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Average Price: $1,610

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$200

$1001+

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High-end

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Description

The Gibson J-45 Sustainable acoustic-electric guitar is where tradition meets innovation, crafted for the eco-conscious musician who doesn’t want to compromise on sound or style. Revered as the “workhorse” of acoustic guitars, this model takes a green leap forward with sustainably harvested North American walnut for the back and sides and a solid Sitka spruce top. The ingenious hand-rubbed beeswax finish not only protects the guitar but also enhances its tonal resonance, offering an alternative to traditional finishes with a nod to environmental responsibility.

This guitar's sound is as rich as its heritage, thanks to Gibson's hand-scalloped top bracing. This unique feature allows for a piston-like vibration, focusing the sound to the center of the guitar for a rich, full-bodied tone. Whether you're strumming in a cozy coffee shop or playing in a bustling venue, the LR Baggs VTC electronics ensure your sound is captured with clarity and depth, offering a natural acoustic presence when amplified.

The J-45 Sustainable doesn't just sound good; it feels good. With a SlimTaper mahogany neck and a walnut fretboard, it offers a comfortable playing experience that makes long sessions a joy rather than a chore. Its classic design and modern sustainability make it a perfect choice for musicians who value both tradition and innovation.

Key Features:

  • Sustainably harvested North American walnut body; Sitka spruce top
  • Hand-rubbed beeswax finish
  • Traditional hand-scalloped X-bracing
  • SlimTaper mahogany neck; 24.75" scale length
  • 20-fret, 12"-radius walnut fretboard
  • LR Baggs VTC electronics
  • Nickel Grover Rotomatic tuning machines
  • Dual-action truss rod

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model J-45 Sustainable
Finish Antique Natural
Year 2019 - 2020
Made In United States
Categories Acoustic-Electric Guitars, Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp Yes
Back Material Walnut
Body Shape Dreadnought
Color Family Tan
Fretboard Material Composite
Model Family Gibson J-45
Model Sub-Family Gibson J-45 Sustainable
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Undersaddle Piezo Pickup
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Gibson Montana Factory Era
Sides Material Walnut
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What materials are used in the construction of the Gibson J-45 Sustainable?

The Gibson J-45 Sustainable features a spruce top, walnut back and sides, and a mahogany neck. The fretboard is made from composite material, offering a unique blend of sustainability and traditional acoustic tone.

How does the Gibson J-45 Sustainable differ from the standard J-45 model?

The primary difference lies in the use of sustainable materials like walnut for the back and sides, and a composite fretboard, which are chosen to promote environmental responsibility while maintaining the classic J-45 sound.

Is the Gibson J-45 Sustainable suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Gibson J-45 Sustainable is equipped with an active preamp and an undersaddle piezo pickup, making it ideal for live performances where amplification is needed.

What type of body shape does the Gibson J-45 Sustainable have?

The Gibson J-45 Sustainable features a dreadnought body shape, known for its robust sound and excellent projection, making it versatile for various musical styles.

Does the Gibson J-45 Sustainable come with a built-in pickup system?

Yes, the Gibson J-45 Sustainable includes an undersaddle piezo pickup, allowing for easy amplification and recording without compromising its acoustic qualities.

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

Gibson J-45 Sustainable - New for 2019!!

Video thumbnail for Gibson J-45 Sustainable - New for 2019!! by Acoustic Letter

Gibson J-45 Sustainable - New for 2019!!

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

Video thumbnail for Gibson Guitar's Naked J-45 - Reviewing the Gibson J-45 Sustainable, The Weirdest, Coolest New Gibson by Alamo Music Center

Gibson Guitar's Naked J-45 - Reviewing the Gibson J-45 Sustainable, The Weirdest, Coolest New Gibson

Alamo Music Center

Alamo Music Center

Video thumbnail for Gibson Limited Run 2019 J-45 Sustainable Acoustic-Electric Guitar by Musician's Friend

Gibson Limited Run 2019 J-45 Sustainable Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Video thumbnail for Gibson J-45 Sustainable (2019) Acoustic Guitar Demo by Ian Meadows

Gibson J-45 Sustainable (2019) Acoustic Guitar Demo

Ian Meadows

Ian Meadows

Video thumbnail for Gibson J45 Sustainable : Designed and Built with the Environment In Mind by Ian Meadows

Gibson J45 Sustainable : Designed and Built with the Environment In Mind

Ian Meadows

Ian Meadows

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • Richlite, a compressed wood/paper pulp, is more stable and less prone to warping than traditional wood, offering durability comparable to rosewood over time.

    Source
  • The guitar uses a wax finish, possibly similar to Music Man guitars, which are known for their durability, though some find it unconventional.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Richlite, used on the fingerboard, resembles and patinas like ebony, providing a sustainable alternative without compromising aesthetics or feel.

    Source

User experience

  • Some players find the beeswax finish unique yet peculiar, indicating it may not appeal to everyone despite its potential longevity benefits.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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1 star
tom_christopher

My new main babe

There's really nothing to say about this guitar other than that to me personally, it feels like I have finally arrived at the guitar I'm gonna stick with for the rest of my life, after years of buying guitars and looking for the sound I needed. This dreadnought acoustic guitar has the crisp and brilliant sound of a typical J-45 with the bass response of a J-45 Studio (same woods) and it feels so smooth and woody, being the first and so far only Gibson acoustic guitar with a bee-wax satin finish. Not only does it feel so natural and woody, it also looks so clean and beautiful and as a nice side effect is made only from responsibly harvested trees, hence the name "sustainable". It is an allrounder: Picking, strumming, tenderly caressing, everything goes. :)

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