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Gordon Smith GS-1

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Page last updated Jun 05, 2026

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Description

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The Gordon Smith GS-1 is a quintessential solid body electric guitar that melds classic design with modern craftsmanship. Handcrafted in the UK, this guitar is perfect for musicians who appreciate quality and attention to detail. The hand-wound humbucker pickup is a standout feature, delivering a rich and versatile sound that caters to a wide range of musical styles, from blues to rock and beyond.

This guitar's sleek, no-nonsense design features a solid mahogany body and a smooth, satin-finished neck that makes it a joy to play. The GS-1’s simple yet effective controls allow players to focus on their performance, while the guitar's robust construction ensures it can handle the rigors of both practice and performance. Whether it's in the studio or on stage, the Gordon Smith GS-1 is a reliable companion for any guitarist aiming for authenticity and expressive sound.

Key Features:

Solid mahogany body for a warm, resonant tone
Hand-wound humbucker pickup for versatile sound options
Satin-finished neck for smooth playability
Simple control layout for easy tone adjustments
Handcrafted in the UK, ensuring high-quality construction and finish

Videos

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Guitarist

Gordon Smith GS1, GS1000 & GS2 Demo

Guitarist

My New Guitar! (Gordon Smith GS1 Review)

lizzietupman

Gordon Smith GS2 & GS1 plus Bare Knuckle Rebel Yell Comparison.

MarcusDluxe

Gordon Smith GS1 2018 demo and review

Foxy's Guitar Show

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gordon Smith GS-1.

Features and functionality

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The GS-1 features a single humbucker with a coil split option, offering versatility in sound reminiscent of classic tones.
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User experience

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Owners appreciate the guitar's worn-in, comfortable neck, which enhances playability and feels naturally broken-in.
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Some owners note the GS-1's lightweight, durable construction makes it an ideal workhorse guitar.
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Comparisons

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The GS-1 is often likened to the Gibson Melody Maker in terms of appearance and style, with a unique British flair.
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The GS-1 is compared to the Gibson LPJ DC, but owners emphasize Gordon Smith guitars' distinctiveness, especially early models made by the original builders.
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Other

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Gordon Smith guitars, including the GS-1, are noted for their simplicity, quirkiness, and originality, making them distinct in the solid body category.
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Build quality

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Older GS-1 models may have a mark on the back of the headstock from the hanging and spraying process used during manufacturing.
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Value and pricing

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In the early '80s, the GS-1 with a single pickup was priced at £295, considered a bargain for a handmade instrument.
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Critic Reviews

Gordon-Smith GS-1 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

A surprisingly versatile instrument, the Gordon Smith GS-1 offers excellent value for money and a range of custom options, making it a noteworthy rival to more expensive models. The lightweight design and unique tones cater well to punk and rock genres. However, while the sound packs a punch, it can be overly piercing and prone to feedback, which may deter some players. Build quality is decent but not robust, leaving room for concern regarding longevity. Overall, the GS-1 is a fantastic choice for musicians seeking a budget-friendly, UK-made guitar with character and customization potential.

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Rachel Goswell

Singer, Guitarist

Slowdive

Verified via Photo

In this photo we see Rachel performing with her Gordon Smith GS-1 in cherry red. Goswell auctioned off the guitar for charity in 2019, writing on Instagram “I bought this guitar with my first lot of publishing money I received when slowdive signed to EMI in the early 90’s.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0jCOnFF-KW/?igshid=MWI4MTIyMDE=

Pete Shelley

Singer, Guitarist

Buzzcocks

Verified via Getty Images

You can see Pete Shelley playing on a gordon smith on this picture It was for the all set tour

Midge Ure

Singer, Guitarist

Ultravox

Verified via Charityauctionstoday

Played in the music video for “Cold Cold Heart”, this one of one Gordon Smith GS1. Also played a different black GS1 in a live performance of Vienna with Ultravox.

Barry Hyde

Guitarist

The Futureheads

Verified via Photo

In a photo taken at Wychwood Festival in Cheltenham on June 2, 2024, Barry Hyde is seen playing a wine red Gordon Smith GS-1. The guitar was also used during Pamplemousse Sessions for "Meantime".