Gibson Custom L-5 CES Hollowbody Electric Guitar Natural

Everything about this guitar has been considered. This guitar is a reference piece. I applaud the fine craftsmanship required to build a guitar of this quality. I bought my first guitar a Gibson Les Paul 40 years ago which I play frequently, plus a few other nice guitars. The construction quality of both Gibson guitars is apparent and hasn't changed over time. My little collection is complete.

I purchased this guitar on 12/22/05 after waiting eight months from Gibson. I ordered it new. When I received it from the dealer, it was drop-dead gorgeous. I couldn't believe that after 30 years, I would own an L5 again. When I took it home, I discovered that it was not at all set up to my liking. After much research, I sent the guitar to Phil Jacoby in Baltimore, MD. Phil has a PLEK machine. We spoke over the phone about the type of music I would be playing on this L5. Mostly Tony Mottola, Johnny Smith, George Barnes style. Phil did a great job at setting up the guitar. He had my guitar for one week and even included a print out of the PLEK machine so I could see exactly what was done. The only thing I had to do was raise the action a little. It is now October, 2006 and after playing this guitar every day for the past ten months, I can honestly say that it is the BEST sounding and BEST playing guitar that I have ever owned (and I have owned many top notch guitars). I hope this review will help someone who is thinking about purchasing a Gibson L5 CES guitar. It just needs a good set-up and you have to P L A Y it. Just be patient and give it a little time. I guarantee it will be the best guitar you will ever own.