Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,807
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Gibson Theodore Standard". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Step into the time machine and embrace a piece of guitar history with the Gibson Theodore Standard, a tribute to the visionary designs of former Gibson president, Theodore "Ted" McCarty. Originally sketched in 1957, this electric guitar combines a vintage aesthetic with modern craftsmanship, making it a true gem for collectors and players alike. The distinctive double-cutaway mahogany body is not just for show—it offers seamless access to all 22 frets, giving you the freedom to explore the neck’s full potential.
The Gibson Theodore Standard is equipped with a pair of '57 Classic pickups, including a slightly hotter '57 Classic Plus in the bridge position, delivering vintage PAF-style tones with an added bite. Whether you're delving into blues, rock, or jazz, these pickups will effortlessly capture your sound with rich warmth and articulate clarity. The Scimitar headstock, paired with Grover Mini Rotomatic tuners, ensures precise tuning stability, while the ABR-1 Tune-o-matic bridge and aluminum stopbar tailpiece provide exceptional sustain and resonance.
Crafted with a Slim Taper mahogany neck and a luscious rosewood fingerboard, this guitar offers a fast-playing experience that musicians will find both comfortable and inspiring. The Theodore Standard's build quality is complemented by hand-wired electronics featuring Orange Drop capacitors, ensuring that your tone remains lively and organic.
Key Features:
- Mahogany body with double Florentine cutaways
- Slim Taper mahogany neck with Indian rosewood fingerboard
- '57 Classic and '57 Classic Plus humbucker pickups
- Scimitar headstock with Grover Mini Rotomatic tuners
- ABR-1 Tune-o-matic bridge and aluminum stopbar tailpiece
- Hand-wired electronics with Orange Drop capacitors
- Includes vintage-style hardshell case
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | Solidbody |
| Body Shape | Theodore Standard |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Neck Shape | Slim Taper |
| Neck Joint | Set Neck |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Arylic Trapezoid |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
| Nut Width | 1.695" |
| Nut Material | GraphTech |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic, Aluminum Stop Bar |
| Tuners | Grover Mini Rotomatic |
| Neck Pickup | Gibson 57 Classic Humbucker |
| Bridge Pickup | Gibson 57 Classic Plus Humbucker |
| Controls | 1 x volume, 1 x tone |
| Switching | 3-way toggle pickup switch |
FAQs
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What kind of neck profile does the Gibson Theodore Standard have?
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The Gibson Theodore Standard features a Slim Taper mahogany neck, providing a fast and comfortable playing experience suitable for various playing styles.
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What pickups are installed in the Gibson Theodore Standard?
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The Gibson Theodore Standard is equipped with a Gibson 57 Classic Humbucker in the neck position and a Gibson 57 Classic Plus Humbucker in the bridge, offering a versatile range of vintage-inspired tones.
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Is the Gibson Theodore Standard suitable for advanced players?
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Yes, the Gibson Theodore Standard is designed with high-quality components and a versatile tone palette, making it well-suited for advanced players seeking a professional-grade instrument.
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What is the body material of the Gibson Theodore Standard?
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The Gibson Theodore Standard features a solid mahogany body, which contributes to its rich, warm tone and sustain.
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How many frets does the Gibson Theodore Standard have?
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The Gibson Theodore Standard has 22 frets, allowing for a full two-octave range on each string.
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What is the scale length of the Gibson Theodore Standard?
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The Gibson Theodore Standard has a scale length of 24.75 inches, which is typical for Gibson electric guitars and contributes to its playability and tonal characteristics.
Videos
The Trogly's Guitar Show
I Tried the NEW Gibson USA "Theodore" Standard (It's VERY Different)
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Theodore Standard.
Features and functionality
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Some prefer the P90-equipped Custom Shop version over the newer Standard, citing a preference for its "junior" look and stripped-down aesthetic.
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The Custom Shop version includes dot inlays and a wraparound tailpiece, while the Standard opts for trapezoid inlays and a tune-o-matic bridge.
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The custom shop version features a skunk stripe wood matching on the neck, which some find visually appealing.
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The '57 Classics offer a tonal change from the usual Les Paul and SG 490/498 pickups.
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It features P90 pickups with a wraparound bridge, contributing to a lively and responsive feel.
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User experience
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One owner described the Theodore Standard as resembling a Les Paul Studio in terms of features, suggesting it feels like a simplified version of the Custom Shop model.
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Owners noted that the Custom Shop model has four control knobs compared to the Standard's two, offering more tonal control.
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Owners report that the guitar is comfortable both standing and sitting, enhancing playability.
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The guitar is noted to be more manageable for neck dive compared to an SG but similar to a double cut special.
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Build quality
Mods and upgrades
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Some users wish for a hybrid model combining an alder body and walnut stripe with P90 in the neck, a humbucker in the bridge, and a four-knob setup.
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Comparisons
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The Theodore's design has been humorously compared to a tulip bulb, with the headstock resembling those of the Explorer and Flying V.
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The Theodore's design has been compared to a Les Paul altered with an axe, highlighting its unique and polarizing shape.
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Plays like an SG but offers a distinct sound with '57 Classics differing from the typical 490T/R configuration.
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The Theodore has been likened to a Les Paul Special or SG Special but with a notably ultra-light body.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
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