ES - 339...anybody tried one yet?

[Ray M.]

I really like the idea. Semi hollow (built the same way as a 335), but just barely bigger than a Les Paul. Plus a Custom Shop axe for 1800 bucks.
But so far, you can only get them online. I think that's supposed to change though. I'd really like to see one in person.

www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Gibson-Memphis-ES339-Semi-Hollow-Electric-Guitar?sku=515256

[Rob DiStefano]

Isn't the 339 the newer version of the discontinued 336? I worked on a 336 two weeks ago - the studio found an NOS one that they got for a $2100 steal. Really nice guitar overall. Smaller body size feels comfy, neck is a bit on the smallish standard side (I think the 339 is a beefed up 30/60 or '59 round?). There were some minor flaws and the neck/body area had that fretboard hump, so Kato hit me with his wish list and I did a full refret, bone nut, Grover tuners, decoupled the pups and changed the Classic'57 bridge pup to a Classic'57+

[Ray M.]

frettech said:

Isn't the 339 the newer version of the discontinued 336?

I don't think so.
From what I understand the 336 is (in essence) a hollowed out solidbody with a maple cap. The 339 is constructed like a 335 with a centerblock and laminates.

I've heard some good stuff about the 336 though. And I like the rear (control plate) access.
The 339 is apparently just as big a pain to work on (electronics wise) as a 335.

[Rob DiStefano]

Nope, no main rear control plate on the 336 - there are upper/lower horn circular access plates for the switch and master volume.

[Ray M.]

hmmm...maybe I'm thinking of the the 346....seen here.



...but the 336 is a "chambered" piece of solid mahog, right down to the centerblock with a maple cap.
A very cool idea and I'm betting a nice sounding design.


BTW...2100 is a cool deal on a 336 from what I'm seeing!

[roger]

I would love to play the 339. MF carries it as I sure you are aware.