Gibson SG Special, gloss cherry red, made in USA 2004. The SG Special at this period was a trimmed down take on the SG Standard, so you get a gold screened logo, no binding, dot inlays and the cool batwing guard. The classic SG stuff is all there: spicy curves, lightweight body, chunky neck, and a thick, gooey tone with heaps of punch. Not all SGs from this era are created equal, but I'm happy to say I rate this one as a good one. It's lightweight and has a chunky neck, but it's still well balanced without a pronounced 'neck dive', it's naturally resonant and the fret and finish work are tight and tidy. The tone on offer has plenty of kick and growl through the lows and mids, but there's enough grit and snap on the top end to sing clearly. I've generally found that quality Gibson stuff seldom hangs around long, so get yourself a slice of this cherry pie while it's in the bain-marie.

Model: Gibson SG Special
Made: USA, 2004 (serial 02234520)
Finish: cherry stain, gloss nitro, 4-ply black guard
Body: mahogany
Neck: mahogany, rosewood board, 12" radius, 24.75" scale, '61 style taper profile
Weight: 3.190kg
Mods: none
Pickup: 498T/R humbucker x2
Case: basic Gibson gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some dimples on the end and some scratches on the bottom side, no major marks. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples and scuffs on back only. The back has some dimples around the electronics cavity as well as widespread light scuffs around the whole body. The front has some light scuffs around the outside from the controls around to the elbow area, some dimples around the tailpiece and some play wear on the guard and horns. Overall: very good condition (8/10).

Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, action is low, intonation is good. The frets have minor wear only, 9/10 for fret life left. All electronics tested and working properly. No headstock breaks. Wearing fresh 10/52 Moonshiners strings.