
( Brand: Gibson ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: GIBSON-HUMMINGBIRD-1968 ), ( Model: HUMMINGBIRD ACOUSTIC GUITAR WITH CASE 1968 ), ( Part Type: Acoustic Guitar Case )
The Gibson Hummingbird 1968 is a vintage acoustic guitar that boasts a unique and captivating design, crafted with the finest materials and workmanship that Gibson is renowned for. This guitar, with its rich history and powerful tone, is a must-have for both seasoned musicians and collectors.
Body and Neck:This Hummingbird model, released in 1968, features a solid Sitka spruce top with a beautifully figured maple back and sides. The slim mahogany neck provides excellent playability and features a traditional 14-fret design, a bound rosewood fingerboard with pearloid dot inlays, and a 24.75-inch scale length.
Hardware and Electronics:The bridge and tailpiece are made of rosewood, while the tuning machines are vintage-style Kluson Deluxe tuning heads, ensuring accurate and stable tuning. For those who prefer a plugged-in sound, this guitar comes with a modern Fishman Sonitone pickup system, allowing for easy amplification and versatility.
Authenticity and Condition:Each Gibson Hummingbird 1968 is meticulously inspected and restored by experienced technicians to ensure the highest level of authenticity and playability. While some signs of aging and wear are to be expected on a vintage instrument, every detail is attended to with care, preserving the unique character and history of each guitar.
Sound:The Hummingbird 1968 delivers a powerful, balanced sound with exceptionally clear and articulate highs, rich, warm mid-range tones, and robust bass response. This versatile guitar performs beautifully in various genres, from folk and country to rock and blues, and its dynamic responsiveness makes it an ideal choice for both recording and live performances.
Conclusion:The Gibson Hummingbird 1968 is a vintage acoustic guitar with a rich history, unique design, and powerful tone that sets it apart from other instruments. With its solid construction, excellent playability, and authentic vintage character, this guitar is an investment in both music and history, and a true treasure for any guitar enthusiast.
The Gibson Hummingbird 1968 is a vintage acoustic guitar that has gained immense popularity among musicians due to its unique sound and aesthetics. This article aims to provide an unbiased analysis of the pros and cons of buying this iconic instrument.
Pros:1. Authentic Vintage Tone: The Hummingbird 1968 offers a rich, warm, and balanced sound that is characteristic of Gibson acoustics. Its unique tone comes from the combination of a Sitka spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a square-shouldered body shape.
2. Unique Body Shape: The Hummingbird's body shape, featuring a round-shouldered upper bout, square-shouldered waist, and a sharp point at the lower bout, is both visually appealing and ergonomically comfortable.
3. Playability: The Hummingbird 1968 has a comfortable neck profile, which allows for easier playing and better access to higher frets. Its 24.75-inch scale length makes it suitable for various playing styles.
4. Desirable Collectors' Item: As a vintage guitar, the Hummingbird 1968 can be a valuable addition to any guitar collection, with potential for appreciation in value over time.
5. Quality Craftsmanship: Gibson is renowned for its high-quality construction methods and attention to detail. The Hummingbird 1968's solid wood construction, premium hardware, and meticulous craftsmanship contribute to its longevity and durability.
Cons:1. Expensive: The Hummingbird 1968's vintage status and high-quality construction make it a pricey investment for many guitarists.
2. Requires Regular Maintenance: Vintage guitars, particularly those with solid wood construction, need frequent care and attention to maintain their playability and value.
3. Heavy: The solid wood body of the Hummingbird 1968 makes it a relatively heavy instrument, which may not be ideal for guitarists who prefer lighter instruments.
4. Potential Repairs and Restorations: Due to its age, the Hummingbird 1968 may require repairs or restorations, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Conclusion:The Gibson Hummingbird 1968 is an exceptional acoustic guitar with a unique sound, desirable vintage aesthetic, and high-quality craftsmanship. While its price tag, weight, and maintenance requirements may deter some guitarists, those who appreciate the rich tone and history of this iconic instrument will find it to be a worthwhile investment.
Recommendation:If you are a serious guitar enthusiast, collector, or professional musician with a substantial budget, the Gibson Hummingbird 1968 is an excellent choice for its authentic vintage tone, unique body shape, and exceptional craftsmanship. However, if you are a beginner or a casual player looking for an affordable and lightweight option, other acoustic guitars may be more suitable for your needs.
Its been heavily played over its 58 years and there is a very good reason. Its had many years to dry out and create character. Its a tone machine. Miscellaneous, Gibson Case Hard shell.
It has a 1 5/8 nut width which is very narrow. Tons of lacquer checking and the top, at sound hole, has sunk a bit. Believe it or not, no cracks. As you can see from the pictures, its got a nasty scratch on back.
I know its got its fault however at the same time I'm not trying to get $7,000 $10,000 out of it. The play ability is a true highlight. Plenty of scratches all over the guitar. It comes with a new Gibson hard shell case.
Hardware, Tuner: Gold Plating, Bridge: Traditional belly up, Saddle Material: Bone, Tuning Machines: Gibson Jolson Style, Pick guard: Hummingbird. He was a Nashville player. The frets are in nice shape as well. Its pretty much all original with the exception of saddle and bridge pins.
The neck is straight and fits nice comfortable in the hand, string action set low, which enables playing across entire rosewood fingerboard. There is a needle size hole in the worst part. Body, Body:Shape Dreadnought, Top: Steak spruce, Back and sides: Mahogany, Bracing: Traditional hand scalloped X-bracing, Binding: Mufti-ply, Finish: Nitrocellulose. The sound is well-balanced with clarity and non-muddy bass response.
The bridge is original but has been modified by removing the wood adjustable saddle and installing a fixed bone in its place. This Gibson Hummingbird 1968 acoustic guitar is a true tone gem with nice open sound, great projection and warm tones. I would rate the cosmetic condition Fair to Good. This guitar was owned and played by a guitarist who in the CMA Awards band.
The head stock has quite a bit of wear. Like I mentioned earlier its an incredible playing guitar with exceptional tone. I've tried to take many pictures tell the story.