Gibson has finally relaunched its cult classic RD model – after a not-so-cryptic tease from its CEO in January
Gibson has announced the addition of a cult classic model to its Custom Shop core lineup — the RD Custom.
First released in 1977, the Gibson RD is famed for its unique appearance, in particular its distinctive body shape which takes inspiration from both the Explorer and Firebird models.
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Gibson CEO Cesar Gueikian hinted heavily at the RD’s return in a social media post back in January, so those who have been in the loop won’t be all that surprised at the news.
Not only is this the first Custom Shop-built RD model, though, it is also the first 25.5” scale length (longer than traditional Gibson designs) solid body core model offered by Gibson Custom. This extended scale length makes it particularly well-suited for players who favour drop tunings and heavier riffing.
Complete with the classic and comfortable RD body shape, including a rear tummy cut for extra comfort, the guitar features a mahogany body with multi-ply top binding, custom cosmetics, including gold hardware and mother-of-pearl block inlays on the neck and custom split diamond headstock inlay.
Image: Gibson
Players also get a mahogany neck with a Medium C profile and long neck tenon, a bound ebony fretboard with 22 medium jumbo frets, and a bound headstock with Grover Rotomatic tuners. As for electronics, we’ve got 490R and 498T humbuckers in the neck and bridge respectively, hand-wired to CTS potentiometers for rich tonal versatility. Each guitar also comes shipped with a Custom Shop hardshell case.
“Whether you prefer a longer scale length in general, use drop tunings, or just appreciate its curvaceously elegant, classic design, the RD Custom is a great choice and a guitar that is guaranteed to help you stand out from the crowd,” says Gibson.
Priced at $5,799, the RD Custom is now available worldwide at authorised Gibson Custom dealers, Gibson Garage flagship stores, and via Gibson’s website.
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Speaking of new releases, Gibson recently announced the Firebird Platypus, a tribute to the rare transitional Firebird designs from 1965.
The Firebird Platypus revives the distinctive “Non-Reverse” headstock, a design that flipped the headstock of earlier Firebird models. Unlike the original Reverse Firebird headstock, which had a two-layered design with a holly veneer, the “Non-Reverse” headstock was flat, “like the bill of a platypus”, says the brand.
Learn more at Gibson.
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Source: www.guitar-bass.net
