When it comes to iconic electric guitars, the Gibson 335 and 355 are two of the most popular models out there.
Both were introduced in the 1950s and have since become favorites of musicians across genres.
But what sets these two models apart, and which one should you choose?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Gibson 335 and 355, their similarities and differences, and help you decide which one is right for you.
Gibson 335 and 355
The Gibson 335 and 355 are semi-hollow body electric guitars that have been around for more than half a century.
These guitars have been played by some of the biggest names in music, from Chuck Berry and B.B. King to Eric Clapton and Dave Grohl.
While they share many similarities, they also have some key differences that set them apart.
History and Development
The Gibson 335 was first introduced in 1958 as an alternative to the solid-body Les Paul. It was designed to provide the sustain and feedback resistance of a solid-body guitar while also producing the warm tone of a hollow-body. The 335 quickly became a hit with musicians, and over the years it has gone through several changes and iterations.
The Gibson 355, on the other hand, was introduced in 1958 as a higher-end version of the 335. It features a similar body shape and design, but with some additional features and embellishments. The 355 was designed for jazz and blues players who wanted a more luxurious and ornate instrument.
Body and Construction
Both the Gibson 335 and 355 have semi-hollow bodies made from laminated maple with a center block. The center block provides added sustain and reduces feedback, while the hollow wings of the body contribute to the warm, resonant tone. The 355 has a slightly larger body than the 335, but the overall shape and design are similar.
The 355 features several additional decorative touches that set it apart from the 335. These include a bound headstock, split parallelogram inlays, and gold hardware. The 355 also has a multi-ply binding on the body and neck, while the 335 has a single-ply binding.
Pickups and Electronics
One of the biggest differences between the Gibson 335 and 355 is in their pickups and electronics. The 335 typically comes with a pair of Gibson humbuckers, while the 355 often has a combination of humbuckers and single-coil P-90 pickups. The 355 also has a Varitone switch, which allows players to dial in a variety of tonal options.
The 355 also has a stereo output, which allows the player to send the signal from each pickup to a separate amplifier or recording device. This can be useful for creating stereo effects or for recording different parts separately.
Playability and Sound
Both the Gibson 335 and 355 are known for their comfortable playability and warm, versatile tone. The semi-hollow body design provides a nice balance between the sustain and feedback resistance of a solid-body guitar and the warmth and resonance of a hollow-body.
The 355’s additional decorative touches and electronics can contribute to a slightly different tone than the 335, but ultimately the sound of these guitars comes down to personal preference. Both guitars are capable of producing a wide range of tones, from bright and jangly to warm and bluesy.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Gibson 335 and 355 comes down to personal preference and what you’re looking for in a guitar. The 355 offers additional decorative touches and electronics that may appeal to some players, while the 335 has a more straightforward design and a classic sound that has stood the test of time. Both guitars are comfortable to play and capable of producing a wide range of tones, making them great choices for a variety of musical styles.
Ultimately, it’s important to try out both guitars if possible and see which one feels and sounds best to you. Whether you choose the Gibson 335 or 355, you’ll be getting a high-quality instrument with a rich history and a sound that has inspired generations of musicians.
FAQs
- Are the Gibson 335 and 355 similar in sound?
- The Gibson 335 and 355 have a similar semi-hollow body design and produce a warm, versatile tone. However, the 355 has some additional electronics and decorative touches that may contribute to a slightly different sound.
- What kind of music are the Gibson 335 and 355 best suited for?
- The Gibson 335 and 355 are versatile guitars that can be used for a wide range of musical styles, from blues and jazz to rock and pop.
- What’s the difference between the pickups on the Gibson 335 and 355?
- The Gibson 335 typically comes with a pair of humbucker pickups, while the 355 may have a combination of humbuckers and single-coil P-90 pickups.
- Which guitar is more expensive, the Gibson 335 or 355?
- The Gibson 355 is generally more expensive than the 335 due to its additional decorative touches and electronics.
- Can I play the Gibson 335 or 355 unplugged?
- Yes, the semi-hollow body design of both guitars produces a natural acoustic sound that can be played unplugged. However, they are primarily designed to be played through an amplifier for the best sound.