Gibson has made a significant announcement for guitar enthusiasts: the return of the ES-330 hollowbody electric guitar. This iconic model, often overshadowed by its more famous sibling, the ES-335, is finally back in production.
The ES-330’s History
First introduced in 1959, the ES-330 quickly gained a reputation for its unique sound and distinctive design. Equipped with a pair of Dogear P-90 pickups and a hollow-body construction, it offered a tonal palette distinct from other ES models.
Gibson has reintroduced the ES-330 classic thinline hollow-body electric guitar. This model features a lightweight three-ply Maple/Poplar/Maple body without a center block, allowing for exceptional plugged-in and unplugged resonance.
Finish Options
This model is available in Antique Natural, Tobacco Sunburst, Sixties Cherry nitrocellulose finishes, and a Gibson Store exclusive in Ebony.
The ES-330 features a mahogany neck with a comfortable, rounded C profile. The rosewood fretboard is adorned with small acrylic block inlays and 22 medium jumbo frets.
Key Features of the New ES-330
- Classic Design: The new ES-330 faithfully replicates the original design, featuring a thinline three-ply body, a Rounded C mahogany neck, and a rosewood fingerboard.
- Dogear P-90 Pickups: The iconic P-90 pickups provide a powerful and versatile tone suitable for various musical genres.
- Trapeze Tailpiece: The Trapeze tailpiece enhances the guitar’s classic aesthetic and contributes to its unique sound.
- Vintage-Inspired Hardware: Vintage Deluxe tuners and Black Top Hat control knobs further enhance the retro vibe of the ES-330.
Why the ES-330 is Making a Comeback
The ES-330’s resurgence is likely due to a combination of factors:
- Nostalgia: Guitar players who have long admired the ES-330’s classic design and sound are eager to own one.
- Unique Tone: The ES-330’s distinctive tonal characteristics offer something different from other hollow-body guitars on the market.
- Collector’s Item: As a limited-edition reissue, the Ebony ES-330 will likely become a sought-after collector’s item.
Guitar Bomb Verdict
Gibson’s decision to bring back the ES-330 is welcome for guitar enthusiasts who appreciate classic instruments with a unique sound. With its timeless design and powerful tone, the ES-330 will surely be a popular choice for players of all levels.
MSRP – $3499
- Available at Thomann in Sixties Cherry and Antique Natural finishes.
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2 thoughts on “Gibson ES-330 Returns: Classic Hollow-body Electric Guitar Reborn”
Why is the pickguard too short. Im sure you have looked at the details of the guitar. Other companies don’t do that sort of thing. Detail is important. The other companies have not changed ownership like Gibson so make it right and don’t save it for some over priced custom shop reissue.
The 330 was a student model that was discontinued because no one wanted one. It was the ES you settled for.
The resurgence is because someone found out the Beatles liked the feedback these guitars produced, and everybody had to have one.
The hysteria over these guitars is comical when you see one priced at $ 9000, and the next listing is for a fancy carved top Guild Artist Award for $7,000.
Vintage guitars are all stratospherically overpriced, anyway, but thousands of dollars for a student guitar?
Don’t get me wrong. I like the 330 but I could never afford one now. I’ve always liked them —- to play, not because John and Paul accidentally found out you could make them squeal.
Too bad. I’d like to have one.