Gibson L-7E (1951)

1951 Gibson L-7E Sunburst archtop guitar just into the shop!

This is an incredibly clean early 50s example of one of Gibson's most affordable professional-grade instruments of its time. Sharing DNA with the L-5 in its construction while shedding much of the fancier appointments, the L-7E offers the same kind of voice these 17" archtops became known for. Add in the "McCarty Pickup" electronics and you've got the best of both worlds! The full C Maple neck has excellent feel and playability, with the wider 1 3/4" nut accommodating both fingerstyle and flatpicking rhythm work equally well. The original Kluson 'no line' tuners are in excellent condition, and the original nut shows very little wear or additional string slot manipulation.

The McCarty pickup offers a tone similar to Dearmond pickup of a similar vintage, with a clarity and brightness that works really well to balance out the fullness and woody acoustic tone of the guitar.

This L-7E is in quite remarkable shape with very little play wear throughout. The original fretwire retains most of its original height and shape, and the finish is very clean with only minor handling wear on the body. The original 4-latch Geib hardshell case is in similar condition to the guitar, with a mostly intact leatherette covering, clean plush interior lining, and fully functioning latches. One of just 18 shipped in 1951, this already rare instrument is even rarer given its condition.

Although not as appointed and appreciated as the L-5, the L-7E offers top-tier tone that Golden Era Gibsons are known for.