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Average Price: $9,996
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$1201+
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Description
The Gibson Custom L-5 CES Electric Guitar stands as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that Gibson is renowned for. This semi-hollowbody electric guitar seamlessly merges classic design with modern playability, making it a favorite among jazz aficionados and versatile musicians alike. Known for its rich, warm tones, the L-5 CES is engineered to deliver a broad spectrum of sound, from deep, resonant lows to articulate, sparkling highs.
Crafted with a carved spruce top and maple body, this instrument exudes a luxurious aesthetic while contributing to its distinctive tonal quality. The mahogany neck and ebony fretboard offer unmatched comfort, allowing for smooth transitions across its 20 frets. The guitar's twin humbucking pickups ensure a clean, robust output, perfect for both live performances and studio recordings.
For those who seek a blend of tradition and innovation in their musical toolkit, the Gibson Custom L-5 CES provides both in abundance. Whether you're exploring jazz, blues, or rock, this guitar is primed to elevate your sound with its sophisticated design and superior sound projection.
Key Features:
- Semi-hollowbody design for warm, resonant tones
- Carved spruce top and maple body
- Mahogany neck with an ebony fretboard
- 20 frets for a wide range of musical expression
- Twin humbucking pickups for robust output
- Iconic trapeze tailpiece and Grover tuners
- Ideal for jazz, blues, and rock genres
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | Custom Shop L-5 CES |
| Finish | Ebony, Natural, Slow Iced Tea Fade, Sunburst, Wine Red |
| Year | 1993 - 2015 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Hollow Body Guitars |
| Body Material | Maple |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Body Type | Hollow Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Stop-Bar |
| Color Family | Black, Brown, Red, Tan |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony |
| Model Family | Gibson L-5 |
| Model Sub-Family | Gibson L-5 CES |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Gibson Custom Shop |
| Top Material | Maple |
| Wood Top Style | Plain |
FAQs
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What kind of music genres is the Gibson Custom L-5 CES Electric Guitar best suited for?
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The Gibson L-5 CES is renowned for its rich, warm tones, making it ideal for jazz and blues. Its hollow body and humbucker pickups offer a versatile sound that can also suit rock and pop styles.
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What are the tonal characteristics of the Gibson Custom L-5 CES pickups?
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The L-5 CES features dual humbucker pickups, known for their smooth, warm tones with a full-bodied sound. They provide excellent clarity and sustain, making them perfect for clean jazz tones and smooth overdriven sounds.
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Is the Gibson Custom L-5 CES Electric Guitar suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the L-5 CES is highly regarded for live performances due to its robust build and excellent acoustic projection. Its hollow body design offers a resonant sound that fills venues, while the humbucker pickups ensure clear amplification.
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What is the neck profile of the Gibson Custom L-5 CES, and how does it affect playability?
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The Gibson L-5 CES features a comfortable set-neck construction with a rounded neck profile, facilitating smooth playability. This design is favored by jazz guitarists for its ease of chord transitions and soloing.
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How does the Gibson Custom L-5 CES compare to other hollow body guitars?
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The Gibson L-5 CES stands out for its craftsmanship and tonal quality, offering a richer, more resonant sound than many other hollow body guitars. Its premium materials and custom shop construction provide superior playability and durability.
Videos
Musician's Friend
Gibson Custom L-5 CES Electric Guitar
Reviews
PROS
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Iconic sound featured on many classic recordings
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Sets the standard for archtop guitars
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Exceptional warm, rounded tones and rich chordal note definition
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Highly dynamic response suitable for octave playing
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Beautiful craftsmanship and attention to detail
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Consistent high quality without frequent adjustments
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Ideal for jazz enthusiasts with a high-end collection
CONS
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Large size may be cumbersome for some players
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High value makes it intimidating to use for gigs
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Limited use of rear pickup for some players
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 5 Ratings
Artist usage
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John Mayer can be seen playing a Gibson L-5 Electric Guitar starting at 0:28 of this video. This specific Gibson custom that John Mayer owns comes in an all natural light wood color.
Nile Rodgers posted this photo on his facebook page. The post says, "This Gibson L5 Custom is one damn fine guitar and it sounded amazing in this space at Drexel"
In this Noisey documentary on Krautrock Smith covers a song and uses a Gibson Les Paul Custom. Look at the 15:50 mark.
In this Eric Clapton Tour Rehearsal, Andy Fairweather Low is using a Gibson L-5 CT VSB.
In an Instagram post, Pamungkas is seen using a Gibson Custom L-5 CES Electric Guitar during an online gig. The caption reflects on the unique experience of performing virtually and thanks fans for their support.
What kind of guitars were you using back then? I was using the Cadillac of guitars – a big Gibson L-5 hollowbody. And sometimes a Gretsch. They were both perfect for what I did with Sam. Sam would do “You Send Me,” or “Twistin’ The Night Away.”
I was a rhythm guitar player. Eventually, I started getting into Strats and Telecasters. For amps I always used a Fender Twin. My favorite guitar, to this day, is a 65-year-old Guild acoustic.
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson Custom L-5 CES Electric Guitar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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