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Average Price: $5,499

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1201+

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High-end

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Description

The Gibson L-12 is a captivating choice for musicians seeking a blend of rich history and modern craftsmanship in their semi-hollowbody guitar. Originally designed in the 1930s, this model has been a favorite among jazz and blues players for its distinctive sound and elegant design. Crafted with a solid spruce top and maple back and sides, the L-12 provides a warm, resonant tone with excellent projection and clarity. This classic guitar features a single-cutaway design that allows for easy access to the upper frets, making it a versatile instrument suitable for various playing styles.

Equipped with a floating pickup, the Gibson L-12 delivers a clear and articulate sound that captures the nuances of your playing. The neck is crafted from mahogany, providing a comfortable grip and smooth playability. Its rosewood fingerboard offers a classic feel, while the vintage-style tuners ensure stable tuning and reliability during performances. The L-12’s timeless aesthetic is completed with elegant f-holes and a distinctive tailpiece, reflecting the guitar's storied legacy and craftsmanship.

Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, the Gibson L-12 stands out not just as a piece of musical equipment, but as a work of art that pays homage to decades of musical heritage.

Key Features:

  • Solid spruce top with maple back and sides
  • Single floating pickup for clear sound
  • Mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • Single-cutaway design for upper fret access
  • Vintage-style tuners for stable tuning
  • Classic f-holes and distinctive tailpiece

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model L-12
Finish Sunburst
Year 1935 - 1955
Made In United States
Categories Archtop Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Maple
Body Shape Archtop
Color Family Brown
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson L-12
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 19
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Gibson Kalamazoo Factory Era, Gibson Pre-War Era
Sides Material Maple
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What type of music is the Gibson L-12 best suited for?

The Gibson L-12, with its archtop body and spruce top, is ideal for jazz and blues music, offering a warm, resonant tone that complements these styles well.

Does the Gibson L-12 have any built-in electronics for amplification?

No, the Gibson L-12 does not have built-in electronics or pickups, as it is designed as an acoustic archtop guitar.

What is the neck profile of the Gibson L-12 like?

The Gibson L-12 features a comfortable maple neck that provides a smooth playing experience, suitable for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

How does the maple body of the Gibson L-12 affect its sound?

The maple body of the Gibson L-12 contributes to its bright and articulate sound, offering clarity and projection that is perfect for live performances.

Is the Gibson L-12 suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson L-12 is a high-quality instrument, its vintage design and lack of electronics may be better suited for experienced players who appreciate its historical significance and tonal qualities.

campusfive

campusfive

NGD: 1935 Gibson L-12 - Jonathan Stout Swing Guitar Blog

Video thumbnail for NGD: 1935 Gibson L-12 - Jonathan Stout Swing Guitar Blog by campusfive

NGD: 1935 Gibson L-12 - Jonathan Stout Swing Guitar Blog

campusfive

campusfive

Video thumbnail for 1948 Gibson L-12 - Atoyboy Guitars by ATB Guitars

1948 Gibson L-12 - Atoyboy Guitars

ATB Guitars

ATB Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1947 Gibson L-12 Archtop Guitar Demo Video by 1929 Pickguards

1947 Gibson L-12 Archtop Guitar Demo Video

1929 Pickguards

1929 Pickguards

Video thumbnail for Gibson 1939 L-12 Sunburst Archtop Guitar Demo with Joe Restivo at Martin Music by Martin Music

Gibson 1939 L-12 Sunburst Archtop Guitar Demo with Joe Restivo at Martin Music

Martin Music

Martin Music

Video thumbnail for 1934 Gibson L-12  --- That Rhythm Man Guitars by That Rhythm Man Guitars

1934 Gibson L-12 --- That Rhythm Man Guitars

That Rhythm Man Guitars

That Rhythm Man Guitars

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jon Foreman uses Gibson L-12

Jon Foreman

Singer, Guitarist

Switchfoot

...
Verified via Photo

As can be seen at his official Instagram account (about making some music) you can see him using this item in the picture / video.

See how Jeff Healey uses Gibson L-12

Jeff Healey

Guitarist

The Jeff Healey Band

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

"A Gibson L-12 from the late ’40s, which I’ve had for about 10 years. I added a pickup to it. It still has a nice acoustic sound, I just wanted certain “electrified” sounds, if you will. I don’t remember exactly which pickup we put on it – it’s an old, large-looking thing."

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson L-12, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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