Gibson ES-125

The Gibson ES-125 is a hollow body, archtop electric guitar from the 1940's and 1950's. This guitar is still popular today as it's one of the most popular models from the time period. It has a single P-90 pick up and was made in the USA as far as I can tell. It's got a simple configuration with controls for volume and tone for the single pick up that it's got.

UTILIZATION

Playing the Gibson ES-125 is an absolute pleasure as it's got a great feel. It's really easy to play, especially for rhythm parts. The particular one that I've used was from the early 50's I believe. Since it's only got one pick up it's also really easy to control as there's almost nothing to it. Getting a good sound is super easy since it sounds amazing to begin with and you don't need to fiddle around much at all with the one pick up.

SOUNDS

The sound of the Gibson ES-125 is outstanding. It's that classic hollow body sound for sure and has this really transparent sound that is great for both rhythm and lead parts. I work with an artist who uses this as his main ax and he is mostly playing rhythm parts through a Fender Vibro King and it sounds fantastic. It's really easy to record it because it sounds so great to begin with!

OVERALL OPINION

While there are definitely some Gibson ES-125's and ES-125T's around today that you can buy, it's not going to be cheap since these are so old. It's also probably pretty hard to find one in great condition, as I'd imagine that most of them you would find would need at least a little bit of work. Even so, if you're looking for a classic hollow body with a fantastic sound, you cannot go wrong with the ES-125 - it's the kind of guitar you own for life once you get one.

I own two Gibson ES-125, one from 1951 and 1960. It is entirely original, wooden floating bridge.
The handle is quite large, very rounded at the beginning it's been a little "log" but you get used and we appreciate very quickly.
A micro P90 neck position, volume control and tone ... happiness, the sound of those old microphones that took the bottle has nothing to do with new ones (I and I compared). It's very hot and much less digging than Fender single coils. It is a sound except the warmth of the humbucker and single attack.

UTILIZATION

I love playing these guitars, the grip is perfect, great comfort. on the other hand, no access to acute Because no cutaway body and thick enough.
Provide a good review and a good setting to a specialist. This is real vintage.

SOUNDS

For style and sound, it depends primarily on the type of strings that are rising. Of course, these are guitars that are naturally in the category "Jazz" and with flat wound strings, a big pick and mix high cut was really the sound of the guitarists of the 50s and 60s and can do his boper .
But that does not stop there, spun round with lighter, it retrieves the brightness and attack and with the warmth of the old P90, it sounds very blues / rock and roll. It remains only to play with the right amp (lamps required!).

OVERALL OPINION

These are dream guitars. Beautiful, comfortable, and that sound, in addition, have a history. The 125 is certainly true of the few recent vintage affordable. Entry-level models at the time they were manufactured in large quantities and are not difficult to find. There are weekly on ebay. I bought mine in the U.S., the advertised price (1100 euros) is the total price (guitar + shipping + customs)! Obviously, the dollar has much to do. In France these guitars sell for EUR 1500-1600 from the owners and more than 2000 euros in the shop.

Do not hesitate a second.