Since 1958, the Gibson ES-335 has defined the sound of the semi-hollowbody archtop electric guitar, and its smooth, dynamic tone has inspired generations of players across a variety of genres and playing styles. Not many guitars have attracted such a diverse group of players. That's because the ES-335 performs beautifully in any setting. It's a natural fit for jazz and fusion, but it can just as easily delve into the blues, hard rock, and beyond. Later models had block inlays, but the first ES-335s that rolled off the line sported the simple, refined elegance of pearloid dot inlays
With its dot-neck, plaintop, and vintage sunburst finish, this 2012 Gibson Memphis ES-335 pays homage to those late-'50s ES-335 that have achieved legendary status. Under the hood, you'll find two '57 Classic humbuckers, which do a great job of replicating the transparent, dynamic sound of '50s PAFs. They offer complex midrange, punchy lows, and a smooth top end that doesn't sound glassy or brittle. These pickups sound great clean, but they will also push your amp into smooth saturation as you crank the volume knob. As for playability, this ES-335 plays fast and clean all the way up the neck, thanks to its "Slim Taper" neck profile. This profile was first used in 1959, and it became a hallmark of the ES-335 through the early '60s.
This 2012 Gibson Memphis ES-335 is in excellent condition with no history of repairs or issues. It shows some minor cosmetic wear, including some finish checking on the horns (see photos), but it is free of any severe dings, nicks, or scratches. Overall, this is a fantastic semi-hollowbody guitar that is ready to inspire the next generation of players.