Very happy with the guitar and the beautiful case. If something were to happen to this guitar and it was lost or stolen, I hope Gibson is still making them new, because I would not hesitate to replace it with the exact same model. It has a great heavy resonant body, and I'm glad I chose to go with this model instead of installing EMG81/85 in my Gibson SG, as I'm sure it would not end up sounding the same as this very nice combo.

Sound
Great sound from the EMG 85 neck pickup and EMG 81 bridge pickup. This guitar sustains very nicely and the heavy wood body plays a role in that I'm sure.

Features
The guitar is flat black with a black pickguard and no inlays on the neck anywhere. There is also no picture of Orville Gibson on the back of the neck as there was with the 2000 model. It does have the all black chrome tune-o-matic bridge and black tuners. The battery compartment is on the back of the guitar and takes one 9v battery for the EMGs. It came with a nice lockable case with a plush white interior.

Ease of Use
I also own a Gibson SG, so other than a wider neck and heavier body, it felt very similar. The tuners are a bit cramped together but I suppose it is that way with every variety of Explorer. There are two volume knobs, one tone, and a 3 way toggle just like most other Gibson guitars.

Quality
Very nicely made, well set up from the factory… read more but I'm sure will need adjustment once 10-52s are installed. The flat black finish is nice... I did not expect that you would still be able to see the wood grain underneath it. It looks classy and contrasts with the black pickguard.

Value
I thought the value was great. It was identically priced to other explorer models that did not come with the EMGs and they are easily a $200 bonus value.

Manufacturer Support
Rated 6 because I have not had to deal with the company with either of the Gibsons I own. They are quality and easily DIY adjustable so I don't really see why I would need to deal with the factory.

The Wow Factor
I ordered this sight-unseen as zzounds still did not have a picture up or much in the way of a description. The guitar did not disappoint, and is significantly nicer than Epiphone versions I have played in my local guitar store. I'm glad I did not have to buy a model year 2000 version with 498/500 pickups in questionable condition from ebay. Thank you Gibson for releasing this guitar, with the EMGs that finally do justice to the looks.

Musical Background:
active musician, amateur recording engineer

Musical Style:
metal, prog, jazz read less