(SOLD) Gibson Firebird V Ebony 2013
Gibson Firebird V, black, made in USA 2013. The Firebird debuted in 1963, and was collaborative design between Gibson and automobile industry luminary Ray Dietrich, who gave the model it's legendary 'reverse' shape. This one dates to 2013, which means the spec-sheet is mostly vintage-correct, but it's blessed with a very practical set of Steinberger tuners instead of the banjo-style pegs. It's nice in the hands: lightweight at 3.2kg, well balanced, comfy neck, good fretwork... it's a bit more homely than some others I've played. The tone is awesome: raspy, bright, snarly and immediate, with an understated tuneful bass and great note separation through the mids. It's great for blues or doom stuff and surprisingly shreddable. The black looks cool too, it seems to pop up less often than sunburst or white and hits the balance between punk-rock and black-tie just right. Nice!
Model: Gibson Firebird V
Made: USA, 2013
Serial: 115030318
Finish: ebony (black), gloss nitro
Body: mahogany
Neck: mahogany, rosewood fretboard, 12" radius. 24.75" scale, slim taper
Weight: 3.175kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Mini-Humbucker x2
Accessories: original case and docs
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has minor dimples on the top edge and a small dent and some scuffs on the bottom edge. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples and light rub wear on the back only, The back has minor scuffs on the top horn and near the front strap pin, as well as some surface scratches in the elbow area and middle of the body. The sides have minor scuffs and dimples in the elbow area and near the jack and some rub wear on the bottom horn. The front has a couple of small dents near the jack, scuffs in the elbow area and around the bridge and some play wear on the guard and horns.
Overall: very good condition (8/10)
Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Wearing fresh 10/46 strings.
Fret life: 9/10, minor wear only