Introduction to the Models
In 1926, Gibson introduced acoustic flat-tops to their lineup, marking a meaningful milestone in guitar history. To commemorate this centenary, the brand has unveiled a trio of new models, including the J-185 and J-45.
These Century models reflect the evolution of Gibson’s craftsmanship, featuring an L-00 from the early 1930s, a J-45 from the 1940s, and a J-185 from the 1950s. Though, these guitars are not mere replicas; they are modern interpretations that honor the legacy while embracing contemporary advancements.
While customary methods like hide glue construction are retained, modern touches are evident, particularly in the neck profiles, which now feature Gibson’s SlimTaper design across all three models.
One notable departure from the original designs is the neck joint at the 12th fret instead of the traditional 14th. This design choice is intentional, as Gibson aims to present these models as “fresh interpretations” of their iconic predecessors.
The J-45, a model that needs little introduction, has achieved legendary status akin to Martin’s D-28 over its extensive history.
Introduced in 1942, the J-45 has been described by gibson as a cornerstone of American music, known for its rich warmth, expressive character, and balanced tone. It has been a favourite among artists like John Hammond, Bob dylan, and Vince Gill, and is famously associated with Monty Python’s Eric Idle, who reportedly used it to write the classic song Always Look On the Radiant side of Life.
The J-185, while less recognized, has garnered a loyal following as its debut in 1951, frequently enough regarded as a hidden gem among acoustic enthusiasts. Its body shape draws inspiration from the iconic L-5 of the 1920s, presenting a more compact option to the SJ-200.
Similar to the J-45, the J-185 features a 12th-fret neck joint, which Gibson claims enhances playability by shortening the neck and repositioning the bridge plate for improved resonance and comfort. This design results in a warm, vibrant tone that particularly benefits fingerstyle players and those with a delicate touch.
Focusing on the J-45, its construction adheres to the classic specifications that have made it a staple for decades. The top is crafted from premium Sitka spruce, showcasing a beautifully bookmatched grain, while the mahogany back and sides are finished with a thin satin nitrocellulose coat that allows the wood’s texture to be felt, enhancing its vintage appeal.
While 12th-fret neck joins are not new to the J-45,Gibson notes that these have typically been reserved for artist collaborations or limited runs,making this feature feel both unique and fitting. This design choice contributes to a more compact appearance and remarkable balance.
The neck is crafted from mahogany,featuring the SlimTaper profile,while the fretboard is made of rosewood. The classic Gibson logo adorns the headstock, minus the original banner that proclaimed, “Only a Gibson is good enough.” The vintage-inspired tuners are designed with simple white buttons, and both the nut and saddle are crafted from bone.
Interestingly, the guitar lacks a second strap button at the heel, which may seem unusual today. However, Gibson includes one for players to install if they wish, making it a simple task for those cozy with tools.
Turning to the J-185, its construction mirrors that of the J-45, utilizing the same Sitka spruce and mahogany combination for the top, back, and sides. The spruce is beautifully finished in a vintage sunburst, enhancing its classic aesthetic and echoing the design of the L-5.
While we may not be as familiar with the J-185 as with the J-45, it certainly presents itself as an attractive instrument, avoiding the bulkiness often associated with jumbo guitars.Its elegant figure-eight shape exudes a timeless charm.
Neither model is equipped with electronics, so it’s time to plug them in and explore their tonal qualities.
Specifications
Gibson J-185 Century 12-Fret
- price: $2,499 | £2,149 | €2,379
- Origin: USA
- Type: Jumbo
- Top: Sitka spruce
- Back/sides: Mahogany
- Max Rim Depth: 123mm
- Max Body Width: 405mm
- Neck: Mahogany
- Scale Length: 629mm (24.75″)
- Tuners: Golden Age strap
- nut/Width:
Gibson J-45 Century 12-Fret Overview
(Image credit: Gibson) - Price: $2,399 | £2,049 | €2,279 (includes hard case)
- Origin: USA
- Type: round-shoulder dreadnought
- Top: Sitka spruce
- Back/Sides: mahogany
- Max Rim Depth: 123mm
- Max Body Width: 407mm
- Neck: Mahogany
- Scale Length: 629mm (24.75″)
- Tuners: Three-on-a-plate with cream buttons
- Nut/Width: Bone/44mm
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Frets: 19
- Bridge/Spacing: Bone/56mm
- Weight: 1.57 kg / 3.48 lb
- Options: Finish only – Vintage Sunburst or Ebony
- Left-Handers: Yes, same price
- Finish: Vintage Amber satin nitrocellulose lacquer
- Contact: Gibson
Construction Quality, Playability, and Sound Profile
(Image credit: Future/Phil Barker) Interestingly, while handling the J-45, we found it remarkably stable when balanced on our knees, showcasing its excellent design.
Our experience with both guitars was enjoyable, and while the J-45 slightly edged out as our favorite, this is purely subjective based on its classic sound that has resonated with acoustic players for over 80 years.
The balance of the guitar is remarkable, feeling neither heavy on the body nor the neck. Both instruments are lightweight, making them feel almost weightless when worn on a strap. This might prompt you to consider adding that extra strap button after all.
Playing a few chords on the J-45 felt as comfortable as slipping into a favorite pair of shoes. The guitar delivers the signature J-45 sound with a robust woody resonance, and strummed chords produce rich harmonics and impressive sustain. Gibson truly nailed it with the J-45, which is no surprise given its popularity among singer-songwriters and fingerstyle players alike.
We particularly appreciated the way the lower mids and bass resonated through the body, creating a tactile tonal experience. The dynamic range is commendable; played softly, it captures all the nuances, while strumming harder unleashes a powerful, vibrant tone. We almost found ourselves wishing for a ‘Dear santa’ moment with this instrument…
(Image credit: Future/Phil Barker) In contrast, the J-185 offers a more subtle bass response. it’s refined and understated, making it an excellent choice for fingerstyle players who prefer a less aggressive sound but still require power for those louder moments in their performances.
While the tonal quality is undeniably present, it feels more polished compared to its more boisterous counterpart. Once again, singer-songwriters will find the J-185 to be a reliable partner, and fingerstyle players may discover a true companion in this model.
Did the SlimTaper necks affect our playing experience? Not at all; they felt completely natural.
Final Thoughts
Rating: ★★★★
(Image credit: Future/Phil Barker) Our time with both guitars was delightful, and while the J-45 slightly edged out as our favorite, this is purely a matter of personal preference, rooted in its iconic sound that has resonated with acoustic musicians for decades. We encourage you to explore both models and form your own opinion. Happy 100th Anniversary, Gibson!
Guitar World Verdict: Both of these modern takes on Gibson’s acoustic legacy have successfully captured the essence of their predecessors while incorporating contemporary enhancements that improve playability.
Presentation Videos
TFOA Demonstrations
Gibson J185 Century 12 Fret Vintage Sunburst played by Matthijs gaspar | demo – YouTube
Watch On
Dirk Witte Music Store
Dirk Witte | Gibson J-45 Century Collection 12-Fret – YouTube
Dirk Witte | Gibson J-45 Century Collection 12-Fret – YouTube
Dirk Witte | Gibson J-45 Century Collection 12-fret – YouTube
Watch On
zZounds
The Gibson Century Collection 12-Fret Acoustic Guitars – YouTube
watch On
Strumming into history: A deep Dive into the Gibson J-185 and J-45 Century 12-Fret Guitars Strumming into History: A Deep Dive into the gibson J-185 and J-45 Century 12-Fret Guitars
The Legacy of Gibson Guitars
Gibson guitars have long been synonymous with quality and craftsmanship. The J-185 and J-45 models, in particular, have carved out a significant place in the hearts of musicians worldwide. These guitars not only represent a rich history but also embody the evolution of acoustic guitar design.
Gibson J-45 Century 12-Fret
(Image credit: Gibson) Specifications
Feature Details Price $2,399 | £2,049 | €2,279 (includes hard case) Origin USA Type Round-shoulder dreadnought Top Sitka spruce Back/Sides Mahogany Neck Mahogany Scale Length 629mm (24.75″) Weight 1.57 kg / 3.48 lb Finish Vintage Amber satin nitrocellulose lacquer Sound Profile
The Gibson J-45 is renowned for its warm,rich tone,making it a favorite among singer-songwriters and acoustic performers. Its 12-fret design enhances playability and provides a unique tonal quality. The guitar produces a balanced sound with pronounced bass and clear treble, making it versatile for various playing styles.
Gibson J-185 Century 12-Fret
(Image credit: Gibson) Specifications
Feature Details price $2,499 | £2,149 | €2,379 Origin USA Type Jumbo Top Sitka spruce Back/Sides Mahogany Neck Mahogany Scale Length 629mm (24.75″) Weight 1.63 kg / 3.6 lb Finish Vintage sunburst satin nitrocellulose lacquer Sound Profile
The J-185 offers a more refined sound compared to the J-45, making it an excellent choice for fingerstyle players. Its tonal character is warm and lively, with a focus on clarity and articulation. The 12-fret design allows for easier access to higher frets, enhancing playability for intricate fingerpicking patterns.
Benefits of the 12-Fret Design
- Enhanced Playability: The 12-fret configuration allows for a shorter neck, making it easier to reach higher notes.
- improved Tone: The bridge placement on a 12-fret guitar enhances the resonance and projection of sound.
- Cozy Size: The body shape is frequently enough more compact, making it comfortable for players of all sizes.
First-Hand Experience
during our testing, both the J-45 and J-185 exhibited extraordinary balance and comfort. The J-45 felt like a trusted companion, producing a familiar woody growl that resonated beautifully with every strum.The J-185, on the other hand, offered a more polished sound, perfect for nuanced playing styles.
Practical Tips for Choosing Between the J-45 and J-185
- Consider Your Playing Style: If you prefer strumming and flatpicking, the J-45 may be your best bet. For fingerstyle enthusiasts, the J-185 shines.
- Test Both Models: if possible, play both guitars to see which one feels more comfortable and suits your sound preferences.
- Think About Your Budget: While both guitars are premium instruments, consider which features are most important to you.
Case Studies: Artists Who Love These Guitars
Many renowned musicians have embraced the Gibson J-45 and J-185 throughout their careers. As a notable example, Bob Dylan has famously used the J-45, contributing to its legendary status in folk music. Similarly,the J-185 has found favor among artists looking for a more subtle,refined sound.
Join the Beatbounty community
If you’re passionate about music and want to connect with other musicians, consider creating an account on the Beatbounty platform. You can submit ads, find gear, and engage with a vibrant community of music lovers.
Become a valued member of Beatbounty platform.
Start selling and connect with fellow musicians – LOGIN or REGISTER!
