Gibson - New Models for 2005
(Gibson | Posted 2005-02-09)
From the world’s most famous artists to the singer/songwriter on his way to the next gig, Gibson and Epiphone new models for every style of music at the annual winter NAMM show in Anaheim (Jan. 20-23).
Gibson Custom presented a new Alvin Lee ES-335, complete with the “Peace” signs that fans of this blues-rocker will remember from the film Woodstock. Custom also debuted a new Neal Schon signature, featuring a licensed Floyd Rose vibrato and custom electronics.
One of the most exciting new Gibsons comes from the Gibson Acoustic division, based in Bozeman, Montana. The Traveling Songwriter features a unique body style that is thin but hollow. The Sitka spruce top is designed with dome construction and the same scalloped bracing pattern as Gibsons from the 1930s, for true acoustic tone. The body shape, from Gibson’s historic square-shoulder family, and the famous Moustache™ bridge give the Traveling Songwriter an unmistakable Gibson look. The Traveling Songwriter is the only professional-quality guitar designed for easy travel. Gibson Acoustic has also released the J-45N, a modernized version of its legendary “workhorse” model, with natural finish and acoustic-electric capabilities.
Epiphone debuted many new models including the Paul McCartney Texan, replicated from the guitar McCartney used on “Yesterday,” the Les Paul Ultra, the Nick Valensi Riviera and the Epiphone “Guitars of the Month” series. A bluegrass Epiphone MB-500 banjo also debuted.
Gibson’s focus on technology continues with the showing of the first production model Gibson Digital Guitar, ban entire line of new Gibson amplifiers. The highly acclaimed Digital Guitar utilizes Gibson’s patented MaGIC digital transport protocol and offers six separate digital signals – one for each string – providing the player with myriad tonal and panning possibilities. The first limited-production run will feature a blue finish and special tuner and control knobs.
The new amps from Gibson Labs are uncompromised in tone and quality. With distinctive looks and simple robust design concepts, these hand-crafted amplifiers pay tribute to the golden era of amplification design.
Gibson USA unveiled upgraded features on its Americana series of solidbody acoustics, including a preamp system 3-band EQ and L.R. Baggs pickup. Gibson USA also introduced four new basses: the 5-string Thunderbird Studio, Les Paul Double-Cutaway, Continental Smartwood 5-string and the SG Bass.
