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Average Price: $950

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

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Description

The Gibson LG-0 is a classic choice for enthusiasts of vintage acoustic guitars, offering a rich legacy since its introduction in the 1950s. Known for its simplicity and charm, this steel-string acoustic guitar is perfect for those who appreciate a straightforward design that delivers timeless sound. Crafted with a mahogany body, the LG-0 produces a warm, resonant tone that’s perfect for fingerpicking and strumming alike. The guitar's small, parlor-sized body makes it ideal for both young learners and seasoned musicians looking for a comfortable playing experience.

One of the defining features of the LG-0 is its ladder bracing, which contributes to its distinctively clear and articulate sound, setting it apart from other acoustic guitars. The neck is crafted from mahogany as well, providing durability and a smooth playing feel. The rosewood fingerboard adds a touch of elegance and enhances playability, making it a joy to navigate through chords and melodies.

While the LG-0 is a vintage model, its enduring popularity ensures you’re not just buying a guitar, but a piece of musical history. Whether you’re a collector or a player, this guitar is certain to become a cherished part of your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Mahogany body for warm, resonant tones
  • Ladder bracing for clear sound articulation
  • Mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • Parlor-sized body for comfortable playability
  • Ideal for fingerpicking and strumming styles

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model LG-0
Finish Natural
Year 1951 - 1974
Made In United States
Categories Concert Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape Concert
Color Family Tan
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson LG-0
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Gibson Kalamazoo Factory Era, Gibson Norlin Era
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Mahogany

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Gibson LG-0?

The Gibson LG-0 is known for its warm and mellow tone, thanks to its all-mahogany construction. This makes it ideal for folk and blues styles, offering a rich, resonant sound with prominent midrange frequencies.

Is the Gibson LG-0 suitable for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, the Gibson LG-0 is well-suited for fingerstyle playing. Its concert body shape and responsive mahogany top provide excellent clarity and articulation, which are desirable for fingerpicking techniques.

How does the Gibson LG-0 compare in size to other acoustic guitars?

The Gibson LG-0 features a concert body shape, which is smaller than dreadnought guitars. This makes it more comfortable to play, especially for smaller players or those who prefer a more compact guitar.

Does the Gibson LG-0 come with a pickup for amplification?

No, the Gibson LG-0 does not come with a built-in pickup. It is designed as a purely acoustic guitar, making it ideal for unplugged sessions and recording with external microphones.

What materials are used in the construction of the Gibson LG-0?

The Gibson LG-0 is constructed with a mahogany top, back, and sides, and features a rosewood fretboard. This combination of materials contributes to its warm tonal characteristics and classic appearance.

Headbanger rare guitars

Headbanger rare guitars

Gibson LG-0 de 1958. Headbanger rare guitars-Demo

Video thumbnail for Gibson LG-0 de 1958. Headbanger rare guitars-Demo by Headbanger rare guitars

Gibson LG-0 de 1958. Headbanger rare guitars-Demo

Headbanger rare guitars

Headbanger rare guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson 1962 LG-0: Acoustic Centre by Acoustic Centre

Gibson 1962 LG-0: Acoustic Centre

Acoustic Centre

Acoustic Centre

Video thumbnail for Gibson LG-0 late 60's underrated gem by Acoustic Music & Things

Gibson LG-0 late 60's underrated gem

Acoustic Music & Things

Acoustic Music & Things

Video thumbnail for Kirk Fletcher plays a 1963 Gibson LG-0 at GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars by GuitarPoint

Kirk Fletcher plays a 1963 Gibson LG-0 at GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars

GuitarPoint

GuitarPoint

Video thumbnail for Your-Guitar Vintage Demo: 1967 Gibson LG0 Acoustic Guitar by Your Guitar

Your-Guitar Vintage Demo: 1967 Gibson LG0 Acoustic Guitar

Your Guitar

Your Guitar

Video thumbnail for 1965 Gibson LG-0 flattop guitar by Jake Wildwood & Co

1965 Gibson LG-0 flattop guitar

Jake Wildwood & Co

Jake Wildwood & Co

Video thumbnail for Gibson LG-0 (1958) by Organic Sounds Select Guitars

Gibson LG-0 (1958)

Organic Sounds Select Guitars

Organic Sounds Select Guitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique throaty, resonant sound ideal for blues and folk

  • Compact size makes it a perfect songwriting companion

  • Effortless playability with low action

  • Retains tune well and easy to adjust

  • Rich, full-bodied sound despite smaller size

  • Distinctive Gibson acoustic plucky sound

  • Vintage charm with historical significance

  • Customizable with common modifications for improved sound

  • Lightweight and portable for easy handling

CONS

  • Lacks the low-end sound of larger dreadnoughts

  • Some models may require significant restoration work

  • Plastic bridge on certain years can be problematic

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson LG-0.

Setup and maintenance

  • High action on lower frets suggests possible need for a neck reset; considered costly but essential for ideal playability.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Modern three-on-a-plate Kluson Deluxe tuners recommended for an aesthetically appropriate upgrade.

    Source
  • Converting the LG-0's ladder bracing to X-bracing can achieve a fuller sound, though costs may equal the guitar's value.

    Source
  • The original binding can be preserved during top removal for rebracing if handled carefully by a skilled technician.

    Source

Build quality

  • Original plastic bridge held with sheet metal screws; replacing it can enhance playability and sound.

    Source
  • Owners note that pre-1963 LG-0s typically feature wooden bridges, unlike later models with plastic ones.

    Source
  • Early 60s LG-0 models featured traditional bridges, which are more sought after but come at a higher price compared to later plastic bridge models.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Dry, cracked finish can enhance vintage sound by allowing the top to vibrate more.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite high action, the guitar can be playable with adjustments like using silk and steel strings to reduce tension.

    Source
  • Some owners find the small body size perfect for casual, comfortable couch playing.

    Source
  • Owners frequently mention the LG-2 stays in tune well, even with frequent tuning changes, making it a reliable choice for performers.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The LG-2 is likened to a small J45 with a mahogany back and sides and a spruce top, often compared to Martin's CEO-7 for its similar style and tone.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The LG-2 is praised for its suitability in fingerpicking and folk music, with its x-braced construction offering strong middle tones and slide guitar compatibility.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Epiphone versions of the LG series, such as the Caballero and Cortez, offer a more affordable alternative to Gibson models but have seen price increases recently.

    Source

Critic Reviews

1964 Gibson LG-0 Flattop Guitar

jakewildwood.blogspot.com

The 1964 Gibson LG-0 Flattop Guitar charms with its vintage allure and practical sound, appealing to fingerpickers and folk enthusiasts alike. Its all-solid mahogany build and ladder-braced design offer a woody, midrange-rich tone, perfect for heavier picking. The '64 model's desirable 1 11/16" nut width and medium-slim neck profile enhance playability. Despite past repairs, including crack fills and a bridge replacement, the guitar is robust and ready to perform after further adjustments. While weather-checks and finish cracks are typical, its vintage character remains intact. A solid choice for those seeking an iconic, playable piece of guitar history.

positive

1965 Gibson LG-0 Vintage Acoustic Guitar - zZounds Music Blog

zzounds.com

The 1965 Gibson LG-0 is a charming relic with its vintage appeal and historical ties to Gibson's golden era, boasting materials like Brazilian rosewood and Honduran mahogany. However, its student-level origins mean it lacks some desirable features, and the plastic bridge often requires replacement for better sound. Despite its limitations, the LG-0 excels in delivering an authentic, warm tone ideal for Americana and folk genres. It's a unique piece for collectors and those appreciating a guitar with a story, though perhaps not the best choice for someone seeking modern versatility.

3.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
jacob_keplinger

Never recorded...

Never recorded ...except for in "Peach", there's 4 acoustic guitar tracks, and two of them are this guitar. It was also on "When I Get Paid" from SB1. It's biggest role was in the "Now & Then" music video.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Marcus Mumford uses Gibson LG-0

Marcus Mumford

Singer, Guitarist

Mumford & Sons

...
Verified via YouTube

Seen using his Gibson LG-0 in this live video

See how Heather Baron-Gracie uses Gibson LG-0

Heather Baron-Gracie

Singer, Guitarist

Pale Waves

...
Verified via YouTube

the guitar is seen on live video of an acoustic solo in-store performance in September 2018 in Southsea's Pie & Vinyl in Portsmouth, England

See how Maggie Rogers uses Gibson LG-0

Maggie Rogers

Singer

♀♀♀♀: The Collaboration

...
Verified via YouTube

Maggie Rogers uses the Gibson LG-0 for her cover of Joni Mitchell's "Cactus Tree," as seen in her live performance from Red Rocks on May 28, 2024, which was shot and edited by Steph Rinzler and Prophet Media.

See how Josh Ritter uses Gibson LG-0

Josh Ritter

Guitarist, Singer

The Cake Sale

...
Verified via YouTube

Appears to be playing an LG-0 throughout this video

See how Jen Razavi uses Gibson LG-0

Jen Razavi

Singer, Guitarist

The Bombpops

...
Verified via Photo

In this post jen can be seen with her gibson lg-0

See how Gordon Downie uses Gibson LG-0

Gordon Downie

Guitarist

The Tragically Hip

...
Verified via YouTube

Plays "Wheat Kings" on 24/10/2000

See how Thomas Dybdahl uses Gibson LG-0

Thomas Dybdahl

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Musicmaker

Next to his Gibson F25, Thomas also uses a 1960s Gibson LG0.

See how Martin Omar Basualdo uses Gibson LG-0

Martin Omar Basualdo

Guitarist, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

Martin Omar Basualdo owns a 1960 Gibson LG-0 in impeccable condition, as shown in a user-uploaded photo.

Album Usage

The Gibson LG-0 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 LG-0, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1

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