Gibson Original Acoustic Instruments Creates Old Sound On Hip Alan Bibey Signature Mandolin

Gibson's Original Acoustic Instruments division joined forces with one of today's most influential contemporary bluegrass mandolinists and created the Alan Bibey Signature model. The instrument is based on Gibson's famous F-5 scroll-body design, but with many unique features.

"Ever since the first time I saw Bill Monroe play when I was five years old, I've wanted to play not only a mandolin, but a Gibson mandolin," said Bibey. "I'm thrilled and feel fortunate to now be a part of the Gibson family. My signature model is really a very hip-looking mandolin with the old sound. I love it and I've been playing a Loar for most of the last five years."

Bibey wanted the mandolin to have the classic looks and sound of a Loar, but with tortoiseshell binding and antique 'burst finish. Other special appointments include the old-style flowerpot headstock inlay, hand-engraved gold-plate hardware and a stained, unfinished neck, "so it feels wonderful in any kind of weather." Bibey specified a scalloped neck extension so the mandolin is player-friendly, even for those players who have a tendency to hit the extension with the pick. The ebony fingerboard has the classic dot inlay. The mandolin comes with a rectangular hardshell case.