Gibson promised something new and innovative when the company debuted its Generation Collection of acoustics last month, and the company certainly delivered – and then some.
Comprised of four models – the parlor-sized G-00, the round-shouldered G-45, the cutaway G-Writer EC and the cutaway Jumbo G-200 EC – the Generation Collection offers up a fresh and unique playing and listening experience, with thinner bodies, flatter-than-standard neck radii and, in a revolutionary design move, the addition of the Gibson Player Port.
Located on the guitar’s upper bout, the Player Port is inspired by a 1964 blueprint from the Gibson archives, and has now been fully realized by the Gibson Lab. As Paul Riario explains in this demo video, the Player Port “provides an immediate and immersive sonic experience. You can now finally hear more of you, by the Player Port projecting the sound toward you. So in essence you’re hearing what the audience hears.”
While Paul calls the Player Port the “standout feature” of these acoustics, there’s much more on offer in the new Generation Collection.
Handmade in Gibson’s Bozeman, Montana factory, the new guitars sport solid Sitka spruce tops, solid walnut backs and sides, thinner bodies, Advanced Response-profile utile necks and ebony fingerboards with a flatter-than-usual radius and 20 frets.
“The other instantly noticeable feature of the Generation acoustics are how lightweight and balanced each guitar is, and the incredibly comfortable and slim neck profile that feels fast,” Paul adds. “In addition, the super-flat 16-inch fretboard radius also facilitates an easy playing experience.
Other features include TUSQ nut and bridge saddles, Grover Mini Rotomatic tuners and, on the G-Writer and G-200, an LR Baggs Element Bronze pickup system.
Paul's verdict?
“Gibson’s Generation Collection are affordable, stripped-down acoustics meant to be played for hours with ease,” he says. “Each model possesses player-friendly features with a comfortable neck profile and a big resonant tone. Add to that the benefit of Gibson’s innovative Player Port, which projects the sound towards you and allows you to have an immersive sound experience, making this guitar a real joy to play."
Paul continues, "Depending upon what body style suits you best, I believe the Gibson Generation collection will turn out to be instant classics for working musicians and inspiring players.”
To find out more about the Generation Collection, head to Gibson.
