Gibson Unveils the Songwriter Recording Artist: A Modern Take on a Dreadnought Classic
Discover the new Gibson Songwriter Recording Artist: a professional-grade dreadnought blending 1930s vintage specs with modern L.R. Baggs HiFi electronics.
First introduced in the 1990s, the Gibson Songwriter has long been a favorite for its unique square-shouldered dreadnought design. Now, Gibson is bringing it back and elevating it to professional-grade status with the all-new Gibson Songwriter Recording Artist.
Handcrafted in Bozeman, Montana, this new electro-acoustic guitar blends vintage 1930s construction techniques with modern appointments, resulting in an instrument specifically tailored for elite studio sessions and demanding live performances. Here is everything you need to know about Gibson’s latest acoustic powerhouse.
Where Vintage Tone Meets Modern Innovation
At the heart of the Songwriter Recording Artist is a recipe heavily inspired by the highly sought-after 1936 Advanced Jumbo. Gibson has paired a thermally aged Sitka Spruce top with solid Rosewood back and sides. This combination, joined by traditional hot hide glue via a compound dovetail joint, ensures maximum resonance and structural stability.
What truly sets this model apart is its longer 25.5” scale length combined with historic 1930s scalloped Advanced X-bracing. This gives the guitar a distinctively bright, resonant voice with powerful depth, strong harmonic overtones, and crystal-clear clarity that easily cuts through a dense recording mix.
Premium Hardware and Striking Aesthetics
Gibson didn’t hold back on the visual and functional appointments. The guitar features:
- A comfortable, round-profile Mahogany neck.
- An Ebony fingerboard adorned with stunning Mother-of-Pearl diamond eye inlays.
- Gold Grover open-back tuners and a premium bone nut.
- An Ebony bridge featuring Mother-of-Pearl arrow inlays.
- A wide, eye-catching Abalone rosette paired with a custom tortoise pickguard.
- The iconic Gibson logo and crown are proudly inlaid on the headstock.
Studio-Quality Sound on Stage
For the modern gigging musician, a great acoustic tone is only half the battle; amplifying it naturally is the other. Gibson has equipped the Songwriter Recording Artist with the L.R. Baggs HiFi system. Featuring dual bridge plate sensors and an internal preamp, this system offers exceptional string balance and high feedback resistance. The discreet soundhole-mounted controls allow you to tweak your sound on the fly while retaining a purely acoustic, dynamic amplified tone.
Options to Suit Every Player
Whether you are an aggressive strummer or a technical fingerpicker, there is a configuration for you. The model is available in two distinct body styles:
- Standard: The classic, full-bodied square-shoulder dreadnought.
- Cutaway (EC): Features a cutaway for effortless access to the upper frets.
Both versions are available in two gorgeous finishes: Antique Natural and Rosewood Burst.
At a Glance: Gibson Songwriter Recording Artist Specs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Square-Shouldered Dreadnought (Available with or without Cutaway) |
| Top Wood | Thermally Aged Sitka Spruce |
| Back & Sides | Solid Rosewood |
| Neck & Profile | Mahogany, Round Profile |
| Fingerboard | Ebony with Mother-of-Pearl Diamond Eye Inlays |
| Scale Length | 25.5" |
| Electronics | L.R. Baggs HiFi System |
| Finishes | Antique Natural, Rosewood Burst |
The Verdict
The Gibson Songwriter Recording Artist is a triumph of electro-acoustic design. It successfully bridges the gap between the booming, vintage character of a 1930s dreadnought and the reliability required by today's working professionals. Its deep voice, superior tonal range, and top-tier L.R. Baggs electronics make it a versatile workhorse that thrives under studio microphones and stage lights alike.
If you are a serious musician who demands a guitar that can do it all without compromising on that legendary Gibson tone, this is a worthy investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between the standard and the "EC" model?
A: The construction and materials are identical across both models. However, the "EC" stands for Electro-Cutaway, meaning it features a cutaway body design for easier access to the higher frets.
Q: Does the guitar come with a case?
A: Yes, the Songwriter Recording Artist comes securely packed in a road-worthy Gibson hardshell case.
Q: Where is the Gibson Songwriter Recording Artist made?
A: These guitars are handcrafted in Gibson's acoustic facility in Bozeman, Montana, USA.
Q: Is this guitar suitable for live performances?
A: Absolutely. Thanks to the built-in L.R. Baggs HiFi system, the guitar offers incredible feedback resistance and a highly natural amplified tone, making it perfect for the stage.
Q: What finishes are available?
A: You can choose between two classic finishes: Antique Natural and Rosewood Burst (available on both standard and cutaway models).
Pricing & Availability
Available at Andertons - Antique Natural Cutaway, Rosewood Burst Cutaway, Antique Natural, and Rosewood Burst. £4399 each Available at Sweetwater - Antique Natural Cutaway, Rosewood Burst Cutaway, Antique Natural, and Rosewood Burst. $4999 each Available at Thomann - Antique Natural Cutaway, Rosewood Burst Cutaway, Antique Natural, and Rosewood Burst €4999 each
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