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Average Price: $3,995
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Description
Introducing the Gibson ES-165, a semi-hollowbody electric guitar that embodies the essence of jazz with its timeless design and exceptional sound quality. This instrument is a tribute to its namesake, jazz legend Herb Ellis, offering a sonic experience that is both rich and articulate. At its core, the BJB floating pickup delivers warm and rounded tones, perfect for jazz enthusiasts seeking that classic sound.
The ES-165's aesthetic appeal is equally captivating, featuring a rosewood fretboard adorned with elegant split parallelogram inlays. The single volume knob is thoughtfully positioned on the pickguard, maintaining the guitar’s sleek look while allowing for effortless tone control. The guitar's resonance is further enhanced by its pristine top wood, unencumbered by excessive hardware. Gold-plated hardware and a unique bridge add a touch of luxury, making this guitar not only a joy to play but a visual masterpiece.
Crafted for musicians who appreciate both form and function, the Gibson ES-165 is more than just an instrument—it's an experience. Whether you're performing on stage or practicing in your living room, this guitar offers a harmonious blend of style and substance that will inspire your music and captivate your audience.
Key Features:
- BJB floating pickup for warm, articulate jazz tones
- Single volume knob on pickguard
- Rosewood fretboard with split parallelogram inlays
- Gold-plated hardware
- Multi-ply binding on top for enhanced aesthetic appeal
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | Herb Ellis ES-165 |
| Finish | Ebony, Light Burst, Vintage Sunburst |
| Year | 2004 - 2011 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Hollow Body Guitars |
| Artist | Herb Ellis |
| Body Material | Maple |
| Body Shape | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Hollow Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Stop-Bar |
| Color Family | Black, Brown, Tan |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Gibson ES-165 |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | H |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Gibson Artist Collection |
FAQs
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What type of music is the Gibson ES-165 best suited for?
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The Gibson ES-165 is ideal for jazz, thanks to its warm, rich tones produced by the BJB floating pickup and hollow body design. It can also handle blues and soul genres due to its versatile sound.
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What is the neck profile of the Gibson ES-165 like?
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The Gibson ES-165 features a 175-style neck profile, which is known for its comfortable, rounded shape, making it suitable for smooth and fast jazz playing.
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What kind of pickup does the Gibson ES-165 have?
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The Gibson ES-165 is equipped with a BJB floating pickup, offering a warm, articulate tone that is especially favored by jazz guitarists.
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Is the Gibson ES-165 suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Gibson ES-165 is well-suited for live performances, particularly in jazz settings, due to its robust construction and clear, resonant sound.
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Does the Gibson ES-165 have a solid or laminated body?
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The Gibson ES-165 features a laminated maple top, back, and sides, contributing to its distinctive tone and durability, ideal for jazz guitarists seeking a classic sound.
Videos
Normans Rare Guitars
Rogerthomas playing a Gibson ES-165 here at Norman's Rare Guitars
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional sound quality for jazz and blues, with a rich, round tone
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Comfortable to play, similar dimensions to the ES-175
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Floating pickup offers bright, realistic tone
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Beautiful construction with sweet, lush, resonant notes
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Great playability and feel, suitable for varied playing styles
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Unique model with a strong historical connection to jazz musicians
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Good value compared to dual pickup models like the ES-175
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Easy to customize with additional tone and volume controls
CONS
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Single pickup might lack versatility for some players
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Frets may tarnish if not properly maintained
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Can sound too sharp with solid-state amplifiers
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson ES-165.
Comparisons
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The ES-165 is noted to have a superior tone compared to an ES-175, despite their similarities, and offers a more affordable alternative to the L5.
Source
Use cases and applications
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The ES-165 pairs well with tube amps like a 1972 Twin Reverb and a Carvin Legacy 3, providing a warm tone ideal for jazz and blues.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
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