Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $9,996
High-end/Boutique
$500
$1201+
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High-end
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Description
The Gibson L5 CES is not just a guitar; it's a legacy in your hands. Initially introduced as an acoustic marvel in 1922, this instrument has evolved into a seminal choice for jazz and blues musicians, boasting a rich history with legendary players like Wes Montgomery and Eric Clapton. Today, the Gibson Custom Shop L-5 CES stands as a testament to Gibson's commitment to craftsmanship and sonic excellence.
Crafted with a high-grade spruce top and maple back and sides, this semi-hollowbody electric guitar offers a harmonious blend of warmth and clarity. The maple/walnut neck, paired with an ebony fingerboard, ensures smooth playability and a luxurious feel, making each performance an experience to remember. Equipped with dual '57 Classic humbucking pickups, the L5 CES delivers a versatile tonal palette that effortlessly adapts to jazz, rock, blues, and beyond.
The guitar's elegant aesthetic is highlighted by its distinctive Venetian cutaway, pearl inlays, and gold hardware, all encased in a multi-ply binding. Meanwhile, a Plek Pro setup optimizes the fretboard for precise intonation, ensuring that each note resonates with impeccable clarity. Whether you're strumming chords or weaving intricate solos, the Gibson L5 CES offers a sound that's both iconic and unmistakably yours.
Key Features:
- High-grade spruce top and maple back and sides for rich, resonant tones
- Maple/walnut neck with 20-fret ebony fingerboard and pearl block inlays
- Dual '57 Classic humbucking pickups for versatile soundscapes
- Venetian cutaway with elegant pearl inlays and gold hardware
- Premium Plek Pro setup for enhanced playability and intonation
- Includes Custom Shop hardshell case and Certificate of Authenticity
FAQs
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What type of wood is used in the construction of the Gibson L5 CES?
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The Gibson L5 CES features a high-grade spruce top with a full archtop body, maple back, and rims, providing a rich, resonant tone.
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What pickups are equipped on the Gibson L5 CES, and what tones can they produce?
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The Gibson L5 CES is equipped with dual '57 Classic humbuckers, known for their warm, vintage tone, suitable for jazz and blues styles.
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Is the Gibson L5 CES suitable for jazz music?
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Yes, the Gibson L5 CES is highly regarded for jazz due to its archtop design and '57 Classic humbuckers, which deliver a warm, rich sound ideal for jazz tones.
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What is the neck profile of the Gibson L5 CES?
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The Gibson L5 CES features a maple neck with an ebony fingerboard, providing a smooth playing experience with a comfortable, traditional neck profile.
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Does the Gibson L5 CES include a case?
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Yes, the Gibson L5 CES comes with a Custom Shop case, ensuring protection and safe transport for the guitar.
Videos
Musician's Friend
Gibson Custom L-5 CES Electric Guitar
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson L5 CES.
Features and functionality
Build quality
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The presence of a neck volute and "witch hat" knobs are characteristic of guitars from the Norlin Era (1970-1985).
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Other
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The decorative fretboard end is standard on the L5-CES and similar to that on the SJ-200, adding a touch of elegance without affecting value.
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Setup and maintenance
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It's suggested to replace non-stock truss rod covers with genuine Gibson parts to maintain authenticity and potentially avoid issues with counterfeit identification.
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Comparisons
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
"I used my ’68 Gibson L-5 and a script-logo MXR Phase 90. We went direct through the board. It’s a very clean sound. Engineer Mick Guzauski had a lot to do with the way that record sounded. It was pristine. He knew how to EQ things just right."
For "Baciami Ancora" music video, Jovanotti used a black Gibson L5. At 1:36 he is visible playing the particular guitar.
“I have a bunch of jazz boxes I pull out every once in a while – a nice Gibson L-5, a ’52 ES-350… I’m like all guitar players. You’ve got to be careful not to expand the collection too much.”
Miller's longtime (since the early 1960s) guitar is a Gibson L-5 CES Florentine guitar which he calls "Beulah".
cowboytwang of Telecaster Discussion Page Reissue testified to Beecher's use of the L5 CES. He even posted a picture of "[him] and Franny (and the rest of the Comets)."
I got to do a gig with the Comets a few years ago, and Franny used my old Fender Super, and he sounded great. He was playing a beautiful blonde Gibson L5 CES that he said he bought new in '52.
The L5 is also mentioned on page 100 of Sound and Glory: The Incredible Story of Bill Haley, the Father of Rock 'N' Roll and the Music That Shook the World.
Album Usage
The Gibson L5 CES 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.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson L5 CES, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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