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Description

Step into the world of vintage charm with the Gibson ES-125TC, a quintessential piece of musical history that captures the essence of the early electric guitar era. This semi-hollowbody guitar is not just an instrument; it's an experience, resonating with the warm, rich tones that only a single P-90 pickup can deliver. The ES-125TC is celebrated for its distinctive sharp Florentine cutaway, providing both aesthetic appeal and easy access to higher frets, making it a versatile companion for jazz, blues, or rock enthusiasts.

Crafted during the golden age of guitar production, from 1960 to 1970, this model stands out with its thin body design, offering comfort without sacrificing its robust, resonant sound. Its lightweight construction makes it ideal for both studio sessions and live performances, ensuring you capture the true depth and clarity of every note. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring guitarist, the Gibson ES-125TC promises to elevate your musical journey with its timeless style and reliable performance.

Key Features:

  • Semi-hollowbody design with sharp Florentine cutaway
  • Equipped with a single P-90 pickup
  • Thin body for enhanced playability and comfort
  • Produced from 1960 to 1970
  • Ideal for jazz, blues, and rock genres

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model ES-125TC
Finish Sunburst
Year 1960 - 1970
Made In United States
Categories Hollow Body Guitars
Body Material Maple
Body Shape Single 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-125
Model Sub-Family Gibson ES-125TC
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 is the body material of the Gibson ES-125TC?

The Gibson ES-125TC features a hollow body made from maple, which contributes to its warm, resonant tone and classic semi-hollowbody sound.

What type of music is the Gibson ES-125TC best suited for?

The Gibson ES-125TC is well-suited for jazz, blues, and rockabilly, thanks to its warm tone and responsive single-coil pickup, which highlights its rich, vintage sound.

How does the neck of the Gibson ES-125TC affect playability?

The Gibson ES-125TC has a set-neck construction made of mahogany, providing a smooth playing experience and enhancing sustain, making it comfortable for extended playing sessions.

What is the scale length of the Gibson ES-125TC and how does it affect playability?

The Gibson ES-125TC has a scale length of 24.75 inches, offering a slightly shorter reach between frets, which can make it easier to play for some guitarists, especially those with smaller hands.

Does the Gibson ES-125TC have a single or double pickup configuration?

The Gibson ES-125TC is equipped with a single pickup configuration, featuring a single-coil pickup that delivers a clear and articulate sound ideal for various musical styles.

Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments

Gibson ES-125TC (1960) | Elderly Instruments

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES-125TC (1960) | Elderly Instruments by Elderly Instruments

Gibson ES-125TC (1960) | Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES-125TC 1961 at The Fellowship of Acoustics by The Fellowship of Acoustics

Gibson ES-125TC 1961 at The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

Video thumbnail for Gibson 1962 ES-125TC by justgreatguitars

Gibson 1962 ES-125TC

justgreatguitars

justgreatguitars

Video thumbnail for Vintage 1961 Gibson ES-125TC Hollow Body Electric Guitar by Morrell Music Company

Vintage 1961 Gibson ES-125TC Hollow Body Electric Guitar

Morrell Music Company

Morrell Music Company

Reviews

PROS

  • Iconic design, making it a collector's favorite

  • Woody sound enhanced by the wooden bridge

  • Comfortable thin body, easier to handle than bulkier models

  • Lightweight due to its hollow body design

  • P90 pickup provides a creativity-boosting sound

  • Beautiful condition with a flawless neck

CONS

  • Thin neck may not suit players preferring a thicker style

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson ES-125TC.

Setup and maintenance

  • Thomastik Infeld JS111 flat wound strings are recommended for enhancing the guitar's acoustic tone, especially for unplugged play.

    Source
  • A nearly invisible code on the headstock can help date the guitar to 1969 or earlier, providing a clue for authentication and vintage appraisal.

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Build quality

  • The sunburst finish and knob design suggest an early '60s model, with distinct aesthetic differences from later versions.

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  • Post-'65 Gibson ES-125TC models typically have a pinned bridge and a slimmer neck, which may not suit players seeking the earlier thick neck profile and floating bridge.

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Features and functionality

  • The "C" in the ES-125TC model name denotes a cutaway design, providing easier access to higher frets.

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  • The ES-125TC is known for its thick neck, often compared to a '59 profile, which is preferred by some players for its substantial feel.

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  • The ES-125TC is often confused with the ES-225 due to the positioning of the pickup; the 225 typically features a bridge-position pickup.

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Comparisons

  • The Epiphone James Bay signature Century shares several features with the ES-125TC, but differs in having a narrower neck and lacking a nitro finish.

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Value and pricing

  • Vintage 1960s ES-125TC models are priced around $2,000, which is considered affordable compared to other vintage Gibsons from the same era.

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User experience

  • Owners suggest that vintage Gibsons with visible wear and usage tend to offer better playability, as opposed to mint condition ones that might circulate frequently without being played.

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Mods and upgrades

  • A user customized their ES-125TC with two Epiphone humbuckers, replacing the original single P90 for a different tonal range.

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