Gibson, much like Fender, are continuing to update their guitar range and the latest model to undergo a makeover is the trust old workhorse, the SG. Since it’s introduction in 1961 when it replaced the Les Paul for a little while the guitar has been a mainstay for many classic rock and blues artists but while the guitar is undoubtedly full of tone it’s never been the most versatile beast. The SG Diablo aims to correct this and give the SG a metal edged makeover.
The SG Diablo has a “double-locking” Floyd Rose vibrato bridge, 24 frets for extended soloing range and a simplified no-nonsense control layout with a hand-sprayed nitrocellulose finish in gloss Ebony Black. The Diablo also features two of Gibson’s popular PAF-style humbucking pickups—a 490R at the neck and 498T at the bridge, made with Alnico II and Alnico V magnets.
What the Experts say about the SG Diablo
We asked several respected Gibson’s dealers about this guitar and this is what they had to say.
“…the guitar certainly looks cool. An interesting departure for Gibson to add a Floyd Rose to an SG, it’ll be interesting to see how well that goes down with the guitar playing public. It’s sure to be a love/hate product, but as with anything Gibson, those that love it, will REALLY love it! ”
Jamie, Hartnolls Online Guitar Centre, Plymouth UK
“The Gibson Diablo with Floyd Rose Tremolo, as the name suggests, is designed and equipped for the darker and heavier styles of rock. It is the prefect addition to any heavy rock players, especially shredders. The typical double cutaway ‘devil-horn’ body is made of mahogany along with the neck and it looks very cool.
It has Gibson 490R and 498T humbuckers for higher output and great versatility, but the major feature is of course the tremolo meaning it keeps tuning stable during extreme pitch changes. I think if you’re looking for a heavy metal machine that looks and sounds dark, but in all fairness sounds with crystal clear clarity, then look no further.”
“…it’s certainly an interesting looking model. Gibsons with Floyd Roses are always a nice alternative to ESP/LTD guitars. The proof will be in the pudding though!”
The Gibson SG Diablo will retail at around £1,500 in the UK & $2,799 in the US.
