Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $1,500

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1201+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Gibson Memphis ES-135 is a harmonious blend of rock and jazz, perfect for musicians seeking versatility and character in their sound. This semi-hollowbody electric guitar skillfully combines the elements of the iconic ES-335 and the smooth ES-175, offering musicians the best of both worlds. With its dual humbuckers, the ES-135 provides a rich, resonant tone that remains clear and articulate, making it a suitable companion for both soulful blues and vibrant rockabilly rhythms.

Crafted with precision and expertise, the ES-135 boasts a semi-hollow design that enhances its tonal warmth without sacrificing clarity. Whether you're playing intimate jazz gigs or powering through rock solos, this guitar adapts effortlessly, providing a dynamic range that is both inspiring and reliable. The ES-135's responsive nature makes it a joy to play, inviting creative exploration across various musical genres.

Join a community of musicians who appreciate the unique qualities of the Gibson Memphis ES-135. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring guitarist, this instrument offers a platform to elevate your musical journey, ensuring your sound is as captivating as your performance.

Key Features:

  • Semi-hollowbody design for a balanced tonal experience
  • Dual humbuckers for rich and resonant sound
  • Combines features of ES-335 and ES-175 for versatile play
  • Suitable for a wide range of music styles, from jazz to rockabilly
  • High-quality craftsmanship for durability and reliability

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model ES-135
Finish Blueburst, Cherry, Ebony, Natural, Vintage Sunburst, Wine Red
Year 1991 - 2003
Made In United States
Categories Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Semi-Hollow Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black, Blue, Brown, Red, Tan
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson ES-135
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the Gibson Memphis ES-135 suitable for?

The Gibson Memphis ES-135 is versatile and well-suited for jazz, blues, and rock genres, thanks to its warm, full-bodied tone and semi-hollow body design.

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson Memphis ES-135?

The Gibson Memphis ES-135 features a comfortable set-neck construction with a medium C-shape profile, offering smooth playability for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

What type of pickups does the Gibson Memphis ES-135 have?

The Gibson Memphis ES-135 is equipped with dual humbucking pickups (HH configuration), providing a rich, warm sound with reduced noise, making it ideal for various musical styles.

Is the Gibson Memphis ES-135 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Gibson Memphis ES-135 is suitable for live performances, offering a robust build and a semi-hollow body that delivers excellent resonance and sustain on stage.

Does the Gibson Memphis ES-135 come in different color options?

The Gibson Memphis ES-135 is available in several finishes, including Blueburst, Cherry, Ebony, Natural, Vintage Sunburst, and Wine Red, allowing players to choose according to their aesthetic preference.

How does the semi-hollow body design of the Gibson Memphis ES-135 affect its sound?

The semi-hollow body design of the Gibson Memphis ES-135 provides a warm, resonant tone with a touch of acoustic-like character, making it ideal for genres that benefit from a rich, full sound.

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

2000 Gibson ES-135 Limited Edition

Video thumbnail for 2000 Gibson ES-135 Limited Edition by GregsGuitars

2000 Gibson ES-135 Limited Edition

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES-135 at The Fellowship of Acoustics by The Fellowship of Acoustics

Gibson ES-135 at The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES-135 with Soapbars | Tim Pierce Soloing techniques | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Gibson ES-135 with Soapbars | Tim Pierce Soloing techniques | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES-135 | 2001 at The Fellowship of Acoustics by The Fellowship of Acoustics

Gibson ES-135 | 2001 at The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

Video thumbnail for Gibson USA ES-135 by Bigfoot-Guitars.de

Gibson USA ES-135

Bigfoot-Guitars.de

Bigfoot-Guitars.de

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES135 by javivela

Gibson ES135

javivela

javivela

Video thumbnail for Today's Thunder Road Quick Riff: 1995 Gibson ES-135 P90 Cherry by Thunder Road Guitars

Today's Thunder Road Quick Riff: 1995 Gibson ES-135 P90 Cherry

Thunder Road Guitars

Thunder Road Guitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Richer tone with a chunkier neck for complex jazz chords

  • Balanced and inspiring tone from clean to overdriven

  • Resonant body that breathes through the F-holes without feedback issues

  • Sturdy build with high-quality craftsmanship typical of Gibson

  • Hybrid feel and sound between a 335 and 175, offering versatility

  • High-quality gold-plated hardware and natural finish

  • Lightweight compared to a 335 but still substantial

  • Versatility across genres with PAF-style humbuckers

  • Slightly thicker body enhances playing authority and sustain

CONS

  • Stock Gibson pickups may not meet everyone's expectations

  • Natural finish and wood quality can be uninspiring

  • Balsa center block lacks the sustain of maple or mahogany

  • Factory frets can be too high and thin for some players

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Memphis ES-135.

Features and functionality

  • The ES-135 is noted for being surprisingly loud when unplugged due to its center block design.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Despite being a semi-hollow, it's compared positively to the Epiphone Casino for those who appreciate Gibson's P-90 pickups.

    Source
  • Some owners compare it to a PRS Semi Hollow, noting it as a preferred choice if they had the opportunity to play the ES-135.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners appreciate the aesthetic variety with finishes like Tobacco Burst, Blueburst, and Black, each offering a unique visual appeal alongside their sonic qualities.

    Source

User experience

  • It's highlighted as a "total sleeper," offering exceptional value within the Gibson lineup despite its lesser-known status.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Gibson Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides