This is a beautifully preserved Gibson LG-3 from the early 1960s, presenting in excellent condition with all the character, sweetness and projection that makes these small bodied Gibsons so sought after. The LG-3 sat at the top end of Gibson’s small body lineup of the period, and its combination of a solid spruce top with mahogany back, sides and a one piece mahogany neck gives it a clear and soulful voice with surprising projection for its size. Recently set up by respected luthier Piers Crocker, it plays incredibly well with a light responsive feel that suits both fingerstyle and strumming.
The slope shoulder body measures 14.25" across the lower bout with a depth of 4.5", featuring X-braced construction and three ply top binding with single ply back binding. The dark Brazilian rosewood fingerboard carries pearl dot markers and the original medium jumbo frets which remain in great shape. The neck has a slender C-profile at the nut with a comfortable increase in depth as you move up the board, measuring .790" deep at the first fret and .930" at the ninth. Nut width is the original 1 9/16".
Other period correct features include the blackface headstock overlay with the decal logo, Kluson Deluxe double line tuners with plastic buttons, a long tortoise pickguard, rosewood bridge with white pins and a single ring rosette. The original natural nitro lacquer has matured beautifully with fine checking across the top, back and sides, giving the guitar a classic vintage look. There are a few very small chips but no significant dents or damage.
Tonally this LG-3 is lively, open and balanced. It has a clear percussive cut with excellent definition, a sweet and musical midrange and a defined warm bass. The trebles are punchy without being harsh and the overall response is quick and articulate. At just under 4lbs it is exceptionally resonant and very comfortable to hold. The setup is low and smooth across the entire neck with room left on the saddle for future adjustment. The original LG-3 factory stamp is still visible through the soundhole.
A lovely example of an early sixties LG-3 with great playability and tone, ready for studio or stage.
Comes in its original hard shell case.
Features:
Top: Solid spruce
Back: Mahogany
Sides: Mahogany
Bracing: X braced
Body Width: 14.25"
Body Depth: 4.5"
Scale Length: 24.75"
Fingerboard: Brazilian rosewood with pearl dots
Bridge: Rosewood with white pins
Tuners: Kluson Deluxe double line
Pickguard: Long tortoise
Finish: Natural nitro lacquer
Case: Original hard shell case
