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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
Videos
Musician's Friend
Gibson Limited Edition Donovan J-45 1965 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Cherry Sunburst
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
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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.
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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.
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Build quality
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The Epiphone "Inspired By Gibson" J-45 uses all solid woods, unlike misconceptions about having a three-ply spruce top.
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User experience
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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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).
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.
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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