Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,195

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Gibson SG Robot is not just another electric guitar; it's a technological marvel that brings the future of music into your hands. This iconic SG model is equipped with Gibson's revolutionary self-tuning technology, allowing you to switch from standard to alternate tunings with the simple pull of a knob. The Multi-Control Knob (MCK) is at the heart of this innovation, providing seamless access to a world of sonic possibilities with just a twist and pull.

Crafted from solid mahogany, the SG Robot delivers the classic, warm tones that players have come to love, while its 22-fret ebony fingerboard ensures smooth playability and a rich, resonant sound. The meticulous nitrocellulose finish allows the wood to breathe, enhancing the guitar's natural vibration and tonal purity over time. Paired with Gibson's 490R and 498T pickups, this guitar offers a versatile range of sounds, from smooth, mellow tones to high-gain rock and roll.

The SG Robot's Powerhead Locking Tuners provide precise tuning stability and reliability, and the innovative Tune-Control Bridge and Tailpiece are engineered to maintain perfect intonation. This guitar is not only a tribute to Gibson's legacy but also a testament to modern engineering, making it a perfect choice for both traditionalists and forward-thinking musicians.

Key Features:

  • Self-tuning system with Multi-Control Knob (MCK)
  • Solid mahogany body
  • 22-fret ebony fingerboard
  • Gibson 490R neck pickup and 498T bridge pickup
  • Powerhead Locking Tuners
  • Nitrocellulose finish
  • Tune-Control Bridge and Tailpiece
  • Neutrik jack for secure connections

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model SG Robot
Finish Metallic Green, Metallic Purple, Metallic Red, Silverburst
Year 2008
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Green, Purple, Red, Silver
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson SG
Model Sub-Family Gibson SG Robot
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson SG Robot?

The Gibson SG Robot features a slim-taper neck profile, which is designed for fast playability and comfort, making it suitable for a variety of playing styles.

How does the automatic tuning system on the Gibson SG Robot work?

The Gibson SG Robot is equipped with an automatic tuning system that uses motorized tuners to quickly and accurately tune the guitar to standard or alternate tunings at the push of a button.

Is the Gibson SG Robot suitable for playing rock music?

Yes, the Gibson SG Robot's dual humbucker pickup configuration and mahogany body provide a powerful and warm tone that is well-suited for rock music.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the Gibson SG Robot?

The Gibson SG Robot features dual humbucker pickups that deliver a rich, full-bodied sound with strong midrange and sustain, ideal for genres like rock, blues, and metal.

Does the Gibson SG Robot come with any special features compared to standard SG models?

In addition to its automatic tuning system, the Gibson SG Robot includes a unique Silverburst finish and advanced electronics that set it apart from standard SG models.

Josh Middleton

Josh Middleton

Gibson SG Silverburst - Josh Middleton

Video thumbnail for Gibson SG Silverburst - Josh Middleton by Josh Middleton

Gibson SG Silverburst - Josh Middleton

Josh Middleton

Josh Middleton

Video thumbnail for Trogly's Guitars: 2008 Gibson Robot SG Standard Silverburst by The Trogly's Guitar Show

Trogly's Guitars: 2008 Gibson Robot SG Standard Silverburst

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Gibson SG Robot sound by Дмитрий Вдовиченко

Gibson SG Robot sound

Дмитрий Вдовиченко

Дмитрий Вдовиченко

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • The single ply binding on the headstock is unique and visually appealing, contrasting with the less favored pickguard lacking ply.

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  • The neck features a 50s thick profile, paired with vintage-sized fret wire for a classic feel, which some players particularly love.

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Features and functionality

  • Robotic tuners can lead to thrashing mode, tuning a string too high and low repeatedly, especially B and high E strings.

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  • The guitar excels in quickly switching between tunings, making it ideal for those who frequently play in Open G or drop tunings.

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  • Some owners are turned off by Robot models, fearing potential breakage, but praise the ease of converting to traditional electronics.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Manually tuning can be challenging due to the tuners' gearing, akin to biking uphill in top gear.

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User experience

  • Robotic tuners work 80% of the time, hitting correct pitch within a couple of cents, but often fail in noisy environments.

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  • One owner reported maintaining functionality of the tuners by obtaining replacements directly from Tronical, suggesting potential long-term maintenance solutions.

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Value and pricing

  • Unaltered models of the SG Robot may increase in value over time due to their controversial reputation.

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  • Limited to 4,000 units, these guitars are speculated to become collectible due to their distinctive finish and first production run status.

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  • Used SG Robot Silverbursts often sell for $1500-$1700, with owners previously paying around $1200, reflecting their rarity and demand.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners have replaced the original tuners with Grover tuners, citing ease of conversion and improved reliability.

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  • A 5-ply deep bevel pickguard from WD Music is recommended for SG Silverbursts to enhance aesthetics.

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Comparisons

  • Owners note that SG Robot Silverbursts with replaced electronics perform like any traditional SG, not affecting value due to the "bolt-on" nature of parts.

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Use cases and applications

  • SG Silverbursts are ideal for players wanting a unique finish without sacrificing SG playability, especially after modifying electronics.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Josh Middleton uses Gibson SG Robot

Josh Middleton

Singer, Guitarist

The Architects

...
Verified via YouTube

'My Gibson SG Silverburst. Technically a 'Robot' SG but I've stripped all of that stuff off it so it's essentially an SG Standard (but the main difference now is that this has an ebony fretboard as opposed to rosewood). Fitted with an EMG 85 in the bridge.'

J

Jamie Arentzen

Guitarist

American Hi-Fi

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video by Elisa G Schneider, Jamie Arentzen is seen playing a Gibson SG Robot (Silverburst) during the HM concert featuring the Jonas Brothers.

Genre Usage

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

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