1947 Gibson J-50 Mahogany/Spruce

All the innovations of modern guitarbuilding can’t quite match the tone of a guitar which has seen decades and decades of play. Our J-50 from 1947, accordingly, makes new guitars sound like toys by comparison. Whoever was working on the line at Gibson when assembled the Mahogany-and-Spruce body had the magic touch–and whoever’s played it for the past 60 years has also had that magic touch. The trebles have that elusive bell-like quality, glassy and sweet, which you only find but rarely, and the low-end is warm, resounding, and broadcasts right into your face.

One strum, and you can tell that this is one guitar that’s been played for thousands and thousands of hours. As a result, the voice has enormous sustain, and a vigorous, ecstatic tonality. We’ve got some road rash here (but what vintage Gibson doesn’t?), but is in excellent playing condition, with lots of saddle to keep it that way for a long time to go, brand new frets, and a reslotted nut for perfect intonation. Complete with its vintage leather hardshell case, this guitar makes a statement with its looks alone, exuding confidence from decades of making music