Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $1,811
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
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Description
The Gibson Melody Maker Explorer offers an exhilarating blend of vintage style and modern performance, making it a standout choice for guitarists seeking a unique yet affordable addition to their collection. This limited-run series reimagines the classic Melody Maker with a bold, Explorer body shape, bringing a post-modern twist to a beloved classic. Crafted for comfort and playability, its thin, lightweight body allows for effortless play, while the 1-piece set mahogany neck ensures rock-solid sustain that's perfect for any genre.
Unlike its predecessors, the Melody Maker Explorer is equipped with a powerful 491T ceramic-magnet humbucker, delivering a pure, punchy tone controlled by a single volume knob. This minimalist configuration ensures you get the most direct, unadulterated sound, ideal for guitarists who appreciate simplicity without sacrificing quality. The wraparound tailpiece further enhances sustain, making it a reliable choice for those high-energy performances.
Designed to be as eye-catching as it is playable, the Melody Maker Explorer features a grain-textured satin finish that not only looks stunning but also feels great in your hands. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a budding musician, this guitar's combination of classic Gibson craftsmanship and modern flair is sure to inspire.
Key Features:
- Limited-run with a distinctive Explorer body shape
- 491T ceramic-magnet humbucker for punchy, pure tones
- Lightweight, thin body for ultimate playability
- 1-piece set mahogany neck for solid sustain
- Rock-solid wraparound tailpiece
- Grain-textured satin finish
- Includes deluxe gig bag for easy transport
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | Melody Maker Explorer |
| Finish | Satin Blue, Satin Ebony, Satin White |
| Year | 2010s |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Body Shape | X-Style |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Wrap-Around |
| Color Family | Black, Blue, White |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Offset Body | Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | H |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile of the Gibson Melody Maker Explorer (Satin White)?
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The Gibson Melody Maker Explorer features a Melody Maker neck profile, which is designed to offer a comfortable grip suitable for various playing styles, making it easier for both beginners and experienced players to navigate the fretboard.
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What type of pickups does the Gibson Melody Maker Explorer have?
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The Gibson Melody Maker Explorer is equipped with a Seymour Duncan HB-103 humbucker, providing a powerful and clear tone that is ideal for rock and other high-gain genres.
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Is the Gibson Melody Maker Explorer suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the Gibson Melody Maker Explorer is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile and straightforward controls, making it easy to play and adjust.
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What is the body size of the Gibson Melody Maker Explorer compared to standard models?
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The Gibson Melody Maker Explorer has a maple body that is reduced by 5% from the normal size, offering a slightly more compact and lightweight feel while maintaining the classic Explorer shape.
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Does the Gibson Melody Maker Explorer come with a case?
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Yes, the Gibson Melody Maker Explorer comes with a gig bag, providing basic protection for transport and storage.
Videos
ZIMM'S GUITARS
2011 Gibson Melody Maker Explorer
2011 Gibson Melody Maker Explorer
ZIMM'S GUITARS
Gibson Explorer Melody Maker - Nahuel Gomez
Nahuel Gomez
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Melody Maker Explorer.
Build quality
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The Melody Maker Explorer is noted for its thin maple bodies and baked maple fretboards, which contribute to a lightweight but less robust build.
Source
Features and functionality
Value and pricing
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Historically sold for as low as $299.99, these guitars were initially perceived as less desirable, but are now considered a good buy due to their unique style.
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Use cases and applications
User experience
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Some owners express nostalgia for the Melody Maker series, wishing for a reissue to accommodate niche tastes.
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Owners frequently mention the Melody Maker Explorer's tendency for neck dive, similar to SG models, impacting strap height preferences.
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Some owners highlight the rarity and limited production of the 2011 model, making it a sought-after collector's item in certain circles.
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The Explorer is considered very comfortable when standing, likened to "strapping on an oil tanker."
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Some users find the Explorer difficult to gig with due to its large size, despite being comfortable with a strap.
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Comparisons
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The Melody Maker series, including the Explorer model, is often compared to other Gibson budget lines like the LPJ and SGJ, which similarly struggled in the market.
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The Melody Maker Explorer's odd weight distribution is compared to other Gibson models, with some players adjusting their playing style to accommodate this.
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Explorers fit taller individuals well, similar to Firebirds, but are challenging for touring due to their size.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
In this post matt can be seen playing a gibson melody maker. His guitar is in a white finish. The guitar features a single humbucker pickup
Nathan Weaver, the guitarist for Wolves In The Throne Room, is confirmed to use a Gibson Melody Maker Explorer in Satin White. This is evidenced by a photograph shared on the official Wolves In The Throne Room Facebook page, where the guitar is clearly visible. The identification of the guitar as a Melody Maker model is supported by distinctive features, such as the shape of the headstock, as observed in the photograph provided by Wolves In The Throne Room.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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