Description
Make melody! 2014 Gibson Melody Maker, $999!
The 2014 Gibson Melody Maker is a modern iteration of one of Gibson’s most iconic and affordable models. Known for its simplicity, lightweight design, and raw tone, this version of the Melody Maker is equipped with two powerful P90 single-coil pickups, making it a versatile instrument suitable for various genres, from rock to blues to punk.
Key Features:
Body and Neck:
- Body: Solid mahogany body with a slim, contoured profile, providing a lightweight and comfortable playing experience.
- Finish: Satin finish.
- Neck: Maple neck with a slim taper profile, designed for fast and smooth playability.
- Fingerboard: Rosewood fingerboard with dot inlays, offering a classic look and comfortable feel.
- Scale Length: 24.75 inches, typical of Gibson guitars, providing a familiar feel and comfortable string tension.
Pickups and Electronics:
- Pickups: Two Gibson P90 single-coil pickups, known for their bright, punchy, and gritty tone, providing a wide range of sounds from clean and jangly to raw and aggressive.
- Controls: Simple control layout with a master volume knob, a master tone knob, and a three-way pickup selector switch, allowing for straightforward and intuitive sound shaping.
Hardware:
- Bridge: Wrap-around bridge, providing solid intonation and sustain.
- Tuners: Vintage-style tuners, ensuring stable tuning and adding to the guitar’s classic aesthetic.
- Pickguard: Black or white pickguard, depending on the finish, protecting the body and adding a visual contrast.
Sound Characteristics:
- Bright and Punchy: The P90 pickups deliver a bright, punchy sound with a distinct midrange bite, ideal for cutting through the mix.
- Versatile Tones: Capable of producing a wide range of tones, from clean and articulate to dirty and overdriven, making it suitable for various musical styles.
- Raw and Gritty: The Melody Maker’s straightforward design and powerful pickups make it perfect for players who appreciate a raw, gritty tone with plenty of character.
Applications:
- Rock and Punk: The bright and aggressive tone of the P90s makes this guitar a favorite among rock and punk players.
- Blues and Garage: Its versatility and raw sound make it well-suited for blues and garage rock.
- Live Performance: Lightweight and easy to play, the Melody Maker is ideal for live performances, offering great stage presence and reliable performance.
Specifications:
- Body: Solid mahogany
- Finish: Satin (available in multiple colors)
- Neck: Maple with slim taper profile
- Fingerboard: Rosewood with dot inlays
- Scale Length: 24.75 inches
- Pickups: Two Gibson P90 single-coil pickups
- Controls: Master volume, master tone, three-way pickup selector switch
- Bridge: Wrap-around bridge
- Tuners: Vintage-style tuners
- Pickguard: Black or white, depending on finish
Country of Manufacture:
- USA: The 2014 Gibson Melody Maker is made in the United States, reflecting Gibson’s tradition of quality craftsmanship.
Notable Features:
- Lightweight and comfortable solid mahogany body
- Powerful P90 pickups for bright, punchy, and versatile tones
- Simple and intuitive control layout
- Vintage-style hardware for stable tuning and classic looks
- Satin finish available in multiple colors
Notable Users:
- Billie Joe Armstrong (Green Day): Known for his punk rock style, Billie Joe Armstrong has been associated with various Gibson models, including those with P90 pickups.
- Joan Jett (The Runaways): Joan Jett is famous for her use of Melody Maker guitars, although her primary model is an earlier version, the spirit and style carry over to the 2014 model.
The 2014 Gibson Melody Maker with two P90 pickups is a versatile and affordable guitar that offers a blend of classic Gibson design and modern playability. With its lightweight body, powerful P90 pickups, and straightforward controls, it is well-suited for a variety of musical styles, particularly rock, punk, and blues. Whether used in the studio or on stage, the Melody Maker delivers a raw and gritty tone that stands out in any mix. Its combination of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary features makes it a valuable addition to any guitarist’s collection.