Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (44)
$2,299.00
Guitar Center
4.5 (14)
$2,299.00
Amazon
5.0 (3)
Used
Reverb
5.0 (21)
$3,999.00 28 available Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$2,299.00
zZounds
3.5 (3)
$2,299.00
Thomann
4.7 (40)
$1,969.00 $1,955.00 $14.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£2,399.00

Average Price: $2,675

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Gibson SG Standard “Large Guard” With Maestro Vibrola". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Gibson SG Standard “Large Guard” With Maestro Vibrola is a testament to timeless design and modern versatility. Born from the iconic lineage that started in 1961, this guitar embodies the spirit of rock 'n' roll with its sleek beveled edges and sharp double cutaways. The SG Standard has been a staple for legends like Tony Iommi and Angus Young, and it's easy to see why. With its fast neck and robust sound, it’s perfect for delivering powerful riffs and searing solos.

What truly sets this model apart is the Maestro Vibrola, providing smooth, expressive vibrato that's perfect for adding dynamic flair to your music. Whether you're bending notes into oblivion or just adding subtle texture, this feature makes the SG Standard a versatile tool for any guitarist. The large pickguard gives it a classic look, while the dual humbuckers ensure a rich, full-bodied sound that can handle everything from crunchy blues to heavy metal.

Crafted with an eye for detail, this guitar promises both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. The SG Standard isn’t just a guitar; it's a piece of musical history ready to inspire the next generation of players.

Key Features:

  • Sleek beveled edges and sharp double cutaways
  • Maestro Vibrola for expressive vibrato
  • Dual humbucking pickups for a full-bodied sound
  • Large pickguard for classic styling
  • Fast neck profile for easy playability
  • Trusted by legends like Tony Iommi and Angus Young

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model SG Standard "Large Guard" with Maestro Vibrola
Finish Cherry, Ebony, Pelham Blue, Walnut, White
Year 1966 - 1971
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 Black, Blue, Brown, Red, White
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
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Gibson SG Standard “Large Guard” With Maestro Vibrola?

The Gibson SG Standard "Large Guard" features a SlimTaper neck profile, which enhances playability and allows for effortless fretting, making it suitable for fast playing styles.

How does the Maestro Vibrola tailpiece affect the sound and playability of this guitar?

The Maestro Vibrola tailpiece on the Gibson SG Standard allows for smooth and subtle vibrato effects, adding expressive capabilities while maintaining tuning stability with its ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic bridge.

What kind of pickups does the Gibson SG Standard “Large Guard” With Maestro Vibrola have?

This guitar is equipped with 60s Burstbucker pickups, which provide a vintage tone with a modern edge, delivering the classic Gibson sound with enhanced clarity and punch.

Is the Gibson SG Standard “Large Guard” suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson SG Standard offers premium features that appeal to experienced players, its comfortable SlimTaper neck and versatile tone make it accessible for dedicated beginners looking to invest in a high-quality instrument.

What materials are used in the construction of the Gibson SG Standard “Large Guard” With Maestro Vibrola?

The guitar features a mahogany body and neck, a rosewood fingerboard, and nickel-plated hardware, providing rich resonance, durability, and a classic aesthetic.

Reviews

PROS

  • Lightweight body, around 6 pounds, offers comfortable playability

  • Narrow nut width preferred by some players for effortless chording

  • T-Tops/early patent no pickups provide exceptional sound through a Marshall

  • Stable neck joint in late 60s models enhances playability

  • Nylon saddles on the bridge are appreciated by many players

  • Highly resonant with great tonal clarity

  • Maintains tuning well, even with the Maestro Vibrola

  • Excellent for classic rock, hard rock, and metal genres

CONS

  • Some models have been repainted, affecting originality and value

  • Missing fret end nibs can diminish perceived quality

  • Re-finished models may not hold value as well as originals

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson SG Standard “Large Guard” With Maestro Vibrola.

Build quality

  • The SG's nitro finish is sensitive to certain stands; avoid rubber/foam that could react and damage it, specifically mentioning urcules stands as problematic.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Stable humidity between 45%-55% is crucial for preserving the guitar's condition, especially given its nitrocellulose lacquer finish.

    Source
  • Regularly oil the fretboard with a light application during string changes to maintain its quality and prevent drying out.

    Source
  • Adjustments such as polishing frets, rolling the neck, and cutting/polishing nut slots can enhance the playability of the '61 SG.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The horn bevels on this model vary significantly, making them a key indicator for dating the guitar between late '69 and early '70.

    Source
  • The '61 model comes with Burstbucker 61 pickups and a slim neck, while the Standard features 490R/T pickups and a rounded neck.

    Source
  • The Modern SG offers coil-splitting on both pickups, out/in phase options, a compound radius, and stock locking tuners.

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User experience

  • Owners note that the tuners can appear slightly crooked, which is a common trait among Norlin-era Gibsons.

    Source
  • The '61 SG is praised for its fast 60s slim taper neck, making it a favorite over other models like the American Strat.

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Use cases and applications

  • The pickups, likely Pat.No with T-top bobbins, are comparable in construction to the highly sought-after PAF pickups, offering a 'screaming' tone popular in rock music.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Mojoaxe kit is recommended to stabilize the sideways vibrola, which doesn't hold tune well.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some prefer the '61 SG for its hard case, pickups, and easier pickguard removal compared to the Standard's batwing pickguard that requires bridge removal.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Tom Flynn uses Gibson SG Standard “Large Guard” With Maestro Vibrola

Tom Flynn

Guitarist

Fang

...
Verified via YouTube

This was Tom Flynn’s main guitar - a Gibson SG Standard with Maestro Vibrola in walnut brown. It is seen in all FANG performances in 1984.

Genre Usage

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

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