Gibson J-45 Modern Classic

The Gibson J-45 Modern Classic is a modern version of the classic 1942 J-45 guitar. Originally meant to compete with Martin dreadnoughts (specifically the D-18), the J-45 stands out with its soft-shouldered dreadnought shape and standard sunburst finish (a finishing style often used to hide slight imperfections in the wood). Like the Martin D-18, it has mahogany back/sides/neck. However, the J-45 sports a shorter scale length (24.75”) for playability. Known for its warm lows, the J-45 has a radius top with scalloped bracing for increased projection. It has been dubbed as the “workhorse” and players like Bob Dylan and Buddy Holly have certainly helped to give it that name. The Modern Classic comes stock with Fishman active electronics and sound hole mounted volume control.

The J-45 is generally regarded as Gibson’s most famous and widely used acoustic guitar model.