Gibson 1959 ES-355 Reissue EB VOS

Introduction: The Black Beauty Revisited

The Gibson 1959 ES-355 Reissue EB VOS, priced at $6099, is a tribute to a true classic from the revered Custom Shop. With its ebony finish, gold-plated hardware, and high-end appointments, it promises both visual and sonic distinction. As an instrument aimed at professionals and discerning enthusiasts, it enters a competitive segment of the high-end semi-hollow guitar market.

Construction and Aesthetics

This Custom Shop model employs a laminated body, maple on the top and back with poplar in the center, reinforced by a robust one-piece mahogany neck. The body receives a five-ply binding, both for durability and a sharp visual delineation. The deep black finish, paired with split-diamond headstock inlay and pearl block fretboard markers, creates a striking "black beauty" appeal. Details such as the gold-plated hardware, stop tailpiece in aluminum, and vintage-correct ABR-1 bridge complete a premium package. Under close inspection, fit and finish deliver precisely what is expected at this price: flawless lacquer work, meticulous inlay, and tight construction lines.

Neck and Playability

The neck profile is an authentic 1959 medium "C" shape, not as chunky as some late-'50s necks but filling the palm evenly. Combined with an ebony fretboard, smooth and fast under the fingers, and 22 immaculately set frets, the playability is truly a highlight. The 628 mm (24.75 inch) scale is a Gibson standard, contributing to the instrument's familiar slinky string feel and smooth bending. A recurring comment is how the action feels "effortless," rewarding more advanced touch and expressive vibrato. The balance is generally good for a semi-hollow, though a robust shoulder strap is recommended to avoid slippage, especially when seated. Overall ergonomics are excellent, with the guitar feeling substantial yet never unwieldy.

Hardware and Tuning Stability

The gold-plated Grover tuners provide precise, stable tuning adjustment. The original-style ABR-1 bridge orchestrates intonation well, while the aluminum stop tailpiece brings up sustain and resonance without unnecessary weight. Combined, these yield remarkable tuning stability, an absolute requisite for a stage or recording instrument at this level.

Electronics and Tonal Palette

At the heart of the ES-355 Reissue's versatility are its two Custombucker pickups with AlNiCo III magnets. This dual humbucker (HH) configuration, combined with traditional "2 volume, 2 tone" controls and a three-way selector, offers a broad tonal range. The bridge pickup brings out expressive jazz voices, round, nuanced, and clear. Blending both pickups is a favorite setting for blues players, giving a punchy midrange with singing articulation. The neck pickup alone has warmth without muddiness, producing a lush, roomy sound well-suited for classic soul or mellow lead tones.

Unlike some other vintage-output humbucker guitars, this instrument does not get "muddy" even with higher gain settings. The Custombuckers are notably dynamic and open, handling pedals and amp overdrive with impressive clarity. Players switching between jazz, blues, and old-school rock'n'roll will not find themselves wanting. The controls have a notably wide sweep, with the volume and tone potentiometers offering fine adjustment for stage or studio.

On-Stage and In-Studio Performance

This ES-355 Reissue is reported to be highly resistant to unwanted feedback, even when effects or higher amp volumes enter the picture. This makes it an exceptional choice for live work, where control and reliability are essential. The guitar comes with a tight-fitting case and an official Custom Shop certificate, a nod to its collectible status and the protection required for such a significant investment.

Use Cases and Genre Suitability

Owners echo the instrument's chameleon-like ability to cover a wide range of tones. While jazz and blues are natural fits, players note that the guitar can "bite" for more assertive rock contexts. It is not engineered for hardcore modern rock or metal, but within its intended palette, from Larry Carlton-style fusion, through BB King's clean sustain, to Chuck Berry's signature drive, it excels.

Practical Considerations

• Weight and Balance: Heavier than a single-cut solidbody but manageable. Requires a quality strap.
• Finish and Detailing: No observed flaws in finish, binding, or hardware alignment. The VOS (Vintage Original Specifications) aging is subtle and tasteful.
• Consistency: Owner reports suggest overall high quality, though Gibson Custom Shop's reputation for occasional inconsistencies remains a factor. Returns and replacements seem rare but handled professionally by vendors.

Value

The price, at $6099, positions the ES-355 Reissue at the upper end of Gibson's offerings. In exchange, you receive the full Custom Shop experience: carefully matched wood selection, historical accuracy, and modern reliability. For buyers in pursuit of a lifetime instrument with both prestigious looks and versatile sound, few alternatives match this blend.

Conclusion: Verdict

Gibson's 1959 ES-355 Reissue EB VOS is, by every measure, an impressive flagship semi-hollow. It bridges the gap between visual spectacle and sonic excellence, giving players classic feel with reliable modern performance. While it demands a serious investment, its combination of playability, tonal breadth, and collectible presentation stands out. For the committed musician looking for a black-finished, period-correct semi-hollow made in the United States, this guitar will more than meet the brief and inspire years of playing.