Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $885

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Step back into the vibrant musical scene of the '90s with the Gibson SG Special 1993 - 1999, a guitar that captures the spirit of rock 'n' roll with its timeless design and robust sound. Crafted during a dynamic period in Gibson's history, this SG Special offers an authentic playing experience rooted in the classic Gibson tradition. Its dual humbucking pickups deliver a powerful, full-bodied tone that makes it a favorite among rock and blues enthusiasts.

The iconic double-cutaway body design not only gives it a distinctive look but also allows easy access to the higher frets, perfect for those electrifying solos. The guitar's neck features a smooth, playable profile that feels comfortable in the hands of both beginners and seasoned players. Whether you're jamming at home, recording in the studio, or performing on stage, the SG Special promises a consistent and reliable performance.

Key Features:

  • Dual humbucking pickups for a powerful, dynamic sound
  • Classic Gibson SG body shape for easy fret access
  • Rosewood fingerboard offering a smooth playing surface
  • Vintage '90s craftsmanship with a modern edge
  • Reliable tuning stability and solid hardware components
GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

1999 Gibson SG Special part 3 (overdrive) Alternate Take

Video thumbnail for 1999 Gibson SG Special part 3 (overdrive) Alternate Take by GregsGuitars

1999 Gibson SG Special part 3 (overdrive) Alternate Take

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for 1999 Gibson SG Special high gloss part 3 (overdrive) by GregsGuitars

1999 Gibson SG Special high gloss part 3 (overdrive)

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for Custom Shop Specs?!? 1998 Gibson SG Special in Ebony by Boechler Guitars and Repair

Custom Shop Specs?!? 1998 Gibson SG Special in Ebony

Boechler Guitars and Repair

Boechler Guitars and Repair

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson SG Special 1993 - 1999.

Setup and maintenance

  • Headstock repairs can cost around $200, and Gibson can handle these repairs directly if needed.

    Source

Build quality

  • The gig bag included with the 2023 SG Standard is praised as the best one some owners have ever used, despite the lack of a hard case.

    Source
  • The SG is praised for its attractive aesthetics, with some owners appreciating the open pickup cavities for their unique appearance.

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  • The Gibson SG's sharply angled headstock is a known weak spot, which some say contributes to better tone but increases the risk of breakage.

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  • Gibsons have a one-piece mahogany neck, making it weaker than Epiphones with a scarf joint, though repairs can create stronger necks.

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Features and functionality

  • Users appreciate the uncovered 490 pickups on the SG for their visual appeal, even if tonal preferences vary.

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  • The SG's design allows for easy access to high frets, enhancing playability for lead guitarists.

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User experience

  • One owner, after comparing multiple SG models, found the 2023 Standard in walnut to be their favorite, even over a Faded 61 from the same year.

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  • Despite headstock damage, many owners find their SG remains their favorite guitar, indicating strong sentimental value.

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  • The ebony fretboard and crescent moon inlays are highly appreciated for their unique visual appeal.

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  • Despite reported weaknesses, some users have gigged with SGs for over a decade without significant issues, indicating resilience under regular use.

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Value and pricing

  • The translucent teal color on the 2023 SG Standard is particularly admired, with some considering it the best available color in recent models.

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Comparisons

  • The 2023 SG Standard is often favored over the 1999 Special and 1993 Standard for its overall playability and aesthetic appeal.

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  • Epiphone models are noted as potentially stronger due to less extreme headstock angles and scarf neck joints, offering a balance between cost and durability.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Removing the neck pickup for a cleaner look is a nod to Malcolm Young's style, appealing to AC/DC fans.

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  • Some owners have considered adding a vibrola for aesthetic appeal, though they rarely use it functionally.

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  • Owners recommend Seymour Duncan JB & Jazz pickups for enhanced sound quality, particularly for those who favor rock or metal tones.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
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1 star
bthompson2020

My Favorite Guitar!!!!!

This Guitar is my favorite guitar without question, currently using it for everything electric. I got it used all stock, but I’m putting in a Dimarzio Super Distortion in the neck, and a Dimarzio X2N in the bridge. I’m also adding coil split and phase tap for each each pickup so four push pulls. And then I’m putting a mid boost and frequency expander switch on the pickguard. And lastly a Dusenburg Les Trem. Possibly custom inlays too.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Chino Moreno uses Gibson SG Special 1993 - 1999

Chino Moreno

Singer, Guitarist

Deftones

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture chino can be seen holding his White SG Special Guitar

See how Fred Mascherino uses Gibson SG Special 1993 - 1999

Fred Mascherino

Guitarist

Taking Back Sunday

...
Verified via Photo

Fred Mascherino has consistently used the Gibson SG Special (1993 - 1999) throughout his career. Notably, he features a red Lily Guitar, which is a Sam Ash exclusive finish, with custom pickguards, as shown in the user-uploaded photo.

See how Stephen Micciche uses Gibson SG Special 1993 - 1999

Stephen Micciche

Bassist

Every Time I Die

...
Verified via Photo
Color/Finish: Black

Stephen Micciche is confirmed to use a Gibson SG Special 1993 - 1999, as evidenced by a photograph showing him playing this guitar during performances with the band Kid Gorgeous. The model is identifiable by its 90s design featuring humbuckers and a tune-o-matic bridge with tailpiece combination.

See how Chris Thompson uses Gibson SG Special 1993 - 1999

Chris Thompson

Singer, Guitarist

Manfred Mann's Earth Band

...
Verified via Vimeo

In the mid-90s, 1994-1995, Chris utilized this Gibson SG during live performances and more than likely studio performances with Eric's Trip, as can be seen in 1:06:06 of The Eric's Trip documentary, on Vimeo.

See how Jeff Irwin (Will Haven) uses Gibson SG Special 1993 - 1999

Jeff Irwin (Will Haven)

Guitarist, Composer

Will Haven

...
Verified via YouTube

In a YouTube interview on The Bogcast, Jeff Irwin of Will Haven confirmed at 1:24:16 that he uses a Gibson SG Special. He stated: "So I went and bought an SG, SG Special because we were touring a lot and ESP is really expensive and we didn't have like road cases and shit so my guitar would just get hammered like every time I go on tour, then my beautiful ESP was just getting-those guitars are very beautiful guitars, I'm like this shits getting fucked up. So I went and bought an SG Special, I was like well if I take that and break it I don't care you know like it was 500 bucks and it still sounds decent."

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 Special 1993 - 1999, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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