Gibson uses 3D scanning and period correct materials to create an “exact replica” of Keith Richards’ prized 1960 ES-355
Gibson has revealed a new partnership with Keith Richards, unveiling two new super-limited Collector’s Edition ES-355s based on the Rolling Stones man’s own treasured 1960 ES-355.
150 guitars are available as part of the launch – 50 signed both on the instrument and label, and 100 with only a signed label. Developed in close collaboration with Richards, these guitars expectedly don’t come cheap, with the former priced at $19,999, and the latter at $29,999.
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Keith first used an ES-355 in 1969, both on the road and in the studio, namely during the recording sessions for Sticky Fingers and Exile on Main St. His black 1960 model, meticulously recreated for this launch, has accompanied him on every Rolling Stones tour since 1997.
According to the Gibson Gazette, the guitars have been handcrafted in the Gibson Custom Shop in Nashville, Tennessee, and are “exact replicas”. Its details were recreated using advanced 3D scanning, period-correct materials and construction techniques, with Murphy Lab hand-aging completing the guitars.
Both feature a multi-ply bound body made from three-ply maple/poplar/maple, with red spruce bracing and a maple centreblock for enhanced sustain and reduced feedback, weight-relieved at Richards’ request. Each has a mahogany neck with a custom Keith Richards profile, while premium hardware includes a Bigsby B7 vibrato tailpiece and Grover Rotomatic tuners with Milk Bottle buttons.
Each hosts a pair of unpotted Custombucker pickups with Alnico 5 magnets, wired to CTS 500k audio taper pots and paper-in-oil capacitors. These guitars ship in a Gibson Protector series case with a certificate of authenticity and a replica of the strap that Richards uses.
Check out the launch video below, featuring producer Andrew Watt, who worked with the Stones on their most recent album, Hackney Diamonds.
“This is my standard tuning six-string,” Richards tells Watt. “This is the other side of my thing. My six-string stuff has always been, you know, a great Gibson – that’s where I feel the most comfortable. And also with the sound. Put it through just about any amp, and it will sound the way you want it, because this has so much more room for expression.”
Find out more about the Keith Richards 1960 ES-355 Collector’s Edition at Gibson.
Credit: Gibson
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Source: www.guitar-bass.net
