The 1997 Gibson ES-335 is a remarkable instrument that embodies the classic characteristics of the ES-335 series while incorporating some unique features from that era. Here’s a detailed description:

Body and Construction

• Body Material: The 1997 ES-335 features a laminated maple body with a maple center block, which contributes to its distinctive semi-hollow sound. This construction provides a balance between the warmth of a hollow body and the sustain of a solid body.
• Finish: The guitar is available in various finishes, including the elegant Tobacco Sunburst and Blonde.

Neck and Fingerboard

• Neck Material: The neck is made from mahogany, known for its stability and smooth feel.
• Neck Profile: It has a slim taper neck profile, making it comfortable for fast playing and easy access to higher frets.
• Fingerboard: The fingerboard is made of rosewood, featuring pearloid dot inlays.
• Frets: It comes with jumbo frets, providing a smooth and responsive playing experience.
• Scale Length: The scale length is 24.75 inches, with a 12-inch radius, which is standard for Gibson guitars.

Hardware and Electronics

• Pickups: The 1997 ES-335 is equipped with Gibson’s Patent Applied For (PAF) pickups, known for their vintage tone and clarity. The neck pickup has a resistance of 7.84k, while the bridge pickup has a resistance of 9.31k.
• Tuners: It features OEM tuners, ensuring stable tuning and smooth operation.
• Bridge and Tailpiece: The guitar includes a new Gibson bridge and tailpiece, contributing to its sustain and tuning stability.
• Wiring: The wiring harness includes CTS Pro pots and genuine original NOS Sprague Vitamin Q Caps, ensuring high-quality signal flow and tone control.

Playability and Sound

• Action: The action is set to 3mm at the 12th fret for both the 1st and 6th strings, providing a comfortable playing experience.
• Tone: The combination of the semi-hollow body, PAF pickups, and high-quality hardware results in a rich, warm tone with excellent sustain and clarity. It’s versatile enough for various genres, from jazz to rock.

Additional Features

• Weight: The guitar weighs approximately 8lbs 10oz, making it relatively lightweight and comfortable to play for extended periods.
• Nut Material: The nut is made of bone, contributing to the guitar’s resonance and sustain.

The 1997 Gibson ES-335 is a fantastic choice for players seeking a blend of vintage tone and modern playability. Its construction, hardware, and electronics make it a versatile and reliable instrument for various musical styles.