New Gibson G-45 Generation Series Acoustic Guitars Launched

Initially previewed at the NAMM show earlier this year, Gibson have finally officially launched their “Generation Series” of electro-acoustic guitars built in Bozeman, Montana. Described by Gibson as the “New Generation of Acoustic Guitars”, the series aims to deliver world-renowned Gibson tone and craftsmanship at a new, lower price point. The line-up is pretty straightforward with just two models – the G-45 Standard and G-45 Studio.

Benchmark Gibson Montana Features

The Gibson Generation Series may be at a price never seen before, but they still manage to keep the Gibson Montana benchmarks such as all-solid tonewoods, hot-hide glue construction, dove-tail neck joint, a nitro-cellulose finish, Gibson hard case and, of course, they’re 100% American-made. Both Gibson G-45 models are based on the classic Gibson J-45 in terms of looks and share the same “Round Shoulder” body shape with solid sitka spruce top but unlike the J-45, partnered with a locally-sourced solid walnut back and sides, Fishman Sonitone pickup & Mini Grover Rotomatic tuners.

Gibson G-45 Standard vs G-45 Studio – What’s the Difference?

With the G-45 Studio, you get a multi-ply binding on the top, walnut fingerboard and bridge, dot inlays and a satin nitrocellulose finish. Upgrade to the G-45 Standard and you’ll see some nice appointments over it’s Studio sibling such as a darker Richlite fingerboard and bridge, diamond inlays, gloss nitrocellulose finish and additional black binding on the back and sides.

No Frills, No Problem

I was lucky enough to be one of the few to get my hands on both of these incredible guitars out at the NAMM show in California earlier this year (check out the video below) and my first impressions were very good. A solid, Gibson-feeling and sounding acoustic with the vibe of a proper J-45, but at a mind-boggling price point for the spec. A no-frills Gibson acoustic, yes, but the tone, feel and heart is still very much there.