Did you know The Doors, with Robby Krieger’s SG, sold over 32 million albums in the U.S1.? The Gibson SG left its mark on rock history. Legends like Angus Young of AC/DC rocked worldwide with this guitar1. Looking for powerful riffs or high-energy on stage? The Gibson SG’s unique design helps you shine.
The Gibson SG stands out with its mahogany body and twin-humbucker tone. It’s more affordable than a Gibson Les Paul Standard or American Pro II Fender Stratocaster2. Own a piece of rock history. Feel the guitar that shapes the sound of classic rock to metal.
Key Takeaways
- The Gibson SG guitar is integral to rock music history.
- Angus Young of AC/DC uses the Gibson SG to rock the stage.
- The Doors sold over 32 million albums with the help of Robby Krieger’s SG1.
- The Gibson SG offers a distinctive double-cutaway design.
- It is an affordable option for owning a piece of musical history2.
Introduction to the Gibson SG
The Gibson SG is a legendary electric guitar beloved by musicians. It’s famous for its unique shape and the classic sounds of rock it produces. You’ll find it in music stores all around, celebrated for its cool look and signature tones.
History and Evolution
The Gibson SG came out in 1961, aiming to be better than the Les Paul. By 1964, it was a hit, with sales hitting about 6,000 units. This was more than the Les Paul Standards made before3. It started a new chapter for electric guitars. Over time, the SG changed and brought out new models like the SG Standard and the SG Custom3. In 2013, the Baritone SG was released. It had a different tuning and was made of mahogany4.
Design and Features
The Gibson SG has a thin body that’s easy to recognize. It has a special shape that lets players easily reach the high notes. This makes it great for rock music solos3. The SG Standard is especially popular. It comes in Cherry or Ebony colors and has two humbucking pickups4. Its design is light and fits well in your hands, perfect for long shows. The SG Special adds something extra with two P90 pickups and a special fingerboard4. The Gibson SG remains an icon in rock music, loved by both players and music shops.
Iconic Rock Sound of the Gibson SG
The Gibson SG is known for its classic rock sound. Its shape helps create its special tone. This makes it great for rock songs and more.
Signature Tone
The Gibson SG’s tone is sharp and sustains well. Rock and blues players love it for its sound. Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath used it because of its dependable quality5.
Popular Genres
The Gibson SG is popular in many music styles. It’s powerful in blues and metal. George Harrison and Frank Zappa made it famous.
Online, many talk about the Gibson SG’s rock sound. Music fans, like Karbomusic and others, show its huge impact6.
Famous Guitarists Who Played the Gibson SG
The Gibson SG stands tall in rock lore, embraced by the greats of guitar. Its sound, screaming with rock energy and adaptability, has won the hearts of genre-defining artists.
Angus Young
For over five decades, Angus Young of AC/DC and the Gibson SG are an iconic pair. He has crafted his fiery, blues-rock riffs with it7. Young’s dynamic shows and the SG’s unique sound stamped their mark on rock.
Tony Iommi
Another trailblazer, Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, crafted his heavy, dark riffs on SGs, including his ‘Monkey’ SG Special8. He shaped heavy metal’s sound with his SG7.
Robby Krieger
Robby Krieger of The Doors played his SG with a special touch. He used fingerstyle playing8. This added a new flavor to The Doors’ music, blending rock with blues smoothly.
Other Notable Players
- Sister Rosetta Tharpe: Her SG Custom mixed rock and gospel brilliantly7.
- Pete Townshend: Loved his Gibson SG Special in the ’60s, later getting his own model7.
- Derek Trucks: Famous for his slide work, Trucks favored the SG, sporting PAF 57 Custom humbuckers7.
- Frank Zappa: Used modified SGs for his advanced pieces, highlighting the guitar’s flexibility8.
- Gary Clark Jr.: A modern blues star, he’s performed with various SGs, including the 1961 Les Paul Tribute7.
They and others have made the Gibson SG a legend in rock history. It’s now a classic, inspiring many to embrace this esteemed guitar.
The Appeal of the Gibson SG for Guitar Players
The Gibson SG has won hearts since 1961. It’s loved for its flexibility and how easy it is to play9. Guitarists adore the SG’s design. It’s comfy for long music sessions. The ‘fast’ neck of the SG helps players nail quick solos easily.
The SG is also famous for being light. It’s easier on the shoulders than some heavy Les Pauls. This is great for long performances10. The double-cutaway shape makes playing high notes simple. Lead guitarists really value this feature9.
The look of the SG has a special place in rock history. It reminds people of rock legends like Angus Young and Tony Iommi9. This guitar is not only about looks. It’s built tough to stand up to frequent use.
Guitar collectors treasure the SG for its vintage charm. Old models from the ’60s and ’70s are in high demand. The SG is praised for its historic value and current playability. It’s a key piece for guitar fans.
The Gibson SG is a treasure for any guitarist. It mixes comfort, strength, and a timeless rock vibe10. It continues to be cherished by many.
Understanding the Construction of the Gibson SG
The construction of the Gibson SG is key to its popularity with guitar enthusiasts. Its stand-out design and top-notch parts make this electric guitar special.
Body and Neck Design
The Gibson SG has a slim mahogany body with stylish cutaways. This makes it lighter than the Les Paul11. Its neck meets the body at the 22nd fret. This detail affects the pickups and the SG’s unique sound11.
Since its debut in the 60s, the SG’s body has seen changes. For example, the slimmer double-cut designs appeared in the late 50s11. The early versions had issues like weak neck joints and cracks near the output jack11.
Hardware and Electronics
The Gibson SG was made for excellent sound and ease of playing. For instance, the ’66-’71 SG Deluxe models had “T-Top” humbuckers12. Though the foldable arm Vibrola tailpieces had pitch issues, they gave players new ways to play11.
Later, it included tuning gears from Kluson Deluxe and Schaller M-6 Keystone12. These parts help the SG produce its strong, clear sound that guitar enthusiasts love.
In closing, the Gibson SG’s unique guitar construction features a thin body, smart neck design, and advanced hardware and electronics. All these elements make the SG a cherished instrument among players.
Comparing the Gibson SG to Other Classic Guitars
The Gibson SG holds a special spot among classic guitars. Unlike the Les Paul or Fender Stratocaster, it offers a different playing experience. For guitar lovers, knowing these differences sheds light on what makes each guitar unique.
Les Paul Comparison
The Gibson SG, launched as the Les Paul/SG Standard in 1961, has a slim ’60s neck and a small headstock from the early ’60s13. The heavier Les Paul came out in 1952 with a solid body and loud humbuckers like the P-90s14. The Les Paul is known for its lasting sustain and rich sound, while the SG is easier to play because it’s lighter and has a unique dual-cutaway shape13.
The SG also boasts ’57 Classic™ humbuckers and a Tune-o-Matic bridge for strong sustain and spot-on tuning13. The Les Paul is famous for its rock sound and continues to feature humbuckers for deep, full tones14. Both guitars are high-quality, but the SG’s mahogany body and rosewood fingerboard give it a special feel and sound13.
Fender Stratocaster Comparison
Looking at the Gibson SG and the Fender Stratocaster shows big differences in design and how they play. The Stratocaster is prized for its comfortable and ergonomic design. Its contoured body fits well against the player, making it a top choice for comfort seekers.
The SG and Stratocaster have distinct sounds too. The SG’s ’57 Classic™ humbuckers give it a warm, retro sound, while the Strat’s single-coils are known for bright and clean tones. This lets the Stratocaster handle many music styles, which is why it’s loved by many players.
Every guitar, be it the Gibson SG, Les Paul, or Fender Stratocaster, has its own advantages for different musical tastes and styles. Knowing these differences helps guitar enthusiasts find the right guitar for their music journey.
| Feature | Gibson SG | Les Paul | Fender Stratocaster |
|---|---|---|---|
| Introduction Year | 196113 | 195214 | 1954 |
| Body Material | Solid Mahogany13 | Various (Maple on high-end models)14 | Alder or Ash |
| Neck | Slim ’60s Profile13 | Various (50s or 60s profiles)14 | Modern “C” Shape |
| Pickups | Dual ’57 Classic™ Humbuckers13 | Humbuckers (P-90/PAF)14 | Single-Coils |
| Notable Features | Thin Asymmetrical Dual-Cutaway13 | Sustain and Rich Tones14 | Ergonomic Design and Tonal Versatility |
How to Achieve Iconic Tones with a Gibson SG
Are you looking to get that legendary rock sound from your Gibson SG? You’ll need to pay close attention to your amp settings and the effects pedals you use. With a good understanding of these, you can mimic those classic sounds or even create your own unique tone.
Amplifier Settings
Choosing the right amp settings is key to making the most of your Gibson SG. Start by using an overdrive channel. This adds the grit and warmth your sound needs. Many famous rock tones come from mixing medium gain with a bit more midrange.
Try setting the tone knob on the bridge pickup to “5”. This offers a smooth switch between pickups15. It keeps your sound clear while making it richer. Gibson SG’s are known for their warm, rich tones, thanks to their mahogany bodies and humbucker pickups16.
Effects and Pedals
Effects pedals are crucial for shaping your sound too. A good setup might include overdrive, wah, and effects like chorus or phase. These let you play with different sounds. If you’re after a sound from a certain era, focus on the pedals popular back then. Using a bit of reverb and delay can add layers to your sound without hiding your guitar’s true sound. The Gibson SG stands out for its adaptability, made even better with the right effects pedals15.
If you’re into customizing your guitar, remember that different SG models might need special tweaks. You might need to adjust knobs or even drill new holes for things like mini pots or US spec knobs17. Some models have a “horseshoe” Bigsby vibrato. This can help you create truly unique sounds15.
Tips for Maintaining Your Gibson SG
Taking good care of your Gibson SG is crucial for keeping its sound and playability. Regular maintenance is necessary. Keep it in a climate-friendly spot to prevent damage from extreme weather. This avoids neck problems and cracks in the wood18.
Always let your Gibson SG adjust to room temperature before playing. This is especially important after it’s been in cold or hot conditions for shipping. Letting it sit for about 4-5 hours prevents finish cracks. Also, keeping humidity between 40% to 60% is best for the guitar19.
Have your guitar maintenance tools like Allen wrenches handy, and store them in ziplock bags18. Conditioning the fretboard and keeping electronics working are key to your guitar’s life. Clean regularly and store it properly. Use its case to keep out dust and maintain humidity19.
If you’re having tuning problems, check the nut slots first. About 95% of tuning issues with Gibson SGs come from slot problems20. Issues like bridge saddles or neck bending can cause tuning instability, especially with Tune-O-Matic bridges20. A yearly professional setup helps find and fix these problems, keeping your guitar in great shape19.
Using humidity controls can prevent neck issues and damage. Rotating guitars in climate-controlled spots is good for large collections18. Wall hangers or stands are both convenient and safe for your Gibson SG. There are even fancy stands if you want something special18.
Wash your hands before playing and wipe the strings afterward to keep them lasting longer19. For quick use during play, clips for amps can hold your guitar close by18. These tips will help your Gibson SG rock on for many years.
Check out a great review here on how different musical equipment holds up in various conditions.
Exploring Different Gibson SG Models
The Gibson SG guitar has changed a lot since it first came out. It offers models for different tastes and styles. Whether you’re in a store or shopping online, knowing about the SG models can make buying better.
SG Standard
The SG Standard is famous for its classic look and sound. It began in 1961 as the Les Paul Standard, then got its name in 1963. Musicians love it for its top-notch electric guitar qualities. The SG Standard has a lightweight body of 6-7 pounds. This is lighter than the Les Paul Standard or Custom, which are 9-12 pounds21. It’s great for those who play for long hours.
SG Special
The SG Special, priced a bit lower, still delivers strong on performance. While keeping the SG Standard’s strong points, it has simpler hardware and finishes. Housed under Gibson’s USA division, the SG Special has gone through many changes since it started22. It’s an excellent pick for those who want that SG essence without the extras.
Other Variants
Aside from the SG Standard and Special, Gibson has many other SG types. The Custom Shop and USA make lots, like the SG 90 and the EDS bass models22. The Orville series and Epiphone, like the Tony Iommi SG Special, offer unique and affordable versions22. The SG’s vast range has made it a top seller and a favorite for many21.
Gibson’s SG line is really broad, offering something for every guitarist. So, if you want an SG Standard or to check out other types, visit a good musical instrument store to see what’s best for you.
Buying a Gibson SG: What to Look For
Buying a Gibson SG is thrilling, yet knowing what to check is key. It matters whether you’re adding to your collection or getting your first guitar. This guide will focus on important features.
New vs Vintage
Choosing between a new or vintage Gibson SG means weighing their pros and cons. Vintage guitars bring history and uniqueness, loved by collectors. Since its 1961 debut, the Gibson SG is famed for its light build and sleek design23. Its comfy neck and cost-friendliness win over many players versus the Les Paul24. Meanwhile, new models come with the latest tech and features, aimed at those desiring fresh innovations and reliable quality.
Gibson’s array of SG models, like the SG Custom and SG Standard, are made in Nashville, Tennessee25. They use top-quality woods and are built with great care, appealing to various buyers24. For collectors, a vintage Gibson SG with a rich backstory could be perfect.
Second-Hand Considerations
When looking at used guitars, inspect their condition, make sure they’re genuine, and check for changes or fixes. Key areas to check include the neck joint and electronics. Keeping original features is important for its worth and functionality. Those on a tighter budget might like the Epiphone SG models, for instance, the G400. They offer genuine feels with their Mahogany body and Alnico pickups, but at a lower price25.
Whether it’s a new or used Gibson SG, knowing about its build and materials is essential. Epiphone guitars are more affordable and made in Asia with less handcrafting. Yet, Gibson USA guitars boast high-quality woods and electronics24. For an in-depth buying guide, visit Andertons for a full rundown on Gibson SG guitars.
Why the Gibson SG is a Must-Have for Guitar Collectors
The Gibson SG is a key piece in music history, a must for any guitar collector. Released in 1961, it features a timeless design and iconic sound. This guitar has had a lasting impact, thanks to its looks and performance24.
Guitar collectors value the Gibson SG’s historical role. It followed the success of the first Gibson solid-body electric guitar, the Les Paul, from 1952. Its long history since 1961 highlights its popularity and dependability26.
Its unique design also stands out. Originally sold for just $295, the SG was accessible to many. Its thin body and slim neck offer a distinct sound perfect for rock26.
The SG line offers many models like the SG Junior and SG Custom, giving collectors choices. Each version brings something different, tailored to various musical tastes. They’re all made with high-quality materials24.
Legends like Les Paul and Jimmy Page have played Gibson guitars, linking it to music royalty27. This enhances the SG’s prestige, making it sought after by collectors.
In sum, the Gibson SG is prized for its rich history, distinctive design, and rock legend ties. It’s a prime pick for collectors worldwide, offering a variety of models to suit any taste. A Gibson SG is a valuable addition to any collection.
The Versatility of the Gibson SG in Various Genres
The Gibson SG is famous for its ability to fit into many music styles. It is a top pick among musicians from all sorts of backgrounds. This guitar smoothly switches from the energy of classic rock to the deep emotions of blues and the powerful vibes of metal.
Classic Rock
The Gibson SG is a legend in classic rock. Stars like Angus Young from AC/DC have used its power to create memorable tunes. Its light build is perfect for lively shows, without losing the iconic sound fans love. It’s the top-selling Gibson guitar, proving its lasting popularity in rock2829.
Blues
For blues, the Gibson SG is a master at showing deep feelings. Its design is super comfortable for long jam sessions. This lets blues players truly express themselves28. Musicians like Derek Trucks show its ease of use brings out blues’ intricate details. Thanks to ’60s Burstbucker pickups in the SG Standard ’61, it hits the perfect, soulful blues sound2830.
Metal
The SG shines in metal music too. Metal icons like Tony Iommi from Black Sabbath pulled off heavy riffs with it. The SG Standard’s humbuckers are loud and bold, ideal for metal29. Its strong body and simple controls make the SG a powerhouse in metal. It’s built tough and sounds fierce, keeping it at the heart of the genre30.
Modifying and Customizing Your Gibson SG
Modifying guitars is as much an art as playing them. The Gibson SG is a top choice for customization. You can improve its playability, change its tone, or add custom art.
Popular Mods
Adjusting the pickup height is a common mod. The recommended factory settings are 5/64” and 4/64” for the neck position’s low E and high E. Yet, many feel Gibson humbuckers sound better a bit lower31. Adjusting to 6/64” on the low E and 5/64” on the high E for the neck, and 5/64” on the low E and 4/64” on the high E for the bridge, tones down the high-end31. Switching to CTS 500k pots and quality wiring, whether 60s or 50s style, can brighten tone and improve feel31.
Investing time and money can yield great results. One enthusiast spent around $1800 over four years customizing their Gibson SG32. They added Grover ‘Vintage Keystone’ tuners and a custom TRC with fine inlays. A handmade walnut pickguard and Gibson ’57 Classic pickups with Dimarzio covers were installed32. A Martin SixString wiring harness with CTS 500k Pots was also integrated for better tone32.
Future mods for Gibson SGs often include ambitious projects. Some plan to switch out tuners or change hardware colors for a new look33. Rewiring and possibly changing pots, jacks, and switches are common steps to improve functionality33. These mods are typically paired with cleaning and potentially leveling the fretboard and refinishing the guitar33.
Custom Artwork
Custom artwork on a Gibson SG lets you show your style. It could be detailed designs on the body or unique truss rod covers. Such visual mods make your guitar a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Ordering custom covers like an Ebony one with ‘tribal blades’ shows your personal style32. Handmade pickguards add a personal touch. Custom colors, finishes, or engravings make your Gibson SG stand out.
Modifying and customizing a Gibson SG brings immense satisfaction. You can create unique designs that boost both playability and visual appeal. Mixing careful mods with creative artwork lets you customize your instrument to match your taste and style.
Personal Stories: Musicians and Their Gibson SGs
The Gibson SG is a legendary guitar that has played a big role in music. It’s been a key part of rock songs from the 60s and 70s and today’s indie tunes. Eric Earley from Blitzen Trapper shares his story about his 1974 Gibson SG. He talks about how it’s unique and has a special sound. Even after its headstock broke on tour, it’s still his go-to guitar for performing. It’s light and easy to play. Learn more about Eric’s experience with his SG in this article on The Current34.
Quotes and Anecdotes
Another interesting story is about Angus Young of AC/DC and his Gibson SG. He got his first SG, likely from 1970 or 1971, used after he needed an upgrade from his Hofner34. He used this guitar until 1978, then found another one from around 1967 in a New York pawn shop35. He even changed its original pickups after just a year to get the perfect sound34. These stories highlight the special bond musicians have with their Gibson SGs. They also show how important the SG has been in music history.
Guitar fans love these stories because they show what makes the Gibson SG special. These tales explain why the SG is so important to many famous musicians. It has a unique tone and makes performing feel effortless. Thanks to its sound and ease of use, the Gibson SG inspires musicians from many music styles34.
