Gibson released ES-339 custom in 2007. They released the ES-335 in 1958, and everyone knows that distinctive semi-hollow body guitar for it’s fat resonant tone. That’s a very versatile guitar that can work equally as well for jazz, rock, country, or anything in between.
The ES-339 sounds really close to the trademark ES-335 doesn’t it? That’s because it’s a very close cousin. Basically it’s a modern day version of the 335, but the 339 is smaller, more compact, has updated electronics, and a slimmer neck. It features “Memphis Tone Electronics” that keep the highs when you turn down the volume so you retain some bite at any volume through the ’57 humbuckers. The ’59 neck has a slim 60’s profile and the lighter guitar has a reduced weight. It even has the jack mounted on the outer rim, a first for ES style Gibson guitars. These guitars are priced very reasonably for Custom Shop axes as well, and now having been produced for almost a decade – they are available in many distinctive custom finishes and colors.
The ES-339 is the next generation from the Custom Shop of Gibson’s iconic ES electric guitars. It goes where no guitar has gone before with a bold, new semi-hollow tone that is rich with expressive, even stinging, overtones. The ES-3309 has some exciting enhancements including Memphis Tone electronics, outer rim output jack, and reduced dimensions and weight.
Memphis Tone electronics Memphis Tone circuitry utilizes 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 mid-range and signing sustain from the ’57 Classic humbuckers while adding a very sweet bite. Another difference is 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!
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.
Reduced dimensions and weight The ES-339 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-339 retains the distinct semi-hollowbody electric tone that powered so many hit records and landmark performances.
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.
This version of the ES-339 comes with the rounded ’59 neck profile for guitarists who prefer a chunkier neck, but still enjoy fast, smooth playing action. The new slender 30/60 neck is available on the ES-339 30/60 Neck (product #515256).
To show off its vintage vibe, the ES-339 is available in a choice of three finishes: Antique Cherry, Antique Vintage Sunburst, and Light Caramel Burst. 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 Antique Cherry and Antique Vintage Sunburst both come with aged bindings to further enhance the proud ES tradition.
The ES-339 comes with a Gibson Custom Shop hard shell case and a Certificate of Authenticity.
Here’s is a video review:
You can actually buy this guitar on Amazon – which sure makes returns easier (if you have to do that). It also means in most cases free (Prime) shipping, and if you use your Amazon card you can even get 5% back.
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You can also usually just about find anything on eBay – maybe you can find an ES-339 on there ending soon?
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