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Average Price: $4,199

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Description

Experience the masterful fusion of tradition and innovation with the Gibson Johnny A Signature guitar. Crafted by Gibson's Custom Shop, this guitar captures the essence of vintage charm while embracing modern advancements. Its revolutionary body design features a completely hollow structure with a contoured maple top and flat inner back, delivering a unique resonance that sets it apart from typical hollowbodies. The dual '57 Classic humbuckers offer a rich, versatile sound that echoes the depth of Gibson's storied past.

This guitar is not just about sound; its aesthetic is equally stunning. The elegant double cutaway shape and non-traditional f-holes give it a distinctive look, while the gold Bigsby tailpiece adds a touch of flair that is both functional and stylish. The neck, carved from a single piece of mahogany, sports a custom profile designed to offer unparalleled playability. Meanwhile, the ebony fingerboard with custom pearl inlays and vintage tulip tuners add touches of elegance and precision.

Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, the Gibson Johnny A Signature is a guitar that promises to inspire and deliver.

Key Features:

  • Hollowbody design with carved maple top
  • Mahogany back and rims carved from a single block
  • Johnny A custom rounded neck profile
  • Ebony fingerboard with custom pearl inlays
  • Dual '57 Classic humbucking pickups
  • Gold hardware with Bigsby tailpiece
  • Multi-ply binding
  • 25-1/2" scale length with 22 frets
  • Includes hardshell case and certificate of authenticity

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Johnny A Signature, Johnny A Signature with Bigsby
Year 2004 - 2013
Made In United States
Categories Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars
Artist Johnny A.
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Semi-Hollow Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar, Tremolo Tailpiece
Color Family Brown, Tan, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Gibson Johnny A.
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Gibson Artist Collection
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson Johnny A Signature?

The Gibson Johnny A Signature features a SlimTaper neck profile, which is designed for fast and comfortable playability, making it suitable for a wide range of playing styles.

What type of pickups does the Gibson Johnny A Signature use?

The guitar is equipped with dual ™57 Classic humbucker pickups, known for delivering warm, vintage tones ideal for blues, rock, and jazz genres.

Is the Gibson Johnny A Signature suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its semi-hollow body and Bigsby tremolo tailpiece, the Gibson Johnny A Signature is well-suited for live performances, offering both tonal versatility and dynamic expression.

How does the Bigsby tailpiece affect the playability of the Gibson Johnny A Signature?

The Bigsby B7 tailpiece allows for smooth vibrato effects, enhancing the guitar's expressive capabilities without compromising tuning stability.

What materials are used in the construction of the Gibson Johnny A Signature?

The guitar features a mahogany body with a figured maple top, and an ebony fretboard, providing a rich tonal foundation with a blend of warmth and clarity.

Three Chord Dave

Three Chord Dave

Guitar Wishlist 26 Gibson Johnny A Signature

Video thumbnail for Guitar Wishlist 26 Gibson Johnny A Signature by Three Chord Dave

Guitar Wishlist 26 Gibson Johnny A Signature

Three Chord Dave

Three Chord Dave

Reviews

PROS

  • Combines the tones of an SG and a 335 for a unique sound

  • Produces a beautiful, full, shimmering tone

  • Versatile sound suitable for jazz, blues, and classic rock

  • Allows for super low string settings, customizable to preferences

  • Bigsby tremolo is more tune-friendly than expected

  • Neck combines different shapes for a comfortable feel

  • Excellent initial setup with near-perfect intonation

CONS

  • Tuning stability may require modifications, such as replacing the nut

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The combination of a 25.5" scale length and ebony fingerboard offers unexpected mid-range punch and clarity, similar to a Telecaster.

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  • The Classic 57 pickups in both neck and bridge positions are highlighted for their performance in this hollowbody setup.

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  • The Johnny A's small body and thick wood top contribute to reduced feedback, a key distinction from other hollowbody guitars.

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  • The early Gibson Custom Shop Johnny A models sometimes feature a stop tailpiece instead of the Bigsby, offering a different aesthetic and playability option.

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Comparisons

  • The Gibson Johnny A Signature features carved solid maple and mahogany, unlike the laminated construction of the Epiphone version.

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  • The Johnny A's small body and thick top reportedly minimize feedback issues compared to semi-hollow models.

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  • It's noted that the fully hollow Johnny A contrasts with the semi-hollow Gretsch models in terms of feedback and unplugged playability.

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  • Owners highlight that the Epiphone Johnny A is often mistaken for a semi-hollow but is fully hollow, impacting tone and resonance.

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  • Owners looking to trade this model find it more likely to swap for a Gretsch rather than an older Gibson due to current market interest.

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User experience

  • A unique stinger design on the guitar is highly appreciated by owners for its aesthetic appeal.

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  • An owner expressed disappointment in the Johnny A's tone and feel, especially after transitioning to a Chet Atkins fingerpicking style.

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Build quality

  • The guitar's sharp double-cut design and exquisite craftsmanship are noted, with some owners wishing it had variations with pressed tops.

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Value and pricing

  • Despite similar eBay pricing, there is uncertainty if the Johnny A holds the same desirability as vintage Gibson or Gretsch hollow bodies.

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Critic Reviews

Gibson Johnny A. Signature Guitar - JazzTimes

jazztimes.com

The Gibson Johnny A. Signature is a stunning combination of art-deco elegance and versatile playability that justifies its steep price. With a seductive blend of a Les Paul, SG, and 335, this guitar stands out with its striking design and unmatched craftsmanship. Its hollow body delivers a rich tonal range from jazz to hard rock, while the Bigsby tremolo adds expressive flair. Despite its edgy sound, players can dial in warmer tones with ease. The Johnny A. Signature isn't just a guitar; it's an investment in a unique musical experience. Whether in a band or solo, it excels, making it a worthy splurge for serious musicians.

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