Explanation
Massive analysis of Gibson J-45 guitars from the 1940s to 1960s. The definitive J-45 teardown guide!
=============================================================
Gibson / 1956 J-45
"A rare example where the unseen parts transitioned"
1956 marked a transition not only for the pickguard but also for the internal bracing structure.
J-45s made before 1956 featured scalloped bracing, producing a bright, expansive sound. After 1956, the specification changed to non-scalloped bracing, resulting in the tight, powerful sound unique to the J-45.
—The quintessential J-45 tone...
The body top uses spruce and is finished in a color scheme called sunburst, where black, red, and yellow are sprayed to create a gradient effect.
A characteristic feature is the heavier application of black paint around the edges.
Mahogany with tight grain is used for the sides and back.
The natural finish allows you to appreciate the beautiful, evenly distributed grain of the mahogany.
The fingerboard is crafted from rosewood with a beautiful flowing grain.
The contrast of light and dark tones captivates the player.
The neck is crafted from mahogany. Its well-balanced thickness provides a comfortable feel without excessive bulk, fitting snugly in the hand.
The rosewood upper bout bridge features a short saddle, producing a crisp yet resonant sound that fills the entire body.
The pickguard specification changed from a small pickguard to a large pickguard starting in 1955.
The headstock features Gibson's silk-screen logo, with the headstock angle set at 17 degrees.
It is equipped with white-button Kluson triple-locking tuners.
There are filled screw holes on the neck back from a previous replacement.
The holes are larger than standard tuner bushings, suggesting it likely originally had Grover chromatic tuners.
This rare instrument, transitioning to non-scalloped bracing, possesses the distinctive sound characteristic of the J-45 models that followed.
It maintains exceptionally clean condition with no major crack repairs visible outside the soundhole area.
Transitional models hold significant rarity and popularity.
[Specs/Case]
TOP : Spruce
BACK/SIDES : Mahogany
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE：Rosewood
NECK：Mahogany
NUT WIDTH : 42mm
SCALE : 623mm
CASE : Non Original Hard Shell Case
[Condition]
- The overall crack lends this instrument a sense of maturity and gravitas.
- The sound is free of buzz or muffled notes, and it plays well.
-String height at 12th fret: 3.0mm (6th string side), 2.5mm (1st string side)
-Saddle relief: Approx. 2.0mm to 2.5mm
-Repaired crack: One on the upper right of the soundhole, one on the lower left of the back.
-Repaired peg holes from previous replacement.
-Strap pin added to the neck heel.
[Mail-Order Assurance Service]
Since mail-order sales do not allow customers to try the instrument beforehand, we offer a 6-day trial period after delivery.
You may thoroughly test the product at home. If you are not satisfied, we will refund the purchase price.
※ Return shipping costs are the customer's responsibility.
Payment & Security
Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store your credit card details or access your credit card information.
Warranty for Used Products
For detailed warranty terms, please visit:
Electric Guitars/Electric Bass/Effector/Amplifiers (Adjustment Warranty: Up to 5 years)
If your instrument malfunctions or stops producing sound after purchase, we will repair it free of charge.The warranty period varies by product.
Acoustic Guitars (Peace of Mind Warranty: Up to 6 months)
We will provide free service for defects arising from normal use for 1 or 6 months after purchase.
Wind Instruments (Up to 1 year)
Upon arrival, we clean the instrument’s interior, replace consumables as needed, and perform any necessary repairs and maintenance. If the instrument malfunctions or stops producing sound during normal use, we will provide free service.
◯There is no warranty on junk items.