Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,265
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Gibson SG Special Electric Guitar". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began May 2, 2026.
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Description
The Gibson SG Special Electric Guitar is a testament to timeless design that has shaped the music of countless generations. With its roots firmly planted in the early '60s, this instrument exudes an aura of classic rock nostalgia that's both tangible and audible. The slim taper mahogany neck, coupled with a bound rosewood fingerboard, is renowned for providing quick, effortless playability. But what really sets the SG Special apart is the dual set of P-90 pickups. These iconic pickups can deliver a thick, snarling tone when pushed, or a smooth, sweet sound when played clean. The SG Special is also equipped with a 3-way toggle switch, handwired controls, and orange drop capacitors, ensuring a high level of tonal versatility and control.
Key Features:
- Classic early '60s style SG design
- Slim taper mahogany neck for quick, effortless playability
- Bound rosewood fingerboard
- Two P-90 pickups for a range of tonal options
- 3-way toggle switch
- Handwired controls
- Orange drop capacitors for enhanced tonal versatility
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | SG Special |
| Finish | Ebony, Faded Pelham Blue, Inverness Green, Vintage Cherry, Vintage Sparkling Burgundy |
| Year | 2019 - 2025 |
| 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, Green, Red |
| Finish Style | Gloss, Metallic |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Gibson SG |
| Model Sub-Family | Gibson SG Special |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Nut Width | 1.695" |
| Offset Body | Non-Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | SS |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
FAQs
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What type of pickups does the Gibson SG Special have?
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The Gibson SG Special is equipped with two P-90 pickups, known for their warm and crunchy tone that is ideal for rock and roll music.
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Is the Gibson SG Special suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the Gibson SG Special is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable playability and versatile sound, making it an excellent choice for players at any skill level.
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What is the neck profile of the Gibson SG Special?
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The Gibson SG Special features a slim taper neck profile, which provides a comfortable and fast playing experience, ideal for both rhythm and lead playing.
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How does the Gibson SG Special differ from the SG Standard?
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The SG Special features P-90 pickups and dot inlays, while the SG Standard typically includes humbuckers and block inlays, offering different tonal characteristics and aesthetics.
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What is the body material of the Gibson SG Special?
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The body of the Gibson SG Special is made from mahogany, contributing to its rich and resonant tone.
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Does the Gibson SG Special have a set-neck construction?
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Yes, the Gibson SG Special features a set-neck construction, which enhances sustain and stability.
Videos
Rob Chapman
Gibson SG Standard, Special and Classic demo
Gibson SG Standard, Special and Classic demo
Rob Chapman
Gibson 2017 SG Shoot Out - Std vs Special vs Faded!
Rob Chapman
Comparing 3 SG Guitars
Landon Bailey
Mark Agnesi Talks About SG Special Model
Gibson TV
Gibson SG Special 2018 Electric Guitar
Guitar Center
Gibson's SG Special - P90s with classic style!
MooreMusicGuitars
Gibson SG Special vs Standard | Are P-90's Better?
Alamo Music Center
How to Get Every Sound With a Gibson SG | Thomann
Thomann's Guitars & Basses
No Talking...Just Tones | Gibson SG Special Ebony
Peach Guitars
P90s on a Gibson SG?
Play and Trade Guitars
Marty Schwartz Shows His Guitars - Gibson SG Special - Thursday Gear Video
Marty Music
Gibson SG Special - This P90 Loaded Icon Is Definitely Rock Guitar Royalty!
PMTVUK
Gibson 2015 SG Special Electric Guitar
Musician's Friend
Gibson SG Special Guitar 2015 SG Special Demo Review
GAK
2023 Gibson SG Special Ebony | Guitar of the Day
Normans Rare Guitars
Gibson SG Special Electric Guitar (Ebony)
Allans Billy Hyde
Gibson SG Special 2019 Model, pelham blue
GregsGuitars
Gibson SG Special: Should I Keep This Guitar?!
Steven Anthony
A Goldilocks Gibson SG 2004 Special Faded
Boechler Guitars and Repair
Gibson Sg Special Demo
Sandy Ridge Music
Reviews
PROS
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P-90 pickups deliver great tone with a classic growl.
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Lightweight and resonant body enhances playability and sound feel.
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Slim taper neck profile is comfortable and easy to play.
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Graphtech nut ensures excellent tuning stability.
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Dynamic volume and tone controls offer versatile sound shaping.
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High-quality, US-made guitar at an affordable price.
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Vintage aesthetics with a classic nitrocellulose finish.
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Excellent craftsmanship and fit and finish.
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Versatile sound suitable for multiple genres, from blues to rock.
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Comes with a well-crafted hard case for added protection.
CONS
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Neck dive can be an issue, requiring a suitable strap.
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Wraparound tailpiece limits precise intonation adjustments.
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Some models may have minor setup issues like fret polish or intonation.
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Occasional quality control issues with electronics.
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Stock pickups may not satisfy those seeking high-gain metal tones.
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Body shape and neck profile 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 Electric Guitar.
Setup and maintenance
Features and functionality
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The P90 pickups provide a broad tonal range, making them suitable for diverse musical styles, and are highly praised for their unique energy and sound.
Source -
The SG's dot inlays, bound neck, and longer, skinnier headstock distinguish it from other models, adding to its unique aesthetic and playability.
Source
User experience
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The SG Special is noted for its exceptional comfort due to its long neck and lightweight body, making it favorable for players with longer arms.
Source -
Some players noted vintage Gibsons can have neck misalignments, as seen with a ‘65 Melody Maker, potentially impacting the SG Special as well.
Source -
Owners note the SG's unique ergonomics, describing it as feeling like the neck and bridge are offset to the left, which requires muscle memory adjustment.
Source
Comparisons
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Some players prefer the SG Special over the LP Special for its distinctive feel and reduced overlap in sound and fit compared to a LP Standard.
Source -
The SG Special's feel and comfort are often preferred over larger guitars like the 335, particularly for those seeking a lighter and more compact instrument.
Source
Value and pricing
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A refinished SG Special with potential neck repairs should be priced between $2,700-$3,300, not $4,400, especially if electronics have been altered.
Source
Build quality
Mods and upgrades
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An owner recommended adding a Music City Savvy bridge and using flatwound 9s strings for improved performance.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 32 Reviews and 139 Ratings
109
My go to guitar
My first electric guitar bought when i was 16. It can do the heavy and the bluesy stuff great.
American Gibson SG
Sounds wonderful paired with a Marshall amp. The only reason I am docking it one star is I wish it was a little more durable like a PRS or Fender guitar.
122
Feels great, sounds good
It only has one problem: tuning pegs move on their own. It gets out of tune so easy.
63
Brown Baby
Very attractive guitar, used in The Rise Of Freaks in Gone and Tryin' Not To Fall In Deeper.
Artist usage
Add artist
Billie Joe Armstrong extensively used the Gibson SG Special Electric Guitar during the "Warning" era, as shown in a user-uploaded photo on Wordpress.
Billy Corgan can be seen with a red Gibson SG Special in this photo.
At 1:24 in this performance of Santana at Woodstock, Carlos Santana's Gibson SG Special can be seen.
In this photo, Klinghoffer is playing Gibson SG Special, likely vintage.
In this photo, Graham Coxon can be seen with his vintage, faded Gibson SG Special.
at 1:31 of the "Audio, Video, Disco" music video, you can see a Gibson SG Special Pelham Blue.
In this picture, Annie Clark can be seen with a Gibson SG Special.
Dweezil Zappa explains that Frank's most famous Roxy-era Gibson SG was a Gisbon SG Special that was customized quite a bit before being effectively destroyed, as described in this article from Gibson.
In this photo, Perry is seen playing the Gibson SG Special.
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In this photo, you can see Cuomo playing SG Special.
Album Usage
The Gibson SG Special Electric Guitar has been featured on the following albums:
Bubble Gum
De Staat (2019)
Bat Fangs
Bat Fangs (2018)
Rumors
Paolo Spaccamonti (2015)
The Most Lamentable Tragedy
Titus Andronicus (2015)
Melophobia
Cage the Elephant (2013)
Bailando Solo
Los Bunkers (2013)
Audio, Video, Disco.
Justice (2011)
xx
The xx (2009)
Do-the-Undo
Anne Soldaat (2007)
Viking
Lars Frederiksen and the Bastards (2004)
Sing The Sorrow
AFI (2003)
Riot Act
Pearl Jam (2002)
Yo, Minoría Absoluta
Extremoduro (2002)
Does This Look Infected?
Sum 41 (2002)
Warning
Green Day (2000)
Rock Transgresivo
Extremoduro (1989)
The Blues Brothers Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
The Blues Brothers (1980)
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 Electric Guitar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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Community setups
Show yours
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