Friday, October 5, 2007

New guitar - Gibson Explorer Pro

Here's my latest acquisition in the Gibson "Guitar of the Week" series...



That's the Gibson Explorer Pro in Heritage Cherry (week #13, 1 of 400). Overall, it's got the most laid-back finish (though not laid-back shape) of any of the Gibson's I've picked up recently. From a specs standpoint it's similar to the X-plorer and '76 reissue models, but with a smaller body, bound fretboard, and no pickguard; no real difference from the mass produced Explorer Pro's (aside from the color). The reduced body size definitely makes it a bit easier to manage... it's not too heavy, pretty well balanced as is. The 496/500 pickups feel hotter than anything else I've got around here... they practically sustain forever (makes me wonder what the full-size Explorer would feel/sond like). Between the shape and tone, it's the perfect guitar for hard rock/metal... don't think I'll be taking it out for too many jazz gigs at this point. :)

The Explorer brings one more Gibson "Guitar of the Week" model into the collection... here's a pic of the Explorer along with the Firebird, SG, and Les Paul...



This, of course, raises the question of "what's next?" I've been poking around e-bay and various forums and there just hasn't been much in the way of guitars that have been catching my eye. I'm really happy with my amp rigs and the recently assembled pedalboard. Could this be the end of G.A.S.? At least for a couple weeks?

--B

2 comments:

Jon said...

If you go to White Castle, you will get enough GAS to last you during these lean times.

guitar.playa said...

Right you are, Ken. Nothing like a wholesome meal of sliders and chicken rings to keep the GAS alive.