Gibson introduced the J-160E in 1954, and it was one of Gibson's early attempts at producing an acoustic-electric guitar. Like the CF-100E, the J-160E is instantly recognizable for its P-90 pickup (the same pickup found in the early Les Pauls), which is mounted directly to the top at the end of the fingerboard. Famously used by George Harrison and John Lennon on many of the Beatles' records, this quirky Gibson slope-shoulder is one of the legendary Gibson models.
When plugged into primitive 1950s amplifiers and PA equipment, early J-160Es were prone to feedback, so they were made with laminate tops and ladder bracing. This mitigated the issues but also deadened their acoustic tone. Nevertheless, the Gibson's Bozeman, Montana Acoustic division has produced the J-160E in limited quantities over the years. When top luthiers use hand-voiced X-bracing and the finest solid woods available, the J-160E design becomes an expressive instrument that captures the right acoustic tone but also functions well plugged-in.
This 2000 Gibson J-160E was made in the Bozeman, Montana Custom Shop, and it features the classic J-160E specs with a solid red Spruce top and proper X-bracing under the hood. As an acoustic guitar, it packs classic Gibson slope-shoulder tone. When you plug it in, the P-90 pickup sounds fantastic through any amplifier. This guitar is capable of many different sounds, but if you're looking to recreate the classic tones heard on Beatles records, it's got you covered.
This 2000 Gibson J-160E is in nice condition all around. It shows some minor playwear, and as you look around the body, it's obvious it's a used guitar (see photos). There are two bumps worth mentioning on the top—one in the dark sunburst by the end block edge and another closer to the center seam. Otherwise, it shows some minor cosmetic scuffs on the back, and there is some hanger yoke wear on the edge of the headstock from a hanger stand.
This 2000 Gibson J-160E is a great player with a comfortable neck profile and a low setup. The frets are in great shape with plenty of life left. It includes its original Gibson-branded hardshell case.