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Average Price: $1,500

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Celebrate a legacy of musical innovation with the Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary edition, an electric guitar that marries iconic design with modern craftsmanship. Originally launched in 1958, the Explorer has been a symbol of bold style and powerful sound. This commemorative edition honors that rich history with unique anniversary inlays that highlight its storied past. The Explorer’s distinct angular body shape not only stands out visually but also contributes to its resonant tone and excellent sustain, making it a favorite amongst rock and metal enthusiasts.

This solid body electric guitar features a mahogany body and neck, known for their warm tone and rich sustain. The rosewood fingerboard offers smooth playability, while the dual Burstbucker pickups deliver the classic, crunchy Gibson tone that players crave. Whether you're riffing on stage or recording in the studio, the Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary provides the versatility and performance that demanding musicians need.

Key Features:

  • Mahogany body and neck for warm tone
  • Rosewood fingerboard with 22 frets
  • Dual Burstbucker pickups for classic Gibson sound
  • Unique 120th Anniversary inlays
  • Tune-o-Matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece for stability and sustain
  • Grover tuners for precise tuning

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Explorer 120
Finish Cherry, Ebony
Year 2014
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape X-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black, Red
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson Explorer
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What type of music is the Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary best suited for?

The Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary is ideal for rock and metal genres due to its powerful humbucker pickups and aggressive body shape, which deliver strong, cutting tones.

What are the pickup configurations on the Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary?

The Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary features a dual humbucker (HH) pickup configuration, providing a thick, high-output sound perfect for heavy music styles.

Is the Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary can be played by beginners, its unique body shape and premium features make it more appealing to intermediate or advanced players seeking a distinctive look and sound.

What is the neck profile of the Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary?

The Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary typically features a slim taper neck profile, offering fast playability and comfort for quick chord changes and solos.

Does the Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary come with a case?

Yes, the Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary usually includes a hardshell case for protection and easy transport.

fightingzero

fightingzero

2014 Gibson Explorer 120 (with Bogner Uberschall and Bullhead Lead Sled)

Video thumbnail for 2014 Gibson Explorer 120 (with Bogner Uberschall and Bullhead Lead Sled) by fightingzero

2014 Gibson Explorer 120 (with Bogner Uberschall and Bullhead Lead Sled)

fightingzero

fightingzero

Video thumbnail for Gibson Explorer 120 Solidbody Electric Guitar Demo - Sweetwater Sound by Sweetwater

Gibson Explorer 120 Solidbody Electric Guitar Demo - Sweetwater Sound

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary 2014 Limited Edition by Muzak Shack

Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary 2014 Limited Edition

Muzak Shack

Muzak Shack

Reviews

PROS

  • Top-notch sound with vibrant middle to high frequencies

  • Exceptionally low action enhances playability

  • Comfortable neck and ergonomic design for big fingers

  • Highly stable with no neck dive, ideal for stage performance

  • Limited edition with only 200 made per color, adding exclusivity

  • Versatile, suitable for various music genres beyond standard rock

  • Unique design reminiscent of 1950s art and automotive style

  • Deep, resonant body vibration enhances playing experience

  • Comes with a high-quality Gibson USA case

CONS

  • Lack of body binding may affect visual appeal for some

  • Neck pickup can sound slightly muddy

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary.

Mods and upgrades

  • Replacing the stock Burstbucker Pros with Rio Grande Bastards, which are humbucker-sized P90s, is highly recommended for improved tone.

    Source
  • Swapping the white pickguard for a faux tortoise one enhances the guitar's aesthetic appeal according to users.

    Source
  • Some owners have replaced stock pickups with SD SH11/APH1N to address dissatisfaction with the default D-Activator X pickups.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The neck binding on this model is a standout feature, and some wish it were more common in other Explorer models.

    Source
  • The Explorer is noted for excellent balance, with the large upper bout providing a practical armrest for comfortable play.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Explorer's large body is notably lighter than a Les Paul, making it comfortable for both seated and standing play.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find the Explorer's body to provide excellent arm support, making it surprisingly ergonomic despite its unconventional shape.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Explorer's sound is often likened to an SG, with subtle tonal differences attributed to pickup configurations rather than body shape.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A repaired Explorer headstock might affect resale value, with $950 being a debated price for a 2006 model.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Lance Lopez uses Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary

Lance Lopez

Guitarist, Singer

Supersonic Blues Machine

...
Verified via Photo

In the image linked above, Lance Lopez is seen holding a Gibson Explorer 120th Anniversary guitar.

Genre Usage

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