Image: Sven-Sebastian Sajak (Sven0705), CC BY-SA 3.0 — via Wikimedia Commons
Gibson ES-339
| Category | Strings (semi-hollow electric guitar) |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | USA |
| Classification | guitar |
| Wikipedia | en.wikipedia.org |
| Wikidata | Q5559330 |
Overview
The Gibson ES-339 is a semi-hollow electric guitar introduced in 2007. It uses the same construction principles as the well-known — laminated thinline body with a solid centre block — but in a smaller body the size of a Les Paul. The result is a guitar with much of the ES-335’s tonal character in a format that many players find more comfortable.
Origin & History
Gibson developed the ES-339 to address requests from players who liked the ES-335 sound but found its full body too large for comfort or stage use. The smaller body and shallower waist make the instrument easier to play seated and in confined spaces. Several variants exist, including studio, custom, and signature models with different pickups, finishes, and electronics.
How It’s Played
The ES-339 plays as a standard semi-hollow electric guitar. Its smaller body shifts the balance toward the neck slightly compared with the ES-335 and reduces overall weight. The semi-hollow construction provides a balance between the warmth of a fully hollow guitar and the feedback resistance of a solid body, making the ES-339 versatile across jazz, blues, rock, and pop styles.
Cultural Significance
The ES-339 has been adopted by many touring and studio players who want the ES-335’s voice in a more compact instrument. It is part of a broader Gibson trend in recent decades to offer alternative body sizes and ergonomics within established model lines, making classic designs accessible to a wider range of body sizes and playing situations.
Related Instruments
- – the larger original semi-hollow
- Gibson ES-345 – the stereo and Varitone variant
- Gibson Les Paul Special – a similarly sized solid body
- Gretsch 6120 – a contrasting hollow-body
- Semi-acoustic guitar – the broader category
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ES-339 a smaller ES-335?
Yes, in essence. It uses the same semi-hollow construction with a centre block but in a Les Paul-sized body.
Does it sound like an ES-335?
Very close, with subtle tonal and resonant differences from the smaller body.
Is it easier to play than an ES-335?
Many players find it more ergonomic, especially for seated playing or smaller frames.
Image: photograph by Sven-Sebastian Sajak, CC BY-SA 3.0 (Wikimedia Commons).
