1952 Gibson ES-150 - Opinions?

[markb]

I'm aware of the specs but have never played one. Looking for any first hand knowledge before make the trip to play this particular year/model. I like the idea of the 25.5 scale length but a bit concerned with the 17" lower bout.

[Stringswinger]

I'm aware of the specs but have never played one. Looking for any first hand knowledge before make the trip to play this particular year/model. I like the idea of the 25.5 scale length but a bit concerned with the 17" lower bout.

One of my bandmates had a 50's ES-150 and sold it. It was a superb guitar, but without a cutaway, it was somewhat limiting for an electric guitar. It had a great neck and the single P-90 sounded great. If the price is right, make that trip.

[zizala]

I have a '52 ES-150 and like it a lot.

I play a couple 17" Gibson L-7's with body widths of 3.50" measured at the lower bout.
The body depth of my ES-150 is 3.25".....doesn't seem like a quarter inch would make much of a difference, but I can feel it.

For me it's a very comfortable guitar to play, but I'm about 6'1" so that's a big consideration if you're in doubt about the body width.
The neck is well proportioned C shape and the P-90 sounds great to my ears.

[markb]

Thanks for the replies. Gratuitous pic of the guitar in question. Priced at 3k.

[ThatRhythmMan]

My very first archtop was a 1951 ES-150. I think they are great guitars. Vintage P90s usually have a great, classic sound.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Woody Sound]

I play a couple 17" Gibson L-7's with body widths of 3.50" measured at the lower bout.
The body depth of my ES-150 is 3.25".....doesn't seem like a quarter inch would make much of a difference, but I can feel it.

For me it's a very comfortable guitar to play, but I'm about 6'1" so that's a big consideration if you're in doubt about the body width.
The neck is well proportioned C shape and the P-90 sounds great to my ears.

1/4" depth definitely can make a difference.

[hidesert]

I own and play a ‘49 ES-150. It’s a great guitar with what I consider to be a perfect neck. The tuner buttons needed replaced, but otherwise it’s been a stable and superb playing and sounding jazz guitar. The one you are looking at appears to be in nice condition.

[Cunamara]

Ooh.

[Hammertone]

1946 Gibson ES-150

Here’s one for sale on this very forum.

[omphalopsychos]

My first vintage electric archtop was a 1950 ES 150. If you don’t need the cutaway I consider it a huge bargain in terms of tone. It’s a particular sound, not the most versatile but if you want that dry staccato sound you hear on bebop and hard bop records this is it. It can definitely get into Grant Green territory or Tal Farlow depending on setup and technique.

I eventually sold it when I got an 53 ES 175 with a single p90 (which is basically the same guitar with a shorter scale and a cutaway), but I miss the long scale and larger body at times. I mostly prefer longer scale across the board.

[Boze]

That looks like mine with the larger mop inlay. I love that guitar and think the price and condition look promising. Nice one piece neck, nice acoustic tone, and lighter than you'd expect.

Gustav Lundgren plays a 150 flipped for lefthanded use. I think he uses an HX Stomp with it. His tone is great although I remember him saying the P90 isn't original:

[wintermoon]

Thanks for the replies. Gratuitous pic of the guitar in question. Priced at 3k.

Nice looking example