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Gibson J-45 Special Acoustic-Electric Guitar Vintage Sunburst

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Introducing the Gibson Acoustic Specials – J-45, Hummingbird & L-00 Special

Description
The Gibson J-45 Special acoustic-electric guitar is more than just a workhorse; it's a testament to the enduring legacy of a true icon. First introduced in 1942, the J-45 has been a cornerstone of Gibson's acoustic line, revered for its no-nonsense simplicity, understated elegance, and warm, balanced tone. This modern rendition, handcrafted in Bozeman, Montana, captures the essence of the original while incorporating contemporary features, making it a perfect choice for players seeking a guitar that sings with the soul of a vintage instrument while embracing the demands of modern music.
Solid Spruce and Mahogany Construction
The J-45 Special is crafted with a solid Sitka spruce top and solid mahogany back and sides. This classic combination of tonewoods delivers a balanced and resonant sound with a warm low-end, clear highs, and excellent dynamic range. The solid construction ensures that the guitar's tone will mature and improve over time, becoming richer and more complex with age.
SlimTaper Neck Profile for Comfortable Playability
The utile neck features Gibson's SlimTaper profile, offering a comfortable and fast playing experience. This profile is ideal for both fingerstyle and strumming, allowing for effortless transitions between chords and intricate melodies. The rosewood fingerboard with its 12" radius and mother-of-pearl dot inlays provides a smooth and responsive playing surface.
LR Baggs Electronics for Stage and Studio
The J-45 Special comes equipped with an LR Baggs Element Bronze under-saddle piezo pickup with active electronics. This high-quality electronics package delivers a natural and transparent amplified tone, making the J-45 Special stage and studio-ready. The easily accessible soundhole-mounted volume control allows for quick adjustments on the fly.
Classic Design with Modern Features
The J-45 Special retains the classic J-45 round-shoulder body shape, known for its warm, balanced tone. The "concert depth" body is slightly thinner than a standard J-45, providing a leaner and tighter bass response that sits perfectly in a mix. The single-ply cream binding on the top and back adds a touch of elegance, while the Grover Rotomatic tuners ensure solid tuning stability.
A Versatile and Accessible Acoustic-Electric
The Gibson J-45 Special acoustic-electric guitar is a versatile and accessible instrument that is perfect for players of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your musical journey, the J-45 Special delivers exceptional tone, playability, and value. With its classic design, premium materials, and modern electronics, the J-45 Special is a guitar that will inspire you for years to come.



Features
- Solid Sitka spruce top
- Solid mahogany back and sides
- SlimTaper neck profile
- Rosewood fingerboard with mother-of-pearl dot inlays
- L.R. Baggs Element Bronze electronics
- Grover Rotomatic tuners
- Satin nitrocellulose lacquer finish
- Available in Satin Vintage Sunburst or Satin Wine Red
- Includes premium soft shell case
Specs
- Shape: Round Shoulder
- Top: Solid Sitka Spruce
- Back & Sides: Solid Mahogany
- Binding: Single-ply cream
- Finish: Satin nitrocellulose lacquer
- Bracing: Traditional scalloped X-bracing
- Neck Material: Utile
- Neck Joint: Compound dovetail
- Neck Shape: SlimTaper
- Nut Width: 1.725" (43.815mm)
- Fingerboard Material: Rosewood
- Scale Length: 24.75" (628.65mm)
- Number of Frets: 20
- Nut Material: TUSQ
- Inlays: Mother-of-pearl dot
- Bridge: Traditional Belly Up, Rosewood, with TUSQ saddle
- Tuning Machines: Grover Rotomatic
- Plating: Nickel
- Bridge Pins: TUSQ
- Under Saddle Pickup: L.R. Baggs Element Bronze
- Controls: Soundhole-mounted volume
- Case: Premium Soft Shell
- Orientation: Right handed
- Strings: 6
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Reviewed by 1 customers
Amazing guitar!
submitted4 days ago
byGreg
fromQueen Creek, AZ
I bought this at my favorite GC store in Mesa AZ and it's nothing short of amazing. I've been wanting a J-45 for a long time but the price tag of the standard was a bit too much. This model has all the looks and tone - unplugged and plugged-in that is pure Gibson balanced sweetness.
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Q&A
Have a question about this product? Our expert Gear Advisers have the answers.
submitted8 days ago
asked byMichael
fromMurrells Inlet S.C.
What is the difference between this and the standard J-45?
Standard J-45: Top: Solid Sitka spruce Back & Sides: Solid mahogany Neck: Mahogany Fingerboard: Rosewood. J-45 Special:Often has solid Adirondack spruce top (or sometimes Sitka—varies by year/model) Back & Sides: Still mahogany Adirondack is stiffer and more dynamic, producing a punchier tone and more headroom. May also include premium wood selections or specific bracing tweaks. Standard J-45: Usually comes with LR Baggs VTC under-saddle pickup (volume/tone control inside soundhole). Plug-and-play friendly for live performance. J-45 Special: Electronics vary; sometimes also uses LR Baggs, but can feature different systems or none at all, depending on model year and limited runs.submitted18 days ago
asked byJames
fromGainesville, FL
what is the nut width
1.724"