• The carpenter's hammer of guitars

  
  As reviewed by R G on 3/14/2009

  If you play jazz and can only have one guitar, then this is it regardless of price. Despite a few needed improvements in Gibson's quality control, the 175 remains the king of tone, feel, modest look and playability. I am in my 50s and have been playing since the Beatles crossed the water. I have owned scores of guitars of most major brands and styles. If forced to save only one in a fire I would not have to think twice. The articulate round Herb Ellis notes are the main thing. The second in order is the combination effect of the mahogany neck with the shape and width of the neck and the body size. In my judgement the 57 classic pickups work as well as original PAFs, which I have owned. Some of the quality issues you read about are true so be judicious in examining the 175 you buy; but most do not affect playability or longevity. The main flaw I see consistently is fit and finish at the neck joint and Gibson should work on that. But criticism related to thickness of finish or overbuilding are not warranted on ones I've seen. Aside from the neck joint and sloppy finish under the tongue of the neck near the rhythm pickup, they are built like tanks with the right thickness of finish for a journeyman player or serious hobbyist who doesn't just stare at his guitar on a stand. Other brands and models will rank higher in certain aspects but none will beat it overall for cool jazz. not even the L5. And check out the tone tapering in the dual pickup position if you like playing Chet styles. The rear pickup is very useful. While the guitar is a tad overpriced we should be proud and supportive of this American manufacturer who continues to provide products that showcase our culture and remind us what made in America used to mean. Maybe it will catch on again.

  33 of 34 people found this review helpful.
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• Still Unique

  
  As reviewed by Hucbald on 3/21/2009

  The 175 has been in constant production since its 1949 debut. No other electric guitar, from any maker, holds that claim. There's a reason why: it's a PLAYER'S instrument. They cut on things like binding to save cash, but they sound and feel heavenly. A few frets are a tad high on mine: so be it. What a guitar. Find the money; sell the other electrics; get serious; and don't look back.

  11 of 14 people found this review helpful.
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• A Very Good guitar

  
  As reviewed by Farlowtal on 12/3/2008

  I have recently tried out the Gibson ES-175 and I must say it is truly a fine instrument. The great part of the guitar in my opinion was the neck. The neck feels very slim for a full sized guitar, this helps with different chords and soloing. The tone of the '57 humbuckers are truly every guitar players dream and this set is no different. If you are able to afford it, BUY IT!

  11 of 12 people found this review helpful.
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