Combines the best sonic performance features of the Les Paul and the ES-335.
For guitar players who are more accustomed to the slimmer lines and more compact dimensions of a solid body electric, the standard Gibson ES-335 can feel just a little large and unwieldy. So the Gibson Custom Shop has created the ES-339—an electric guitar that is built to the design ethos of its predecessor the ES-335, but is fashioned to proportions closer to those of the legendary Gibson solid bodies such as the Les Paul and SG. The Gibson ES-339 gently arched top with real F-holes, thinline semi-hollow body, solid maple center block to reduce feedback and enhance sustain, rounded symmetrical cutaways with unparalleled upper-fret access are all here, minus a little of the bulk and weight!
The Gibson ES-339 also has some exciting enhancements of its own including Memphis Tone electronics, the 30/60 slender neck profile, side-mounted output jack, and reduced dimensions and weight. With its vintage vibe and modern performance, the Gibson Custom ES-339 is a great all-around electric guitar for any style of music.
Body and Finish
The top, back and sides of the Gibson ES-339 are crafted with the same pressed-arch, laminated-maple with solid maple centerblock construction that was used by Gibson to produce the first ES-335 guitars 52 years ago, but the Gibson ES-339 guitar is made to more compact dimensions closer to those of Gibson's solidbody electric guitars. The Gibson ES-339 limited electric guitar comes in ebony or natural lacquer finishes.
Neck and Headstock
The Gibson Custom Shop ES-339's neck and headstock are made in the classic tradition of several great Gibson guitars, including that of its larger predecessor, the original ES-335. Carved from a single piece of quarter-sawn mahogany and topped with a rosewood fingerboard, the design incorporates Gibson's lauded 17-degree back-angled headstock, which contributes greatly to the electric guitar's resonance and sustain. Developed in assistance from guitar guru Jon Schwartz, the 30/60 slender neck is a '60s style neck with an extra .030" front-to-back to preserve the semi-hollowbody tone, sustain, and feel while providing smooth playability.
Pickups and Electronics
The Custom Shop ES-339 is equipped with pickups and electronics that accurately reflect the original units of the most desirable ES-335s ever made, but with performance enhancements to benefit today's player. A pair of 57 Classic pickups capture that highly sought-after "PAF" style tone, noted for its unparalleled blend of warmth, richness and clarity, while quality CTS potentiometers—wired with Gibson's Nashville Tone Circuit to maintain highs as you roll down the volume—and a Switchcraft selector and output jack translate the signal in pure vintage style. The output jack is mounted on the outer rim so the player is free from the cable crossing the body, spoiling the Gibson guitar's clean looks and getting in your way.