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Key Features
- Legendary J-160E design associated with classic recordings
- Solid Sitka spruce top with scalloped X bracing
- P-90 DC pickup with top-mounted volume and tone
- SlimTaper neck profile with Gibson hardshell case
Gibson J-160E Original, Vintage Sunburst Overview
The Gibson J-160E Original revives one of the most historically important acoustic electric guitars ever produced. First introduced in 1954, it became closely associated with The Beatles and remains one of the earliest Gibson acoustics designed from the outset for both acoustic and amplified performance. While its round shoulder body recalls the J-45 and Southern Jumbo, the J-160E places greater emphasis on its electrical voice. The Original model updates the formula with a solid Sitka spruce top and traditional scalloped X bracing, replacing the laminated construction of vintage examples for a fuller, more resonant acoustic response.
Solid mahogany back and sides add warmth and focus, while a SlimTaper mahogany neck offers a fast, comfortable feel. A rosewood fingerboard with pearloid trapezoid inlays completes the classic look. The P-90 DC pickup delivers the familiar P-90 character without unwanted hum, controlled via top-mounted master volume and tone knobs. Supplied in a Gibson hardshell case, the J-160E Original is equally suited to recording, rehearsal, songwriting, and confident stage performance with unmistakable vintage character.
Product Ref: 343959
Full Description
View Full DescriptionIconic dual purpose acoustic electric design
The J-160E Original was conceived from the outset as a genuine dual purpose instrument intended to function acoustically and electrically without compromise. Instead of retrofitting electronics later, Gibson engineered the guitar to prioritise amplified performance while retaining usable unplugged tone. This philosophy made it a landmark design on early broadcasts and in studio sessions where dependable amplified sound was essential to getting the sound and result required by the performer.
Updated acoustic construction for modern players
Vintage J-160E examples relied on laminated tops and ladder bracing, favouring amplified use over acoustic projection. The Original replaces that approach with a solid Sitka spruce top supported by traditional scalloped X bracing. This change improves balance, clarity, and dynamic range when played unplugged. Solid mahogany back and sides add warmth and focus, allowing the guitar to perform confidently across songwriting, recording, and acoustic performance roles without sacrificing its historic identity or amplified reliability.
Noise free P-90 DC pickup system
The onboard P-90 DC pickup delivers the midrange presence and clarity associated with classic P-90 designs while eliminating unwanted hum. Mounted through the top beneath the fingerboard, it connects to top mounted volume and tone controls for immediate adjustment. This layout provides consistent amplified tone for studio and stage use, preserving character while integrating easily into modern recording rigs and live sound systems without additional equipment or signal processing.
Comfortable playability with vintage character
A SlimTaper mahogany neck offers a fast approachable feel suited to players moving between electric and acoustic guitars. The rosewood fingerboard, bone nut, and pearloid trapezoid inlays reflect period correct styling, while Gotoh Keystone tuners maintain stable tuning. Supplied in a Gibson hardshell case, the J-160E Original remains protected during transport between rehearsal, recording sessions, and gigs.
Specifications
- Product Name: Gibson J-160E Original
- Product Code: OCRS16VS
Body
- Body shape: J-160
- Top material: Solid Sitka spruce
- Back and sides: Mahogany
- Binding: Multi-ply top, single-ply back and fretboard
- Finish: Vintage Sunburst
Neck & Fretboard
- Neck material: Mahogany
- Neck profile: SlimTaper
- Nut width: 1.725 in
- Fingerboard material: Rosewood
- Scale length: 24.75 in
- Frets: 20
- Inlays: Pearloid trapezoid
- Nut: Bone
Hardware & Electronics
- Bridge: Belly-up rosewood
- Tuners: Gotoh Keystone
- Plating: Nickel
- Pickup: P-90 DC
- Controls: Top-mounted master volume and tone
- Case: Gibson hardshell case
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