Slash9146 Posted February 7, 2011 Share Posted February 7, 2011 Hi, I'm about to buy a gibson explorer but I'm not sure if I should buy a new one or a used one.. I've heard that gibson isn't making guitars as good as a few years ago, is that true?I've a chance to buy a 1980 gibson explorer e2, is this guitar good, and what's its value if in good conditions but with different pickups(emgs)and bridge? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dem00n Posted February 7, 2011 Share Posted February 7, 2011 The E2 explorers are great guitars, not only in playability but in looks as well. Does E2 come with EMG's? Im not a fan of EMG's, IMO they all sound the same on any guitar. Different woods dont really effect a active pickups tone, thats why i say its a waste to put it on a guitar with a good tone wood. You should try both new and used explorers, the necks might be a tad different and tone. See which ever suits you. How is the guy asking for the E2? Dont belive into the "Gibson not making good guitars anymore" thing, there are still alot of great gibsons out there and IMO still the best. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Slash9146 Posted February 7, 2011 Author Share Posted February 7, 2011 i live in europe so price probably changes from euros to dollars, but he asks twice the price of a new gibson explorer the fact is that my ear isn't good enough to get the diferrences between different explorers! that's why i wanted to be sure, buying an old guitar that everybody says sounds better but if u say the chances of finding a good guitar are the same in old nad new guitars than i'll buy a new one! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dem00n Posted February 7, 2011 Share Posted February 7, 2011 Its all about your ears man. Always see which one you like more, and the one you like you buy! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
strat-o-steve Posted February 8, 2011 Share Posted February 8, 2011 The only negative to buying used is you do not get the limited lifetime warranty. Other than that, you will get a great guitar either way, and will save some money when buying used. Plus, if it is used and 15+ years old and is still able to be set up great, then it is a good guitar and likely always will be! I only own 2 modern Gibson's, one from 2007 and the other a 2009......both are awesome! I have played older (not vintage) ones before though, and can't really see a difference in build quality. As for quality control issues, every company will let some bogies slip through, that's why it is best to play before you buy. :) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
brundaddy Posted February 9, 2011 Share Posted February 9, 2011 I go by feel, sound, and price. Used is cheaper. FWIW, ~80% of my guitars were used when I bought them. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Majkel Posted February 9, 2011 Share Posted February 9, 2011 I've got an Explorer E2 made on the 14th of July 1981, and it's the most severely gorgeous and not to mention playable guitar I've ever held in my hands. I've tried to keep as much stock as possible on it, but was forced to change the string holder (it came with a fine tuner holder with all the screws missing) and the neck pickup which had gone microphonic. I replaced the neck with a Tonerider Alnico IV (low output, but sooo sweet sounding), and the bridge is the original Dirty Fingers. It really does everything from blues to really heavy heavy metal in spades. I've compared it to the new '76 re-issues, and all I can say is: if you've got the cash to get the E2, you'll kick yourself forever if you don't buy it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
PressHeartToContinue Posted February 16, 2011 Share Posted February 16, 2011 Gibson's QC improved tremendously since 07/08 and is very consistent these days. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mastodude Posted February 17, 2011 Share Posted February 17, 2011 I have played on used explorers, and am currently seeking the faded series in worn brown (p.m me someone if you have it and don't want it anymore!) As aforementioned, go by what feels/sounds right. Everything is entirely subjective to the player, which is helpful in decision making when purchasing an used instrument. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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