The Gibson SGJ 2014 model is a true USA made dual-humbucker SG that you can get for under $500.
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At first I thought that this aggressive pricing will just bite into the Epiphone market, but judging from how well it is being received, it appears that Gibson’s gamble is paying off, attracting many players to finally own their first real Gibson.
This guitar is part of “Gibson’s 2014 New Model Year”, which have brought about some very interesting instruments in celebration of their 120th anniversary.
For its price, the new SGJ stays surprisingly true to the original SG design, albeit with a more stripped-down straightforward look. The classic twin-horn double-cutaway mahogany body is present, with contoured edges that add to playing comfort and appeal. Ornamental features like the pickguard and pickup covers are probably removed to save on production costs,
Instead of the standard mahogany neck, the SGJ sports a maple neck that is carved into a ’50s era slim profile. It is topped by a rosewood fingerboard, so you at least get the same feeling as you fret the strings. Nutwidth is 1.695 while fretboard radius is 12″. The guitar has 24 “Cryogenically Tempered” frets, which Gibson claims would no longer require fret jobs in one lifetime.
Traditional acrylic dot fret markers serve as your fretting hand guide, while the special 120th banner on the 12th fret makes it easier to distinguish this new Gibson SGJ from other models.
To ensure that the SGJ 2014 have acceptable tonal capabilities, Gibson equipped it with two ’61 Zebra humbuckers that utilize Alnico V magnets. The pickups are wired to a traditional 3-way pickup selector with independent volume and tone controls for each pickup.
The sound of these pickups are described as literally screaming, playing a vital role in getting so many players to like the current SGJ model. Checkout the new SGJ in action below:
Other features of the guitar include vintage style tuners with pearloid buttons, tune-o-matic bridge, stop bar tailpiece and max grip black speed knobs.
The Gibson SGJ 2014 is available in five satin finishes, including Vintage Sunburst, Cherry, Fireburst, Rubbed Vintage Sunburst and Chocolate. Because of the high demand for this guitar, it is currently retailing for the same price as its MSRP: $499, I even see some sellers that price certain finishes above the $500 mark! You can head over to Gibson for more information.
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