Levon Been

Singer, Guitarist

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club

...
Verified via Photo

In this live photo, Been can be seen playing a 1942 Gibson ES-150.

See how Andy Fairweather Low uses Gibson 1942 Gibson ES-150

Andy Fairweather Low

Guitarist

Mick Fleetwood and Friends

...
Verified via Photo

In the provided photo from Proper-records, Andy Fairweather Low is seen playing a 1942 Gibson ES-150.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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