Gibson J160e 1955

" However, Les Paul refused to put his signature on the design due to the solid spruce top, which would feedback much sooner than a laminated top. Nevertheless, Gibson launched the model with its revolutionary P90 pickup mounted at the end of the fingerboard of the 15-fret neck. This was used to make room for the pickup and, like an adjustable bridge, was a first for Gibson flattops. The unique design caught the attention of The Beatles, who used multiple J160es for their early recordings and performances, giving these guitars iconic status in pop music history. 

In 1955, Gibson finally gave in and opted for a laminated top and back. The combination of the laminated spruce top with ladder bracing and the P90 pickup creates a unique sound that feels more electric than acoustic-electric. Acoustically, the guitar has significantly more limited projection than traditional Gibson flattops due to the ladder bracing system, but electrically amplified, it develops that characteristic warm, round P90 sound so recognizable from early Beatles recordings. The C-shaped mahogany neck plays comfortably with its 24.75" scale length, and the adjustable bridge, while not ideal for tone, does offer practical advantages for the setup. It is a guitar you take to the studio for that specific vintage sound, not for around the campfire. 

This 1955 J160e is a beautiful example, featuring stylish checking and various honest signs of wear in the glossy finish. The guitar underwent maintenance in 2023; a refret was performed where the fingerboard was leveled, and the potentiometers and output were replaced. The nut was also replaced with a bone one. Consequently, this Gibson has already clocked up the necessary mileage and rewards you with a broken-in feel; this guitar is ready to tell more stories!