Pricing and availability

Average Price: $3,074

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Gibson Explorer "M" is a trailblazer in the world of solid body electric guitars, designed for musicians who demand both style and substance. A legendary model known for its radical design, the Explorer "M" offers a compelling blend of vintage vibes and modern playability. Crafted with a sleek mahogany body, this guitar is as much about aesthetics as it is about sound, delivering a rich, resonant tone that only Gibson can provide.

Equipped with dual Burstbucker humbuckers, the Explorer "M" provides an expansive tonal palette, from warm, mellow tones to searing leads that cut through the mix. Its slim taper neck profile ensures comfort and speed, making it ideal for everything from intricate solos to powerful chords. The rosewood fingerboard adds a touch of warmth to the sound, while the 22 medium jumbo frets offer precise intonation and sustain.

Whether you're rocking out on stage or laying down tracks in the studio, the Gibson Explorer "M" offers reliability, versatility, and unmistakable style. It's not just a guitar; it's a statement piece that speaks volumes about the player's bold and adventurous spirit.

Key Features:

  • Mahogany body for rich, resonant tones
  • Dual Burstbucker humbuckers for expansive tonal variety
  • Slim taper neck profile for enhanced playability
  • Rosewood fingerboard with 22 medium jumbo frets
  • Iconic, radical design for a standout stage presence
  • Reliable hardware and tuners for consistent performance

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • Some owners noted the body binding on the Gibson Explorer "M" lacks headstock binding, which they found unusual.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • An Explorer "M" was originally listed at $6300 on Reverb, but a buyer managed to purchase it for $4589 plus tax, highlighting potential for significant savings.

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Use cases and applications

  • The Explorer "M" is part of a collection that includes a variety of high-end guitars, suggesting it fits well within premium guitar lineups.

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User experience

  • A buyer successfully negotiated a low offer of $3500 on a Gibson Explorer "M" from the Music Zoo, indicating room for negotiation on pricing.

    Source
  • Some players find the large upper bout behind the bridge uncomfortable to hold, impacting playability despite the guitar's appealing aesthetics.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners often swap the 500T pickup for a 57 Classic Plus in the bridge to achieve a brighter tone, as the Explorer can sound naturally darker.

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  • Dirty Fingers pickups are another option found in some 2008 Explorers, offering a different tonal profile compared to the 500T.

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Features and functionality

  • 2008 models were among the last to feature ebony fretboards, which some players prefer for their smooth feel and sound characteristics.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

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See how James Hetfield uses Gibson Explorer "M"

James Hetfield

Singer, Guitarist

Metallica

...
Verified via Guitars Collector

James ordered this guitar to match his similar Metallica striped 4x12 amplifier cabinets. Used infrequently

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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