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1999 Gibson L-5 Studio

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Serial #: 91399004, orange Custom Shop label.

Body size at lower bout: 17", Scale length: 25 1/2" Nut: 1 11/16"

Finish: Vintage sunburst finish, nitrocellulose lacquer type.

Materials: Solid quartersawn bookmatched carved spruce top; arched tiger-flame maple back and sides; solid tiger flame maple neck with walnut centerstripes; solid ebony fingerboard; solid bone nut.

Hardware: All original nickel hardware includes twin '57 Classic humbucking pickups, trapeze tailpiece with triple parallelogram crossbar, Grover Super Rotomatic tuners, compensated adjustable Tuneamatic bridge with inlaid foot; 5-ply bound marbled pickguard; black bell volume and tone controls; three-way pickup selector switch; adjustable truss rod.

Notes: The electric version of the L-5C, the L-5CES was introduced in 1951 as Gibson's top-line electric guitar. In 1996, responding to the demand for a popular priced alternative for the working player, Gibson introduced the L-5 Studio. Identical in design, bracing and scale to its spendy cousin, the L-5 Studio is also fitted with a solid carved spruce soundboard and solid ebony fingerboard, in the same fashion as the firm's most expensive instruments. Produced for just four model years, the L-5 Studio is now one of the rarest versions of Gibson's premier jazz guitar, and certainly the most affordable ever.

This handsome example is in great shape, with all original factory hardware and finish, and is without pick, buckle, thumb or fingerboard wear. The back, sides and neck show appealing figure in the richly flamed maple, and the bund tortoise pickguard is another upscale touch. Neck is a classic gentle "D" profile, neither too skinny nor overly full, with smooth low action over fine original medium jumbo frets. The tone is warm, rich and sweet, as befits an instrument of its distinguished pedigree. Apart from a few random lacquer dings, the guitar shows few signs of play altogether, and the traditional nickel plating is now nicely aged for a true vintage look .

A wonderful video of noted virtuoso Mark Whitfield playing his own L-5 Studio may be seen here. Gibson's gift to the gigging player, the L-5 Studio is a rare find, and a best buy in a true pro-featured L-5. One only: call now.

Setup: This instrument is strung with medium gauge flatwound nickel strings (.013-.056). The guitar will accommodate lighter or heavier gauge strings, according to preference. String action is set at 5/64" to 6/64" at the 12th fret, with moderate relief. The action may be lowered or raised to your requirements with the adjustable bridge.

Case: Original brown Gibson logo deluxe arched plush hardshell case.

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