When it was introduced in the 1960s, the Firebird shattered preconceptions of the electric guitar. Inspired by the iconic tailfins and alluring curves of American automobiles of the time, it's earned its place in Rock 'n' Roll history. For 2019, Gibson have made a number of design tweaks, but remained close to the timeless Firebird formula.
Body & Neck
The body is, naturally, solid Mahogany. As you've come to expect from Gibson solid-bodies, this means luxurious resonance and a hefty low-end emphasis. The curved body shape is as striking as ever, but while it may appear cumbersome, it's surprisingly ergonomic. The Firebird is easy to handle, sitting or standing, making it a very playable instrument - whatever your style.
The neck uses a unique 9-ply Mahogany & Walnut combination with a neck-through-body construction. This not only makes for better durability and intonation, but it adds even more depth to the guitars sustain and harmonic richness. A familiar 24.75" scale length and Slim Taper profile makes it an easy fit for any player, too.
One of the most notable tweaks in the Gibson 2019 range is the return of Rosewood fretboards. Gibson have explored the use of Granadillo, Pau Ferro and other Rosewood substitutes over the years - but nothing compares to the original!
Pickups & Electronics
A double-barrel combo of mini humbuckers offers the perfect balance between bite and weight. The humbucking design allows for the Mahogany and Walnut combo to truly sing, while their smaller size means extra snappiness, clarity and midrange projection.
As per the usual Firebird configuration, two volumes and two tone controls allow plenty of legroom for you to get comfy with your tone.
Hardware
Next up, they've combined the aluminium stopbar with the Nashville Tune-O-Matic bridge - this is the tried-and-tested Gibson solid-body formula. Understated in look but efficient and hardy in functionality. Aluminium also boasts surprising resonant qualities, so you get even more sustain to boot.
Recent Firebirds have had black pickguards, but the 2019 model marks a return to the classic White 3-ply. Combine with Black top-hat knobs and a gnarly Firebird logo, and you've struck Gibson Gold - this thing oozes attitude!
Specifications
Body
- Body Style: Firebird
- Back: Mahogany
- Top: N/A
- Weight relief: N/A
- Binding: N/A
Neck
- Neck: 9-ply Mahogany/Walnut
- Neck profile: Slim Taper, Neck Through Body Construction
- Nut width: 1.695”
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Scale length: 24.75”
- Number of frets: 22, cryogenically treated
- Nut: Tektoid
- Inlay: Acrylic Trapezoid
- Binding: White
- Binding Style: Traditional, Rolled
Hardware
- Bridge: Aluminum Nashville Tune-O-Matic
- Tailpiece: Aluminum Stop Bar
- Knobs: Black top hats with silver reflectors
- Tuners: Grover Mini Rotomatics
- Plating: Chrome
- Case: Hardshell
Electronics
- Neck pickup: Firebird Mini Humbucker
- Bridge pickup: Firebird Mini Humbucker
- Controls: 2 volumes, 2 tones, 1 toggle switch
