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Average Price: $809
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$400
$1001+
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Description
Step back in time with the 2003 Gibson SG Special Faded, a classic piece that embodies both vintage charm and modern playability. Known for its distinct double-cutaway design, the SG Special Faded resonates with rock and roll history while offering a smooth, comfortable playing experience. Crafted with a solid mahogany body, this guitar delivers a rich, warm tone that's perfect for a variety of music genres. Its worn finish gives it a unique, road-tested vibe, making it a favorite among musicians who appreciate both style and substance.
Equipped with dual humbucking pickups, the 2003 Gibson SG Special Faded provides a powerful output that can handle anything from bluesy riffs to heavy metal shredding. The slim taper neck ensures fast and easy movement along the fretboard, accommodating both lead and rhythm players with ease. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, this guitar's responsive action and versatile sound make it a reliable choice for any guitarist looking to capture that iconic Gibson tone.
Key Features:
- Solid mahogany body for warm, rich tones
- Classic double-cutaway SG design
- Dual humbucking pickups for powerful sound
- Slim taper neck for fast, smooth playability
- Vintage-style worn finish for a unique look
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | SG Special Faded |
| Finish | Worn Brown, Worn Cherry |
| Year | 2002 - 2004 |
| 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 | Brown, Red |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony |
| Model Family | Gibson SG |
| Model Sub-Family | Gibson SG Faded, Gibson SG Special |
| 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" |
| Wood Top Style | Plain |
FAQs
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What pickups are used in the 2003 Gibson SG Special Faded?
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The 2003 Gibson SG Special Faded features a 490R humbucker pickup at the neck and a 490T humbucker pickup at the bridge, providing the classic Gibson SG sound with a versatile tonal range.
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What is the neck profile like on the 2003 Gibson SG Special Faded?
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The 2003 Gibson SG Special Faded typically features a slim taper neck profile, which offers fast playability and comfort, making it suitable for various playing styles.
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Is the 2003 Gibson SG Special Faded suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the 2003 Gibson SG Special Faded is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile and versatile tone, making it an excellent choice for those starting out or transitioning from acoustic to electric guitar.
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What finish options are available for the 2003 Gibson SG Special Faded?
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The 2003 Gibson SG Special Faded is available in Worn Brown and Worn Cherry finishes, both offering a vintage look with a satin nitrocellulose lacquer that enhances the guitar's aesthetic appeal.
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What type of wood is used for the body of the 2003 Gibson SG Special Faded?
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The body of the 2003 Gibson SG Special Faded is made from mahogany, which contributes to its warm tone and resonance, characteristic of Gibson guitars.
Videos
Alan Irwin
2003 Gibson SG Special Faded Cherry Crescent Moon Inlays Limited Edition
2003 Gibson SG Special Faded Cherry Crescent Moon Inlays Limited Edition
Alan Irwin
A look at the 2003 Gibson SG Faded Special
JandW Music
Reviews
PROS
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Smooth playability with a non-sticky neck
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Elegant crescent moon inlays exclusive to this model
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Original pickups and wiring produce classic SG sound
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One-piece body construction enhances resonance
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Worn finish allows you to feel the wood grain
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Reduced weight improves balance and comfort
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Ebony fretboard offers a fast, easy playing experience
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Rare, collectible model becoming harder to find
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Great value for the price, considering unique features
CONS
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Some users find jumbo frets challenging for bass players
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Neck thickness might not suit everyone's preference
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson SG Special Faded 2002 - 2004.
Mods and upgrades
Build quality
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Models from 2003-2006 are praised for their exceptional build, often referred to as "absolute killers."
Source -
Originally equipped with Gibson deluxe tuners and reflector knobs, indicating a focus on maintaining a classic appearance and reliable tuning stability.
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The orange peel effect on the headstock paint can be a point of concern for some owners, indicating potential quality control issues in the finish application.
Source
User experience
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Owners express regret after selling or trading away their SG Special Faded, underscoring its lasting appeal.
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The guitar's vibrant resonance is frequently highlighted, making it feel "alive" to many players.
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Some users dislike the SG Special Faded, though it remains popular, suggesting a polarizing reception based on personal taste in aesthetics and feel.
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The neck's "baseball bat" feel is favored by many, offering a tactile wood grain that some players appreciate for its raw texture.
Source
Features and functionality
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The faded brown finish is highly favored, combining well with the black hardware for a striking appearance.
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The 2003 SG Special Faded initially featured an ebony fretboard, which was changed to rosewood by 2005, impacting tonal brightness and playability.
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The crescent moon inlays were distinctive to the SG Special Faded series, used on all markers for a limited production year, adding a unique visual appeal.
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The SG Special Faded features Gibson 490 and 498 pickups, praised for their versatility across genres like blues, rock, metal, and punk.
Source
4.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 4 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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