The SJ-200 was originally designed to be a "super" version of the J-200, which was already a popular guitar model. Gibson wanted to create an even larger, more powerful instrument that could compete with other jumbo-sized guitars on the market.
In the early years of the SJ-200's production, the guitar was primarily marketed to country and western musicians, who were drawn to its bright, clear tone and powerful projection. The guitar is now embraced by musicians across a wide range of genres.
The SJ-200 has undergone several design changes over the years, including the addition of a cutaway in the 1980s and the introduction of a pickup system in the 1990s. However, the guitar's basic design and construction have remained largely unchanged, and it continues to be one of Gibson's most popular and iconic acoustic guitar models.
This SJ-200 is an absolute stunner – it looks the part with its iconic moustache bridge, distinct floral artwork on the pickguard and stunning mother-of-pearl ‘crown’ fretboard inlay. The tonewoods on this instrument have aged nicely and they pair together well giving off a lovely golden glow. The top, back and sides are very clean with only the odd small mark and just a hint of buckle rash on the back. The medium C profile neck is smooth and clean and sits nicely in the hand. The guitar has had a refret at some point in its life and as a result, the frets show very little wear whatsoever. There is a small crack in the top on the bass side between the bridge and soundhole that has been expertly repaired and is barely visible.
True to form, this SJ-200 has a gorgeous warm and robust tone. The guitar is well balanced with plenty of that sought after Gibson low end combined with lovely mids that sing on for days. As mentioned, the tonewoods have aged beautifully, and this can be heard when this guitar opens up – displaying both volume and crystal clarity. Gibson hit it out of the park with the SJ-200, and this particular guitar is a perfect example of that achievement.
Specs:
Scale length: 25.5”
Fretboard Radius: 12”
Weight: 2.375kg / 5.24lbs
Action at 1st fret: 0.50mm
Action at 12th fret: 2.25mm
Neck depth at 1st fret: 20.15mm
Nut Width: 42.97mm
12 fret width: 53.59mm
Neck material: Maple with Indian Rosewood Fingerboard
Fretboard inlays: Mother of Pearl Crown
Top: Sitka Spruce
Body: Maple
Body size at lower bout: 17”
Tuners: Gibson Deluxe Tulip
Pickguard: Tortoise with Floral
Bridge: SJ-200 Replica Crafted and Installed by Jeff Mallia
Electronics: Yes
Case: Non-Original HSC
