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Description

The Gibson SG Melody Maker is a testament to Gibson's knack for blending tradition with innovation. This solid body electric guitar offers an unparalleled opportunity for musicians to experience the renowned Gibson craftsmanship at an accessible price. Born from the iconic Melody Maker lineage, the SG version boasts a sleek double-cutaway design, delivering a lightweight yet robust playing experience. Its 491T ceramic-magnet humbucker is a standout, providing a punchy, pure tone perfect for both vintage enthusiasts and modern rockers. With a minimalist setup of just a single volume knob, the SG Melody Maker ensures you enjoy a direct and unfettered connection to your sound.

Crafted with a one-piece mahogany neck and rock-solid wraparound tailpiece, this guitar promises exceptional sustain and resonance. The slim Melody Maker neck profile is designed for ultra-playability, making it comfortable for long gigs and jam sessions. Whether you're an aspiring guitarist or a seasoned pro, the SG Melody Maker is a reliable companion on your musical journey. Plus, it comes with a deluxe gig bag, ensuring your new instrument is protected and ready for the road.

Key Features:

  • Double-cutaway SG body shape
  • Single 491T ceramic-magnet humbucker for pure tone with punch
  • Slim Melody Maker neck profile for enhanced playability
  • One-piece set mahogany neck for rock-solid sustain
  • Wraparound tailpiece for excellent resonance
  • Deluxe gig bag included

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Melody Maker SG
Finish Satin Blue, Satin Ebony, Satin White
Year 2011 - 2013
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Wrap-Around
Color Family Black, Blue, White
Finish Style Satin
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson SG
Model Sub-Family Gibson SG Melody Maker
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"

FAQs

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

The Gibson SG Melody Maker features a Melody Maker neck profile, offering a slim and comfortable feel that is ideal for fast playing and easy access to all 22 frets.

What kind of pickups does the Gibson SG Melody Maker have?

The Gibson SG Melody Maker is equipped with a 491T ceramic-magnet humbucker, providing a powerful and versatile tone suitable for a variety of music genres.

Is the Gibson SG Melody Maker suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Gibson SG Melody Maker is suitable for beginners due to its straightforward design, comfortable neck profile, and versatile sound, making it an accessible choice for new guitarists.

What is the body material of the Gibson SG Melody Maker?

The body of the Gibson SG Melody Maker is made from mahogany, which contributes to its warm and resonant tone.

Does the Gibson SG Melody Maker include a case or gig bag?

Yes, the Gibson SG Melody Maker comes with a gig bag, providing protection and easy transport for the guitar.

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

1968 Gibson SG Melody Maker | Guitar of the Day

Video thumbnail for 1968 Gibson SG Melody Maker | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1968 Gibson SG Melody Maker | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson SG Melody Maker  •  Wildwood Guitars Overview by Wildwood Guitars

Gibson SG Melody Maker • Wildwood Guitars Overview

Wildwood Guitars

Wildwood Guitars

Video thumbnail for Liz Herrin demos 1968 Gibson SG Melody Maker by Emerald City Guitars

Liz Herrin demos 1968 Gibson SG Melody Maker

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

Video thumbnail for 2011 Gibson SG Melody Maker OMG by Searcy String Works

2011 Gibson SG Melody Maker OMG

Searcy String Works

Searcy String Works

Video thumbnail for 1968 Gibson SG Melody Maker - Pelham Blue / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars by GuitarPoint

1968 Gibson SG Melody Maker - Pelham Blue / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars

GuitarPoint

GuitarPoint

Reviews

PROS

  • Light weight for easy handling and playability

  • Slim neck offers comfortable and fast playing experience

  • Versatile sound, clean to crunchy tones

  • Good tuning stability once set up

  • Simple and straightforward design appeals to many players

  • USA made, ensuring solid craftsmanship

CONS

  • Smaller Melody Maker headstock may not appeal to everyone

  • Needs mods for optimal performance and tuning stability

  • Requires fretwork adjustments out of the box

  • Price might not justify value without modifications

  • Stock tailpiece may not maintain tuning without upgrade

Owner Insights

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

Mods and upgrades

  • Lollar Lollartron pickups are favored for their Filtertron-like tone, providing a unique sound upgrade for the SG Melody Maker.

    Source
  • Spurzel locking tuners are recommended to enhance tuning stability, especially with the use of a vibrola.

    Source
  • Leo Quan Badass Bridge is praised for its ability to dial in intonation accurately.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The lightning bar tailpiece from the 60s is dense and durable, potentially outlasting modern coated strings sliding against it.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners note the placement of the output jack next to the bridge as a potential design flaw, though it mirrors vintage Melody Maker models.

    Source
  • Original cases are recommended to be stored safely, with a generic used case suggested for regular use due to the original's value.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners suggest that if the SG Melody Maker exceeds $800, it's better to consider a Studio or Special model for more features.

    Source
  • The 1965 Melody Maker's tone is unexpectedly rich, surpassing the expectations of some owners familiar with other models.

    Source

Build quality

  • The wide 1 11/16th nut width is characteristic of Melody Makers from the first half of 1965.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • This model is noted for its comfortable playability, described as "playing like butter", making it ideal for various musical styles.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Andrew Osenga uses Gibson SG Melody Maker

Andrew Osenga

Singer

Caedmon's Call

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram photo, Osenga's Gibson SG Melody Maker is visible.

See how Raimund Marasigan uses Gibson SG Melody Maker

Raimund Marasigan

Singer, Drummer

Eraserheads

...
Verified via YouTube

In this interview, starting 3:38, Raymund Marasigan explained the inspiration for his D&D signature guitar which is the Gibson SG Melody Maker

J

Jesper Mortensen

Guitarist

Junior Senior

...
Verified via Photo

Jesper Mortensen is shown using a 1965 Gibson SG Melody Maker in a photo uploaded by a user on Pinterest.

See how Martin Omar Basualdo uses Gibson SG Melody Maker

Martin Omar Basualdo

Guitarist, Composer

...
Verified via Facebook

Martin Omar Basualdo is shown with a modified 1967 Gibson SG Melody Maker in a photo on Facebook.

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

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