First introduced in 1959, the Gibson ES-330 was initially introduced as a replacement for the ES-225 single cut model manufactured by Gibson from the mid '50s. Though its popularity is often overshadowed by the semi-hollowbody models of the time like the ES-335, Gibson ES-330 guitars are fantastic and often fairly under appreciated, with a sound that is unique among vintage guitars. This 1966 model is a wonderful example of a '60s ES-330, constructed from a fully hollow Maple body, Mahogany neck and Rosewood fingerboard, with a tone that is among the more resonant and lively we have heard from these instruments.
The lack of a centre block gives this guitar a woody, acoustic resonance that when combined with the original P90 pickups gives a unique tone. The clean sound is warm and rich with plenty of dynamic response, while the growly sound when played driven tube amp gives an unmistakable '60s garage rock tone that is only really found on these guitars. This ES-330 features the original chrome hardware and pickup covers that were introduced in '65, along with a mother of pearl block inlay neck with the shorter 15th fret neck join found on these earlier models, and the slimmer nut width that would become commonplace from this year until the end of the decade. The pickups and electronics are original and function as they should, although all pot codes are obscured by solder. The double line Kluson tuners, nylon saddle wire bridge and, trapeze and reflector control knobs are also present and correct.
As with all vintage instruments, this 1966 ES-330 has been given a full service and appraisal by the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty.
