Gibson USA SG Standard HP 2017 – Revamping The Legend

Body And Neck:
Electronics:
Hardware:
Sound:
Value:

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It’s no exaggeration to say that 2016 was a superb year for Gibson, as they released a stunning range of advanced premium guitars. And it seems 2017 is following suit, with a long list of 2017-specific models featuring modern components, upgraded sound, and traditional Gibson playability. The Gibson USA SG Standard HP 2017 is one guitar that is sure to set 2017 alight!

Body And Neck

Despite some upgrades to the hardware from the 2016 model, there’s been no tinkering with the winning SG body shape on this guitar. The asymmetrical double-cutaway body is made from a solid piece of mahogany, with three highly-glossed finishes to choose from – Ebony, Heritage Cherry, and Cherry Burst, which all stay faithful to the classic SG look, along with a traditional half-body teardrop pickguard. The neck is also made from mahogany, and features a Slim Taper profile and ‘soloists neck width’, giving lead players a little extra room to maneuver. You’ll find a rosewood fretboard, with 22 polished frets – all of which are easily accessible thanks to the double-cutaway shape coupled with Gibson’s Fast-Access heel.

Hardware

A couple of new features give this 2017 SG a contemporary feel; primarily the awesome G-Force auto-tuning system, for fast and accurate tuning. This model also comes with a chrome aluminum tune-o-matic bridge with titanium saddles, and a chrome aluminum stopbar with locking steel studs, to enhance tuning stability and give optimum sustain. The titanium adjustable zero-fret nut is also a nice addition, allowing for different angles and string heights. Finally, Gibson provide you with a few nifty extras – a branded super premium aluminum hard case, a premium leather strap, a Gibson multi-tool, and a polishing cloth.

Electronics

This innovative guitar comes loaded with high-quality electronics, and two awesome humbuckers that excel when it comes to vintage rock playing. They have been upgraded from last year’s pickups, with a Classic ‘57 and Classic ‘57 Plus, at the neck and bridge positions, providing that true Gibson voice. The humbuckers are controlled by four chrome knurled UFO knobs – a volume and tone control for each of the pickups – while an aviation-grade toggle switch allows you to choose between them.

Sound

The SG is synonymous with icons such as Jimi Hendrix and AC/DC's Angus Young, and you’ll find their familiar vintage tones with the Classic ‘57s, which offer crunch in bucket-loads. The Plus offers a higher output without sacrificing any tone, and gives you a huge growl, making it the perfect pickup for soloing – something you’ll be doing a lot of on this very playable axe. For a model that falls into our expensive guitar range, it certainly delivers on its promises and is worth the cash.

Conclusion

The SG Standard HP 2017 is a soloist’s dream, with huge playability thanks to the Fast-Access heel, generous neck width, and Slim Taper profile. The pickups give you aggression and warmth, with classic Gibson tone, while the paintwork and craftsmanship are excellent – as you’d expect from a guitar in this price range. Throw in a few cool extras, and this is a real winner! .

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