Sounds so good. I used to have my dad’s ‘65 LG-1 (I think). As a teenager, I learned to play on it, and it sounded terrible. My uncle, a luthier, eventually too it did his magic to it. Years later, we were on the phone and I mentioned that I had no guitar at home, just what the church had. He brought me over the Gibson. Still looked as beat up as I remembered, but when I played a chord, it was as if heaven opened. When we moved to Florida from Michigan, I wasn’t able to get the guitar down here with us on that trip. I planned to return home in a couple months and get the rest of our things from our house as it sat on the market. My brother went there to get my strat, and found that the Gibson had been stolen. It was a sad day.
There is something special about those vintage J45's. I was given my grandmothers (late 40's/early 50's) J45 (along with an early 60's J50) and it's the best sounding acoustic I've ever played. Yours has that same deep resonance. Don't put a pickguard on it...leave it as is and play it.
No vintage guitars, but I adore my '65 Fender Vibro Champ amp. That little amp sounds so incredible and has given me the itch for more vintage gear. I just don't have the vintage gear budget...
Nice. Very nice. I’m reviving a ‘56 J-50 that has varied and serious issues after suffering much neglect and abuse. But broken guitars and broken souls can be saved.
You could say it’s a holy guitar.... That is the best sounding acoustic I’ve ever heard...makes me miss my J-45 and it was only 2 years old when I sold it haha.
Man! Don’t let that one go! I have one of the new Gibson 50’s original Acoustics that I just got about a month ago and I love it! I also have a 1967 Gibson SG junior as one of my main electrics! Rock on Bryan!
Having a gibson guitar in Brazil is so expensive, that’s why I talked to a very known Luthier from here, I introduced the project of a Gibson J 45 and he accepted! After 1 year he has made an incredible Guitar inspired in J45 where he used the same type of woods and all the parts of it. I got very happy!
I know it’s a year later but if it were me I’d leave as it is. I just bought a 73’ J50 that I have not played and the seller has been not only helpful but very transparent about the guitar and it’s history. Mine has had an old headstock repair, neck reset, bridge reset, new bridge plate, cleated top crack new bone nut and saddle and recent refret job, It has a very woody tone and tons of player mojo from years of use. By all accounts a lot of guitar for the 750.00 I just paid for it. The seller stated that it truly is a good one and a super solid player, it’s condition and tone proves that it’s a keeper. I plan to do nothing but play it, oh it has an LR Baggs Anthem installed in it as well. Looking at yours and waiting for mine leaves me feeling rather anxious. That’s a beautiful J45 thanks for the share.
Played a 77 Guild D-25 solid mahogany guitar with the arch back and since I couldn’t purchase it otherwise keep it, I prayed for about 6 months before I feel I was genuinely lead to purchase the 2012 Guild D-120 I play today which has all the fantastic mojo the ‘77 had! So excited for you and your vintage journey! Best of luck!!!
That thing sounds amazing. Keep it vintage look 100%. It has that beautiful full sound of 60's and 70's records. It is warm and crisps, not to much high end. A nice bold round sound to it. Dude that would be one of the coolest hand me down gifts. That thing sounds just so beautiful.
Years ago I did back line for Jars of Clay. Their acoustic guitar player had a GIANT hole through the soundboard in the lower bout of his Taylor. (From being dropped). It sounded better and looked awesome!
It seems the resounding answer is leave it as is. I believe that if I could afford such a J-45 I’d leave it be. It has character along with it’s tone like Trigger (W.Nelson’s guitar).
I have a1982 Fullerton, first ever fender reissue of a 60s jazz bass made in the original factory on the original 60s machines. I can’t justify spending my money on expensive gear but my buddy was touring the states and picked me it up for $600. I had no idea what I’d got and when I did some research I found out it was worth $2500. The most beautiful playing jazz bass ever.
Just watched your video….beautiful guitar. I am very biased, I have her cousin a 61 J-50 with ADJ bridge still intact. I’ve had her since 72 and the one guitar I will never surrender. I saw you struggling to describe the magic between fingers and ears. There is no real way to describe the sound….it simply ‘IS’ her sound. You won’t find another like her….enjoy. I wish I could share the picture of mine for you.
I have a 1964 Gibson ES-175; it's an awesome jazz box. I also have a 60's Levin Goya acoustic (000-ish size) that's really quirky, full of rattles, but also unique and charming; it's not worth much so it doesn't seem worth selling. Both of them were bought for me by my parents at the recommendation of my guitar teacher from another of his students, who was quitting. We got both for $300. The Gibson is worth probably $5000-6000 now.
Thanks for this very cool video, and congrats on acquiring this beauty. For me it was Martins, then Taylor’s, then Martins. After playing 55 years I’m now solidly in the Gibson J-45 camp. My daughter-in-law inherited an early 60s Gibson acoustic that has that same phenomenal tone. Well done sir.
I have two Acoustic Guitars. An Alverez that I bought in 2004, but my other one is a Guild D25M that I bought brand new in 1975 so I guess that would qualify as vintage.
I’m gonna go against the crowd here and say put a pickguard on it. I think it’ll look much better and protect that bare wood. You can find period correct pickguards online and partially restore the guitar to its former glory.
that's the closest i've heard to the sound my 1966 J45 has. mine is a sunburst, but almost entirely faded, the last owner (i bought it around 1975) replaced the adjustable bridge - i wouldn't recommend doing this, if you don't like your guitar as is, buy one you do, i've come to appreciate i have some lovely guitars because other people have ruined them, but really, keep it original, please) and i've never been happy with the replacement bridge design, the pick guard on mine also flew off about a year or so after i got it, and although it's left quite noticeable marks, i don't really mind, it looks great anyway and it sounds really similar to yours here. a note about adjustable bridges, i can see once the guitar is set up they are a waste, but i also have a 1969 epiphone texan (another guitar i got real cheap cos someone else ruined it) with an adjustable bridge, it's every bit as good as the J45, different, but the bass notes really resonanate, so taking an adjustable bridge off cos "it ruins the sound" is a myth in my opinion. that's one gorgeous guitar you have there, even with that bbig hole it looks lovely, i would keep it just as it is, especially with that sound, it's like drawing up at the traffic lights in a beat up 54 ford next to a prsche 911 and beating it off the lights.
Awesome Brian!! Lol man if you should see some of my comments on a few of your other videos.. I've ALWAYS only played Gibson acoustics. (I only play acoustic) I learned to play on my Dads '58 Gibson J45.. I have several top of the line or High end Gibsons . I now own that '58 J45 that was my dads, as he has Graduated to Glory and is resting in Paradise! I also have a '96, J45 and a '15, J45.. Anyway, to my point (lol) I never thought I'd ever play anything other than a Gibson.. but after years and years and countless hours of playing along with you, I really began to fall in love with your Martin D-35!! Anyone that knows me gets how really weird that sounds. 😂 So, 5 days ago..(4-17-20) I bought a new Martin D-35!! And its absolutely incredible!! I won't be playing any of my Gibson's any time soon. Seeing you play a Gibson sorta looks as weird as me playing a Martin. Haha! That J-45 does sound great though!! I love my "Vintage" '58 Gibson J-45 but I'm more of a newer the better kind of guy. Anyway, just wanted to share that with you. This comment is way to long so you probably won't read it anyway. Haha! Also wanted to say I've followed you or your channel for years and years. I first found you by looking up Takamine FP360 back when you was still playing that guitar
Congratulations on the new “old” purchase! I wouldn’t worry about the hole! Gives it character - looks like a younger cousin of Willie Nelsons acoustic called Trigger!
One of my favorite vids you have done! Loved just hangin with you and talking guitar and playing a cool GIBSON vintage! Don't replace the pick guard. Ask a luthier if you need to seal the raw wood. It might be cool to make the pickguard area a signing area for your favorite musicians when you meet them or have them as guests or burn your favorite verses there would be cool too. I NEEDED a late 1950s Southern Jumbo or J-45 with a fat neck (prefer modified V, but need thicker than .87 at the first fret) and after playing many for years trying to find one with a balanced sound, yadah, yadah, yadah... Gibson made a limited run of EXACT copies of a guitar they called officially "Custom Late 1950's Reissue Southern Jumbo Triburst with a Fat Neck 1 of 60".... how fast can I give them my $ yes I got it. Weird thing about Gibson and their re-issues is some are modified/similar reissues and some are exact reissues. Gibson just does quirky, but I think they do quirky well. I have a very incomplete list of different model J-45s and it is looooooong but to me it is so cool to be able to have played atleast 20 differently built J-45s on my quest for the perfect J-45 or Southern Jumbo! So, I know this is slightly off of vintage, but getting a Gibson that is a close or exact copy of the era and style you want, but brand-spankin-new with no problems is just as cool or cooler than finding a vintage you want. So, my only problems with the EXACT copy I got is bc I have never played a late 1950s J-45 or SJ that did not have alot of work done to it I did not realize that tho that is a loved era the owners hated the skinny short frets (and replace with jumbos) and the neck angle was set a little further back than nowadays and while the nut is bone the saddle and end pins are crappy plastic. So, I replaced end pins with bone, saddle is compensated bone and the frets are going to be replaced with jumbos and the neck might need a reset (which is a bummer). But as it stands now it is one of the most beautiful sounding guitars I have ever played. It is VERY mid toned and crazy even sounded, but really lovely. All of my pro buddies want it for a studio guitar. FYI, I'd love to see some tutorials on Dusting Kensrue songs (Consider The Ravens, Blanket of Ghosts, Of Crows and Crowns, Grace Alone, What Beautiful Things, Back to Back and Steve Moakler songs All the Faint Hearts, Holiday at Sea. I wish you would put your tutorial play throughs on Spotify so we could listen to your version to memorize because I like to memorize your versions because I play your versions and honestly you sing and play them alone with your guitar best to my ears ;-P God Bless!
Tone is incredible brother. Keep it as is. I was blessed to receive a 1950’s Sears Roebuck geetar from an old friend. Only thing is it’s so warped I can only play open till the 7th fret before it starts twangin’ lol. Nonetheless what I’m able to play out of it has a warm tone that I’ve never had with newer guitars. Yours is a gem, praise Jesus! And congratulations 🎊
Don't let the idea of putting a pickguard on it in an attempt to increase it's value and resell it become the reason to pass it on to someone else. It came to you with all the necessary enhancements to make it sound like it does. Don't change it and don't sell it. When the time is right, gift it to someone that will truly appreciate this gift. I have a set of early Japanese Ibanez, 6 string and 12 string German spruce topped Artwoods, made in the competitive era with Martins and Gibsons that sound too good to sell. Good luck choosing the right move.
Over the years I've had a few vintage guitars, 62 LP Jr, "74 Strat, Early 70's Tele custom, and a "78 LP. I find that vintage is hit or miss. Some are great some are less so. Personally I'd rather just try out different guitars and if it plays and sounds great then I'm a fan regardless of the year or make. That acoustic sounds very nice. Glad you found one you liked!
@@guitarandstuff8265 Could be. Like I said, some are hit and miss. I enjoyed the ones I've had, but I'm just as satisfied with the newer guitars I have as well. I just love a guitar that plays and sounds well regardless of age or make.
I have a 1960 Gibson Country Western, which is essentially a J45 with a natural finish top. I’m wondering what the serial number is of your guitar. When I bought my CW I didn’t think it had a SN. However a closer inspection revealed a stamped number on the headstock block inside the guitar. I bought mine at Old Towne in Portland Oregon. Paid a better than fair price. Guitar is all original. Since owning it I changed the tuners installing exact replicas. If I sell it the originals go with the guitar. Because The replacement tuners are exact, I did not need to make any modifications. Other than that everything else is original. I’m surprised that your guitar’s vintage employed the adjustable saddle which on my guitar model, that feature was not used until the mid sixties. That’s why I’m curious about your S/N. The thing that most attracted me to the guitar is that the neck profile is very very slim. In fact I have never experience an acoustic guitar with such a slender neck profile. May I ask you to describe the neck profile of yours? Fred
Love it, has a great mojo and tone. And bravo on the micing, really brought it into the room with me. Double sound holes, man....you gotta pay more for those custom features nowadays.
Just the way I am, I'd have to put another pickguard on it. Just to give it some extra protection and it wouldn't change the sound. It would also look better. I know most people wouldn't, but it just looks unfinished to me which would be enough to make me do it.
I wouldn’t add a pick guard - it sounds great and looks cool, don’t mess with it. It might make the too less responsive and what’s the worst you’re gonna do, put a hole in it?
Its cool either way!!! If it was mine Id probably have the hole fixed and put an old batwing or custom pickguard back on it, maybe even one of those scroll etched style ones or a wooden one, to completely cover the damage. But I'm not a purist when it comes to antiques. The damage does add to the character abd man it sounds sweet as is wish my masterbilt sounded like that!
i got a 1970'S BOEING ACOUSTIC 12 String guitar. Nice sound but a bit battered. i also have a Nippon Gakki Yamaha Red Label FG-230 Vintage 12-String Acoustic Guitar also very old. Fixed the top of the neck. i cant really play 12 string but the sound is very sweet
The LR Baggs Anthem product is just fine, but I'm not sure why it seems like everyone's default go to. Why someone would put that much hardware and weight inside a responsive and lightly built guitar is something I question, especially with a vintage acoustic. There are lots of other options out there, especially with current IR technology out there.
Pickguard : the original Gibson pickguards were often very fat, many players like the tone better after flipping it. But ask a luthier about keeping the guitar without one : he will probably advise not to do so, in order to protect this instrument from all kind of agressions. A mid term may be to put a thin and clear one ?
You may want to get a little creative with the Anthem with respect to setting the Anthem on the sound board.. As you know, anything on the soundboard, will dampen your tone a bit. For a "Live" playing guitar, that's no big deal, the Anthem/loss is well worth it. For a studio guitar, you'd think twice. I was talking to a sales rep, he told me once the % drop but I don't remember. It was well less than 10%.. Congrats on the purchase.. Sounds great.
Are you 100%, confirmed info dead-band certain that this guitar has been refinished? The red pigment Gibson used in their sunbursts was often unstable and faded out , especially in the late 50s and early 60s - what you refer to as a "natural" sunburst may well be the ghost of the original sunburst finish. Go seek out "sunburst" and "tea burst" Gibsons for comparison. I love it, personally, though I will confess I would be sorely tempted to find a really nice, thin, reddish-brown batwing 'guard. It is a lovely instrument with a certain something to the tone that the flatter, unscalloped bracing of that era gives, maybe a touch more note separation and clarity. I dig it.
I have a 1955 J 50 and they are great guitars. If you leave the guard off as you use a pick you may and will start wearing the wood down from strumming so keep that in mind. That hole would case me concern. You don’t want it looking like Willies Trigger. The pick guard is not going to change the tone.
Congrats on your lovely vintage Gibson J45. What a life this guitar has had. To get down to brass tacks. Yes, if it were me I'd definitely fit a new pick-guard (or even a vintage one, if available), your guitar looks just too shabby at present without one. It started life with one, so why not dress it back up? Also the pick-guard serves a purpose, to protect the top! And this guitar looks pretty dried out, seriously light-weight and fragile. My only reservation would be to get one as thin as practical because large pick-guards CAN affect the tone, not always in a good way. Think of J180's. I'd remove the under saddle pick up too, right away, and have a clean transition between the bone nut and bridge. Otherwise leave everything else, as long as the intonation is good, you're happy, it plays easily, and has a good strong case. It's a beautiful guitar that anyone would be proud to own, play, and show off! Tone is subjective, but experiment comprehensively with different picks and strings, especially with old guitars, they need as much fussing over as they deserve (after all, they're oldies-but goldies!). You are right about many vintage guitars being hit and miss. But find a good one and there is no price you can put on age and vibe.
Don't put the Pickguard on. Every guitar has a story and it's lack of Pickguard is its story..
Exactly!
ya, shes beautiful leave her as she is.. sounds like shes got a story to tell too
Never change it. It gives the guitar life that others can’t compete with
Man that sounds insanely good. Cheers dude.
Sounds so good. I used to have my dad’s ‘65 LG-1 (I think). As a teenager, I learned to play on it, and it sounded terrible. My uncle, a luthier, eventually too it did his magic to it. Years later, we were on the phone and I mentioned that I had no guitar at home, just what the church had. He brought me over the Gibson. Still looked as beat up as I remembered, but when I played a chord, it was as if heaven opened.
When we moved to Florida from Michigan, I wasn’t able to get the guitar down here with us on that trip. I planned to return home in a couple months and get the rest of our things from our house as it sat on the market. My brother went there to get my strat, and found that the Gibson had been stolen. It was a sad day.
A vintage J45 is my dream acoustic. Fell in love with one probably 15 years ago and every vintage one I've played is fantastic. Congratulations!
There is something special about those vintage J45's. I was given my grandmothers (late 40's/early 50's) J45 (along with an early 60's J50) and it's the best sounding acoustic I've ever played. Yours has that same deep resonance. Don't put a pickguard on it...leave it as is and play it.
Woww! The sound of the guitar is so good who else are agree with me 🙋
Amom Thomas, Gibson and Martin make some of the best sounding comercial acoustics on the market.
Yes!
Sounds dull with overtones in all the wrong places to me.
No vintage guitars, but I adore my '65 Fender Vibro Champ amp. That little amp sounds so incredible and has given me the itch for more vintage gear. I just don't have the vintage gear budget...
Nice. Very nice. I’m reviving a ‘56 J-50 that has varied and serious issues after suffering much neglect and abuse. But broken guitars and broken souls can be saved.
Unbelievable sound, you are a lucky guy!
Leave it like it is. You don’t want anything that might change that sound.
Thank you for posting.
I hope my J-45, somewhere in the realm of 10 years old now, sounds as great as this one does in many years. Love it!
You could say it’s a holy guitar....
That is the best sounding acoustic I’ve ever heard...makes me miss my J-45 and it was only 2 years old when I sold it haha.
Man! Don’t let that one go! I have one of the new Gibson 50’s original Acoustics that I just got about a month ago and I love it! I also have a 1967 Gibson SG junior as one of my main electrics! Rock on Bryan!
Having a gibson guitar in Brazil is so expensive, that’s why I talked to a very known Luthier from here, I introduced the project of a Gibson J 45 and he accepted!
After 1 year he has made an incredible Guitar inspired in J45 where he used the same type of woods and all the parts of it.
I got very happy!
Looks so gnarly without the pick-guard ! Leave it off !
I know it’s a year later but if it were me I’d leave as it is. I just bought a 73’ J50 that I have not played and the seller has been not only helpful but very transparent about the guitar and it’s history. Mine has had an old headstock repair, neck reset, bridge reset, new bridge plate, cleated top crack new bone nut and saddle and recent refret job, It has a very woody tone and tons of player mojo from years of use. By all accounts a lot of guitar for the 750.00 I just paid for it. The seller stated that it truly is a good one and a super solid player, it’s condition and tone proves that it’s a keeper. I plan to do nothing but play it, oh it has an LR Baggs Anthem installed in it as well. Looking at yours and waiting for mine leaves me feeling rather anxious. That’s a beautiful J45 thanks for the share.
Played a 77 Guild D-25 solid mahogany guitar with the arch back and since I couldn’t purchase it otherwise keep it, I prayed for about 6 months before I feel I was genuinely lead to purchase the 2012 Guild D-120 I play today which has all the fantastic mojo the ‘77 had!
So excited for you and your vintage journey! Best of luck!!!
That thing sounds amazing. Keep it vintage look 100%. It has that beautiful full sound of 60's and 70's records. It is warm and crisps, not to much high end. A nice bold round sound to it. Dude that would be one of the coolest hand me down gifts. That thing sounds just so beautiful.
I too enjoy watching Luthiers doing what they do best!
Years ago I did back line for Jars of Clay. Their acoustic guitar player had a GIANT hole through the soundboard in the lower bout of his Taylor. (From being dropped). It sounded better and looked awesome!
Price, Brand, year doesn't matter, its the connection you have with your instrument and how it inspires you. Nice guitar Brian!
This is one of the years that the bridge had a plastic and metal bridge I’m glad they replaced it for you…if this was mine I’d be proud to own it
Beautiful guitar, i have 2016 j 45 and i did small dent on it , now i see your i don’t mine anymore beautiful sound
It seems the resounding answer is leave it as is. I believe that if I could afford such a J-45 I’d leave it be. It has character along with it’s tone like Trigger (W.Nelson’s guitar).
I have a1982 Fullerton, first ever fender reissue of a 60s jazz bass made in the original factory on the original 60s machines. I can’t justify spending my money on expensive gear but my buddy was touring the states and picked me it up for $600. I had no idea what I’d got and when I did some research I found out it was worth $2500. The most beautiful playing jazz bass ever.
Man this is melt my heart that sound i can feel it....!!
Just watched your video….beautiful guitar. I am very biased, I have her cousin a 61 J-50 with ADJ bridge still intact. I’ve had her since 72 and the one guitar I will never surrender. I saw you struggling to describe the magic between fingers and ears. There is no real way to describe the sound….it simply ‘IS’ her sound. You won’t find another like her….enjoy. I wish I could share the picture of mine for you.
I have a 1964 Gibson ES-175; it's an awesome jazz box. I also have a 60's Levin Goya acoustic (000-ish size) that's really quirky, full of rattles, but also unique and charming; it's not worth much so it doesn't seem worth selling. Both of them were bought for me by my parents at the recommendation of my guitar teacher from another of his students, who was quitting. We got both for $300. The Gibson is worth probably $5000-6000 now.
This is a gorgeous guitar! The lack of pick guard is certainly part of its charm :)
Thanks for this very cool video, and congrats on acquiring this beauty. For me it was Martins, then Taylor’s, then Martins. After playing 55 years I’m now solidly in the Gibson J-45 camp. My daughter-in-law inherited an early 60s Gibson acoustic that has that same phenomenal tone. Well done sir.
I would have done the same. there was no need to try it before. It sounds incredible and that vintage look left me slimy. greetings from Chile
Gibson J45 is a dream guitar of mine, vintage on top of that. Im jealous! Sounds amazing, congrats on the find
Thanks for the shoutout! I love that guitar man looks and sounds so good! I’m stoked to have it in good hands...I know you’ll put it to good use 🤘🏼
Thanks Jordan! And thanks again for helping me so much with this one.
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR INSPIREING US TO MAKE A UA-cam CHANNEL!! YOUR THE BEST MAN!!!
I have a 1960 J50. Can't wait for the IR!
I have two Acoustic Guitars. An Alverez that I bought in 2004, but my other one is a Guild D25M that I bought brand new in 1975 so I guess that would qualify as vintage.
Leave it like that brother... it gives beautiful tone.
I left the bridge on mine. I love the attack of the ceramic bridge, a it stays in tune all over the neck.
I’m gonna go against the crowd here and say put a pickguard on it. I think it’ll look much better and protect that bare wood. You can find period correct pickguards online and partially restore the guitar to its former glory.
Wow, what a stunning guitar. I agree with other comments to refrain from putting a pickgaurd back on. You could be disappointed with the sound.
NO NEW PICK GUARD. That thing sounds amazing. The missing guard and the whole only makes it cooler
Just got me a j45 and I love it. Good purchase. Sounds good. Wouldn't change much.got good sound.
Where’d you get your j45? Was it new or used?
that's the closest i've heard to the sound my 1966 J45 has. mine is a sunburst, but almost entirely faded, the last owner (i bought it around 1975) replaced the adjustable bridge - i wouldn't recommend doing this, if you don't like your guitar as is, buy one you do, i've come to appreciate i have some lovely guitars because other people have ruined them, but really, keep it original, please) and i've never been happy with the replacement bridge design, the pick guard on mine also flew off about a year or so after i got it, and although it's left quite noticeable marks, i don't really mind, it looks great anyway and it sounds really similar to yours here. a note about adjustable bridges, i can see once the guitar is set up they are a waste, but i also have a 1969 epiphone texan (another guitar i got real cheap cos someone else ruined it) with an adjustable bridge, it's every bit as good as the J45, different, but the bass notes really resonanate, so taking an adjustable bridge off cos "it ruins the sound" is a myth in my opinion. that's one gorgeous guitar you have there, even with that bbig hole it looks lovely, i would keep it just as it is, especially with that sound, it's like drawing up at the traffic lights in a beat up 54 ford next to a prsche 911 and beating it off the lights.
I wouldn't put a pickguard on it just tells a story of its own and without it and the imprint from the pickguard being there shows it history.
Leave the pick guard off. Great character!
Leave that thing alone cosmetically! It's scars give it individual significance. Great find!
Awesome Brian!! Lol man if you should see some of my comments on a few of your other videos.. I've ALWAYS only played Gibson acoustics. (I only play acoustic) I learned to play on my Dads '58 Gibson J45.. I have several top of the line or High end Gibsons . I now own that '58 J45 that was my dads, as he has Graduated to Glory and is resting in Paradise! I also have a '96, J45 and a '15, J45..
Anyway, to my point (lol) I never thought I'd ever play anything other than a Gibson.. but after years and years and countless hours of playing along with you, I really began to fall in love with your Martin D-35!! Anyone that knows me gets how really weird that sounds. 😂 So, 5 days ago..(4-17-20) I bought a new Martin D-35!! And its absolutely incredible!! I won't be playing any of my Gibson's any time soon.
Seeing you play a Gibson sorta looks as weird as me playing a Martin. Haha! That J-45 does sound great though!! I love my "Vintage" '58 Gibson J-45 but I'm more of a newer the better kind of guy. Anyway, just wanted to share that with you. This comment is way to long so you probably won't read it anyway. Haha! Also wanted to say I've followed you or your channel for years and years. I first found you by looking up Takamine FP360 back when you was still playing that guitar
What a beautiful guitar and even the pick guard hole make sounds great!
Congratulations on the new “old” purchase! I wouldn’t worry about the hole! Gives it character - looks like a younger cousin of Willie Nelsons acoustic called Trigger!
One of my favorite vids you have done! Loved just hangin with you and talking guitar and playing a cool GIBSON vintage! Don't replace the pick guard. Ask a luthier if you need to seal the raw wood. It might be cool to make the pickguard area a signing area for your favorite musicians when you meet them or have them as guests or burn your favorite verses there would be cool too. I NEEDED a late 1950s Southern Jumbo or J-45 with a fat neck (prefer modified V, but need thicker than .87 at the first fret) and after playing many for years trying to find one with a balanced sound, yadah, yadah, yadah... Gibson made a limited run of EXACT copies of a guitar they called officially "Custom Late 1950's Reissue Southern Jumbo Triburst with a Fat Neck 1 of 60".... how fast can I give them my $ yes I got it. Weird thing about Gibson and their re-issues is some are modified/similar reissues and some are exact reissues. Gibson just does quirky, but I think they do quirky well. I have a very incomplete list of different model J-45s and it is looooooong but to me it is so cool to be able to have played atleast 20 differently built J-45s on my quest for the perfect J-45 or Southern Jumbo! So, I know this is slightly off of vintage, but getting a Gibson that is a close or exact copy of the era and style you want, but brand-spankin-new with no problems is just as cool or cooler than finding a vintage you want. So, my only problems with the EXACT copy I got is bc I have never played a late 1950s J-45 or SJ that did not have alot of work done to it I did not realize that tho that is a loved era the owners hated the skinny short frets (and replace with jumbos) and the neck angle was set a little further back than nowadays and while the nut is bone the saddle and end pins are crappy plastic. So, I replaced end pins with bone, saddle is compensated bone and the frets are going to be replaced with jumbos and the neck might need a reset (which is a bummer). But as it stands now it is one of the most beautiful sounding guitars I have ever played. It is VERY mid toned and crazy even sounded, but really lovely. All of my pro buddies want it for a studio guitar. FYI, I'd love to see some tutorials on Dusting Kensrue songs (Consider The Ravens, Blanket of Ghosts, Of Crows and Crowns, Grace Alone, What Beautiful Things, Back to Back and Steve Moakler songs All the Faint Hearts, Holiday at Sea. I wish you would put your tutorial play throughs on Spotify so we could listen to your version to memorize because I like to memorize your versions because I play your versions and honestly you sing and play them alone with your guitar best to my ears ;-P God Bless!
I love your guitar’s tone. I’m a J45 person.
No pick guard
I've got a 60s j45 and we will never part ways. The good ones sound great. I'd Leave yours just the way it is.
Leave her like she is. She's gorgeous!
Wow that sounds incredible congratulations!!
No pick guard! She's a beaut just how it is.
Tone is incredible brother. Keep it as is. I was blessed to receive a 1950’s Sears Roebuck geetar from an old friend. Only thing is it’s so warped I can only play open till the 7th fret before it starts twangin’ lol. Nonetheless what I’m able to play out of it has a warm tone that I’ve never had with newer guitars. Yours is a gem, praise Jesus! And congratulations 🎊
I really dig it. It's perfect just the way it is!!!
I have the K&K system on my vintage. It is also a great pickup+preamp unit. Great looking character! hope you got a great deal on it too!
Incredible sound! It tells a story!
Don't let the idea of putting a pickguard on it in an attempt to increase it's value and resell it become the reason to pass it on to someone else. It came to you with all the necessary enhancements to make it sound like it does. Don't change it and don't sell it. When the time is right, gift it to someone that will truly appreciate this gift. I have a set of early Japanese Ibanez, 6 string and 12 string German spruce topped Artwoods, made in the competitive era with Martins and Gibsons that sound too good to sell. Good luck choosing the right move.
That’s such a nice Guitar, thank you so much for your information about it!
Over the years I've had a few vintage guitars, 62 LP Jr, "74 Strat, Early 70's Tele custom, and a "78 LP. I find that vintage is hit or miss. Some are great some are less so. Personally I'd rather just try out different guitars and if it plays and sounds great then I'm a fan regardless of the year or make.
That acoustic sounds very nice. Glad you found one you liked!
70s strats and les Paul's are notorious for being trash.
@@guitarandstuff8265 Could be. Like I said, some are hit and miss. I enjoyed the ones I've had, but I'm just as satisfied with the newer guitars I have as well.
I just love a guitar that plays and sounds well regardless of age or make.
I have a 1960 Gibson Country Western, which is essentially a J45 with a natural finish top. I’m wondering what the serial number is of your guitar. When I bought my CW I didn’t think it had a SN. However a closer inspection revealed a stamped number on the headstock block inside the guitar. I bought mine at Old Towne in Portland Oregon. Paid a better than fair price. Guitar is all original. Since owning it I changed the tuners installing exact replicas. If I sell it the originals go with the guitar. Because The replacement tuners are exact, I did not need to make any modifications. Other than that everything else is original. I’m surprised that your guitar’s vintage employed the adjustable saddle which on my guitar model, that feature was not used until the mid sixties. That’s why I’m curious about your S/N. The thing that most attracted me to the guitar is that the neck profile is very very slim. In fact I have never experience an acoustic guitar with such a slender neck profile. May I ask you to describe the neck profile of yours? Fred
Love it, has a great mojo and tone. And bravo on the micing, really brought it into the room with me.
Double sound holes, man....you gotta pay more for those custom features nowadays.
Just an amazing guitar wooooow lucky better say blessed
Noooooo!!! No pickguard! That thing looks soo awesome and has soo much character it would be a shame to coer it up.
No to the pickguard. That is a fantastic look for a vintage J45.
Guitars mature like wine
Just the way I am, I'd have to put another pickguard on it. Just to give it some extra protection and it wouldn't change the sound. It would also look better. I know most people wouldn't, but it just looks unfinished to me which would be enough to make me do it.
I wouldn’t add a pick guard - it sounds great and looks cool, don’t mess with it. It might make the too less responsive and what’s the worst you’re gonna do, put a hole in it?
Holy Gibson
SOUNDS SOOOOOOOOOO GOOD
Sounds beautiful!!
Do the pickguard! Tortoise shell with that SJ or Country Western pickguard shape. The red in the shell pickguard accents the mahogany back and sides!
Its cool either way!!! If it was mine Id probably have the hole fixed and put an old batwing or custom pickguard back on it, maybe even one of those scroll etched style ones or a wooden one, to completely cover the damage. But I'm not a purist when it comes to antiques. The damage does add to the character abd man it sounds sweet as is wish my masterbilt sounded like that!
Sounds amazing
What microphone are you using to record the guitar in the video? Amazing sound and beautiful J45!
Sounds Great! Sounds Anointed!
i got a 1970'S BOEING ACOUSTIC 12 String guitar. Nice sound but a bit battered. i also have a Nippon Gakki Yamaha Red Label FG-230 Vintage 12-String Acoustic Guitar also very old. Fixed the top of the neck. i cant really play 12 string but the sound is very sweet
I was watching this exact guitar on reverb. And then one day it was gone! Looks like a missed a good one.
How much was it?
The LR Baggs Anthem product is just fine, but I'm not sure why it seems like everyone's default go to. Why someone would put that much hardware and weight inside a responsive and lightly built guitar is something I question, especially with a vintage acoustic. There are lots of other options out there, especially with current IR technology out there.
Pickguard : the original Gibson pickguards were often very fat, many players like the tone better after flipping it.
But ask a luthier about keeping the guitar without one : he will probably advise not to do so, in order to protect this instrument from all kind of agressions.
A mid term may be to put a thin and clear one ?
You may want to get a little creative with the Anthem with respect to setting the Anthem on the sound board.. As you know, anything on the soundboard, will dampen your tone a bit. For a "Live" playing guitar, that's no big deal, the Anthem/loss is well worth it. For a studio guitar, you'd think twice. I was talking to a sales rep, he told me once the % drop but I don't remember. It was well less than 10%.. Congrats on the purchase.. Sounds great.
No on the pick guard!
It sounds great!
I would probably leave it. Putting a pick gaurd would slightly change the tone not by much but it would sound different.
Are you 100%, confirmed info dead-band certain that this guitar has been refinished? The red pigment Gibson used in their sunbursts was often unstable and faded out , especially in the late 50s and early 60s - what you refer to as a "natural" sunburst may well be the ghost of the original sunburst finish. Go seek out "sunburst" and "tea burst" Gibsons for comparison. I love it, personally, though I will confess I would be sorely tempted to find a really nice, thin, reddish-brown batwing 'guard.
It is a lovely instrument with a certain something to the tone that the flatter, unscalloped bracing of that era gives, maybe a touch more note separation and clarity. I dig it.
I have a 1955 J 50 and they are great guitars. If you leave the guard off as you use a pick you may and will start wearing the wood down from strumming so keep that in mind. That hole would case me concern. You don’t want it looking like Willies Trigger. The pick guard is not going to change the tone.
Love the earthworks mic!
The hole and the missing pick guard are too cool to coverup. Keep it like it is. The scars tell its story.
That sound brou 👌
No pick guard. Love J45’s.
They don't get any better than that do they brother
In my option old Gibson’s just have the best singer songwriter sound!
Yes, definitely put a pick guard on it.
No pick guard and it sounds like it has a very rich tone to it
NO PICKGUARD!! That is a one-of-a-kind axe. Don't mess with the mojo!
Wow, amazing sound! May I ask how much did you pay for it and where did you find it?
Dude, awesome sounding. Leave the pickguard off, might change the tone.
If you like it without the pickguard that’s all that matters. I would have to have one. OCD kinda thing!
Congrats on your lovely vintage Gibson J45. What a life this guitar has had.
To get down to brass tacks.
Yes, if it were me I'd definitely fit a new pick-guard (or even a vintage one, if available), your guitar looks just too shabby at present without one. It started life with one, so why not dress it back up? Also the pick-guard serves a purpose, to protect the top! And this guitar looks pretty dried out, seriously light-weight and fragile. My only reservation would be to get one as thin as practical because large pick-guards CAN affect the tone, not always in a good way. Think of J180's.
I'd remove the under saddle pick up too, right away, and have a clean transition between the bone nut and bridge. Otherwise leave everything else, as long as the intonation is good, you're happy, it plays easily, and has a good strong case. It's a beautiful guitar that anyone would be proud to own, play, and show off!
Tone is subjective, but experiment comprehensively with different picks and strings, especially with old guitars, they need as much fussing over as they deserve (after all, they're oldies-but goldies!).
You are right about many vintage guitars being hit and miss. But find a good one and there is no price you can put on age and vibe.