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Average Price: $4,786
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Description
The Gibson Tal Farlow is a tribute to the jazz virtuoso himself, combining elegance and performance in a semi-hollowbody electric guitar. Originally introduced in 1962, this model showcases a unique blend of aesthetic features and technical prowess. The trademark faux-scroll rounded cutaway—a hallmark of Farlow's own design—sets this instrument apart, offering a visual nod to the classic mandolin scroll. Complemented by the upside-down J-200 fingerboard inlays and the double-crown headstock inlays, the Tal Farlow is a feast for the eyes as much as it is a delight to play.
Crafted by Gibson's Custom Shop, the Tal Farlow maintains the authentic design down to the smallest details. This full-sized archtop, with a width of 17 inches and a comfortable depth of 3 inches, provides a rich acoustic resonance. The ES rounded neck profile, with a 25-1/2" scale length, ensures smooth playability, favored by jazz professionals for its precision and comfort.
For those seeking a guitar that marries acoustic warmth with electric versatility, the Tal Farlow is fully equipped. It features two humbucking pickups with individual volume and tone controls, allowing for a dynamic range of sounds. The floating rosewood bridge base with an ABR-1 tune-o-matic bridge offers excellent sustain and precise intonation adjustments.
This rare signature model is not just an instrument; it's a piece of history, complete with a Gibson Custom case and certificate of authenticity.
Key Features:
- Full-sized archtop with 17" width and 3" depth
- Trademark faux-scroll rounded cutaway
- Upside-down J-200 fingerboard inlays
- ES rounded neck profile, 25-1/2" scale length
- Two humbucking pickups with individual volume and tone controls
- Floating rosewood bridge base with ABR-1 tune-o-matic bridge
- Comes with Gibson Custom case and certificate of authenticity
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | Tal Farlow |
| Finish | Natural, Sunburst, Viceroy Brown, Wine Red |
| Year | 1986 - 2015 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Archtop Electric Guitars, Hollow Body Guitars |
| Body Material | Maple |
| Body Shape | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Hollow Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Stop-Bar |
| Color Family | Brown, Red, Tan |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Gibson Tal Farlow |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Top Material | Maple |
FAQs
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What type of music is the Gibson Tal Farlow best suited for?
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The Gibson Tal Farlow is ideal for jazz music, thanks to its warm, resonant tone and classic hollow body design, which provides the rich sound characteristics favored in jazz guitar playing.
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What kind of pickups does the Gibson Tal Farlow have?
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The Gibson Tal Farlow is equipped with Gibson 57 Classic Humbucker pickups, known for their vintage-inspired tone and ability to deliver warm, smooth sounds with excellent clarity.
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How does the neck of the Gibson Tal Farlow feel for playability?
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The Gibson Tal Farlow features a maple neck with a set-neck construction, offering a comfortable feel and smooth playability, which is ideal for intricate jazz chord progressions and solos.
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Is the Gibson Tal Farlow suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Gibson Tal Farlow is suitable for live performances, especially in jazz settings, due to its robust construction, quality electronics, and the included Gibson hardshell case for protection during transport.
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What are the standout design features of the Gibson Tal Farlow?
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The Gibson Tal Farlow boasts unique design features such as "Scroll" purfling inlay at the cutaway, upside-down Mother of Pearl SJ200 fingerboard inlays, and a distinctive "Double Crown" headstock inlay, adding to its visual appeal.
Videos
Jakub Żołubak
Gibson Tal Farlow vs Telecaster - Darn That Dream
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Tal Farlow.
Build quality
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Early models may feature embossed pickup covers, potentially indicating a super early build or later modifications.
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Features and functionality
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Some owners note the guitar's impressive sustain and warm cleans, making it ideal for recordings with minimal feedback on distortion.
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Use cases and applications
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Ideal for non-gigging environments, this guitar shines in home settings and recording studios.
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Setup and maintenance
Comparisons
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The 1996 Gibson Tal Farlow reissue is praised for its distinctive "thunk," rivaling the classic Gibson laminated archtop sound.
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User experience
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Owners report Tal Farlow guitars, even reissues, as exceptional instruments with enduring value and appeal.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
According to the booklet of his 2005 album "Cold Roses" and this BBC article Adams used a Gibson Tal Farlow on that record.
Album Usage
The Gibson Tal Farlow 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 Tal Farlow, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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