Gibson CL-45 Artist 1997
Description
Gibson CL-45 Artist 1997
The Gibson "CL Series," produced in only a small number of units over approximately one year from 1997 to 1998. CL stands for Custom Shop Line, and through the later Songbird, it was inherited by the Songwriter Series—a new square-shoulder dreadnought-shaped acoustic guitar.
This time, a 1997-manufactured "CL-45 Artist" has arrived in stock. While the "CL-40" in the same series is a non-cutaway model, this one features a cutaway. It is one piece from the Bozeman, Montana factory period, which is highly regarded for its high handwork ratio and excellent wood selection.
The woods used are a spruce top with rosewood sides & back, mahogany neck, and ebony fingerboard—a simple construction. However, despite being a Gibson brand, it has a somewhat Martin-like impression. It is said to have been designed by luthier "Ren Ferguson" with the aim of competing with the "Martin D-28," which was extremely popular among guitarists at the time.
Notably, the scale is also 25.5mm, which differs from standard Gibson guitars. The fingerboard abalone inlay is named "Abalone Angel Wing," providing not only excellent visibility but also a special aesthetic quality to the appearance. With gold Grover tuning machines, custom-designed pickguard shape, and a moustache bridge, there is a clear sense of luxury that sets it apart from other models.
With the "30th Anniversary CL-50" being re-released in a limited run of 30 units in 2019, this is actually a rare model with hidden popularity among those in the know, allowing you to experience some of Gibson's innovative attempts in the 1990s. It also has a somewhat Taylor-like atmosphere, and since it is equipped as an electro-acoustic with a jack, you might consider adding your preferred pickup and using it going forward. (Currently, amplification via a preamp is necessary due to low output volume) This would be a guitar that stands out on stage.
Although approximately 30 years have passed since manufacture, it appears to have been used very carefully, with good appearance and condition overall, with no particular complaints. Most importantly, the sound is wonderful. It is a straightforward revelation that Gibson can also produce this Martin-like brilliant acoustic guitar with high quality. Given the high evaluation from its owner, there has been almost no opportunity to see it in the used market in recent years, and there must be many people overseas searching for this as well. Since I had never seen this in person before, if you want to acquire it, this might be your last chance!
【Accessories】Gibson hard case only
【Appearance & Condition】While there are minor scratches and dulled parts indicating use, the appearance is clean considering its age. There are 2 scratches on the side cutaway area extending to the binding.
【Truss Rod】Adequate clearance
【Frets】Approximately 70%～
【Neck】Straight
【Nut Width】Approximately 43.5mm
【String Height】At the 12th fret: 1st string approximately 1.8mm / 6th string approximately 2.5mm
・If buzz, dead spots, or other issues that significantly impair playability are observed, they will always be noted. In the absence of such notation, our store judges that there are no problems with the playing condition.
・Unless explicitly stated as "Original" or "Replaced," we do not make definitive claims regarding specifications or condition.
・Regarding the truss rod, from a product protection standpoint, we only check approximately 45 degrees in both the tightening and loosening directions. (When marked as "Adequate clearance," this indicates clearance of 45 degrees in both directions)
・The listed content is as of the time of listing. There may be changes due to seasonality and aging.
・Accessories are limited to those shown in the posted photos and those listed on the product page.
・As we also conduct simultaneous sales at our storefront, the item may be sold or under negotiation.
・We cannot accommodate requests for specific delivery time slots.
・For any other questions or if you wish to try the instrument, please contact us via our inquiry form or our store email address (mion-gakki@mion.tokyo).
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