I bought my Gibson ES-333 while they were still brand new...my ES is a 2002. Back then,I was looking for an ES-335 and found the 333...I tried them out,side by side,both through the same amp and I honestly like the 333 better.Maybe it's was something with the satin finish,but the tone seemed to resonate better.(but that's just my opinion). The only mods that I have done is that I have installed the nickel pickup covers and swapped out the tuners for new Schallers,which are vintage style,complete,down to the greenish tulip style buttons. The original Gibson tuners worked well for years,however,the 3rd/G-string tuner gear started to slip out of tune,so I upgraded to the Schallers.It still basically appears the same from the front of the headstock and Schaller even replicated the back side pretty good,as well...the only difference is that it reads "S DELUXE" instead of "Gibson DELUXE"...AS far as those who are interested in adding the pickup covers...you have to make sure that you purchase the newer modern Gibson pickup covers,Because of the pickup pole spacing at the bridge pickup.(which is slightly wider than the older styles or the 57 classics).I have also heard that the nickel is a better option than the chrome(which is due to the charcteristics of the metal and its tendency to sound better "tonally").other than that,the guitar has been kept relatively stock.I have played a whole lotta gigs with it and I really have had no complaints in the years that I have had it. you might take a little time to set it up (meaning,the bridge,the neck and the pickup height)...but that usually goes the same with any guitar. Furthermore,the Rear access panel is a blessing and a relief to any one who would ever have to make a mod or repair. I have had to rewire a few semi-hollow body guitars and I can honestly say that working on the standard ES guitars is a repairmans nightmare.The rear panel on the ES-333 will save you not only minutes but HOURS!!! The pickups(490R/498T)do have a bit edgier and bigger bite than the 57 classics and the 57 classic plus. but you can always back of the volume a tiny bit. I have a Gibson Les Paul Custom that has the 57 classics so I do think the 57's have a bit smoother tone.But with the ES you have better access to the higher frets. As for the satin finish...some prefer the satin looks and others prefer a glossy shine...if you prefer a shine...get a polish cloth and start buffing.I polish mine evry year,while watching the World Series and by the time the Series is over...you can see a good reflection...of course it doesn't have the "depth" of the clear gloss coats but you'll get a good glossy shine.and last but not least...(ACTUALLY,MOST IMPORTANTLY).... since they have a nitro-cellulose finish...you might put a piece of cloth on your guitar stand...some of the rubber on the stands(particularlly the Yellow rubber)tends to have a chemical reaction with the finish on the reverse side of the neck and will leave an undesireable blemish on your beloved investment...well good luck to all those searching for an ES-333...I LOVE mine!
