Gibson J-160E Original Electro Acoustic Guitar in Vintage Sunburst

£3,499.00

The Gibson J-160E is a legendary model, and for many players, it needs no introduction, but for players who may be unfamiliar with its history, it is most closely associated with The Beatles, who used the model extensively, including on their landmark first appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show and on many of the recordings […]

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Description

The Gibson J-160E is a legendary model, and for many players, it needs no introduction, but for players who may be unfamiliar with its history, it is most closely associated with The Beatles, who used the model extensively, including on their landmark first appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show and on many of the recordings from the first half of their career. The J-160E was first introduced in 1954 as the second Gibson acoustic model to feature onboard electronics (after the CF-100E, which was released in 1951), in the form of a coverless P-90 pickup mounted through the top, just below the end of the fretboard. While it has a round shoulder shape similar to the Southern Jumbo and J-45™, it was designed from the beginning as a dual-purpose model that could function both electrically and acoustically, with somewhat more emphasis placed on its electrical performance.
Now, Gibson is very proud to introduce the J-160E Original, a new model based on those vintage classics, enhanced with upgrades and improvements that make it better than ever, in both its acoustic and electric performance. It features a back and sides made from solid mahogany. Instead of the laminated top and ladder bracing used on vintage models, the J-160E Original features a solid Sitka spruce top that is reinforced with our traditional scalloped X-bracing for a full, round shoulder acoustic tone when played unplugged. The mahogany neck has a comfortable and fast-playing SlimTaper™ profile and is attached to the body at the 15th fret using our compound dovetail neck-to-body joint, and like all Gibson acoustic guitars, it is fitted with hot hide glue for maximum resonance and tonal transfer. The bound rosewood fretboard is equipped with 20 standard frets and dressed up with pearloid trapezoid inlays. The belly-up bridge is also rosewood and is equipped with a bone saddle and TUSQ® bridge pins. The nut is also bone, and nickel Gotoh® Keystone tuners ensure fast, accurate, and stable tuning so you can spend more time playing and less time tuning.
Like its vintage predecessors, the J-160E Original is equipped with a pickup, but instead of the P-90 found in previous versions, the J-160 Original features a P-90 DC pickup that is wired to top-mounted master volume and tone controls, both of which feature 60s-style gold Top Hat knobs with silver reflectors, and wired to a side-mounted output jack. The P-90 DC delivers the classic P-90 tone but without the hum, for improved, noise-free electrified performance. A Gibson hardshell case is also included to help keep the J-160E Original safe, whether you’re travelling to a gig at the local pub, going to a friend’s house for a jam session, or headed out to conquer America. Don’t miss this opportunity to own this truly iconic dual-purpose guitar that is now better than ever!SpecificationsBody

Shape: J-160
Top: Sitka Spruce
Material: Mahogany
Bracing: Traditional Scalloped X-Brace
Binding: Multi-ply Top, Single-ply Back and Fretboard

Neck

Neck: Mahogany
Profile: SlimTaper
Nut Width: 1.725”/43.815mm
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Scale Length: 24.75”/ 628.65mm
Frets: 20
Nut: Bone
Inlays: Pearloid Trapezoid

Hardware

Bridge: Belly-up, Rosewood
Tuners: Gotoh Keystone
Control Knobs: Gold Top Hat with Silver Reflector
Plating: Nickel

Electronics

Fingerboard Pickup: P-90DC
Controls: Master Volume, Master Tone

Miscellaneous

Case: Hardshell Case

About the manufacturer

Gibson

Gibson has long stood as a symbol of American craftsmanship and musical heritage, shaping the sound of rock, blues, and jazz for over a century. Founded in Kalamazoo, Michigan in 1902, Gibson became legendary with instruments like the Les Paul, SG, and ES series, each known for their rich sustain, premium tonewoods, and iconic designs. The brand’s pioneering use of humbucker pickups and carved maple tops created the warm, powerful sound that defines countless classic recordings. Played by greats such as Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, and Angus Young, Gibson guitars continue to represent timeless quality, innovation, and a deep connection between player and instrument.

More info about this Product

Acoustic Guitars

Acoustic guitars produce their sound naturally through the vibration of the strings and body, offering a direct and expressive playing experience. They come in a wide range of styles, including steel string and classical designs, each with its own feel and tonal character. Body shape, wood choice, and construction all influence warmth, projection, and balance, making acoustics suitable for everything from gentle fingerstyle to confident strumming. Whether used for songwriting, practice, or performance, acoustic guitars provide a simple, honest connection between the player and the music.

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Electro-Acoustic

Electro-acoustic guitars are acoustic instruments fitted with built-in pickups or microphones that allow them to be amplified or connected directly to a PA system or amplifier. They retain the natural acoustic tone and feel of a traditional acoustic guitar while adding the convenience of onboard electronics.

They are commonly used for live performance and recording, especially in situations where consistent volume and clarity are needed. Electro-acoustic guitars often include controls for volume and tone, and sometimes built-in tuners, making them a practical choice for gigging musicians who want an acoustic sound with modern flexibility.

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