Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (5)
$1,999.00
Guitar Center
$1,999.00
Reverb
$1,799.00 New
$1,297.00 Used
Musician's Friend
3.0 (3)
$1,999.00
zZounds
$1,799.00
Thomann
$1,759.00
Gear4Music
£1,999.00

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

What kind of neck profile does the Gibson Theodore Standard have?

The Gibson Theodore Standard features a Slim Taper mahogany neck, providing a fast and comfortable playing experience suitable for various playing styles.

What pickups are installed in the Gibson Theodore Standard?

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.

Is the Gibson Theodore Standard suitable for advanced players?

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.

What is the body material of the Gibson Theodore Standard?

The Gibson Theodore Standard features a solid mahogany body, which contributes to its rich, warm tone and sustain.

How many frets does the Gibson Theodore Standard have?

The Gibson Theodore Standard has 22 frets, allowing for a full two-octave range on each string.

What is the scale length of the Gibson Theodore Standard?

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.

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

I Tried the NEW Gibson USA "Theodore" Standard (It's VERY Different)

Video thumbnail for I Tried the NEW Gibson USA "Theodore" Standard (It's VERY Different) by The Trogly's Guitar Show

I Tried the NEW Gibson USA "Theodore" Standard (It's VERY Different)

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Gibson THEODORE STANDARD Full Demo by Play and Trade Guitars

Gibson THEODORE STANDARD Full Demo

Play and Trade Guitars

Play and Trade Guitars

Video thumbnail for Do We Like Gibson's New Oddly Shaped Guitar? Gibson Theodore Standard Review and Demo by Alamo Music Center

Do We Like Gibson's New Oddly Shaped Guitar? Gibson Theodore Standard Review and Demo

Alamo Music Center

Alamo Music Center

Video thumbnail for The Sound Of The Gibson Theodore Standard (Most Versatile Guitar EVER?) by Gibson Gear Guide

The Sound Of The Gibson Theodore Standard (Most Versatile Guitar EVER?)

Gibson Gear Guide

Gibson Gear Guide

Video thumbnail for Gibson Theodore Standard Electric Guitar | Demo and Overview with Towa Bird by Guitar Center

Gibson Theodore Standard Electric Guitar | Demo and Overview with Towa Bird

Guitar Center

Guitar Center

Video thumbnail for TONE CHECK: Gibson Theodore Standard Electric Guitar Demo | Cream City Music by Cream City Music

TONE CHECK: Gibson Theodore Standard Electric Guitar Demo | Cream City Music

Cream City Music

Cream City Music

Video thumbnail for Gibson Theodore Standard | Review | Guitar Interactive Magazine by Guitar Interactive Magazine

Gibson Theodore Standard | Review | Guitar Interactive Magazine

Guitar Interactive Magazine

Guitar Interactive Magazine

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

  • Some prefer the P90-equipped Custom Shop version over the newer Standard, citing a preference for its "junior" look and stripped-down aesthetic.

    Source
  • The Custom Shop version includes dot inlays and a wraparound tailpiece, while the Standard opts for trapezoid inlays and a tune-o-matic bridge.

    Source
  • The custom shop version features a skunk stripe wood matching on the neck, which some find visually appealing.

    Source
  • The '57 Classics offer a tonal change from the usual Les Paul and SG 490/498 pickups.

    Source
  • It features P90 pickups with a wraparound bridge, contributing to a lively and responsive feel.

    Source

User experience

  • 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.

    Source
  • Owners noted that the Custom Shop model has four control knobs compared to the Standard's two, offering more tonal control.

    Source
  • Owners report that the guitar is comfortable both standing and sitting, enhancing playability.

    Source
  • The guitar is noted to be more manageable for neck dive compared to an SG but similar to a double cut special.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Standard model's reduced control layout and chrome hardware are seen as cost-saving measures compared to the Custom Shop's more elaborate features.

    Source
  • One owner received a Theodore without a pickguard, a rare quality control oversight.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • 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.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Theodore's design has been humorously compared to a tulip bulb, with the headstock resembling those of the Explorer and Flying V.

    Source
  • The Theodore's design has been compared to a Les Paul altered with an axe, highlighting its unique and polarizing shape.

    Source
  • Plays like an SG but offers a distinct sound with '57 Classics differing from the typical 490T/R configuration.

    Source
  • The Theodore has been likened to a Les Paul Special or SG Special but with a notably ultra-light body.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's noted that the Custom Shop version, with its ultra-light body, offered a fun and agile playing experience even in a short session.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gibson Theodore Standard | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Gibson's Theodore Standard defies expectations, transforming skepticism into admiration with its unique design and superb playability. Despite its divisive tulip-like shape, the guitar offers classic Gibson tones, featuring warm mids and a vibrant top-end that excels in rock riffs. Lightweight and comfortable, the Theodore is a joy to play, making it difficult to put down. However, its looks may not appeal to everyone, leaving some players unconvinced by its aesthetic. Overall, this guitar marries innovation with tradition, proving itself as a worthy addition to any guitarist's collection.

positive

Gibson Theodore Standard | Review - Guitar Interactive Magazine

guitarinteractivemagazine.com

The Gibson Theodore Standard is a compelling revival of vintage design, successfully merging classic aesthetics with modern functionality. Its mahogany body and Custom P-90 pickups deliver a warm, articulate sound that stands apart from traditional Les Pauls, offering clarity and sparkle that's perfect for various playing styles. The slim neck design enhances playability, making it comfortable for both intricate leads and laid-back riffs. However, while the price is more accessible than its Custom Shop counterpart, it's still a significant investment. Some may find it pricier than other options on the market, which could limit its appeal. Overall, this guitar is a delightful choice for players seeking a blend of history and innovation.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

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See how Sean O'Dowd uses Gibson Theodore Standard

Sean O'Dowd

Guitarist

NewDad

...
Verified via YouTube

Sean O'Dowd is seen playing a Gibson Theodore Standard in the video "NewDad - Just Like Heaven (Glastonbury 2024)" by BBC Music.

Genre Usage

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