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Description

The Gibson Chet Atkins SST 12-string is where innovation meets tradition, offering a unique fusion of classic acoustic resonance and modern electric precision. This 12-string masterpiece is designed for musicians who crave the rich, full-bodied sound of an acoustic guitar with the added versatility of electric amplification. Crafted with a solid spruce top and mahogany back, the Chet Atkins SST delivers a warm and balanced tone, ensuring each strum resonates with clarity and depth.

Ideal for both studio sessions and live performances, this acoustic-electric guitar features a unique chambered body design that minimizes feedback, a common issue with traditional acoustic guitars when plugged in. Its slim neck profile provides comfortable playability, perfect for intricate fingerpicking or dynamic strumming. With the onboard preamp and piezo pickup system, you can effortlessly switch between a natural acoustic sound and a more amplified tone, making it a versatile choice for various musical genres.

Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, the Gibson Chet Atkins SST 12-string offers the best of both worlds, blending acoustic warmth with electric flexibility.

Key Features:

  • 12-string configuration for a fuller sound
  • Solid spruce top with mahogany back
  • Unique chambered body design to reduce feedback
  • Onboard preamp and piezo pickup system for versatile sound control
  • Slim neck profile for enhanced playability
  • Ideal for both live and studio settings
gearwire

gearwire

Gibson Chet Atkins SST Acoustic-Electric: "This Is A Great Guitar"

Video thumbnail for Gibson Chet Atkins SST Acoustic-Electric: "This Is A Great Guitar" by gearwire

Gibson Chet Atkins SST Acoustic-Electric: "This Is A Great Guitar"

gearwire

gearwire

Video thumbnail for Powerful Electric Acoustic Tone from this 1998 Gibson Chet Atkins SST by PREMIER GUITARS

Powerful Electric Acoustic Tone from this 1998 Gibson Chet Atkins SST

PREMIER GUITARS

PREMIER GUITARS

Video thumbnail for Gibson Chet Atkins SST Sound Test by Band WhiteRibbon (화이트리본밴드)

Gibson Chet Atkins SST Sound Test

Band WhiteRibbon (화이트리본밴드)

Band WhiteRibbon (화이트리본밴드)

Video thumbnail for Струнодер 3.0 — Gibson Chet Atkins SST by volksemen2

Струнодер 3.0 — Gibson Chet Atkins SST

volksemen2

volksemen2

Video thumbnail for A guitar I never knew I needed : 1988 Gibson Chet Atkins SST by TheMightySunfish

A guitar I never knew I needed : 1988 Gibson Chet Atkins SST

TheMightySunfish

TheMightySunfish

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Chet Atkins SST 12-string.

Features and functionality

  • Playing unplugged, the guitar is surprisingly loud despite lacking a sound hole, making it convenient for solo practice without amplification.

    Source
  • The guitar is heavier than expected, which some players find awkward to handle initially.

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Use cases and applications

  • The guitar is notably associated with Dave Matthews Band, appealing to fans aiming to replicate that signature sound.

    Source
  • The nylon string version of the Chet Atkins SST was used by Leonard Cohen, underscoring its versatility across different musical styles.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners express a long-term aspiration to own the guitar, often spanning decades, highlighting its desirability among enthusiasts.

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  • A 1991 model might be preferable as Gibson's quality control declined in later years, with early models potentially offering better build quality.

    Source
  • Some owners view their SST as more artwork than instrument, indicating its aesthetic appeal despite infrequent use.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners have found good deals, like one nearly purchased for $1200 in decent condition, but such opportunities are rare.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners compare the SST to the Taylor T5, noting the T5's overly round sound when playing higher frets.

    Source
  • Despite initial high expectations, some players find the Taylor T5 less suitable for acoustic sounds compared to the SST.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Later models have a user-friendly battery compartment with a pop-out door, unlike earlier versions requiring a screwdriver to access the battery.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
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miggz

Great Companion for Singing

This was definitely a guitar I would have liked to have held onto. Together, the slim profile and bright 12 string chime the semi hollow body produce are incomparable. The classic Gibson hot pink fur lined case that it comes in, keeps it super safe and dry.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Mick Mars uses Gibson Chet Atkins SST 12-string

Mick Mars

Guitarist

Mötley Crüe

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

In this article, Mick explains: "(...) I got that guitar when they were first coming out. Jerry Garcia wanted it, but I had asked Gibson first! I used it to record “Without You” and some of the other stuff on the Dr. Feelgood album."

See how Gregg Allman uses Gibson Chet Atkins SST 12-string

Gregg Allman

Singer, Guitarist

The Allman Brothers Band

...
Verified via YouTube

The Allman Brothers Band performing Melissa in 1992. Allman is seen playing a Gibson SST 12 string.

See how Bret Michaels uses Gibson Chet Atkins SST 12-string

Bret Michaels

Singer, Guitarist

Poison

...
Verified via Photo

In a promotional poster, Bret Michaels is seen holding a Gibson Chet Atkins SST 12-string guitar.

Album Usage

The Gibson Chet Atkins SST 12-string has been featured on the following albums:

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 Chet Atkins SST 12-string, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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