Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $2,299

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$400

$1001+

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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.

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Description

Reviving a classic icon, the Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976 is a powerhouse of sonic prowess and vintage appeal. Crafted for the bold, its striking angular design is not just a statement but a legacy in the world of rock. The guitar's body and neck are meticulously carved from premium mahogany, offering a warm, resonant tone that musicians crave. A smooth rosewood fretboard with a slim taper neck profile makes for effortless playability, perfect for unleashing fast riffs and solos.

Equipped with two '70s Tribute humbuckers, this guitar delivers a rich, full-bodied sound that can conquer any stage. The inclusion of Orange Drop capacitors ensures a clear and crisp tonal clarity, whether you're playing soft blues or hard rock. The Tune-O-Matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece, both made from aluminum, provide exceptional tuning stability and sustain, allowing your notes to ring true and long.

A nod to its heritage, this reissue comes with chrome hardware, seamlessly blending the vintage with the modern. Each Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976 is proudly made in the USA, promising quality that stands the test of time. And for those who live life on the road, it includes a sturdy case to protect your instrument wherever you go.

Key Features:

  • Body: Mahogany
  • Neck: Mahogany
  • Fretboard: Rosewood
  • Neck profile: Slim taper
  • 22 Frets
  • Scale: 628 mm
  • Pickups: 2x '70s Tribute humbuckers
  • Controls: 2 Volume, 1 Tone
  • Capacitors: Orange Drop
  • Bridge: Aluminium Tune-O-Matic and stopbar
  • Hardware: Chrome
  • Includes a case
  • Made in the USA

Product specs

Available since February 2022
Shape X-Style
Colour White
Soundboard Mahogany
Top None
Neck Mahogany
Fretboard Rosewood
Frets 22
Scale 628 mm
Pickups HH
Active Pickups No
Tremolo None
Incl. Case Yes
Incl. Bag No

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976?

The Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976 features a slim taper neck profile, which provides a fast and comfortable playing experience, making it ideal for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976?

The Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976 is equipped with dual humbucking pickups, delivering a powerful and full-bodied tone suitable for rock and metal genres, with excellent sustain and clarity.

Is the Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976 suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976 offers excellent playability and sound, its unique shape and professional-grade features may be better suited for intermediate to advanced players who can fully utilize its capabilities.

Does the Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976 come with a case?

Yes, the Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976 includes a hard case, ensuring protection and safe transport for your guitar.

What are the core tonal characteristics of the Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976?

The Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976 offers a bold and aggressive tone with a strong midrange presence, making it ideal for cutting through dense mixes in rock and metal music.

How does the Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976 differ from other Explorer models?

The Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976 is a reissue of the classic '70s model, featuring vintage aesthetics, a mahogany body and neck, and a rosewood fretboard, which contribute to its distinctive sound and feel compared to modern variations.

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Unboxing A "Brand New" 1976 Gibson Limited Edition Explorer (The First Reissue)

Video thumbnail for Unboxing A "Brand New" 1976 Gibson Limited Edition Explorer (The First Reissue) by The Trogly's Guitar Show

Unboxing A "Brand New" 1976 Gibson Limited Edition Explorer (The First Reissue)

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for 1976 Gibson Limited Edition Explorer Natural | CME Vintage Demo | Joel Bauman by Chicago Music Exchange

1976 Gibson Limited Edition Explorer Natural | CME Vintage Demo | Joel Bauman

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for "Pick of the Day" - 1976 Gibson Explorer and 1977 Marshall JMP Mk2 Lead 100w by Emerald City Guitars

"Pick of the Day" - 1976 Gibson Explorer and 1977 Marshall JMP Mk2 Lead 100w

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

Video thumbnail for The Edge's 1976 Gibson Explorer by Premier Guitar

The Edge's 1976 Gibson Explorer

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for 1976 Polaris White Gibson Explorer | CME Vintage Demos | Nathaniel Murphy by Chicago Music Exchange

1976 Polaris White Gibson Explorer | CME Vintage Demos | Nathaniel Murphy

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for "Pick of the Day" - 1976 Gibson Explorer and 1994 Marshall 1959LTD Super Lead 100 by Emerald City Guitars

"Pick of the Day" - 1976 Gibson Explorer and 1994 Marshall 1959LTD Super Lead 100

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Explorer Reedition 1976.

Features and functionality

  • The guitar features modern upgrades which enhance its functionality while maintaining the vintage appeal of a classic 1976 model.

    Source
  • There's speculation about the guitar having an ebony fretboard, which would affect its tonal quality and playability.

    Source
  • Tar Back pickups are noted for their articulate sound with strong low-end response.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners view it as a "legacy investment," valuing its historical significance and potential for family heritage over financial returns.

    Source

User experience

  • The guitar is noted for its weight, which can contribute to muscle building due to its heft.

    Source
  • The purchase experience at Emerald City Guitars is highlighted as exceptional, offering personalized service and budget accommodation.

    Source
  • One owner shared that their Explorer was the first guitar they purchased with their own money, highlighting a personal investment and connection.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for heavy metal music enthusiasts, aligning with preferences for models like Jackson Kelly and ESP with Floyd Roses.

    Source
  • While it's great for metal, some owners also categorize it under "classic rock" due to its versatile sound.

    Source
  • The Explorer's wide, flat frets and baseball bat neck may not suit players accustomed to slimmer neck profiles.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A white DiMarzio Super Distortion bridge pickup and a black or silver pickguard are recommended for enhanced metal tone.

    Source
  • Suggest replacing the nut with a bone nut during a refret for improved performance.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Original tuners may become tight due to dried grease; a multi-day naphtha soak and regular turning can restore functionality.

    Source
  • Fret Doctor can rejuvenate a dry rosewood fretboard over a week of treatment.

    Source
  • Virtuoso Cleaner effectively revives nitro finishes, removing grime and enhancing gloss.

    Source
  • WD40 is recommended over DeOxit for potentiometer maintenance due to its lubricating properties.

    Source

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