Introduced as part of Gibson's "Super Fusion" series, the J-190 EC built off of the J-185 foundation with a cutaway and slick electronics for a decidedly more modern direction. Sharing the comfortable 16" small jumbo body that is revered for its balance, projection, and sweet responsiveness, the J-190 was designed for musicians to move seamlessly between acoustic and electric amplified settings. It retains the focused, versatile voice that made the J-185 one of Gibson's best-kept secrets, but it also adds intriguing features you don't find elsewhere in the company's lineup.
This Gibson J-190 was made in Bozeman, Montana in 2001. Its 16" wide small jumbo body is constructed of a solid Spruce top and highly-figured Maple back and sides. It produces the crisp articulation, dynamic response, and shimmering upper register for which maple-bodied Gibsons are celebrated. Distinctive split-block mother-of-pearl fingerboard inlays elevate the J-190 from the standard catalog models, and a graceful cutaway offers unrestricted access to the upper frets. Perhaps the most striking feature is q dual-source electronic package, which combines an under-saddle transducer with a soundhole-mounted Charlie Christian magnetic pickup (inspired by the classic J-160E). Independent volume controls and a three-way switch allow the two voices to be blended, producing everything from natural acoustic tones to warm, almost archtop-like textures that stand apart from conventional piezo system.
Despite the years, this Gibson J-190 finds us in nice condition. The binding shows some patina from the years, and there's some minor finish checking all around. As is typical of Gibsons from this era, the finish is cracked and lifted around the headstock inlays. Play wear is minimal, and the setup is excellent. The short 24.75" scale delivers the familiar relaxed feel of a good Gibson guitar, and the nut measures 1-11/16." Like the J-185, the small jumbo proportions strike an ideal balance—large enough to provide impressive headroom and projection, but not boomy or too much in from of a microphone. Whether on stage, in the studio, or at home, it feels remarkably versatile in the hands.
Produced in limited numbers, the J-190 remains one of Gibson's more distinctive modern acoustics. This 2001 J-190 features the Natural finish to showcase the striking figured maple on the back and the multi-ply archtop-inspired neck. Elegant appointments and an intriguing acoustic-electric system set this Gibson apart from the rest. It includes its original hardshell case.