Gibson Byrdland Thinline Hollowbody Archtop Electric Guitar 1978 Tobacco Sunburst Vintage 1970s l5

1978 Gibson Byrdland Fine Thinline Archtop Electric Guitar Tobacco Sunburst Vintage 1970s l5!

Here is a very nice 1978 Gibson Byrdland in classic Tobacco Sunburst. The Byrdland has long been one of Gibson's premier archtop models, sharing many of the same upscale appointments as the legendary L-5, but with its own unique thin body and shorter 23.5" scale that make it exceptionally comfortable and easy to play.

This one is nice and original with only the usual exceptions. The pickguard has been replaced, as the original likely deteriorated over time, which is very common on Byrdlands of this era. The pickup covers also appear to have been replaced, but otherwise the guitar retains its originality. It is also stamped as a Factory Second, though nearly 50 years later it's impossible to know why, as nothing stands out today.

Overall, it's a beautifully preserved guitar. There is one more noticeable finish scrape/reaction on the top where your arm naturally rests, along with a finish reaction on the back of the neck from years of resting in the original case. Because of those cosmetic issues, we wouldn't call it collector-grade, but it's still a very clean, honest example.

As expected, it has all the upscale Byrdland appointments including an ebony fingerboard with full block inlays, the beautiful flowerpot headstock inlay, multi-ply binding throughout, gold hardware, Kluson Sealfast tuners, two original humbuckers, and the original witch hat knobs. The original potentiometers still retain their untouched factory shielding cans, always a nice sign of originality.

The neck is straight with no issues, the original frets still have good life left, and the guitar plays effortlessly. At only 6.7 lbs., it's remarkably lightweight and comfortable.

It comes complete with the original Gibson hardshell case, which is very clean overall but is missing the handle.

The Details

• Condition: Very Good
• Originality: Original aside from replacement pickguard and likely pickup covers
• Finish: Tobacco Sunburst
• Notes: Factory Second stamp; original electronics with untouched pot cans; lightweight example

Playability & Sound

The Byrdland has always been one of Gibson's most refined archtops, offering the elegance of an L-5 with a more comfortable body and shorter scale. This one plays exceptionally well thanks to its straight neck and comfortable neck profile. The original humbuckers deliver the warm, articulate jazz tones these guitars are famous for while still having plenty of versatility for blues and clean electric work.

Specifications

• Brand: Gibson
• Model: Byrdland
• Year: 1978
• Finish: Tobacco Sunburst
• Body: Laminated Maple
• Neck: Maple
• Fingerboard: Ebony
• Inlays: Pearl Block
• Pickups: Two Original Gibson Humbuckers
• Tuners: Gibson Sealfast
• Hardware: Gold
• Nut Width: 1.65"
• Neck Depth: 0.81" (1st Fret) / 0.97" (12th Fret)
• Weight: 6.7 lbs.
• Case: Original Gibson Hardshell Case (missing handle)

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Thanks from KC Vintage Guitars!