When Gibson Memphis set out to reissue the 1959 ES-330 TD, they went all in. They obtained an original ’59 and painstakingly measured, played, and listened to it in order to capture every possible detail for the reissue guitars. Having ’50s-correct specs was so important to Gibson that after digitizing the shape of the original, they even made new press plates for the reissue to totally nail it. Their efforts and dedication paid off and a classic guitar is reborn.
The fully hollow body starts with mahogany sides, tailblock, and headblock, and has a 3-ply maple/poplar/maple top and back. This combination creates a very resonant and lively sound while allowing the notes to fully bloom with impressive sustain. The mahogany neck has a maple spline to increase strength and stability, substantially decreasing the possibility of warping or twisting. The hand-selected dark rosewood fingerboard has a rounded binding, which gives the neck a smooth, supple feel. Add to that Gibson’s Plek Pro fret-optimization process for intonation and action and you have a guitar you’ll never want to put down.
After sampling many classic P-90 pickups, Gibson created the Memphis P-90 in the familiar “dog ear” shape, complete with period-correct black plastic covers, but the sound of these pickups is where the true beauty lies. Under-wound for true vintage sound, they have a wide tonal range from warm and silky to raucous and twangy, perfectly capturing and replicating the 1959 ES-330 TD’s vibe.
Three gorgeous, VOS (Vintage Original Spec) finishes are available for the Gibson Memphis 1959 ES-330 TD: Vintage Cherry, Vintage Natural, and as shown here in Vintage Burst. The nitrocellulose lacquer finish completes the VOS status of this finely crafted instrument.
Smokey jazz, stinging blues, the sounds of the British Invasion, and more are available to you courtesy of the Gibson Memphis 1959 ES-330 TD. Enjoy your place in the legacy of this excellent timepiece.
