Gibson Hummingbird Original
$2,435.99
The Gibson Hummingbird Original is a timeless classic, offering vintage looks and superior sound quality for any acoustic guitar enthusiast.
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Description
Gibson Hummingbird Original Acoustic Guitar: The Perfect Choice for Legendary Tone and Style
The Gibson Hummingbird Original is an acoustic guitar that needs no introduction. Revered by guitar legends such as Keith Richards, John Lennon, and Sheryl Crow, this classic instrument is known for its distinctive sound, exceptional craftsmanship, and iconic looks. With its rich history and timeless appeal, the Gibson Hummingbird Original is an essential part of any serious musician’s collection.
Craftsmanship and Quality
The Gibson Hummingbird Original stands out for its exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each guitar is handcrafted by skilled artisans using the finest materials, resulting in a product that looks and sounds absolutely stunning. From the solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides to the comfortable mahogany neck and Indian rosewood fingerboard, every component is carefully selected for optimal tonal performance and durability.
Additionally, the Hummingbird Original boasts a unique bracing pattern that enhances its resonance, sustain, and projection. This pattern, known as the X-brace, was designed by Gibson in the 1930s and has since become a signature feature of its acoustic guitars. With the X-brace and the Hummingbird’s larger body size, this guitar produces a bold, full-bodied sound that’s ideal for strumming and fingerpicking alike.
Iconic Looks
One of the most striking aspects of the Gibson Hummingbird Original is its distinctive appearance. The guitar’s solid spruce top is adorned with an ornate hummingbird and flower design inlay, which lends it an air of classic elegance and beauty. The back and sides feature a stunning cherry sunburst finish, adding a warm, vintage touch to the overall look.
The Hummingbird Original’s headstock is designed with six tuners that provide accurate and smooth tuning of the guitar’s strings. Meanwhile, the split parallelogram inlays on the fingerboard give it a sleek and sophisticated look, making it a joy to play and admire.
Legendary Tone
When it comes to tone, the Gibson Hummingbird Original is in a league of its own. The guitar’s rich, warm sound and excellent projection make it an ideal choice for singer-songwriters, folk musicians, and players of many other genres. Whether you’re playing a gentle ballad or an upbeat melody, the Hummingbird’s tone is consistently balanced, dynamic, and expressive.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner just starting, the Gibson Hummingbird Original is a guitar that can’t be beat. Its reputation for quality, craftsmanship, and tonal excellence is unmatched, and it’s a timeless piece of music history that will always be admired for its beauty and legendary sound. So if you’re looking for an acoustic guitar that will accompany you on a lifetime of musical adventures, the Gibson Hummingbird Original is a must-have.
Gibson Hummingbird Original properties
| Product name |
Hummingbird Original |
| Brand |
Gibson |
| Type |
String Instruments |
| String Instruments |
Acoustic Guitar |
| Number of Strings |
6 pcs |
| String Type |
Steel |
| Handedness |
Right-handed |
| Number of Frets |
20 |
| Cutaway |
No Cutaway |
| Size |
4/4 |
| Pickguard |
Yes |
| Wood Type (front) |
Spruce |
| Wood Type (back) |
Mahogany |
| Wood Type (body sides) |
Mahogany |
| Wood Type (neck) |
Mahogany |
| Wood Type (fretboard) |
Rosewood |
| Colour |
Fireburst/Colourburst |
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I properly care for my Gibson Hummingbird Original acoustic guitar to maintain its sound quality and longevity?
Caring for your Gibson Hummingbird Original acoustic guitar is essential to maintaining its sound quality and longevity. Here are some tips on how to properly care for your instrument:
1. Cleaning: Always wipe down the body of your guitar after playing with a soft, dry cloth. This will help remove any dirt or sweat that may have accumulated during your session. Avoid using wet or damp cloths as this can damage the finish over time.
2. String Changes: Changing strings regularly is crucial to keeping your Hummingbird sounding its best. As a general rule, aim to replace your guitar's strings every 3-6 months depending on how often you play.
3. Tuning: Regularly tune your Gibson Hummingbird Original using an electronic tuner or by ear. Consistent tuning ensures that the neck stays straight and prevents it from warping over time.
4. Humidity Control: Wood instruments are sensitive to changes in humidity levels. Store your guitar in a room with stable humidity (around 45-55%). If you live in an area with high humidity, consider using a dehumidifier or hygrometer to monitor and control the environment.
5. Proper Storage: When storing your Gibson Hummingbird Original acoustic guitar, make sure it's placed in its case horizontally rather than standing upright. This helps maintain the neck's shape and prevents unnecessary strain on the bridge and tuning pegs.
6. Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect your guitar for any signs of damage or wear such as cracks in the wood, loosening screws, or fret buzz. Addressing these issues promptly can help prevent more extensive damage down the line.
7. Professional Maintenance: Schedule regular check-ups with a qualified luthier to ensure your Gibson Hummingbird Original acoustic guitar stays in optimal condition. They will be able to spot any potential problems and make necessary adjustments or repairs.
By following these care tips, you'll not only prolong the life of your Gibson Hummingbird Original acoustic guitar but also keep it sounding its absolute best for years to come!
What is the distinguishing feature of a genuine Gibson Hummingbird Original acoustic guitar, and how can it be identified by a knowledgeable music technician in the shop?
The distinctive characteristic that sets apart a genuine Gibson Hummingbird Original acoustic guitar from its imitations is the use of high-quality materials and precise craftsmanship during its production. The top of a true Hummingbird Original is constructed with a unique scalloped bracing pattern, which provides a fuller, more resonant sound. To identify this feature, a knowledgeable music technician in our shop will carefully examine the guitar's top, looking for the intricate scalloped design that sets a genuine Gibson Hummingbird Original apart from lesser-quality models. Additionally, a technician may also inspect the neck profile, fretboard inlay patterns, and other details unique to Gibson guitars to further confirm the authenticity of the instrument.
What unique tonal qualities does the Gibson Hummingbird Original possess, and how can these be optimally harnessed during setup and maintenance processes?
The Gibson Hummingbird Original is known for its rich, warm tone that combines brightness and depth. The guitar features a spruce top with scalloped bracing, which allows for greater vibration and projection, as well as a mahogany body that adds warmth and depth to the sound. During setup and maintenance processes, it is essential to optimally harness these tonal qualities by following certain steps:
1. String Action: The string action should be set up at an optimal height to facilitate easy fretting while avoiding excessive fret buzz. A lower action will result in a warmer tone, whereas a higher action will produce a brighter, more crisp sound. However, care should be taken not to overdo either extreme as it can negatively affect the guitar's intonation and playability. Intonation: The intonation of the guitar should be checked and adjusted as required. This involves playing each string on the fretboard and ensuring that the frets are correctly positioned so that the notes ring true. If the intonation is off, it can affect the overall tone quality and make playing certain chords or scales more challenging. Fret Dressing: The frets of a guitar should be periodically dressed to ensure smoothness and accuracy in playing. This involves leveling and crowning the frets to maintain a consistent height and shape, which helps to preserve the guitar's tonal characteristics over time. Bridge Compensation: The bridge of the guitar should be checked for correct intonation, as this can impact the overall tonal quality of the instrument. If the bridge is too high or too low, it can affect the intonation of certain notes and produce a less than optimal tone. Bridge compensation involves adjusting the saddles to ensure that each string's intonation is correct at the bridge. Pickups: For players who use pickups, care should be taken to ensure that they are properly installed and adjusted to preserve the guitar's natural tonal qualities. This involves selecting the right type of pickup for the style of music being played and ensuring that it is placed in the correct position on the guitar. By following these steps during setup and maintenance processes, players can optimally harness the unique tonal qualities of their Gibson Hummingbird Original, preserving its rich, warm tone and ensuring that it continues to deliver exceptional sound quality for many years to come.
How does the vintage-style tone and projection of the Gibson Hummingbird Original set it apart from other acoustic guitar models?
The Gibson Hummingbird Original stands out among its acoustic guitar peers due to its unique vintage-style tone and projection. The guitar's body is crafted with a Sitka spruce top, which contributes to the bright and crisp sound that the Hummingbird Original is known for. Additionally, the mahogany back and sides provide warmth and depth to the overall tone. What truly sets this model apart, however, is its bracing pattern. The Hummingbird Original features a scalloped X-bracing design that enhances the guitar's volume and projection. This feature allows for a rich and powerful sound that is perfect for both fingerpicking and strumming styles. Overall, the vintage-style tone and projection of the Gibson Hummingbird Original make it a sought-after choice among acoustic guitar players who value a warm, rich sound with plenty of volume and projection. It's an investment in a high-quality instrument that will provide years of enjoyment and inspiration for musicians at all levels.
What is the specific type of bracing used in the original Gibson Hummingbird model, and how does it contribute to its distinct tone and playing characteristics?
1. Increased upper-end response**: The square-shoulder design allows for a greater freedom of movement in the soundboard, which translates to an increased sensitivity in the high-end frequency range. This results in a brighter, more articulate tone that cuts through the mix with ease. Reduced low-end emphasis**: By positioning the horizontal braces closer to the sound hole, the square-shoulder design helps to reduce the low-end emphasis often associated with dreadnoughts. This creates a more balanced and focused tone that is less prone to booming or overemphasis in the lower frequencies. Improved sustain**: The unique bracing pattern of the Hummingbird allows for increased energy transfer between the soundboard and the back, resulting in enhanced sustain and resonance. Distinctive playing characteristics**: The square-shoulder design also contributes to a more agile and responsive playing feel. The guitar's reduced low-end emphasis and increased high-end sensitivity make it well-suited for fingerstyle or flatpicking techniques, particularly when performing complex arrangements that require a strong, articulate sound. In summary, the square-shoulder bracing in the original Gibson Hummingbird model is a key factor in its distinct tone and playing characteristics. It allows for increased upper-end response, reduced low-end emphasis, improved sustain, and distinctive playing feel, making it an ideal choice for players seeking a balanced, articulate sound with excellent sustain.
Before you buy Gibson Hummingbird Original
Daniel –
What a thrilling day for music enthusiasts like myself! As I bask in the glory of my new Gibson Hummingbird Original, I couldn’t help but think about the parallels between this magnificent instrument and the current state of affairs on the global stage. The news of oil touching $80 per barrel as sweeping sanctions against Russia rattle markets has me pondering the intricate connections between the world of finance and the world of music.
As I strum the chords on my Gibson Hummingbird Original, I’m reminded that, just like the delicate balance of international trade, a beautiful melody requires harmony and precision. The craftsmanship that goes into creating this iconic acoustic guitar is akin to the careful maneuvering required in global politics. Both demand attention to detail, a deep understanding of the underlying mechanics, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances.
But I digress! Let’s talk about my beloved Gibson Hummingbird Original. This instrument is a marvel of engineering, with its sleek body shape and rich, full sound that resonates deep within your soul. As a right-handed player (a crucial consideration when choosing an acoustic guitar), I can attest to the ease with which this guitar allows me to express myself musically.
Tips for buying an acoustic guitar:
1. Consider your handedness: If you’re left-handed, make sure to choose a left-handed model to avoid any awkward finger placement and discomfort while playing.
2. Listen to the sound: Before making a purchase, take time to listen to different models and gauge their tone, sustain, and overall sound quality.
3. Feel the weight: A well-balanced guitar will sit comfortably in your hands, allowing for effortless playing.
Now, back to my Gibson Hummingbird Original! This guitar is truly a wonder, with its rich mahogany back and sides providing a warm, balanced sound that’s perfect for fingerpicking or strumming. Its rosewood fretboard glows like polished onyx, inviting your fingers to dance across the strings.
As I play through my favorite tunes, I’m reminded of the power music has to bring people together even in times of turmoil and uncertainty. Just as the sanctions against Russia aim to disrupt their economic balance, a beautiful melody can disrupt our daily routines and transport us to a world of pure joy and wonder.
In conclusion, if you’re in the market for an acoustic guitar that will inspire your musical journey, look no further than the Gibson Hummingbird Original. And remember, just as a delicate balance of international trade is crucial for global stability, a well-crafted instrument like this one can bring harmony to our lives and soothe our souls.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some oil prices to watch…