Introduced as a fully hollow counterpart to the already popular ES-335 in 1959, the ES-330, both in its single pickup and more popular dual pickup form, the ES-330 was not, unfortunately, the slam dunk hint Gibson thought it would be, having to compete with other Gibson thinline offerings like the ES-225, ES-350, and the ES-335, and suffering from a shorter neck (with a different body joint) and a feedback prone design. It’s not surprising then, that in true Gibson fashion, the ES-330 was discontinued in the early 1970’s.

The ES-330TD, in recent years however, has become something of a golden goose for blues, rock, soul, and R&B players, thanks to the almost Rhodes like tones available from its body mounted dog-ear P90s, and modern players have learned to harness its slightly unpredictable feedback, leading to howling leads with the right amp setup.

This example from 1964 features many of the same features as its 50’s original design, plus the 1962 addition of small-block inlays, nylon saddles, and nickel pickup covers.

The nut width is the much more sought after 1 11/16, mounted on a mahogany neck replete with Brazilian rosewood fingerboard and MOP block inlays, all original.

The laminate maple body, all hollow, is loaded with original 60’s dogear P90’s, the original bridge loaded with nylon saddles, original nickel trapeze tailpiece, and the original pickguard (though the capture nut on the outside of the pickguard is long gone).

As far as we can see, the pots are original, as well as the wiring.

Condition wise, this guitar has seen some play, but obviously was cared for. The back features some expected buckle rash, as well as the finish itself overall having an almost painting-like level of fine checking. Some dings here and there.

This guitar plays quite well, despite a little bit of fret denting from 60 years of play. Setup well and sounds great, like you’d expect!

Comes with the original orange interior Lifton case.