1976 Gibson S-1 - Natural

The Altitude Summary

Unique and Versatile – A Visual Journey

This Gibson S-1 is nothing short of an oddity, offering a unique aesthetic and a versatile playing experience. While the guitar shows some wear, including buckle rash on the backside and typical scratches and swirling on the plastics, its neck is in great shape, making it incredibly playable. One standout feature is the figured top wood, which comes to life when viewed under light, offering an aesthetic that sets it apart from other S-1 models. For its price point, this guitar offers tremendous value, combining its rarity with impressive playability.

The Gibson S-1 – Gibson’s Response to the Stratocaster

The Gibson S-1 was Gibson's attempt to break into the single-coil, bolt-on neck guitar market, a space largely dominated by Fender at the time. While the body was similar to the Marauder, it featured a Les Paul Jr-like body with a maple Flying V neck and a Schaller "Harmonica" tune-o-matic bridge paired with the standard Gibson stopbar tailpiece.

What set the S-1 apart was its innovative electronics and wiring. Designed by Bill Lawrence, the guitar featured three "see-thru" single-coil pickups capable of generating humbucking sounds. A combination of a toggle switch and a "chicken head" rotary switch allowed for various pickup combinations, including:

1. Neck + middle
2. Middle + bridge
3. All three pickups together
4. Neck and bridge out of phase

The toggle switch could bypass the rotary switch and connect directly to the bridge pickup, offering even more tonal variety. This unusual wiring scheme gave the S-1 a wide range of distinctive sounds, making it a versatile instrument for any player.

A Classic from the Norlin Era

The Norlin Era (1971-1986) of Gibson is known for its mix of revered and less desirable models, largely due to cost-cutting measures in production. Despite this, many exceptional guitars emerged from this period, including the S-1. Initially introduced in 1974 as a competitor to Fender’s single-coil guitars, the S-1 saw endorsements from high-profile artists like Carlos Santana, Ronnie Wood, and Keith Richards. Despite this, its nontraditional construction and Fender-like characteristics led to disappointing sales, and the S-1 was discontinued by 1980.

Today, the Gibson S-1 enjoys a second life as a vintage guitar, sought after for its unique features and versatility. Artists like Angel Olsen have gravitated towards its ability to produce a wide range of tonal colors, showcasing the S-1’s lasting appeal.

Features and Specifications:

• Body: Les Paul Jr-style body with figured top wood
• Neck: Maple Flying V neck, bolt-on construction
• Bridge: Schaller "Harmonica" tune-o-matic bridge with stopbar tailpiece
• Pickups: Three "see-thru" single-coil pickups designed by Bill Lawrence
• Wiring: Unique rotary switch and toggle switch for multiple pickup combinations
• Weight: Lightweight and resonant, ideal for long playing sessions
• Condition: Shows some wear, including buckle rash and light scratches, but overall in great shape
• Tone Versatility: Capable of generating humbucking and single-coil tones with a wide variety of sounds

Quality and Legacy of the Norlin Era

Though the Norlin Era faced criticism for changes in production, guitars like the Gibson S-1 have proven their staying power. With its innovative design, unique electronics, and exceptional craftsmanship, the S-1 is now a highly sought-after vintage guitar. Both players and collectors appreciate its tonal versatility and distinctive sound, making it a timeless piece of Gibson's history.

The Gibson S-1 offers a unique blend of vintage charm and modern versatility. Its distinctive design, innovative wiring, and versatile tonal capabilities make it an excellent choice for musicians seeking something outside the ordinary. Whether you’re a player in need of an adaptable instrument or a collector looking for a standout piece, the Gibson S-1 from the Norlin Era is a remarkable find.