Gibson J45 Acoustic Guitar

In the 1940′s Gibson introduced a round-shouldered big-bodied guitar with a mustache bridge, Adirondack Spruce top, Mahogany back and sides, and a great sunburst finish and called it the J45.

This was a really great guitar of the era, and because of the wildly popularity of re-issue vintage guitars, Gibson decided to bring back the J45 as part of their True Vintage line of guitars.

Guitar Features: 8.0 Stars

The Gibson True Vintage J45 is an acoustic guitar reproduction of the original J45′s that Gibson produced back in the first half of the 1940′s. The original guitars produced back then included premium Adirondack Red Spruce tops and back and sides constructed from mahogany. These new Vintage Reproduction models use the same Adirondack Red Spruce tops and Mahogany backs and sides.

Set up with premium Gotoh tuners, you obtain very smooth tuning action for this historically accurate reproduction guitar.

Because of its simplistic beauty, this guitar has been nicknamed “the workhorse”. If you are looking for a big-bodied acoustic guitar, with a big voice, this classic guitar will more than fill that bill.

Guitar Sound Production: 7.5

What you will obtain is that due to the use of the quality Mahogany backs and sides that are used on this model, it will produce very warm and inviting tone. The tone produced is very comparable to the Martin D-18, which is the closest competition. It still puts out a notable classic tone.

With the hand glued bracing for the top that is additionally hand scalloped, these are major factors that contribute to the tone quality of this classic reproduction guitar. Scalloping, is a process whereby the top tone bracing and structural bracing is modified in such a way to enhance the tone and volume characteristics of a guitar.

Guitar Action: 8.5

The moment that I picked up the guitar and played a few passages on it, I could tell that I loved the action. I would however, prefer to put light gage strings on this guitar. Also, to match my personal playing style, I would lower the strings just a touch, because I like a very low action.

Durability: 9.0

The Gibson J45 TV is very solid and well produced. When you first pick it up to play it, you can tell the guitar is very well created. The guitar top is braced well and can easily withstand the tension placed on it by medium gauge strings.

Please do NOT put heavy gage strings on this guitar. I found that the sustain from this guitar was somewhat good and without doubt measured up with solid wood instruments in the same price range.

If you have not owned a solid wood guitar before, be aware that they are very sensitive to humidity changes. The guitar was produced in a very controlled atmosphere and you should keep the guitar in those conditions to minimize stress and maintenance issues. A good humidifier for your room or home and guitar case is vital to minimize repair bills.

To keep the repairman away from your fine solid wood instrument, be sure to visit our page on Guitar Humidity Control, for great tips and recommendations on care of this guitar.

Overall Score: 8.6 Stars

The Gibson J45 True Vintage Special Edition is a fantastic sounding guitar just as it was when first produced back in the 1940′s. This guitar is not only a outstanding rhythm guitar but it can more than stand on its own as a fantastic flatpicking lead guitar as well.

I know, because, I am lucky enough to have one of the original J45′s produced in the 1940′s. It’s quite amazing that the new version of this  guitar has much of that same punch my original J45 – very impressive and it will only get better with age. The balance, tone and volume of this guitar are notable and as expected in a fantastic quality solid wood instrument.

So if you are in search for a fantastic solid wood guitar that will give you rich, warm, and full rhythm and lead tone, the J45 True Vintage may be just the guitar for you. Also, last and without doubt not least, this makes for a great fingerstyle guitar too.

Also, for a complete review, including complete specifications, photographs and purchase information, visit the article Gibson J45 Acoustic Guitar Review.

Are You Ready for This? Interested In Making A J45? Would you be interested in making your very own J45? Yes it is possible, with a fantastic plan you can build your very own J45 True Vintage from our very extensive, noted and dimensioned, full-size J45 acoustic guitar plans. Just visit our Plan Shop.