Gibson S-1 Electric Guitars

Gibson S-1 Electric Guitars were manufactured from 1975 to 1979 and represented an attempt by Gibson to break into the single coil market dominated by the Fender Stratocaster. Three single coil pickups with a four-way selector switch and a two-way toggle allowed for both humbucking and non-humbucking combinations and several varieties of sounds, including sound profiles similar to the Fender single coil guitars. In spite of the similarity to the Stratocaster, though, Gibson S-1 electric guitars have their own unique sound and can be used for a wide variety of musical styles, including blues, traditional rock, metal, and country.

The S-1's maple body is similar to that of a Les Paul or a Gibson Marauder, which also featured single coil pickups. Several finishes were available in different issues of the guitar, including natural maple, ebony, and wine red. More finish options were available for the models issued in 1978 – the peak year of Gibson S-1 electric guitars. Depending on a model, the fingerboards can be either rosewood or maple and body features also include a bolt-on neck and large pick-guard.

In spite of endorsement from musicians like Carlos Santana, Ron Wood (who played for Rod Stewart, Jeff Beck, and the Rolling Stones) and Keith Richards, Gibson S-1 electric guitars never took off as well as Gibson had hoped in their original release, and the S-1 Guitars were discontinued in 1979.

In the years since though, these guitars have become more appreciated by players and collectors, giving this model of Gibson guitars the second life. Vintage Gibson S-1 electric guitars are considered a good find for Gibson collectors as well as professional and amateur guitarists. Many musicians are still using Gibson S-1 electric guitars with the original hardware as their go-to instrument for performances.

Gibson S-1 electric guitars represent yet another Gibson instrument that, while under-appreciated in its first release, has stood the test of time. Even nearly pristine S-1's can be found at a reasonable price, making this an excellent, solid guitar for any dedicated musician or a keen collector.

You can see current listings for Gibson S-1 Electric Guitars here: