Gibson ES-359 2015

This semi-hollow ES-359 from Gibson adds gold hardware, Grover tuners, and an ebony fingerboard with large mother-of-pearl block inlays to one of the most exciting guitars in decades; the ES-339. The ES-359 is part of the next generation from the Custom Shop of Gibson's iconic ES electric guitars. As with the ES-339, it delivers bold, semi-hollow tone that is rich with expressive, even stinging, overtones in a smaller, solidbody-sized guitar. The ES-359 has some exciting enhancements including Memphis Tone electronics, the 30/60 slender neck profile, ebony fingerboard, as well as reduced dimensions and weight.

Memphis Tone electronics

Memphis Tone circuitry uses 500K audio taper pots that operate with an interactive load that preserves high end as you turn down the volume. The loading effect preserves the full-bodied tone with rich midrange and singing sustain from the '57 Classic humbuckers while adding a very sweet bite. Another difference: the volume is very smooth, rolling off in even increments along with the numbers on the knobs. Since they operate more like how we hear (logarithmically), the controls work the way the player thinks they should. So when the guitarist turns down the volume the highs are still there!

30/60 Neck

Developed in assistance from guitar guru Jon Schwartz, the 30/60 slender neck is a '60s style neck with an extra .030" front-to-back to preserve the semi-hollowbody tone, sustain, and feel while providing smooth playability.

Reduced dimensions and weight

The ES 359 builds on the success of the semi-hollowbody guitars first introduced by Gibson in 1958 with the ES-335. Lighter and more compact than a traditional semi-hollow guitar, the ES 359 retains the distinct semi-hollowbody electric tone that powered so many hit records and landmark performances.

Outer rim output jack

Here's one ES players have been wanting: The output jack is mounted on the outer rim. No more cable crossing the body, spoiling the guitar's clean looks and and getting in your way.

Two '57 Classic Humbuckers with 3-way pickup selection plus individual volume and tone controls provide the incredibly versatile sounds that make the semi-hollow electric famous for its use in jazz, rock, blues, country, and nearly every other style you can think of. Quality Kluson tuners keep retuning time to a minimum, and nickel hardware enhances the great looks.

The ES-359 is available in a choice of two finishes: Ebony, Vintage Sunburst. The lacquer finish is applied with a light, even touch, allowing the guitar's wood to resonate naturally while providing a protective, mirror-like shine. The ES-359 comes with a Gibson Custom Shop hardshell case and a Certificate of Authenticity.