Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $2,971
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
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High-end
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Description
Discover the Gibson Explorer Pro, a modern classic that redefines the boundaries of rock and roll. This electric guitar is a nod to the iconic style of the past, infused with contemporary innovations that make it a staple for any serious musician's arsenal. With its streamlined mahogany body and neck, the Explorer Pro offers a lighter, more agile playing experience without sacrificing the robust tone and sustain Gibson is renowned for. Its distinctive shape is not just for show; it provides players with unparalleled access to every fret for those soaring solos and intricate riffs.
Equipped with a pair of powerful humbuckers — a 500T at the bridge and a 496R at the neck — this guitar delivers a versatile range of sounds, from crisp cleans to gritty overdrive. The Explorer Pro's unique aesthetic is enhanced by antiqued body binding and dot inlays, offering a subtle yet sophisticated finish that sets it apart from its peers. Originally part of a limited run for Gibson's "Guitar of the Week" series, it comes in stunning finishes like Heritage Cherry and Vintage Sunburst, making each piece as unique as the music it creates.
Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Gibson Explorer Pro is designed to inspire and perform, offering a blend of classic feel and modern functionality that caters to the demands of today's musicians.
Key Features:
- Lighter mahogany body and neck
- Antiqued body binding
- Dual humbuckers: 500T bridge and 496R neck
- Dot inlays
- Limited run finishes: Heritage Cherry and Vintage Sunburst
- Years of Production: 2002 - 2005, 2007 - 2008
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | Explorer Pro |
| Finish | Amber, Ebony, Natural, Sunburst |
| Year | 2002 - 2008 |
| 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, Brown, Tan, Yellow |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Gibson Explorer |
| Model Sub-Family | Gibson Explorer Pro |
| 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
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What kind of neck profile does the Gibson Explorer Pro have?
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The Gibson Explorer Pro features a slim taper neck profile, which offers a comfortable and fast playing experience, ideal for both rhythm and lead guitarists.
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How does the pickup configuration of the Gibson Explorer Pro affect its sound?
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The Gibson Explorer Pro is equipped with a dual humbucker (HH) configuration, providing a powerful and versatile tone suitable for various music genres, from rock to metal.
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Is the Gibson Explorer Pro suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Gibson Explorer Pro is well-suited for live performances, thanks to its solid body construction and set-neck design, which offer excellent sustain and stability on stage.
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What finish options are available for the Gibson Explorer Pro?
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The Gibson Explorer Pro is available in several finish options, including Amber, Ebony, Natural, and Sunburst, allowing players to choose a look that fits their style.
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Is the Gibson Explorer Pro comfortable to play while sitting?
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The unique X-style body shape of the Gibson Explorer Pro may take some getting used to when playing seated, but many users find it comfortable and well-balanced, especially on a stool or chair without armrests.
Videos
The Trogly's Guitar Show
This Explorer is VERY Different | 2005 Gibson "Explorer Pro" Trans Ebony Flame Top Review + Demo
Reviews
PROS
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Compact size offers excellent balance and playability compared to traditional Explorers
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Lightweight at 6.9lbs, making it comfortable for long sessions
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60's slim taper neck provides a fast and smooth playing experience
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Mahogany body delivers rich, resonant tones and long sustain
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Stunning paint job and smooth binding enhance visual appeal
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80's rock aesthetic with a modern twist, great for collectors
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High-quality build surpasses traditional Explorer models
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Offers exceptional tone and sustain, ideal for rock music
CONS
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Stock 500 pickups may not suit all players' preferences
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Explorer Pro.
Build quality
Comparisons
Mods and upgrades
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Owners have swapped out stock pickups for Seymour Duncans, though specific models aren't always identified.
Source
Features and functionality
User experience
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
In the video titled "Riff Lords: Eric Peterson of Testament," produced by Gibson TV, Eric Peterson is seen playing a Gibson Explorer Pro while demonstrating riffs on this guitar.
In this picture Taylor is seen using the explorer. He used this in 2017 for the song aggressive. I believe the pickups have been replaced
In this video, Allison is playing the Explorer Pro. According to an article from GuitarPlayer.com, Allison talks about playing this guitar by saying, "it’s a fun challenge to try and cover everything from metal to funk using a Gibson Explorer Pro, a Les Paul, and a couple of Marshalls."
Album Usage
The Gibson Explorer Pro has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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