Gibson SG Standard review. The Gibson Standard series is a better-built guitar than the standard line. It features better-quality wood and hardware. While the average guitarist won’t care about the grade of mahogany in a Gibson Standard, tone geeks will appreciate the difference in the guitar’s finish. This model has a high-gloss finish and comes with a hardshell case and a gig bag. A limited edition gold series is also available.
Table of Contents
The Gibson SG Standard Series Review
Ivory Tusq nut
To duplicate the rich tone of bone and ivory, Dave Dunwoodie invented the Tusq nut for the Gibson SG standard series. Now, this synthetic material is a standard in high-end guitars. While bone and ivory have very distinct characteristics, both are well known for their open, resonant lows and clear, bell-like highs. However, because they are naturally occurring materials, bone, and ivory are subject to a wide variety of imperfections, which can make them unreliable.
The Gibson SG Standard 61 has an Ivory Tusq nut, which is made of organic polymers and contains no oil or animal products. This material helps transfer the sound of the guitar, resulting in clear tones even with open strings. Additionally, the Ivory Tusq nut looks much nicer on an SG than a plastic nut. Some bone nuts also function as neck joints. However, there are three primary methods used to attach the neck and the nut to the guitar. The most expensive technique is called Neck-Through.
The TUSQ nut material offers a broader harmonic range than standard ebony. In addition to this, it offers increased stability, consistency, and structural integrity. Gibson has replaced the original nut with the TUSQ nut for their USA-Production models. Aside from the TUSQ nut, other upgrades can include a Batwing pickguard and a choice of nut materials.
The SG Standard 61’s nut width is 43mm, or 1 11/16”. This size of the nut is the most common width of electric guitars. This gives guitarists good string separation at the nut and makes it easy to play open chords without muting the strings. Despite the medium nut width, bar chords are difficult to play without excessive stretching of the fingers.
Gibson SG Special’s nut width
Unlike most Gibson electric guitars, the Gibson Special comes with an adjustable nut width, allowing you to create a tighter, more comfortable fit. It also features a fast SlimTaper neck profile and rolled edges. This guitar also features a Plek Pro machine for dressing its frets, an upgrade usually reserved for top-dollar custom guitars. You can also purchase a pickup with coil splitting and tapping, or opt for a single-coil pickup.
The Gibson SG Special’s nut width is 43mm or 1 11/16 inches. This width is perfect for most guitarists, allowing you to play open chords without muting the strings. However, it may make it difficult to play bar chords. This guitar will work well for players with smaller hands, so it’s important to make sure that it suits your hands. If you have small hands, a smaller nut width may not be ideal.
The SG Special was first produced in 1961 and has remained a classic. Its classic body design and mind-blowing tone made it popular with many musicians of the era. Its classic design has been adapted by countless artists and is still in continuous production today. The SG Special features an all-mahogany body and a SlimTaper neck profile. It has a dot inlay on the fingerboard and two P-90 pickups. The SG’s electronics include a volume and tone control and an output jack. Earlier models of the SG Special featured the neck pickup further away from the fingerboard, which contributed to a more stable neck joint.
Gibson SG Special’s shape
The SG Special has been a mainstay of Gibson’s catalog for 60 years. Known for its iconic shape and mind-blowing tone, it was played by many legends. With its all-mahogany body, slim-taper neck profile, and rosewood fingerboard, the SG Special offers the perfect balance and playability. SG’s vintage materials and design are a hallmark of the guitar.
The SG Special’s shape is the same as its predecessor, the ’57 ES-100. Both models feature a double cutaway, and the ’50s fingerboard shape is easily recognizable. Despite the thin body, it is very comfortable to play with, and its beveled back nestles comfortably against the rib cage. In addition to this, the shape of the SG makes it resonate more than any other guitar.
This guitar’s design reflected the preferences of rock musicians. The SG replaced the single-cutaway Les Paul in the catalog in 1961 and quickly gained popularity among rock players, blues, and fusion musicians. Since then, it has become one of the most popular instruments in the world. And its shape is a trademark of Gibson. If you’ve been looking for an affordable Gibson, consider the SG Special. You’ll be glad you did.
Mahogany body
The Mahogany body of the Gibson SG Standard series gives this guitar its rich, classic sound. The SG is well-balanced for open chords, yet still delivers plenty of bite for solos. The SG’s Mahogany body and Gibson humbucking pickups give it a classic rock ‘n’ roll tone. Its classic Gibson appointments and design make it a top choice for modern guitarists.
The SG is thinner than the Les Paul, with two distinct cutaways. The SG’s Mahogany neck and Rosewood fingerboard join at the 22nd fret, providing unmatched access to the uppermost frets. Because the SG features a lower-profile neck, it is more comfortable for many players. Its Mahogany body also allows it to be thinner than the Les Paul.
The Mahogany body of the SG Standard is reminiscent of a traditional Strat. Its mahogany body and 490 pickups offer long sustain and tonal bite. Gibson’s SG Standard features two sets of inlays: the traditional EB-3 and the more modern EB-3. Both have a mahogany body, rounded-profile maple neck, bound 22-fret rosewood fingerboard, and Gibson logo inlaid on the headstock.
The SG Firebrand was introduced in January 1980 with a branded-in Gibson logo and Mahogany body. It also had a unique finish option, black paint splatter, and small dings. In July 1980, the SG Firebrand models became a part of the “Firebrand Series” and were renamed, SG Standard. The Deluxe was discontinued in early 1984 and was replaced by the Special in 1985.
The Mahogany body of the SG Standard series is also a very popular choice. Mahogany is an extremely durable hardwood, but it is not particularly hard. Hence, it’s used in both the neck and the body of the guitar. It emphasizes the midrange and bass. It produces a dark and mellow tone. SG models are known to be one of the best-selling electric guitars in the world.
Maple neck
One of the most popular woods for guitars is maple. This dense, strong hardwood is also known for its beautiful patterns and light color. It is a popular choice for necks and fretboards, as well as for the body and top. Its mellow tones and strong resistance make maple guitars an excellent choice for midrange and high-end frequencies. However, maple is not a great choice for every type of guitarist, so careful consideration should be given to what wood is most suitable for your play style.
The SG Standard has two volume and tone controls, a three-way pickup selector switch, and a mahogany body. The Maple neck model is the most affordable of the three. The guitar features the Gibson SG Standard’s typical appointments, including a three-way pickup selector switch and a Tune-o-Matic bridge. A maple neck Gibson SG Standard is an excellent option for players who love the look and feel of a maple neck.
The Gibson SG Standard Series is the quintessential SG. Its maple body and bound Rosewood fingerboard are paired with twin humbucker pickups and a black pickguard. Some SG guitars feature rosewood fingerboards, while higher-priced models have ebony fingerboards. The SG Standard Series also features two distinct tailpiece options, such as a classic stop bar, Maestro Vibrola, and Sideways Vibrola.
While the SG is made from maple wood, it does not have the same body thickness as the Les Paul. Its maple cap, however, contributes to its brighter sound. The SG’s mahogany body is slightly thicker, but its double cutaway design helps it to be easier to access the upper frets. This model is ideal for players who prefer a traditional style of playing. So, it’s important to choose the right model for your needs.
Gibson SG Standard’s tone
A review of the Gibson SG Standard’s tone reveals that this model is largely comparable to a classic Fender Strat. The guitar’s tone is well-balanced, with a pleasing mix of bass and treble, but is somewhat lacking in versatility. However, its reasonable price tag and well-balanced design make it an excellent choice for players in the Hard Rock genre. Here are some of its highlights.
The Gibson SG Special is one of the best-known models. It was first introduced in 1959 and is still in constant production today. Many famous guitar players have endorsed this guitar. The list includes Angus Young, Paul McCartney, Billy Gibbons, Pete Townsend, Jimmy Page, and more. It’s also popular among post-Jam guitarists like Paul Weller and Tony Iommi.
The Gibson SG guitar offers a unique sound that many players find appealing. Its bright, snarling tone is reminiscent of a classic Strat. Its thinner body profile makes it easier to play and is more user-friendly for many musicians. It is highly versatile and has been used for all genres of music. A guitar with such a tone is perfect for any musical genre. So if you’re in the market for an SG, it’s worth a look.
Limited edition gold series
There are several ways to tell if a guitar is a limited edition. Limited edition gold series guitars are marked with a golden serial number and the imprint, “Made in the USA.” They feature six-digit serial numbers and are also stamped with the year of manufacture, day of the year, and production number. Gibson began this numbering system in 1977. While not the most environmentally-friendly system, it does make the guitars easier to date.
The Limited Edition gold series was made for an upcoming sale at Guitar Center and retailed for nearly $1800. You can see some minor scratches and grease on the pickguard and tuners in the pictures below. The specs of an SG Standard from 2018 are the same as the Limited Edition gold run. They come with Alpine White finishes, Gold hardware, and ’57 Classic Pickups. These guitars are heavy-duty and have a hefty finish. The serial number is visible under a flashlight. You’ll also receive case candy.
Gibson SG Standard Series Price
The price of a Gibson SG STANDARD 61 is very affordable compared to other similar guitars in its class. It is also made in a country that is renowned for its quality control. Besides its low price, it features a quality body and pickups but lacks versatility. It is a well-balanced guitar with decent features at a good price. For this price, it is a good buy if you are into the Hard Rock genre.
The SG Standard guitar was released in 1961. It was a variation of the Les Paul, with a thinner flat top body, double cutaway, and shifted neck joint for better upper fret access. While Gibson continues to produce the SG under license, Epiphone offers affordable versions. They combine original Gibson designs with Epiphone quality. The SG Special VE, for instance, is lightweight and a good choice for players who prefer a thinner body.
The prices of Gibson SG Standard Series guitars will vary depending on the color of the finish, model level, and condition. The older models are generally more expensive. Guitars from the 1970s to 1980s typically sell for $ 1,100 to $ 1,600. Prices drop as the years go by. Since Gibson sold the company to Henry Juszkievicz in 1985, its production quality improved significantly. Its guitars have better materials and finishes than previous versions.
The Gibson SG Special is an excellent choice for rock and roll musicians who want a solid guitar at an affordable price. Its versatility makes it a great choice for any genre. It is an excellent choice for country, blues, rock, and extreme metal. Compared to Les Paul, the SG Special provides a solid and rich sound. If you can’t justify the high price tag, the SG Special is the best option.
The Gibson SG Standard Series Specs
Certainly! Here’s a table showcasing various Gibson SG Standard models, along with their specifications and approximate prices. Please note that prices can vary depending on factors such as location and availability.
| Model | Body Material | Neck Material | Fingerboard Material | Pickups | Hardware Color | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG Standard | Mahogany | Mahogany | Rosewood | 2x Gibson Burstbucker Pro | Chrome | $1,699 – $2,099 |
| SG Standard ’61 | Mahogany | Mahogany | Rosewood | 2x Gibson ’61 Burstbucker | Chrome | $1,999 – $2,499 |
| SG Standard HP | Mahogany | Mahogany | Rosewood | 2x Gibson Burstbucker Pro Rhythm/Lead | Chrome | $1,999 – $2,499 |
| SG Standard Tribute | Mahogany | Mahogany | Rosewood | 2x Gibson 490R/490T Humbuckers | Chrome | $1,199 – $1,499 |
| SG Standard ’61 Maestro Vibrola | Mahogany | Mahogany | Rosewood | 2x Gibson ’61 Burstbucker | Chrome | $2,099 – $2,599 |
| SG Standard ’61 Sideways Vibrola | Mahogany | Mahogany | Rosewood | 2x Gibson ’61 Burstbucker | Chrome | $2,099 – $2,599 |
| SG Standard Ebony | Mahogany | Mahogany | Ebony | 2x Gibson Burstbucker Pro | Chrome | $1,699 – $2,099 |
| SG Standard Walnut | Mahogany | Mahogany | Rosewood | 2x Gibson Burstbucker Pro | Chrome | $1,699 – $2,099 |
| SG Standard Left-Handed | Mahogany | Mahogany | Rosewood | 2x Gibson Burstbucker Pro | Chrome | $1,699 – $2,099 |
Please note that the prices mentioned here are approximate and can vary based on factors like location, store, and any discounts or promotions. It’s always a good idea to check with authorized Gibson dealers or online retailers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
Upgrades for the SG Standard 61
Apart from the standard features, the Gibson SG Standard 61 offers several upgrade options to suit the preferences of discerning guitarists. One notable upgrade is the TUSQ nut, which is a synthetic alternative to traditional materials like bone and ivory. The TUSQ nut is renowned for its consistent density and precise manufacturing, resulting in enhanced sustain, improved intonation, and reduced friction at the nut slots. While the TUSQ nut comes as a default option in some SG Standard 61 models, players also have the flexibility to choose other premium materials, catering to their tonal requirements.
Comparing Ivory TUSQ Nut to Bone and Ivory in Tone
When it comes to tone, the Ivory TUSQ nut exhibits characteristics that are remarkably close to the natural bone or ivory nuts. This synthetic material is designed to resonate similarly to bone or ivory, offering warm, articulate tones with excellent sustain. Musicians often praise the TUSQ nut’s tonal balance and its ability to enhance the natural harmonics of the guitar, resulting in a rich and vibrant sound.
Regarding bone and ivory nuts, they have long been favored for their tonal properties, with bone providing a bright and crisp sound, and ivory being renowned for its warm and sweet tones. While the TUSQ nut can closely emulate these desirable tonal qualities, some purists may still prefer the traditional materials for their organic origin and potential subtle nuances in sound. However, the Ivory TUSQ nut offers a compelling alternative, combining modern manufacturing precision with classic tonal attributes.
Drawbacks of the Gibson SG Special’s Adjustable Nut Width
The Gibson SG Special features an innovative adjustable nut width system, designed to provide players with the flexibility to customize the string spacing according to their playing style and preferences. While this feature has been well-received by many guitarists, some players might find it challenging to get used to initially. Adjusting the nut width requires some experimentation and fine-tuning to achieve the perfect balance for individual playing comfort and string spacing. For those who prefer a more traditional fixed-width nut, the adjustable system might not be as appealing, as it introduces an additional layer of complexity to the guitar’s setup and maintenance.
What’s the difference between Gibson SG Standard and Special?
One of the most obvious distinctions between an SG Standard and a Special is their pickup configuration. The latter utilizes three stacked single coils, while SG Standard uses dual coils.
Selecting the correct pickup set for a guitar can make all the difference in its sound, so it’s essential to get it right. Furthermore, several factors such as neck material, fret size, and even bridge material can all have an effect on how SG sounds overall.
Finding the ideal pickups for your needs can be daunting, so do your due diligence before purchasing a guitar. With so many options available, this task may seem overwhelming but it’s essential to find one that best fits your music style.
The guitar’s weight is another important factor that can affect its sound. A heavier guitar will provide more sustain, while one that weighs less will be easier to play and transport around.
The SG Special’s neck is surprisingly flexible, making it ideal for progressive rock players. The C-shaped design makes strings easy to bend and offers a wider range of bending motion suited to certain genres of music.
