Gibson changed their neck construction around 1969, moving from traditional one-piece mahogany to a stronger 3-piece laminate and then to 3-piece maple about 1974 for even greater strength. From roughly 1969, they added a so-called “volute” or carved heel to the back of the neck just below the point where it becomes the headstock – a sort of triangular thickening that theoretically reinforces a notorious weak spot. The volute lasted until about 1981.
Related Articles:
We Checked Out Mirador's Live Rigs
1
We Checked Out Mirador's Live Rigs
Kanto Audio Ora 4 Powered Bookshelf Speakers Overview
2
Kanto Audio Ora 4 Powered Bookshelf Speakers Overview
EVH Wolfgang Special Demo Starring Ben Eller
3
EVH Wolfgang Special Demo Starring Ben Eller
Explore the Best of Guitar Gallery – May 2026
4
Explore the Best of Guitar Gallery – May 2026
Tromana CL300 Student Clarinet Demo
5
Tromana CL300 Student Clarinet Demo
Tromana FL300 Student Flute Demo
6
Tromana FL300 Student Flute Demo
Top Portable/Battery-powered Amps of 2026
7
Top Portable/Battery-powered Amps of 2026
Best Bass Amps of 2026
8
Best Bass Amps of 2026
Inspiration. Information. Passion.
Being music makers ourselves, we love geeking out on all things gear. From the tweakiest techniques to the biggest ideas, our experts work hard to constantly supply inSync with a steady stream of helpful, in-depth demos, reviews, how-tos, news, and interviews. With over 28,000 articles and counting, inSync is your FREE resource for breaking news, reviews, demos, interviews, and more.