Gibson Unveils the ’58 Addiction Explorer: Leo Scala’s Master Artisan Tribute to a “Badass” Legend

Dubbed the ’58 Addiction Explorers, this ultra-exclusive run comprises 10 one-of-a-kind custom instruments. Each guitar is a meticulous exploration of Korina wood, vintage-spec electronics, and the kind of “post-apocalyptic” aging that has made Scala a legend in the boutique world.

From “Flop” to Icon: The Evolution of the Explorer

When the Explorer debuted in 1958, it was far ahead of its time. Gibson originally produced only 19 models because the radical geometric design failed to capture the mainstream market.

“It didn’t work well at the time, and then it just caught up and became one of the most popular guitars ever made,” Scala explains. He describes the Explorer as a “badass instrument” that requires a specific persona to pull off—a sentiment echoed by legendary players like James Hetfield and The Edge.

Inside the ’58 Addiction Collection

The collection is divided into three distinct tiers of “Addiction,” ranging from “Heavy” to “Ultra,” plus three unique “Singles.” While all feature the classic Korina body and neck with hot-hide-glue construction, no two guitars are identical.

• Heavy Addiction (4 Models): These feature heavy aging, aged hardware, and custom-tinted finishes, so every guitar has a unique hue.

• Ultra Addiction (3 Models): These take the distress further, with the finish completely worn off the back of the neck for a smooth, “bare wood” feel.

• The Singles (3 Models): The crown jewels of the collection include:

  • The “Greeny” Style: A cherry-aged Explorer with out-of-phase wiring and a flipped neck pickup.

  • The Dark Addiction: A deep, amber-toned tribute inspired by “Big Ed,” a famous 1958 Explorer.

  • The Maestro Addiction: A “hot rod” creation featuring a custom-bent Maestro Vibrola, a metal pickguard, and aggressive Alnico 5 pickups.

Master-Level Specs

Scala hasn’t just aged these guitars; he’s re-engineered the playing experience.

• Pickups: Every humbucker is hand-wound by Scala using Alnico 2, 3, 4, or 5 magnets to match the “vibe” of the specific instrument.

• Wiring: True 50s wiring with VIP 550k pots and “phone book” capacitors ensures the signal remains clear even when the volume is rolled back.

• The Details: Each guitar comes with a custom-made leather strap from Spain, a form-fit G&G case with crushed velvet, and a metal “headstock” COA box.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Where can I buy the Leo Scala Master Artisan Explorers?

These guitars are available exclusively through the Gibson Garage in Nashville.

How much do they cost?

Prices for the Master Artisan Collection typically range from $25,000 to $40,000, reflecting their status as one-of-one playable art pieces.

What wood is used in the ’58 Addiction series?

True to the 1958 originals, these guitars are made from Korina (Limba), known for being lighter and more resonant than mahogany, offering more overtones and a “more open” sound.

Are the necks the same on all 10 guitars?

While they all feature the chunky ’58 profile, Leo Scala hand-rolls the fretboard edges and applies varying levels of finish wear to each, so every neck feels unique in the hand.

Our Thoughts

The Gibson and Leo Scala ’58 Addiction Explorer collection is more than just a tribute to a rare vintage guitar; it’s a celebration of lutherie as an art form. By combining the “badass” DNA of the original 1958 design with modern boutique craftsmanship, Scala has created 10 instruments that are destined to become as collectible as the guitars that inspired them.

For those with the “persona”—and the budget—to handle one, these Explorers represent the absolute pinnacle of the Gibson Custom Shop’s capabilities. If you like the Explore, then you’ll appreciate these. I’m not really a huge fan of relic guitars, but I do love a Korina Explorer!

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