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Description

The Gibson Custom Shop Citation is an exquisite masterpiece that embodies the pinnacle of Gibson's storied craftsmanship. Originally debuting in 1969, this limited edition archtop guitar has garnered a cult following among collectors and jazz enthusiasts alike. With its hand-carved, graduated arch top made from the finest solid spruce and its back and sides fashioned from highly figured solid maple, the Citation stands as a testament to the artistry of Gibson's luthiers.

Every detail of this guitar exudes elegance, from its multi-ply black and white binding to the intricate abalone cloud motifs on its ebony fingerboard. The headstock features an abalone fleur de lis, and the ebony bridge base showcases miniature fleur-de-lis designs, echoing the luxurious theme. Complemented by 24-karat gold-plated hardware, the Citation is both visually stunning and sonically rich.

Electrically, the Citation is equipped with a floating mini humbucking pickup attached to the pickguard's forward edge, preserving the resonance of its 17-inch wide, 3-inch deep hollow body. This design allows the guitar to deliver warm, rich acoustic tones when unplugged and smooth, deep jazz tones when amplified. The single volume control is also mounted on the pickguard, maintaining the guitar's pristine surface.

As a near-perfect recreation of its original design, the Gibson Custom Shop Citation remains a sought-after piece for its timeless elegance and unparalleled tone. Each guitar comes with a Custom Shop case and a Certificate of Authenticity.

Key Features:

  • Hand-carved solid spruce top with highly figured solid maple back and sides
  • Multi-ply black/white binding and abalone inlays
  • Floating mini humbucking pickup with pickguard-mounted volume control
  • 24-karat gold-plated hardware
  • 17" wide, 3" deep body with 25-1/2" scale length and 1-11/16" nut width
  • Comes with a Custom Shop case and Certificate of Authenticity

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Custom Shop Citation
Year 1993 - 2015
Made In United States
Categories Hollow Body Guitars
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Hollow Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Red, Tan, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Gibson Citation
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Gibson Custom Shop

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the Gibson Custom Shop Citation's body?

The Gibson Custom Shop Citation features a hand-carved solid spruce top and carved solid maple back and sides, offering a rich, resonant tone ideal for jazz and other styles.

What kind of pickup does the Gibson Custom Shop Citation have?

The Citation is equipped with a floating mini humbucking pickup, providing a warm, articulate sound suitable for a variety of musical genres.

How does the neck construction of the Gibson Custom Shop Citation affect playability?

The Citation features a set-neck construction, which enhances sustain and stability, offering a smooth playing experience across its 25-1/2" scale length.

Is the Gibson Custom Shop Citation suitable for jazz music?

Yes, the Gibson Custom Shop Citation's hollow body design, floating mini humbucker, and ebony fingerboard make it particularly well-suited for jazz, delivering a warm, resonant tone.

What are the dimensions of the Gibson Custom Shop Citation's body?

The body of the Gibson Custom Shop Citation is 17 inches wide and 3 inches deep, providing a substantial yet comfortable size for players.

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Gibson Custom Shop Citation Hollowbody Natural 108571316

Video thumbnail for Gibson Custom Shop Citation Hollowbody Natural 108571316 by GuitarCenterPlatinum

Gibson Custom Shop Citation Hollowbody Natural 108571316

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Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Custom Shop Citation.

Build quality

  • Some owners have noted that Gibson's post-2019 quality control has improved, with each USA production model being pleked at the factory for better setup.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The ESP E-II Eclipse, a similar model to the Gibson Les Paul, is priced comparably in the premium guitar market, dispelling the notion of a significant price gap.

    Source
  • A Charvel is preferred by some users for daily play, while a Gibson Les Paul is reserved for specific occasions, likened to driving a classic car.

    Source

User experience

  • A Gibson Les Paul Standard's electronics are perceived as superior to similar Epiphone models, offering enhanced sound quality despite similar aesthetics.

    Source
  • The weight of a Gibson Les Paul is a common concern, with some users preferring lighter alternatives like an Epiphone or other brands for comfort during extended play.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • There's a perception that Gibsons hold their resale value well, making them a potential investment despite high upfront costs.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Gibson electrics are often favored for their unique historical sound, particularly for music styles from the 1965–1979 era, appealing to classic rock enthusiasts.

    Source

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