Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (24)
$3,499.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (2)
$3,499.00
Amazon
5.0 (1)
$4,977.11
Reverb
5.0 (7)
$3,109.81 New
$2,650.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$3,499.00
zZounds
5.0 (4)
$3,499.00
Thomann
4.9 (8)
$3,222.00 $3,190.00 $32.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£2,999.00

Average Price: $3,490

High-end/Boutique

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Gibson Southern Jumbo". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Gibson Southern Jumbo is a top-tier acoustic-electric guitar, drawing inspiration from the coveted wartime models that Gibson is renowned for. This acoustic-electric guitar delivers a fantastic blend of punch, projection, and harmonic richness. Whether you're gently fingerpicking or aggressively strumming, the Southern Jumbo's versatile dynamics ensure a stunning tone that resonates with every note played.

The guitar's construction includes a robust mahogany neck, topped with a rosewood fretboard, offering unparalleled playability. The LR Baggs VTC electronics provide an immaculate amplified sound, capturing the guitar's natural tone and dynamics flawlessly.

In addition to its sonic prowess, the Gibson Southern Jumbo boasts several visually striking features such as double antiqued binding, parallelogram inlays, and open-back tuners. This guitar masterfully merges the vintage style with modern functionality, making it not only an instrument but a piece of musical history.

Key Features:

  • Derived from Gibson's most coveted wartime models
  • Delivers a perfect blend of punch, projection and harmonic richness
  • Features a mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard for superior playability
  • Enhanced with LR Baggs VTC electronics for pristine amplified sound
  • Beautiful aesthetics with double antiqued binding, parallelogram inlays, and open-back tuners
  • Handcrafted in Bozeman, Montana using top-quality materials and time-honored techniques
  • Ideal for both live performance and studio use
  • Includes a hardshell case for safe transport and storage
  • Body made from a combination of Sitka spruce and mahogany, delivering a warm, resonant tone with plenty of projection
  • Comes with a low-profile under-saddle transducer that's more stable and durable than many standard ribbon-type pickups
  • The Southern Jumbo retains the late '40s style and appointments that reflect the charm and style of the South.

Product specs

String Type Steel
Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape Round Shoulder Dreadnought
Back & Sides Wood Mahogany
Top Wood Sitka Spruce
Finish Gloss Nitrocellulose Lacquer
Body Bracing Scalloped X-bracing
Binding Multi-ply top/back
Neck Wood Mahogany
Neck Shape Slim Taper
Radius 12"
Fingerboard Inlay Mother-of-Pearl Parallelograms
Number of Frets 20, Standard
Scale Length 24.75"
Nut Width 1.72"
Nut/Saddle Material Bone/Bone
Bridge Material Rosewood
Tuning Machines Open Gear
Electronics LR Baggs VTC Under Saddle Pickup
Strings Gibson, .012-.053
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the construction of the Gibson Southern Jumbo?

The Gibson Southern Jumbo features a Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides, providing a warm, balanced tone ideal for various musical styles.

Is the Gibson Southern Jumbo suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Gibson Southern Jumbo is equipped with an LR Baggs VTC under saddle pickup, making it well-suited for amplified performances.

What is the neck profile of the Gibson Southern Jumbo like?

The Gibson Southern Jumbo has a slim taper neck shape, offering comfortable playability for both strumming and fingerstyle techniques.

Does the Gibson Southern Jumbo come with a case?

Yes, the Gibson Southern Jumbo comes with a hardshell case, ensuring protection and easy transport for your guitar.

What kind of finish does the Gibson Southern Jumbo have?

The Gibson Southern Jumbo features a gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finish, which enhances the guitar's resonance and provides a classic look.

Alamo Music Center

Alamo Music Center

What the heck is the difference between the Gibson J-45 and Gibson Southern Jumbo?!

Video thumbnail for What the heck is the difference between the Gibson J-45 and Gibson Southern Jumbo?! by Alamo Music Center

What the heck is the difference between the Gibson J-45 and Gibson Southern Jumbo?!

Alamo Music Center

Alamo Music Center

Video thumbnail for Gibson Southern Jumbo True Vintage - How does it sound? by Acoustic Letter

Gibson Southern Jumbo True Vintage - How does it sound?

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

Video thumbnail for 2015 Gibson Southern Jumbo 12-fret Special by Acoustic Letter

2015 Gibson Southern Jumbo 12-fret Special

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

Video thumbnail for Gibson 1942 Southern Jumbo - Historic Reissue Acoustic Guitar by Acoustic Letter

Gibson 1942 Southern Jumbo - Historic Reissue Acoustic Guitar

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

Video thumbnail for 1955 Gibson Southern Jumbo demo by Carter Vintage Backstage

1955 Gibson Southern Jumbo demo

Carter Vintage Backstage

Carter Vintage Backstage

Video thumbnail for Gibson J-45 vs Southern Jumbo – What's the Difference? by Acoustic Letter

Gibson J-45 vs Southern Jumbo – What's the Difference?

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

Video thumbnail for Gibson Southern Jumbo 2018, Vintage Sunburst | Demonstration by Gear4music Guitars

Gibson Southern Jumbo 2018, Vintage Sunburst | Demonstration

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1950 Gibson Southern Jumbo played by Seth Taylor by Carter Vintage Guitars

1950 Gibson Southern Jumbo played by Seth Taylor

Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars

Video thumbnail for This Gibson Southern Jumbo Is Unbelievable! by Hyperbright Studios

This Gibson Southern Jumbo Is Unbelievable!

Hyperbright Studios

Video thumbnail for The Gibson Southern Jumbo: (Is It Worth it?) by IkeGuitar

The Gibson Southern Jumbo: (Is It Worth it?)

IkeGuitar

IkeGuitar

Video thumbnail for Gibson Southern Jumbo & Hummingbird Standard Demo at GuitarHotline #gibsonguitars #guitarstore by GuitarHotline

Gibson Southern Jumbo & Hummingbird Standard Demo at GuitarHotline #gibsonguitars #guitarstore

GuitarHotline

GuitarHotline

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional tone with rich, complex sound and dynamic range

  • Flawless fit and finish, visually stunning with subtle, classy details

  • Slim taper neck profile enhances playability and comfort

  • Sustains well, with long-lasting resonance and a lively body

  • Works well with both fingerstyle and flat-picking techniques

  • Transparent sound through PA system, no distortion from pickups

  • High-quality hardshell case, sturdy and secure

  • Resonates well for both intimate settings and larger gatherings

  • Excellent setup and action right out of the box

  • Unique bridge pin and saddle design for crisp articulation

CONS

  • Shows fingerprints and dust easily

  • Combined jack and strap button limits security options

  • Some units may have minor cosmetic imperfections

  • Glue residue found inside some guitars at this price point

  • Initial chemical smell from the case upon opening

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Southern Jumbo.

Build quality

  • The Southern Jumbo had a significant crack down the headstock, visible before painting, raising concerns about quality control.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • One owner found the need to lower the action out of the box and cleaned the VOS finish using naphtha and Virtuoso Polish.

    Source
  • Owners report the Southern Jumbo often requires a setup adjustment to lower high action, influencing playability and comfort for some players.

    Source

User experience

  • A user noted the J45 was light at 1.80 kg, resonant, with excellent bass, attack, and wood grain, providing endless playing pleasure.

    Source
  • Some owners find the Southern Jumbo aesthetically stunning and report it plays even better than it looks, highlighting a strong playability factor.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Southern Jumbo features a 1.78” beefy C neck, while the 1942 J-45 has a 1.72” soft V, potentially impacting playability preference.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Southern Jumbo is noted for its slimmer neck compared to the J-45, making it preferable for those who favor a slimmer neck profile.

    Source
  • Both the Southern Jumbo and J-45 share the same 24.75" scale length, debunking common misconceptions about scale differences.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Players who frequently perform live with a band often consider adding a pickup system to the Southern Jumbo to enhance stage performance capabilities.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gibson Southern Jumbo Review - zZounds Music Blog

zzounds.com

The Gibson Southern Jumbo shines in its 2020 iteration, capturing the vintage allure with modern enhancements. It boasts a sturdy construction, top-notch fit and finish, and a neck profile that enhances playability. The sound is lively and balanced, perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking. However, its aesthetic might not appeal to those seeking a plainer design. For anyone craving a classic yet distinctive acoustic with a rich tonal character, the Southern Jumbo is an enticing choice.

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4.0 out of 5

Based on 5 Reviews and 10 Ratings

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richard_gredwulf_cronley

Stunning guitar (Southern Jumbo Original)

One of these came in at a local guitar shop, it only took 1 strum to fall in love. Put it on layaway! It has the warmth and vigor or a j-45 but with a touch more crispness and articulation. I think the difference in tone from a standard is the small variances in build specs.

The southern jumbos bridge pins are closer to the middle of the bridge, and closer to the saddle giving it a steeper break angle. Also, the southern jumbo has lighter components than the j45 std. *Edit: the southern jumbo, unlike the standard, comes with bone nut and saddle which I believe makes a tonal difference as well. Also, you gotta love the visual details... Split parallelogram inlays, torch inlay, and more rosette rings and binding. Very subtle but classy details.

All in all a less famous but superb option if you're interested in a top of the line Gibson

eheinzelman

This is the perfect all around acoustic guitar

Big resonant sound when you want it...intimate feel and touch when you need that. I picked up a used on e in 1970 and have never looked back. Although I've had a number of electric guitars over the years, I couldn't imagine swapping out this one.

ejeta_benjamin_kevwe

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skylinerr

amazing

beautiful newish gibson southern jumbo made 2008, could not ask for more

Genres:
I

gibson lg-2

No he uses a Gibson Lg-2

richard_gredwulf_cronley

Please remove this review. You're hurting the review score of the Southern Jumbo, I believe you meant to rate someone's contribution instead

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Tom Keifer uses Gibson Southern Jumbo

Tom Keifer

Singer, Guitarist

Cinderella

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

"Mid-’50s Gibson Southern Jumbo" is listed as part of Tom's guitar collection the article

See how Tom Fletcher uses Gibson Southern Jumbo

Tom Fletcher

Singer, Guitarist

McFly

...
Verified via Photo

His main acoustic guitar, especially during the wonderland era.

See how M. Ward uses Gibson Southern Jumbo

M. Ward

Singer, Guitarist

She & Him

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture Ward can be seen playing a Southern Jumbo live.

See how Hank Williams uses Gibson Southern Jumbo

Hank Williams

Singer, Guitarist

Hank Williams and His Drifting Cowboys

...
Verified via Photo

Hank Williams owned quite a few guitars in his life and he was pictured with many of them. This guitar was a 1951 Gibson Southern Jumbo used by Hank Williams Sr. Later in life. There a many pictures of him with this guitar and one video of him with it.

See how Morgan Wallen uses Gibson Southern Jumbo

Morgan Wallen

Rapper, Ukulele Player

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo you can clearly see Morgan holding a Gibson Southern Jumbo. Based on the checking on the finish in the photo, the pick guard and the tuning machines (which are plastic- not metal) I would say his guitar was made in the 1950’s.

See how Stephan Jenkins uses Gibson Southern Jumbo

Stephan Jenkins

Singer, Guitarist

Third Eye Blind

...
Verified via Photo

In this Twitter update, Jenkins singles out his SJ for praise.

See how John Shanks uses Gibson Southern Jumbo

John Shanks

Guitarist, Composer

Bon Jovi

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, along with his Gibson Hummingbird, the Gibson Southern Jumbo can be seen.

See how Dan Wilson uses Gibson Southern Jumbo

Dan Wilson

Singer, Guitarist

Semisonic

...
Verified via The Current from Minnesota Public Radio

He acquired this guitar somewhere in 1999 or 2000, and this guitar is from 1952. He got it at Wille's American Guitars.

See how Jacob Bugden uses Gibson Southern Jumbo

Jacob Bugden

Guitarist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Jacob Bugden is seen with a Gibson Southern Jumbo guitar in an Instagram post titled "Throw your phone in the sea."

See how Brad Delp uses Gibson Southern Jumbo

Brad Delp

Guitarist, Singer

Boston

...
Verified via Photo

Delp can be seen in this photo playing a Gibson Southern Jumbo.

See how Rickie Lee Jones uses Gibson Southern Jumbo

Rickie Lee Jones

Guitarist, Keyboardist

...
Verified via YouTube

Rickie Lee Jones 1979 Chuck E.'s in Love - live

See how Riley Green uses Gibson Southern Jumbo

Riley Green

Singer

...
Verified via Photo

On Riley's official Instagram, you can see him playing a Gibson Southern Jumbo.

Album Usage

The Gibson Southern Jumbo 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.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson Southern Jumbo, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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dc86

dc86

Gear IQ 923

trevor_lissauer

trevor_lissauer

Gear IQ 62

1 alternative for Gibson Southern Jumbo, curated by the Equipboard community.

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