The Gibson J-45 — affectionately known as “The Workhorse” — stands as one of the most iconic acoustic guitars ever made. This round-shoulder dreadnought delivers the warm bass, balanced mids, and clear projection that have made it a favorite among singer-songwriters and stage performers for decades. The ‘50s J-45 Original captures that legendary tone with its solid Sitka spruce top and solid mahogany back and sides, enhanced by traditional hand-scalloped X-bracing and a compound dovetail neck joint. For authentic vintage appeal, it features multi-ply top binding and single-ply back binding with a lightly aged finish that gives the guitar a timeless, well-seasoned look.
 
The ‘50s J-45 Original also offers exceptional playability and performance-ready versatility. Its high-grade rosewood fretboard is carefully selected for durability, stability, and tonal clarity, featuring genuine mother-of-pearl dot inlays and rolled edges for a smooth, comfortable feel. Onstage, the J-45 shines with its LR Baggs VTC pickup system, which combines a low-profile under-saddle transducer with an onboard preamp and discreet volume control mounted inside the soundhole. The result is a natural, dynamic acoustic tone that translates beautifully through any PA or amplifier — with no compromise to the instrument’s vintage character or tone.