Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.0 (8)
$2,399.00
Guitar Center
4.5 (6)
$2,399.00
Amazon
$3,288.67
Reverb
5.0 (13)
$1,750.00 6 available Used

Average Price: $2,459

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Dive into a world where vintage charm meets modern playability with the Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola - Vintage Cherry. This iconic electric guitar, with its roots firmly planted in the early '60s, offers a nostalgic journey back to the era of rock 'n' roll legends. The standout feature, the Sideways Vibrola, not only adds a visually striking element to this classic model but also provides subtle vibrato effects, allowing for expressive and dynamic play. Crafted with a mahogany body and neck, this guitar promises a warm, rich tone and a sustain that's as impressive as its history. The slim taper neck and smooth rosewood fingerboard ensure a comfortable playing experience, catering to fast-paced solos and intricate chord progressions alike. Equipped with '61R and '61T humbuckers, the SG Standard '61 delivers a sound that's pure Gibson - powerful, yet articulate, with a top-end clarity that cuts through the mix. Whether you're a fan of its historical significance or its distinctive sound, the Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola is a testament to Gibson's legacy of crafting instruments that inspire.

Key Features:

  • Sideways Vibrola tailpiece for unique vibrato effects
  • Mahogany body and neck for warm, rich tones
  • Slim taper neck profile and bound rosewood fingerboard for comfortable playability
  • '61R and '61T humbuckers for classic Gibson sound with enhanced power
  • Nickel-plated hardware featuring a classic ABR-1 Tune-o-Matic bridge and keystone tuners
  • Deeply sculpted body scarfing and a 5-ply teardrop pickguard
  • Audio taper potentiometers and orange drop capacitors for precise control

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model SG Standard '61 with Sideways Vibrola
Finish Vintage Cherry
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 Tremolo Tailpiece
Color Family Red
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson SG
Model Sub-Family Gibson SG Standard
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola?

The Gibson SG Standard '61 features a slim taper neck profile, which is known for its fast and comfortable playability, making it ideal for both lead and rhythm playing.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola?

This guitar is equipped with dual humbucking pickups that deliver a classic, warm, and full-bodied tone suitable for rock, blues, and jazz, with a strong midrange and excellent sustain.

Is the Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola is a high-quality instrument favored by experienced players, its playability and iconic sound can also be appreciated by dedicated beginners looking for a long-term investment.

How does the Sideways Vibrola on the Gibson SG Standard '61 affect playability?

The Sideways Vibrola adds unique vibrato effects, offering subtle pitch modulation for expressive playing, though it may require some getting used to if you're accustomed to standard tremolo systems.

What is the body material of the Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola, and how does it affect the sound?

The body is made of mahogany, contributing to a warm, resonant tone with rich sustain and pronounced midrange, characteristic of classic Gibson guitars.

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The NEW Gibson '61 SG Standard | 2019 Sideways Vibrola Review + Demo

Video thumbnail for The NEW Gibson '61 SG Standard | 2019 Sideways Vibrola Review + Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

The NEW Gibson '61 SG Standard | 2019 Sideways Vibrola Review + Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola - New Gibson Original by PMTVUK

Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola - New Gibson Original

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for TONE CHECK: Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola Guitar Demo | No Talking by Cream City Music

TONE CHECK: Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola Guitar Demo | No Talking

Cream City Music

Cream City Music

Video thumbnail for No Talking...Just Tones | Gibson SG Standard '61 - Sideways Vibrola Vintage Cherry by Peach Guitars

No Talking...Just Tones | Gibson SG Standard '61 - Sideways Vibrola Vintage Cherry

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for GIBSON SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola Vintage Cherry by Alejandro

GIBSON SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola Vintage Cherry

Alejandro

Alejandro

Video thumbnail for Gibson SG Standard 61 Sideways Vibrola Vintage Cherry played by Maarten Dispa | Demo @ TFOA by TFOA Demos

Gibson SG Standard 61 Sideways Vibrola Vintage Cherry played by Maarten Dispa | Demo @ TFOA

TFOA Demos

TFOA Demos

Video thumbnail for Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola Vintage Cherry 2022 USA by Loud Lemon Demo

Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola Vintage Cherry 2022 USA

Loud Lemon Demo

Loud Lemon Demo

Reviews

PROS

  • Stunning vintage finish with a transparent brownish-red hue

  • No neck dive, thanks to the balanced weight of the Vibrola

  • Slim, easy-to-play neck perfect for players with joint pain

  • Excellent sustain with action set low and no fret buzz

  • Pickups offer vintage-esque quality with great responsiveness

  • Smooth, fast neck enhances playability and comfort

  • Well-balanced weight for comfortable playing, standing or sitting

CONS

  • Vibrola tremolo is difficult to use and affects tuning stability

  • Tremolo arm can interfere with most guitar cables

  • Neck binding discoloration detracts from finish quality

  • Missing pickguard screw points to potential quality control issues

  • Low break-angle over bridge can cause string slippage

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola.

Setup and maintenance

  • Proper nut lubrication, using pencil graphite or 3-in-1 oil, can significantly improve tuning stability when the Vibrola is in use.

    Source
  • Adjusting the nut slots and using a MojoAxe VibroStop Conversion Kit can increase sustain while improving tuning stability.

    Source
  • An initial setup by a luthier is recommended to avoid tuning issues, especially if the Vibrola is used minimally.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The Faber ABR bridge, which locks to the studs with a threaded cap, is recommended to prevent bridge movement and enhance sustain.

    Source
  • Some owners opt to block the Vibrola entirely, installing a stop tailpiece below it to eliminate tuning issues from its use.

    Source
  • Installing a compensated nut by Earvana can address intonation issues experienced by some users.

    Source
  • For a Derek Trucks aesthetic without functionality, a faux Vibrola cover is recommended to add mass and enhance balance.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Moisture-related tuning instability is a common issue, with humidity fluctuations affecting performance. Users recommend monitoring humidity levels closely.

    Source
  • The sideways Vibrola, inspired by a 1935 design, has excessive moving parts and friction, leading to instability and limited functionality. Primarily valued for its aesthetic appeal.

    Source
  • The Vibrola can help counteract neck dive, which is often exacerbated by removing the Vibrola assembly.

    Source

User experience

  • When not using the Vibrola, tuning stability is generally maintained, even if accidentally bumped during play.

    Source
  • A user who tested the SG at a store liked the unique up-and-down movement of the arm but didn't experience long-term tuning stability.

    Source
  • It's noted that leaving the Vibrola unused allows the guitar to function like a standard SG in terms of tuning stability.

    Source
  • A noticeable "springy" resonance is added to the guitar's tone, described as "chimey" even when unplugged.

    Source

Other

  • The sideways Vibrola was ultimately replaced by the leaf-spring Maestro Vibrola due to its poor performance, indicating historical preference for better functionality.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Gibson SG Junior, SG Standard ’61 Maestro Vibrola, SG Standard ’61 Sideways Vibrola

guitar.com

While the Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola boasts vintage charm and impressive tonal qualities, it stumbles with its cumbersome vibrato system that disrupts tuning stability. The guitar delivers a warmer, smoother sound compared to its Maestro counterpart but at the cost of playability due to its awkward design. Construction and aesthetics are commendable, showcasing a refined finish and a comfortable neck profile, yet the persistent use of peach-colored binding is a glaring flaw. Overall, the SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola has its merits but ultimately feels like a missed opportunity for innovation in a classic design.

negative

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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gorgyband

My first impression of the Guitar.

This is a excellent SG, this guitar has been around since the 60s. In 2018 Gibson released Original Collection of the Les Pauls and SG. When start playing the guitar you will have a little bit of problem with the tuning stability. But if you play it more the Better in tune is gonna be.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Michael Landau uses Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola

Michael Landau

Guitarist

Steve Gadd Band

...
Verified via YouTube
Year: 1963

Michael Landau is seen using a Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola in the YouTube video Michael Landau Live - Baked Potato - Sept 29, 2006, which supports that he used this model in the mid-2000s.

See how Josh Jenkinson uses Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola

Josh Jenkinson

Guitarist

Inhaler

...
Verified via YouTube

As seen in their official video for ‘When it breaks’

See how Don Wilson uses Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola

Don Wilson

Guitarist

The Ventures

...
Unverified
See how Quinn Sullivan uses Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola

Quinn Sullivan

Guitarist, Singer

...
Verified via Photo

Playing Gibson SG 61’ sideways vibrola in this post.

Album Usage

The Gibson SG Standard '61 Sideways Vibrola has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

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

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