Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (27)
$3,999.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (4)
$3,999.00
Reverb
5.0 (11)
$3,621.03 New
$2,600.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$3,999.00
zZounds
$3,999.00
Thomann
4.6 (5)
$3,399.00 $3,333.00 $66.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£2,999.00

Average Price: $3,650

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Gibson Hummingbird". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Immerse yourself in the rich tones and timeless design of the Gibson Hummingbird. An iconic acoustic guitar, the Hummingbird has been a staple of the music scene for over half a century, treasured for its robust, square-shoulder dreadnought body, and distinctive, full-bodied voice.

The Gibson Hummingbird artfully combines tradition and innovation. Its solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides echo the tonewood formula that first made the Hummingbird a star, producing a deep, clear resonance that only improves with time. The bold, balanced tone is brought beautifully into the 21st century with the addition of the LR Baggs VTC Element pickup system, offering natural amplified sound perfect for gigging and recording.

Every aspect of the Hummingbird Original is meticulously designed for an exceptional playing experience. The slim mahogany neck, 1.725" nut width, and belly bridge all enhance playability, while the compensated saddle improves intonation accuracy and clarity.

Key Features:

  • Solid Sitka Spruce top and Mahogany back and sides for a rich, full sound
  • LR Baggs VTC Element pickup system for natural amplified tone
  • Square shoulder dreadnought body shape for a bold, unique look
  • Slim Mahogany neck and 1.725" nut width for comfortable, easy playing
  • Belly bridge and compensated saddle for accurate intonation and clarity
  • Premium appointments including gold Gotoh Keystone tuners and double antiqued binding
  • Available in Antique Natural or Heritage Cherry Sunburst finish

Product specs

String Type Steel
Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape Dreadnought
Back & Sides Wood Mahogany
Top Wood Sitka Spruce
Finish Gloss
Body Bracing Scalloped X-bracing
Binding Multi-ply top/back
Neck Wood Mahogany
Neck Shape Rounded
Radius 12"
Fingerboard Inlay Mother-of-Pearl Parallelograms
Number of Frets 20, Standard
Scale Length 24.75"
Nut Width 1.725"
Nut/Saddle Material Bone/Bone
Bridge Material Rosewood
Tuning Machines Gotoh Keystone
Electronics LR Baggs VTC Under Saddle Pickup
Strings Gibson, .012-.053
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the Gibson Hummingbird's construction?

The Gibson Hummingbird features a solid Sitka spruce top and solid mahogany back and sides, contributing to its rich, full-bodied tone and deep bass response.

How does the Gibson Hummingbird's scale length affect playability?

The Gibson Hummingbird has a 24.75" scale length, which offers a slightly softer string tension and a more comfortable playing experience, especially for those with smaller hands.

What electronics are included in the Gibson Hummingbird?

The Gibson Hummingbird is equipped with an LR Baggs VTC under saddle pickup, providing natural acoustic sound amplification suitable for live performances.

Is the Gibson Hummingbird suitable for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, the Gibson Hummingbird's balanced tone and responsive dynamics make it well-suited for fingerstyle playing, offering clarity and warmth across the frequency spectrum.

Does the Gibson Hummingbird come with a case?

Yes, the Gibson Hummingbird comes with a hardshell case to protect the guitar during transport and storage.

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

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Gibson Custom Hummingbird Honey Burst Review

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Guitar of the Day: 2022 Gibson Hummingbird

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Gibson Montana Hummingbird Heritage Sunburst | CME Gear Demo | Shelby Pollard

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Chicago Music Exchange

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How the Gibson Hummingbird Changed the World ★ Acoustic Tuesday #134

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Tony Polecastro

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Gibson Acoustic Comparison | Hummingbird vs. Dove

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Alamo Music Center

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Gibson Hummingbird Demo & Review

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Gibson Hummingbird Original for 2020

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J45 vs Hummingbird : Only One Gibson Is Staying

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Blake Mansfield

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Gibson Hummingbird (Sunburst) - Every Classic Rock Song in One Guitar!

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Gibson Hummingbird vs Martin D18 | Guitar Battles

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The Fellowship of Acoustics

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2011 Gibson "Hummingbird" HCS

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No Talking...Just Tones | Gibson Hummingbird Original Heritage Cherry

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Peach Guitars

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Gibson Hummingbird Original 'Heritage Cherry' Acoustic Electric Guitar

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The NEW Gibson Hummingbird Original Heritage Cherry Sunburst with Luthier Daniel Ott

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Video thumbnail for Dirk Witte - Gibson Hummingbird Original Heritage Cherry Sunburst by Dirk Witte Music Store

Dirk Witte - Gibson Hummingbird Original Heritage Cherry Sunburst

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Dirk Witte Music Store

Reviews

PROS

  • Iconic design with a unique, hand-etched pickguard admired by many owners

  • Rich, full-bodied sound with a balance between bright and dark tones

  • Warm, resonant mahogany back and sides project an amazing tone

  • Inspiring aesthetics and craftsmanship make it a joy to own and play

  • Ideal for fingerpicking and strumming, with superb action praised by players

  • Durable and reliable, often considered a lifetime keeper or family heirloom

  • Excellent playability that encourages frequent use and musical exploration

  • L.R. Baggs electronics provide great sound quality for amplified performances

CONS

  • High purchase price, making it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers

  • Some setups may require adjustments for action out of the factory

  • Occasional minor cosmetic issues, like rough edges or unfinished areas

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

  • The Gibson Hummingbird is described as sounding quieter and more muffled compared to the Dove, which is noted for its versatility and brighter tone.

    Source
  • The Hummingbird's shorter 24.75" scale is contrasted with the Dove's longer 25.5" scale, affecting playability and tonal characteristics.

    Source
  • Faded models are not lower-tier; they're structurally similar to originals, unlike studio versions with concert depth.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that playing a Gibson Hummingbird may not meet expectations unless tried in person, as similar models can vary significantly in sound and feel.

    Source
  • Some owners mention that the Hummingbird reinvigorated their passion for playing, highlighting its emotional impact beyond technical specifications.

    Source
  • Owners who prefer satin finishes find the faded series offers superior resonance and sustain compared to gloss finishes.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • It's observed that used Hummingbirds can maintain value, with prices on platforms like Reverb indicating appreciation over time.

    Source
  • The faded version is priced lower primarily due to reduced labor in polishing the finish to gloss, not due to inferior build.

    Source

Build quality

  • Special models have a semi-gloss finish and a thinner body depth, distinguishing them from original Hummingbirds.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Faded models maintain a true nitrocellulose finish built to 50s specifications, contributing to resonance and sustain.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gear Review: The 2016 Gibson Hummingbird Vintage Model Is a High-Flying Acoustic Guitar [VIDEO] | Acoustic Guitar

acousticguitar.com

The 2016 Gibson Hummingbird Vintage is a high-flying acoustic that impresses with its warm, balanced voice and impeccable craftsmanship. This modern iteration boasts smooth playability, a torrefied Sitka spruce top for vintage tonal properties, and a flawless build that includes a perfect rounded neck profile and scalloped bracing. While the aged aesthetic isn't for everyone, with some preferring a fresh look, the guitar's sound clarity and evenness across registers make it a standout for both strumming and fingerpicking. Minor quibbles aside, it's a beautifully crafted instrument with a strong old-school vibe and optimal modern playability.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 6 Reviews and 45 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
T

Good solid guitar

Love it. A little pricy. But the sound is rich. You can feel the quality between this and the Epiphone.

Roles:
Genres:
musicman101

my secret weapon

The action on this acoustic is to dream for. While many Martins and Taylors have the driving, gritty tone, my hummingbird has a great balance between bright and dark tonalities. Personally, this is the ideal fingerpicking acoustic, and like I said to start with, the action is superb. I play right at the edge of the sound hole towards the saddle to get a clear, yet warm-enveloping tone. I have written countless songs on this instrument because it is certainly inspiring just to own it and look at it. This guitar will last me a lifetime.

T

Booming sound

Great full bodied sound and resonance from this beauty. Great for performances when you’re playing with the guitar not mic’d up, and acoustic jamming (guitar pulls).

howard_jeffrey

2013 Hummingbird True Vintage (Custom Shop)

She's finally opening up. Fundamental tone is all there. There are weeks this is the only guitar I play.

oliver_bachmaier

THE BEST ACOUSTIC

The best of the best Acoustics i ve ever had

danlaurens

Gibson Hummingbird

My Hummingbird is 16 years ago. added a piezzo pickup and preamp inside (not visible)

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Charlie Burchill uses Gibson Hummingbird

Charlie Burchill

Guitarist

Simple Minds

...
Verified via Gibson

In this interview Charlie Burchill speaks about some of his guitars. The Gibson Hummingbird was mailnly used through out the Acoustic Simple Minds alubum from 2016 and on tours.

See how Lindsay Ell uses Gibson Hummingbird

Lindsay Ell

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Gibson

In an interview with Gibson, Lindsay Ell expresses her fondness for the Gibson Hummingbird, highlighting it as one of her favorite guitars.

See how Morgan Wallen uses Gibson Hummingbird

Morgan Wallen

Rapper, Ukulele Player

...
Verified via Photo

On Morgan's official Instagram, you can see him pictured with a variation that has no pickguard on it. Based on the finish, square shoulder, and split parallelogram inlays, I believe this is a Hummingbird. This appears to be one of Luke Bryan's guitars because of the sound hole cover, and the fact he performed at Luke Bryan's concert.

See how M. Ward uses Gibson Hummingbird

M. Ward

Singer, Guitarist

She & Him

...
Verified via Photo

About his Gibsons he said: "Well, I have a Hummingbird and a J-45, and I love them both equally. It’s just one of those things where you like how it feels around your shoulders. I play with a lot of different guitar tunings and it’s important that they stay in tune. The Hummingbird, the J-45 and the Johnny A have all been put to the test and I’m happy to say that they continue to surpass my expectations." - Interview with Gibson.com (http://www.gibson.com/news-lifestyle/features/en-us/she-and-him-0630.aspx)

See how Joe Jonas uses Gibson Hummingbird

Joe Jonas

Singer, Guitarist

Jonas Brothers

...
Verified via Photo
Color/Finish: Cherry Sunburst

Joe is seen using a Gibson Hummingbird in the studio recording Greetings From Your Hometown.

See how Jim Croce uses Gibson Hummingbird

Jim Croce

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Facebook

Jim Croce is documented to use a 1960's cherry sunburst Gibson Hummingbird, as seen in a Facebook reel featuring numerous photos of him. Additionally, his wife Ingrid Croce has also been photographed playing the same instrument, further supporting this claim.

See how Matt Sweeney uses Gibson Hummingbird

Matt Sweeney

Guitarist

The Desert Sessions

...
Verified via YouTube

At 1:44 in this video, one can see Sweeney playing a Gibson Hummingbird.

See how Tom Chaplin uses Gibson Hummingbird

Tom Chaplin

Singer, Guitarist

Keane

...
Verified via YouTube

Throughout this video (notably around 0:38), Tom Chaplin can be seen playing a Gibson Hummingbird. This guitar was setup and used specifically for the song The Frog Prince.

See how Fito Páez uses Gibson Hummingbird

Fito Páez

Guitarist, Keyboardist

...
Verified via Photo

Fito Páez is seen rehearsing with a Gibson Hummingbird in a user-uploaded photo from the Gibson showroom.

See how Aimee Mann uses Gibson Hummingbird

Aimee Mann

Singer, Guitarist

'Til Tuesday

...
Verified via Photo

Aimee Mann is seen playing a Gibson Hummingbird, showcasing her versatility beyond bass to acoustic and electric guitars.

See how James Petralli uses Gibson Hummingbird

James Petralli

Singer, Guitarist

White Denim

...
Verified via Photo

In this still of an Istagram story on Whitedenimmusic posted on Friday February 17th 2023 James plays the Gibson Hummingbird.

See how Miranda Lambert uses Gibson Hummingbird

Miranda Lambert

Singer, Guitarist

Pistol Annies

...
Verified via Gibson

"I’ve always played Gibson acoustics—Hummingbirds, Sheryl Crow models, and Songwriter Deluxes." - excerpt from her Gibson interview.

Genre Usage

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

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson Hummingbird, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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3
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3
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2
Rickenbacker 330 Electric Guitar
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2
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Gibson Les Paul Custom Electric Guitar Solid Body Electric Guitars
2
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2
Gibson J-200
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2

Community setups

Show yours
carlos_garcia

carlos_garcia

Gear IQ 30

david_savage

david_savage

Gear IQ 58

A

akidcalledoutlaw

Gear IQ 1662

lehimacs

lehimacs

Gear IQ 449

rain_jaudon

rain_jaudon

Gear IQ 341

1 alternative for Gibson Hummingbird, curated by the Equipboard community.

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