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Average Price: $3,300
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$400
$1001+
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Description
The Gibson L5-S is a remarkable fusion of craftsmanship and innovation, bringing the celebrated L-5 jazz guitar lineage into the solid body realm. Designed for professional musicians and discerning collectors alike, this electric guitar embodies Gibson's commitment to quality and tonal excellence. Featuring a solid maple body, the L5-S is known for its sustain and clarity, offering a sound profile that's both rich and articulate. This guitar is equipped with Gibson's renowned humbucker pickups, delivering a versatile range of tones suitable for jazz, rock, and blues enthusiasts.
The neck is crafted from mahogany, providing a warm tonal foundation, while the ebony fingerboard ensures smooth playability. The L5-S also sports a 24.75-inch scale length, offering a comfortable playing experience that allows for easy bending and effortless chord transitions. Aesthetics are not overlooked, with elegant binding and inlays adding a touch of sophistication.
Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Gibson L5-S stands out as a reliable and stunning instrument, capable of delivering exceptional performances. Its blend of vintage heritage and modern design makes it a beloved choice for guitarists seeking a distinct and powerful sound.
Key Features:
- Solid maple body for enhanced sustain and clarity
- Gibson humbucker pickups for versatile tonal options
- Mahogany neck with an ebony fingerboard
- 24.75-inch scale length for comfortable playability
- Elegant binding and inlays for classic aesthetics
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | L5-S |
| Finish | Antique Sunburst, Cherry, Cherry Sunburst, Fireburst, Natural |
| Year | 1972 - 1980 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Body Material | Maple |
| Body Shape | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Stop-Bar |
| Color Family | Brown, Orange, Red, Tan |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony |
| Model Family | Gibson L-5 |
| Model Sub-Family | Gibson L-5 S |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
FAQs
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What type of pickups does the Gibson L5-S have?
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The Gibson L5-S is equipped with a dual humbucker (HH) pickup configuration, offering a rich and warm tone suitable for a variety of music styles.
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What is the neck profile of the Gibson L5-S like?
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The Gibson L5-S features a set-neck construction with a maple neck, providing a smooth playing experience and enhanced sustain, ideal for both rhythm and lead guitarists.
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Is the Gibson L5-S suitable for jazz music?
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Yes, the Gibson L5-S, with its solid maple body and dual humbuckers, delivers a warm and full-bodied tone, making it well-suited for jazz and other genres requiring rich tonal depth.
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How does the Gibson L5-S compare to the Gibson L-5 hollowbody?
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The Gibson L5-S is a solid-body version of the L-5 hollowbody, offering a more compact and thinner design while retaining the luxurious appointments and tonal versatility of its hollowbody counterpart.
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What finishes are available for the Gibson L5-S?
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The Gibson L5-S is available in several finishes, including Antique Sunburst, Cherry, Cherry Sunburst, Fireburst, and Natural, each providing a distinct aesthetic appeal.
Videos
The Trogly's Guitar Show
One of Gibson's Strangest Ideas of the 70s | 1976 Gibson L5-S Cherry Sunburst Review + Demo
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional craftsmanship, offering a premium feel and playability
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Delivers versatile tones from clean chimey sounds to roaring overdrive
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Unique low impedance pickups provide articulation and clarity
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Rare and distinctive, offering exclusivity among electric guitars
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Suitable for multiple genres, excelling in blues, jazz, and rock
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Excellent playability, though requires clean technique for best results
CONS
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Heavy, necessitates a wide strap for comfortable playing
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Cosmetic issues may require additional maintenance or restoration
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Expensive, making it an acquired taste for some players
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May need a fret job and epoxy work over time
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson L5-S.
Features and functionality
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The L5-S originally came with low impedance pickups, which excel with effects and processing but require a boost for metal genres.
Source
Build quality
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Some models feature a two-piece figured and bookmatched top, while others may have a plain, less matched three-piece top.
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Comparisons
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Known for its noiseless output, the L5-S can push long cable runs without tone loss, unlike some other guitars of its era.
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Value and pricing
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Originally priced at $1249 USD in 1973, these guitars were considered top-of-the-line but did not sell well due to marketing missteps.
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Use cases and applications
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Despite initial criticism, the L5-S has a beautiful, chimey clean sound and rich overtones that enhance pedal use.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
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On Ronnie Wood's website, the caption under this photo read, "the Gibson L5 S (often mistaken for a Les Paul) Ronnie's is unusual as it has only a single pick-up"
On FaceTheMusic.com, it is stated in album liner notes that Lynne played a Gisbon L5-S.
Paul used this guitar during the 1980, most notable for The Tower Theater concert, where he can be seen with it at around 3:11 minute mark.
Jorma Kaukonen can be seen holding a Gibson L5-S.
Here's a Hot Tuna concert captured on video with Jorma playing this guitar until "I Wish You Would" performance.
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson L5-S, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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