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The Gibson 80s Explorer Solidbody Electric Guitar in Ebony is a bold and aggressive reissue of one of Gibson’s most iconic designs, delivering searing tone and unmatched stage presence. A true tribute to the 1980s rock and metal scene, this Explorer is built for players who crave powerful sound, fast playability, and a distinctively sharp aesthetic.

Design & Build

The mahogany body follows the signature angular shape of the classic Explorer, providing both striking looks and a rich, resonant foundation for its tone. The Ebony gloss finish enhances its sleek, menacing aesthetic, while a set-in mahogany neck with a SlimTaper profile ensures smooth and comfortable playability. The rosewood fingerboard features 22 medium jumbo frets and dot inlays, giving it a fast feel perfect for high-energy performances.

Electronics & Sound

The Gibson 80s Explorer is loaded with a set of high-output humbuckers that provide the crushing sustain and punchy midrange needed for hard rock and metal. The 496R in the neck position delivers warm, articulate tones, while the 500T in the bridge packs an aggressive bite with tight low-end response—ideal for cutting through any mix. A 3-way pickup selector switch and individual volume controls allow for easy tonal shaping, while the master tone knob gives you extra control over brightness and warmth.

Hardware & Playability

The Tune-O-Matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece combination ensures rock-solid tuning stability and optimal sustain. Gibson's Grover Mini Rotomatic tuners keep your strings locked in place, making sure you stay in tune even after heavy riffing or dive bombs. The black speed knobs complement the dark, modern aesthetic while offering smooth adjustments on the fly.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're looking to relive the glory days of '80s metal or simply want a guitar with uncompromising tone and attitude, the Gibson 80s Explorer in Ebony delivers. Its killer looks, blistering pickups, and fast-playing neck make it a must-have for guitarists who demand both style and substance. This is a guitar built to shred, riff, and dominate any stage.

Comes with a Gibson hardshell case.

This item is sold As-Described

This item is sold As-Described and cannot be returned unless it arrives in a condition different from how it was described or photographed. Items must be returned in original, as-shipped condition with all original packaging.Learn More.

ConditionBrand New (New)
Brand New items are sold by an authorized dealer or original builder and include all original packaging.Learn more
Brand
Model
  • '80s Explorer
Finish
  • Ebony
Categories
Made In
  • United States
Fretboard Material
  • Rosewood
Fretboard Radius
  • 12"
Body Material
  • Mahogany
Neck Construction
  • Set-Neck
Frets
  • Medium Jumbo
Right / Left Handed
  • Right Handed
Number of Strings
  • 6-String
Neck Material
  • Mahogany
Finish Style
  • Gloss
Body Type
  • Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type
  • Stop-Bar
Offset Body
  • Offset Body
Pickup Configuration
  • HH
Wood Top Style
  • Opaque
Scale Length
  • 24.75"
Nut Width
  • 1.695"
Color Family
  • Black
Model Family
Body Shape
  • X-Style
Number of Frets
  • 19

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Maxwell's House of Music

Jeffersonville, IN, United States
Joined Reverb:2015

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