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Description

Pay homage to the sound of the '60s with the Gibson J-45 Donovan, a tribute to the iconic guitar that helped shape the era. Crafted with the precision and care that Gibson is known for, this acoustic-electric guitar is a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation. Its mahogany body and Sitka spruce top deliver a harmonious balance of rich lows, articulate mids, and bright, clear highs, making it a versatile companion for any musical journey.

Built for both stage and studio, the Gibson J-45 Donovan features the exceptional LR Baggs Lyric microphone system. This advanced setup combines the natural warmth of a studio microphone with the feedback resistance of a piezo pickup, providing a plugged-in tone that sounds remarkably like a mic. It's the perfect choice for musicians who demand fidelity and nuance in their amplified sound.

With its round shoulder dreadnought design, the J-45 Donovan offers a comfortable playing experience and a full-bodied sound that's been cherished by artists for decades. This guitar not only captures the essence of Donovan's original instrument but also includes exclusive touches like an autographed label and a personal letter from Donovan himself, making it an extraordinary collector's piece.

Key Features:

  • Mahogany body with Sitka spruce top for balanced tone
  • LR Baggs Lyric microphone system for natural, mic-like sound
  • Round shoulder dreadnought design for comfort and rich sound
  • '60s-style adjustable bridge for exceptional intonation
  • Includes autographed label, personal letter from Donovan, and plush-lined hardshell case
Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Gibson Limited Edition Donovan J-45 1965 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Cherry Sunburst

Video thumbnail for Gibson Limited Edition Donovan J-45 1965 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Cherry Sunburst by Musician's Friend

Gibson Limited Edition Donovan J-45 1965 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Cherry Sunburst

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Video thumbnail for Gibson - Limited Edition 1965 J-45 Donovan Demo at GAK by GAK

Gibson - Limited Edition 1965 J-45 Donovan Demo at GAK

GAK

GAK

Video thumbnail for Gibson J-45 Donovan, 1960s, TFOA, by Ruben by The Fellowship of Acoustics

Gibson J-45 Donovan, 1960s, TFOA, by Ruben

The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

Video thumbnail for Gibson 1965 J-45 Donovan model by WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

Gibson 1965 J-45 Donovan model

WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson J-45 Donovan.

Comparisons

  • The Yamaha FG-3, resembling the J-45 with a sitka top and African mahogany, offers a similar sound at a fraction of the cost, around $840.

    Source
  • Owners note the J-35, with slightly different bracing, provides a brighter, more lively tone compared to the J-45, often preferred over its pricier counterpart.

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  • Dylan often used smaller body Martin models more than the D28, which offer a distinct tonal character compared to dreadnoughts.

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  • Donovan's sound is closely associated with the Gibson J45, making it a suitable choice for replicating his tonal signature.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Epiphone "Inspired By Gibson" J-45 uses all solid woods, unlike misconceptions about having a three-ply spruce top.

    Source

User experience

  • One owner experienced unusual instability, mentioning the guitar frequently toppled from resting positions, suggesting caution in handling.

    Source
  • One owner prefers dreadnoughts for solo strumming and singer-songwriter styles, suggesting they provide a fuller sound experience.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Gibson J45 Studio Rosewood has a top size matching the J45 Standard, with sides as deep as an OM or 000, offering a unique tonal balance.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Daniel Rossen uses Gibson J-45 Donovan

Daniel Rossen

Singer, Guitarist

Grizzly Bear

...
Verified via YouTube

Rossen is seen using a Gibson J-45 Donovan in this song starting at 0:13 and in the whole session for KEXP (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8ZYQ9FTgj8&t=394s).

See how Donovan uses Gibson J-45 Donovan

Donovan

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

This is the special model of Gibson J-45 made for Donovan in 1965. This has been Donovan's primary guitar. On his website, Donovan said "I completed my song The Hurdy Gurdy Man and more in India, and with the La Bella silk and steel strings that Joan Baez turned me onto, I recorded it in London on my J45." These words come in the case with the guitar.

Spruce top, mahogany B&S, indian rosewood fingerboard and bridge.

See how Matt Maher uses Gibson J-45 Donovan

Matt Maher

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

He used to use this guitar for a long time. He still uses this model for recording as well.

Album Usage

The Gibson J-45 Donovan 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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