Gibson 1964 ES-335 Reissue 60s CH ULA

Overview: The Gibson 1964 ES-335 Reissue 60s CH ULA in Detail

The Gibson 1964 ES-335 Reissue 60s CH ULA positions itself among the elite of the Custom Shop lineup, especially with the addition of the new ultra-light aging by the Murphy Lab. Priced at $5799, this Cherry Red semi-hollow takes direct inspiration from the archetype of mid-60s Gibson craftsmanship, aiming to deliver not just looks, but the feel and sound of a "played-in" original from 1964.

Construction and Materials

Gibson stays close to the historic recipe with a body built from layered maple with a poplar center core, capped by a maple top. The neck uses a single piece of mahogany (botanically Swietenia macrophylla), topped with a rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia) fingerboard. The small block inlays and elegant Royalite binding cement the period-correct visual appeal. The signature split diamond inlay on the holly wood head veneer and the classic double-ring tulip tuners, finished in nickel, add to the aesthetic accuracy of the reissue.

The 628 millimeter scale (24.75 inches) is consistent with Gibson tradition and suits both chordal and lead play. With 22 medium-jumbo frets and compact block markers, the fingerboard aims for vintage-correct style and modern playability.

Neck Profile and Playability

The neck profile is listed as an "Authentic '64 medium C." In practice, this means a slightly rounded feel: deeper than the slim profiles of late '60s models, but lacking the heft of early '50s Gibsons. For many, this hits a versatile sweet spot, especially when paired with the careful fretwork and well-dressed nut work seen on this Custom Shop specimen.

User reports highlight a balanced instrument with exemplary ergonomics: "This 335-64 has a certain bite and a beauty that stands out. Its dimensions feel deeply natural in my arms and it's remarkably well-balanced." The transition from smaller semi-hollows like the 339 to the full-sized 335 is not difficult; in fact, some players feel the increased resonance and body presence heighten the tactile experience.

Finish: Murphy Lab Aging

The "Ultra Light Aged" finish by the Murphy Lab is a defining feature. This means lacquer checking over the cherry red body, carefully applied to simulate decades of use without introducing heavy wear or relic marks. The result is subtle but distinctive. Under direct light, fine finish cracks trace across the body, especially on the maple top and headstock. Nickel hardware adds to the overall oxidized look, but remains functional and smooth.

Several users point out that the precise look of the aging can vary model to model. One notes a mismatch between the stock photo and the received instrument, with a personal recommendation to request actual photos before purchasing. For some, fit-and-finish issues like sharp bridge saddle edges and needed post-purchase setup diminished the initial impression, particularly in this price bracket.

Electronics and Hardware

This reissue is equipped with two Custom Shop "unpotted" Custombucker AlNiCo III humbucker pickups, wired through CTS potentiometers and vintage-style paper-in-oil capacitors. The classic twin volume, twin tone setup with a three-way switch keeps it solidly in traditional territory.

• Pickups: The Custombuckers are designed to match the airy, low-output humbucker tones of the early and mid-1960s, eschewing wax potting for greater harmonic complexity and top-end sparkle. The result is an open, more dynamically responsive tone, at the expense of being slightly more sensitive to microphonic feedback at high gain.
• Bridge and Tailpiece: The ABR-1 bridge anchors to a lightweight aluminum tailpiece for direct string-to-body resonance. All hardware carries a period-correct nickel finish, contributing both to the feel and the gentle visual patina.

Case and Accessories

The guitar ships in a hard case with a Custom Shop certificate. Some users mention minor issues, such as bent case clasps, but confirm the guitar itself was well protected. There is no gig bag included. The paperwork and accessories reinforce the Custom Shop experience, though details like storage hardware must match expectations at this level.

Sonic Impressions and Playability

The 1964 ES-335 Reissue leans into midrange warmth with a singing, focused sustain. The low output of the Custombuckers handles blues, jazz, and classic rock with definition and attack. Clean tones from the neck pickup provide signature depth for chords and single-note lines, while the bridge brings cutting presence and snap. The three-way toggle allows fast, intuitive changes on the fly.

Several users specifically contrast this ES-335 with both solidbodies and smaller Gibson semi-hollows. One describes the instrument as "incredibly addictive," citing the tactile response and dynamic range. The ES-335's livelier tone compared to tame, smaller-bodied siblings is a repeated theme, alongside the instrument's aesthetic charisma on stage and in the studio.

Field Feedback: Consistency and Individuality

While most users praise the sound, looks, and feel, some caution that quality control is a concern on arrival. A few report needing to adjust intonation, pickup height, and truss rod out of the box. Expectations for the Murphy Lab aging and overall perfection are high in this price bracket, and attention to these details is warranted when purchasing.

Despite these concerns, satisfaction rates are strong: many consider this Custom Shop ES-335 a "must-have" for any serious guitarist, provided they're aware of how individual the aging process makes each instrument.

Conclusion: Who Is the 1964 ES-335 Reissue 60s CH ULA For?

The Gibson 1964 ES-335 Reissue 60s CH ULA is built for serious players and collectors chasing the look, feel, and tonal qualities of a real 1964 model with Custom Shop precision. Its "played-in" aesthetic, authentically voiced pickups, and comfortable neck profile make it a compelling, if premium-priced, package for discerning musicians. Potential buyers are advised to confirm the guitar's exact appearance and check for minor setup issues, but the musical reward is substantial for those seeking the golden era ES-335 experience.