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Average Price: $625

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The GIbson Melody Maker 2011 is a nod to the classic simplicity and playability that has made the Melody Maker a beloved choice among guitarists since its inception. This solid body electric guitar is designed for those who appreciate both vintage aesthetics and modern performance. Its slim, lightweight body makes it a joy to play, whether you're jamming at home or performing on stage. The single-coil pickup offers a clear, bright sound that cuts through the mix, ensuring your riffs and solos stand out. The Melody Maker is crafted with a solid mahogany body and a maple neck, offering both durability and a comfortable playing experience. This model retains the iconic Gibson headstock and features the classic wraparound bridge, providing excellent sustain and tuning stability.

Influenced by its predecessors, the 2011 edition of the Melody Maker brings the timeless Gibson tone and feel to musicians who crave a straightforward, no-nonsense rock machine. It's a well-rounded instrument that caters to a variety of playing styles, from crunchy rock to smooth blues. Whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner looking to invest in your first quality guitar, the GIbson Melody Maker 2011 is a reliable partner in your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Solid mahogany body for enhanced tone and sustain
  • Maple neck with a rounded profile for comfortable playability
  • Single-coil pickup delivering bright, clear sound
  • Wraparound bridge for improved sustain and tuning stability
  • Iconic Gibson headstock design
  • Easily accessible control knobs for volume and tone adjustments

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Melody Maker
Finish Satin Ebony, Satin White, Vintage Sunburst
Year 2007 - 2013
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Wrap-Around
Color Family Black, Brown, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Satin
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson Melody Maker
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"

FAQs

What kind of pickups does the Gibson Melody Maker 2011 use?

The Gibson Melody Maker 2011 features a single-coil pickup configuration, which is known for delivering a bright and clear tone suitable for a variety of music styles.

Is the Gibson Melody Maker 2011 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Gibson Melody Maker 2011 is often considered beginner-friendly due to its straightforward design, lightweight body, and comfortable playability.

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson Melody Maker 2011?

The Gibson Melody Maker 2011 features a slim, comfortable neck profile, making it easy to play for both beginners and seasoned musicians.

How does the satin finish on the Gibson Melody Maker 2011 affect its playability?

The satin finish on the Gibson Melody Maker 2011 provides a smooth feel and reduces friction, which can enhance playability and comfort during long playing sessions.

What type of music genres is the Gibson Melody Maker 2011 best suited for?

The Gibson Melody Maker 2011's bright and articulate tone makes it well-suited for rock, punk, and blues genres.

Reviews

PROS

  • Slim, killer neck and insanely resonant body

  • Loud unplugged with a musical, responsive pickup

  • Bright sound that cuts through noisy environments

  • Stable tuners that hold tuning well

  • Looks badass on stage, especially in white finish

  • Crunchy sound typical of a Gibson bridge pickup

  • Lightweight yet resonant, easy to play

  • Original retro style headstock

  • Dynamic and sensitive to touch pickup

  • Excellent playability for rock or blues genres

CONS

  • Single coil pickups produce noticeable hum at high volumes

  • Tone knob placement not ideal for some playing styles

  • D string intonation issues with wrap-around bridge

  • Not suited for easy shredding; requires effort to play

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about GIbson Melody Maker 2011.

Mods and upgrades

  • The Hipshot Babygrand bridge and WD Custom pickguard are notable upgrades, though they may not appeal to everyone's taste aesthetically.

    Source
  • The TonePros 2 bridge and Gibson ‘57 Classic humbucker are popular upgrades, enhancing both playability and tone significantly.

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  • A suggestion to replace the knob with a black one for a sleeker aesthetic indicates attention to visual detail.

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Build quality

  • The neck has been sanded and finished with wood wax, indicating a smooth feel, but with some cosmetic chips in the finish.

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  • During 2011, Gibson's quality control was reportedly at a low point, impacting resale value.

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Comparisons

  • The Melody Maker neck is reportedly slimmer compared to the thicker neck of an Epiphone SG G400 Pro.

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Value and pricing

  • Despite upgrades, users suggest offering $550-600 due to the low demand and cosmetic issues.

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  • A guitar from this period, especially with damage, is seen as overvalued at $520 CAD, with some feeling $300 CAD is a fairer price.

    Source
  • Acquiring a 2011 Melody Maker in poor condition for $200 is seen as a fortunate deal, highlighting its potential value when properly upgraded.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Potential buyers express curiosity about the MM P90s, likening them to those in the Tribute Les Paul for a classic rock tone.

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  • The singular pickup and wrap tailpiece design are praised for their unique playability and charm.

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User experience

  • Owners feel the name on the headstock provides most of the guitar’s value rather than its condition or features.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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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 Melody Maker 2011, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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