To celebrate the 120th Anniversary of the world's most respected guitar maker, Gibson USA has unveiled an entire lineup that represents several of the greatest values ever offered in hand-made American electric guitars. The SG Special is a prime example: backed by a wealth of innovation and experience, it's a genuine Gibson at every turn -- at a lower price than you ever thought possible.

The SG Special delivers big time on SG Standard-style tone and playability at an amazing price, through its genuine Gibson humbucking pickups, classic tonewoods, a fast and comfortable slim neck profile, and uncompromising Gibson construction quality.

Two of Gibson's most popular humbucking pickups from the Modern Classics range, a 490R at the neck and 490T at the bridge -- both with chrome covers -- link the 2014 SG Special to legendary SG tone. Further 2014 120th Anniversary additions include larger no-slip strap buttons, black Max Grip Speed Knobs, a GraphTech nut, long-life proprietary coated guitar strings, cryogenic treated fret wire for longer life and corrosion resistance, a full PLEK setup, and a 120th Anniversary logo inlay at the 12th fret. Add dark cream pickup mounting rings and switch ring, and custom features like the "2014 Model" stamp on the back of the headstock and a truss-rod cover engraved with "Special," and the SG Special is a great way to help us celebrate 120 years--at a truly breathtaking price.

Body and neck

The SG Special is crafted in the image of the… read more original SG Standard, with an asymmetrical double-cutaway body for excellent upper-fret access. It's made from solid mahogany and features a glued-in maple neck with a slim '60s profile, rosewood fingerboard topped with a GraphTech nut, carries 24 cryogenic-treated frets for long life and corrosion resistance, dot inlays, and a commemorative 120th Anniversary inlay at the 12th fret.

Pickups and electronics

The guitar carries a pair of Gibson's popular Modern Classics humbucking pickups, a 490R in the neck position and a 490T in the bridge, for everything from rich, warm, bluesy tones to massive crunch and wail. They're wired through the traditional complement of independent volume and tone controls, and a three-way selector switch.

Hardware

Following the stripped-down ethos of the SG Special, the guitar carries no pickguard and the minimum of ready-to-rock hardware. A chrome Tune-o-matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece anchor it all down for outstanding resonance and sustain, while vintage-style tuners retain a classic look, and enlarged strap buttons keep your guitar secure throughout the set.

Case and coverage

The SG Special comes protected in a Gibson gig back, includes a truss-rod wrench and owner's manual, and is covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty and Gibson's 24/7/365 Customer Service. read less