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Average Price: $3,250

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$1201+

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Description

The Gibson 1971 ES-335 Walnut is a celebrated icon in the world of semi-hollowbody electric guitars, melding the warmth of an acoustic with the power of an electric. Known for its versatility, this vintage masterpiece has been a favorite among jazz, blues, and rock musicians alike. The unique semi-hollow design offers a resonant, woody tone that maintains clarity even at higher volumes, thanks to its carefully crafted center block that minimizes feedback.

Crafted with a laminated maple body and a mahogany neck, the ES-335 provides a perfect balance of durability and playability. The rosewood fingerboard ensures smooth navigation across its frets, catering to both seasoned professionals and aspiring guitarists. Its dual humbuckers deliver a rich, full-bodied sound, making it a timeless choice that continues to influence the soundscape of modern music.

The 1971 ES-335 is not just about sound; it’s about style and legacy. Its classic design, complete with the iconic f-holes and vintage-style tuners, adds a touch of elegance to any collection. This guitar is a testament to Gibson's enduring craftsmanship and innovation, making it a must-have for collectors and performers alike.

Key Features:

  • Semi-hollowbody design with a laminated maple body
  • Mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard
  • Dual humbucker pickups for rich, full-bodied sound
  • Iconic f-holes for enhanced acoustic resonance
  • Vintage-style tuners for classic aesthetics and reliable tuning stability

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model ES-335TD
Finish Cherry, Ebony, Natural, Sunburst, Walnut, Wine Red
Year 1970 - 1981
Made In United States
Categories Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars
Body Material Maple
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Semi-Hollow Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black, Brown, Red, Tan
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson ES-335
Model Sub-Family Gibson ES-335TD Block
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"
Series Gibson Norlin Era
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the 1971 Gibson ES-335 Walnut?

The 1971 Gibson ES-335 Walnut delivers warm, rich tones with a balanced blend of resonance and sustain, thanks to its semi-hollow maple body and dual humbucking pickups. This makes it ideal for blues, jazz, and rock genres.

Is the 1971 Gibson ES-335 Walnut suitable for beginner guitarists?

While the 1971 Gibson ES-335 Walnut is a versatile and iconic guitar, its vintage nature and historical value might better suit intermediate to advanced players who can fully appreciate its tonal qualities and craftsmanship.

How does the neck profile of the 1971 Gibson ES-335 Walnut feel?

The 1971 Gibson ES-335 Walnut features a set-neck construction with a mahogany neck, offering a comfortable, medium profile that provides smooth playability and easy access to higher frets.

Does the 1971 Gibson ES-335 Walnut work well with effects pedals?

Yes, the 1971 Gibson ES-335 Walnut pairs excellently with effects pedals, maintaining clarity and depth across various effects, from overdrive to modulation, due to its robust humbucking pickups.

What is the scale length of the 1971 Gibson ES-335 Walnut, and how does it affect playability?

The 1971 Gibson ES-335 Walnut has a 24.75" scale length, offering a slightly shorter reach that facilitates easier bending and faster playing, making it comfortable for most hand sizes.

Rics Vintage Guitars Australia

Rics Vintage Guitars Australia

1971 GIBSON ES-335 VINTAGE GUITAR COOL

Video thumbnail for 1971 GIBSON ES-335 VINTAGE GUITAR COOL by Rics Vintage Guitars Australia

1971 GIBSON ES-335 VINTAGE GUITAR COOL

Rics Vintage Guitars Australia

Rics Vintage Guitars Australia

Reviews

PROS

  • Classic mellow and bright tones reminiscent of vintage sound

  • Versatile for rock, blues, swing, country, jazz, and fusion

  • Unique coil switch for humbucker fatness or single coil sharpness

  • Appreciating value despite historical criticism of Norlin era

  • Old Gibson neck and pickups provide unparalleled playability

  • Exceptional bang for the buck compared to late-60s models

  • Superb action and playability after decades of use

  • Top-of-the-list among multiple ES-335s owned by users

  • Aesthetic walnut finish adds vintage charm

CONS

  • Known quality and electronic inconsistencies from the Norlin era

  • Not suited for metal rock genres

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson 1971 Gibson ES-335.

Features and functionality

  • The 1969 ES-335 custom order includes a Stereo/Varitone switch, typically seen on the ES-345, requiring a stereo cable for dual pickup use.

    Source
  • The bridge replacement with a Jazzmaster-like unit deviates from the era's typical tune-o-matic style on round nuts.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A thorough cleaning and potential refret are recommended, with costs potentially reaching $1,000 for professional playability restoration.

    Source

Build quality

  • The presence of a dot over the 'i' in Gibson indicates a 1969 model, while a three-piece neck suggests a 1968 production.

    Source
  • The "witch hat" knobs and specific Norlin-era label suggest a 1975 Kalamazoo production.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Estimated sale value is approximately $6,500, pending condition and necessary refurbishments.

    Source
  • Priced at $2,995 USD, providing a potential bargain for a Norlin-era model, depending on authenticity and condition.

    Source

Other

  • Unusual binding observation around the third fret raises questions about authenticity or condition.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nels Cline uses Gibson 1971 Gibson ES-335

Nels Cline

Guitarist

Wilco

...
Verified via Fretboard Journal

Nels discusses the guitar in a feature profile in Fretboard Journal: https://www.fretboardjournal.com/features/almost-stuck-to-it-the-gear-of-nels-cline/

See how Freddie King uses Gibson 1971 Gibson ES-335

Freddie King

Guitarist, Singer

Lula Reed & Freddie King

...
Verified via YouTube

In this youtube video, Freddy King can be seen using a Gibson ES-335. Looking at the video, it seems the 1971 model. This video is taken by the following DVD "Freddie King – Live In Europe" and the song is recorded at Opopoppa: Stockholm, Sweden July 4, 1973.

Genre Usage

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

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson 1971 Gibson ES-335, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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