Gibson USA Factory Tour

www.premierguitar.com PG's Shawn Hammond is on location in Nashville, TN, where he visits the Gibson USA Headquarters. In this segment, we get to see how Gibson builds their line of various USA instruments that include Les Pauls, Explorers, Firebirds, and many more.
For more Factory Tours or to watch one of Premier Guitar's 1800 other videos online, be sure to visit www.premierguitar.com/video

[@DomSchu]

The guy who gets to test the guitars at the end has the best job. Playing hundreds of different guitars a day.

[@hib32]

DomSchu Probably the one with a higher salary too, based on merit of course, since he has to have an artistic sensibility.

[@MICKEYISLOWD]

Julio Sanchez So he gets minimum wage rate?

[@hib32]

Mickeyslowd I don't think so.

[@MICKEYISLOWD]

Julio Sanchez Living wage rate?

[@hib32]

Mickeyslowd He gets a decent wage rate that would give him a good living standard, in comparison to other countries he would seem a rich person.

[@garrettbrooks285]

Just received the 2014 Gibson Les Paul Studio. Absolutely beautiful!

[@rfelton77]

do your coil tap/volume knobs have a little bit of jiggle to them?

[@diamondvault4348]

Hey every body!!!!i just farted and it's smell delicious!!!!

[@peterulrich497]

I have six Gibson Guitars 4 electric, 2 acoustic so as a loyal Gibson guy this is really fun to watch. I always say Orville Gibson and Leo Fender have the best seats in heaven since they equipped most of the world's greatest bands.

[@Nlav26]

I'm confused by all the negative comments here and suspect most who are commenting have little to no technical background. I see people complaining that a CNC is cutting the bodies... Why in the world would you want or expect bodies to be carved by hand? How would that make the guitar "better". A CNC has precision down to thousandths or an inch or less, meaning every body will be the same. There's a reason you can go into a guitar center anywhere in the world and see hundreds of guitars on the wall. You can't manufacture at this type of volume using craftsmen. The assembly is still done "by hand", what more do you want?

[@donharrold1375]

nlav26 Completely agree. Following the logic of the “handwork brigade” we’d still be driving round in a model T. CNC guarantees a level of quality and consistency that could never be matched by hand. Plek guarantees a tremendous fret job as the levels are checked by laser, no human being could match that level of precision period. Where handwork is still important is fit up and finishing. The human hand and eye is still far superior at detecting small flaws and correcting them. Apart from generally better quality components, the real difference in a quality guitar is the time spent finishing it and setting it up properly. That’s quite time consuming, but is very noticeable to the consumer. A mid priced guitar can be significantly improved if you’re willing to invest time and effort in it. With a little know how and time there’s really no reason why it couldn’t be upgraded to a give the same playability and sound as a reasonably high end instrument.

[@jonhmonroney12]

the price they demand is so inflated. They claim its more expensive because the number of hands and hours on it. Theyre not worth 2500 and 3500. Im sorry theres only a few hundred dollars in any guitar thats 1,000 or more. Gibson gets a cpl thousand just for the name alone. Hype

[@jimbeam4111]

Jonh Monroney how much do you think those machines cost as well as labor cost?

[@donharrold1375]

Jonh Monroney I think you’ve got to look at the break down of the price. 40-50% of the price you pay covers the dealers margin, his costs and any sales taxes (dealers have lot of costs to cover: advertising, utilities, rent, taxes, regulatory compliance and staff wages). Therefore Gibson is probably selling high end guitars to dealers for between $1500 and $2000k. Personally I don’t think that’s outrageous. The biggest element of Gibson’s and the dealer’s costs is employee wages. If you want all American you’ve got to be prepared to pay American wage rates which are very high relative to Indonesia or Nam. At least when you buy a Gibson, Fender or PRS you keep manufacturing jobs in the USA. Personally I feel quite good about that.

[@rockandrollbuddha9902]

Yes, I found it very interesting how it went from both processing all the way down to final detailing and quality control. If you follow along closely you'll see how each phase was a little more detailed than the next with quality control being maintained throughout. Also those workers there we're highly skilled and they really made the job look a lot easier than it is.

[@theartist124]

If you happen to be a Gibson type person, this almost brings a tear to your eye seeing all of this!

[@RoughCutDIY]

This is just amazing! Look at all those beautiful guitars!

[@fuckinmetal1982]

this guy you are asking to describe everything needs a raise by gibson. he knows absolutely everything.

[@leokimvideo]

I have heard they are now doing Gibsons with a denim finish.

[@ahmetcangokceer]

noooo ::)

[@mikkywhalan]

I have officially lost respect for Gibson. They could’ve….oh I don’t know…,maybe donated them instead? Nope let’s destroy them. 🙄

[@GuitarLessonsBobbyCrispy]

Omg this would be a dream come true to do this as a day job!

[@fabianafaabianarafaela6843]

FAIBNA. FABNA

[@fabianafaabianarafaela6843]

FABNA. FABNA

[@fabianafaabianarafaela6843]

FABNA FABNA

[@fabianafaabianarafaela6843]

FAIBNA FABNA

[@fabianafaabianarafaela6843]

FABNA FABNA

[@drood78]

so fun to see so many people astounded by the fact that machine's are used if you can do it better by hand please don't hesitate to upload and share it

[@CrazyDiamond1968]

Every guitar manufacturer uses CNC machines, Tom Anderson, PRS, Suhr, Fender, etc. It's not the machines that are the problem, it's the finishing off of a guitar after the machines have done their work. Run your fingers along the neck and body binding of a Gibson, feel the ridge between the binding and wood???...sloppy. What neck joint does your USA Les Paul have, do you even know? Look at the neck joint at 32:33...no problem, hack the wood away and fill the gaps with glue...etc, etc, etc.

[@600theband]

CrazyDiamond1968 "hacking the wood away" is all part of wood joinery, and it is what insures a proper fit. Glue is then used to bond the two pieces of wood with permanence. Just like the narrator said. :-)

[@daivdash]

I took a class trip tour of the Gibson Kalamazoo factory in the mid 70's. Alot has changed since my first tour. I can still remember the old masters at work with shapers making the bodies. All handmade very little CNC work done if any. Still awesome to see being made.

[@Fr0z0rz]

Really makes you appreciate your guitar even more. Probably my favorite "how it's made" I've ever watched. ;)

[@LambChopper678]

Best guitar factory tour I've ever seen, thank you

[@austincutty4548]

Lambchopper!

[@LambChopper678]

Thanks man

[@235buz]

LambChopper678 Apparantly you haven't watched the Martin guitar factory tour in six parts!

[@LambChopper678]

I haven't yet, but thank you. I'm on my way now

[@casualguy393]

LambChopper678 Check out these from Tokai... watch?v=GCQlu2AzxW8 watch?v=RyKH6xB0XiM

[@zizoumonk10]

"They have the pneumatic clamping where it's tightened down pneumatically."

[@moulis05]

Possibly the most satisfying KZbin video I have ever watched.

[@laydbakk1]

I just had to check this one out... I had no idea there was that much involved in making these axes, plus how many people it takes, their expertise's, and the sheer volume being made... Was a good education...

[@Joshua543215]

Oh Jesus, this is how america produced - it's been often said "old school", that hits the nail on the head. As an European I hope TTIP would never be finished.

[@cschoenmakers]

Thanks Gibson for the Tour in your Factory

[@rwl6935]

After watching this I have a new found love for my Gibson’s! Great tour!

[@starguy9]

I'm amazed there is so much hands on. I bought a brand new 2016 studio and couldn't be happier.

[@LevelXeven]

Gibson Les Paul Cherry Sunburst my dream guitar... :D

[@rockandrollbuddha9902]

Les Paul, gloss black with all gold hardware.

[@billybash01]

I bet that place smells amazing

[@jahbay]

The guy with the blue shirt was pretty Impressive. You know he put some time in to get to that level. My hat's off to you Mr. Slack belt operator.

[@andreferreira5540]

My childhood dream to have a Gibson !!! but I was happy to see this video showing how this legend is made!

[@TheFlyingAudiophile]

I can't understand why so many people are moaning about what Gibson's cost. I've just bought a brand new lovely black Les Paul studio faded for under £600. When I see how much has gone into making it I am almost incredulous they can make it for that. To be honest I was quite surprised how labour intensive the process is with people hand spraying, cutting in bindings by hand, sanding by hand, polishing by hand and checking each guitar by hand. I was delighted when I opened mine last night to find a photograph of my actual guitar on the bench in QC being checked - a lovely touch. I'm a brit but I think the Europeans and the yanks need to start making a concerted effort to buy things made in our countries to keep skilled work in the West. It's why my Les Paul is a Gibson, my Strat is an American standard and why I buy my guitar straps from Leathergraft of LIverpool England. This video makes me proud to own a GIbson...

[@Danhunterguitar]

Amen bro! Proud Gibson owner.👍

[@brycecourtneymusic]

much rather buy from the uk than mexico or china

[@TheEjuiceReviews]

People complaint is more with the cost of a Les paul standard not so much the Studio, also the QC is not so good any more, some will be great and others poor in the exact same model. When you pay over 2K you expect a great instrument every time. I would hate to see Gibson go under but it will happen in the future if they don't change things

[@MP422ownz]

Thats your own problem if you buy a bad one, most stores offer 45 day return policies..... secondly when buying something handcrafted to a degree their will alway be variations.

[@MP422ownz]

I agree completely Jonathan.

[@MidnightFireBurst]

Good to be part of the family!

[@Archtops]

Great tour of the factory process and that’s why I own a 1993 Les Paul Standard and a 2016 Les Paul Classic.

[@DavidBrown-it9ig]

Best tour ive seen of the Gibson factory!

[@SombraPiloto]

I just picked up the nicest LP I've ever played about a month ago, it was made by Carvin.

[@nickhorton785]

I found the tour fascinating. Makes you appreciate the quality and work that goes into a quality product. Thank you.

[@Sora-o]

Quality? This is machine made not custom nor real skill or craftsmanship.

[@TheOskr01100]

Jorge B. Talking about mass production, they are done with very good quality, If you're looking for a kind of artesanal made guitars this is not the correct video for you

[@CrazedGin]

Oscar Quezada Compare a Les Paul Standard to a Custom 24. Both mass produced, one known for being high quality and one known for being iffy quality. I think you can figure which is which.

[@markschmidt7167]

very cool video. Never realized all the steps involved in making these awesome guitars. And for every step, when it goes the next you can tell the difference in skill level that each person has. jorge did listen when they said the final person who inspects has been doin his job 19 yrs. if have not attained a certain amount of skill in that time period something is really wrong at Gibson USA. jorge, in all due respect I dont believe that you give these American workers they respectfully deserve.

[@boboutelama5748]

Hello mark. I posted links for a view in the fabrication of Bacchus guitars much above in this comment section. If you like to see the different steps, it's the vid for you.

[@NicholasBrockmueller]

I recently purchased a 2013 model LPJ, a very affordable real Gibson Les Paul. It's functionally every bit as good as the LP custom, and LP delux I've owned in the past, if not as finely appointed. I'm very happy with it. A real Gibson made in the USA. When you're shopping around, don't rule out pride of ownership. Also, it was cool to see R.P. Elliot on the tour, my paperwork shows he was the inspector that signed off on my guitar !

[@anthonyrenaud5783]

What an amazing tour to create a beautiful piece of art. I’ll look at a guitar differently now.

[@nolanconville6523]

that guys knowledge of the process is impressive

[@bomb2themaximum]

So cool I love gibson so much the sg is my favorite guitar in the world

[@onlyjoetee]

So this is where those amazing guitars are made...🙏

[@66flamer]

Gibson started in Kalamazoo Michigan. Where I am sitting right now. I'm about 2 miles from the original location.

[@Chevsilverado]

This process doesn't only take a half an hour, it takes weeks to make 1 guitar. People handle the guitars for hours. Granted, the bodies are machined, but that's good because it means your guitar will be perfect. Also, the materials do cost a lot more than you all think. Especially the woods, they don't cost $10 each.

[@boboutelama5748]

There was a video about the price of the wood in the guitar industry... it was made by a guitar builder that has a little enterprise. It's very informative. If I remeber right, we are at least at 45$ of wood, for a LesPaul type guitar. Gibson can have much more interesting prices, due to the larger amount of wood they will order. In the case of Gibson, it's the margin system that is the most problematic factor. Gibson works with the x6 margin. This allows them to endorse players, pay for publicity and finance their empire. Whatever, this is a real brake when it comes to make a quality/price products. Because, under those conditions, they simply can't.

[@shovelheadseven]

True

[@GravyHucker]

There has been nothing coming out of Gibson in the last decade that is "perfect." The CNC made parts are before the "techs" get their hands on it and screw it up. And QC is totally out to lunch. But MY GOD the sound they make. I have no idea how they do that.

[@campbelltuck]

Really enjoyed that tour ,makes one treasure their own guitar more, although it's mostly automated, that hand work makes your guitar personal....Good Luck *GIBSON"

[@paultrussy4243]

Astonished how many operations are carried out by hand. Impressive! 😎🇺🇸

[@CraftyOldGit]

Wow. Fascinating to see all the different processes that go into making these wonderful guitars.

[@krelbar]

+Mike Wilson Same process any guitar factory has, basically. The quality relies on materials, playability and inspection, not the actual building.

[@briannotafan3368]

whares the machine that pre cracks the headstocks to break 2 days after waranty

[@Nachtopus]

Drink every time he says "pneumatic".

[@radbot1]

Some random internet comment tells me to drink, I gets me a beer!

[@JazzRadioFfm]

or glue :D

[@sharppyy4937]

Or operator/operation

[@chrismulford253]

metalmusician6798 how bout uh

[@JazzRadioFfm]

RICK J oh youuuu,... little spoilsport ;)

[@pt4682]

I will admit and say ... I became real emotional and started to cry while watching how natural wood is carefully processed and constructed to create those beautiful 🎸 guitars. I mean like right before they apply the finish (colors) . The complety assembled guitar (just wood), I was in awe ! ! ! THANK YOU for your craft and craftsmanship.

[@jayyoutube8790]

Every time I play or see a Gibson now, I can't help to think of all the technology and craftsmanship that went into this guitar.. I am confident my grand children will some day enjoy them in the way I did...

[@9dewittk]

A good question to ask would have been "Why are we seeing Custom Shop models being made right along side the Gibson USA production line?" Notice the Zakk Wylde signature Customs hanging up to dry right with the USA mix and the ES Custom that is being tested towards the end of the tour. My 2013 R7 came with a certificate stating it was "hand built exclusively by the Gibson Custom Shop." Although I'll never know for sure, I'm fairly certain it was built right along side every other guitar at Gibson with no extra amount of time and patience put into it beyond what the regular USA models get. Did I pay a few extra grand just for the Custom Shop badging? I mean, let's be real here. When something is hand made shouldn't that mean it was made using less machinery than what the USA models are produced with? Never mind.

[@SoloDallasII]

That's the Zakk Wylde Vertigo LP which was not made by the Custom Shop. There are obvious differences in construction between USA and CS models when you look at the details. Is the difference worth the price? I have one and I don't think so, but I got it used for a good price. They're definitely better quality than the USA models but just about any decently made guitar can be made to play well with some TLC.

[@BourneAccident]

Agreed... The idea of custom shop sells the concept of personal hand made fine instruments. For the most part, custom shop instruments are better, but you have to stretch a bit to justify the XL price tag.

[@NormanConquest11]

Bourne Accident Yeah I mean, I have a standard 335 which is really really nice. I wanted one by the Custom Shop, but I just couldn't justify the difference in price for a badge and some gold hardware. I know it has different pickups, but a Philistine like me is unlikely to notice any dfifference.

[@SoloDallasII]

***** LOL, looks like the conspiracy nut has arrived. Anyone who thinks the Custom Shop Gibsons are hollowed out cannot be taken seriously.

[@SoloDallasII]

***** Well, now that you've clarified that, you are indeed right. All GIbson USA LPs are weight relieved. However, that's not a bad thing. Most people don't want a 12+ lb guitar and it does not negatively affect tone. Anyone who claims they can tell the difference is full of shit. Assuming you're talking about the flood of 2010, guitars were not made during the three months of rebuilding. Stores did still have excess inventory to sell off, however. And three-piece bodies and necks are FAR from plywood so stop making such exaggerated claims. Calling you a conspiracy nut shows MY ignorance? LOL, the irony that you would try to call me ignorant with a claim that doesn't even follow logic is palpable. Exactly how does calling somebody who SEEMED to be claiming Gibson secretly weight relieves Custom Shop guitars a conspiracy nut ignorant? Please explain this incredible pretzel logic to me...

[@caleb8410]

30:13 dude was totally on his phone. good to know how much he cares about that couple thousand dollar guitar! XD

[@Melissa-xu6vs]

Amazing! Awesome quality control.

[@GrahamByrne63]

Always wanted to make a one off while being a cabinetmaker never got round to it.. enjoyed watching these skilled guys and ladies showing how these are made 👌

[@milton112]

"Then we sell the sawdust to fast food chains to make chicken nuggets."

[@brown22sugar25]

gunslinger6shot From there it is fed to African children

[@JerryAsbury1985]

@@RealWorldAcademy514 for what purpose?

[@JerryAsbury1985]

@@RealWorldAcademy514 oh ok

[@gavrilopricip11]

Actually it gets compressed to make Epiphones !

[@nitrocw]

High tech and super efficient. Right...Wtf are they so damn expensive if they are so efficient to build?

[@jukkapenttinen4132]

Gibson brand.

[@will.a.benjamin]

+Lee Dubya not to mention that those workers probably make only around $15 an hour. I heard it really sucks to work there as a builder. You're paying mostly for the name and Made in USA status.

[@okioki1131]

Those machines aren't cheap, you have to pay for the laborers that actually do the hand work, the time it takes to dry, advertising the company has to pay, the cost to distribute the guitars to various sellers and finally, because it says "Gibson" across the headstock ;)!

[@robdonell9915]

Gibson was voted as one of the top 10 worst employers to work for in the U.S. about five years ago. Autozone was the worst.

[@boboutelama5748]

I would recommend you to find one of those Tokai of the premium series (not those of the middle class segment you find everywhere). I believed it was hyped BS until I had one in my hands. The best Gibson I ever played. :-)

[@THEVATICANTS]

Watching this never gets old. Always amazing to see how much goes into it from wood slab to finished product.

[@eduardoantonini]

This is absolutely fascinating. I want a job at that factory.

[@3MonkeysGarage]

So many haterz. Why are you looking at the Gibson factory tour in the first place? There are Real Reasons for the cost of a Premium Guitar, such as Gibson. Primarily, Wood Quality. If you haven't compared this in your Guitar models, You should. Cost on premium woods found in a Gibson are beyond what many pay for a guitar. Culling is a process of trashing woods with large Knots and imperfections. It's something unknown in Asia and the far east. No scarf joint in the neck. And yes scarf joints break. Have a Yamaha in my shop now with one. So Gibson pays a little more for a larger solid piece of wood. Next. Pride in workmanship. Nothing else to say here. Americans getting an American sized paycheck to do a job they love. What is that really worth? The quality control throughout the process and a product that someone someplace is willing to pay a bit more for. Being one of the few companies that hasn't farmed out its entire line to Asia earns at least my respect for this company. I can't say I have ever picked up a bad Gibson and have had a few myself. In fact, They have been my brand since my first guitar, a '79 sunburst Les Paul. I have bought others, and still come back to not only my love for the design but also the way it vibrates with my body, and the tone when singing, something I just don't get from other electrics. It may be that Gibson isn't your favorite, or you just can't reach the price tag, that's all fine. But there is no real reason to hate this brand just because they chose to maintain a certain standard of quality and reputation and that is reflected in the price tag. If you really want to cheap out, there is the Baldwin-Gibson line. Grab one and update the pick-ups or whatever and then you can have your alternative quality with a nice body and headstock.

[@thomasparker1078]

yeah right on the wood prices are very high for aaa ,aaaa grade just priced for custom bass body and cap were 800 1000 birdseye neck 385

[@RaZzoRSnAkEpiT]

One piece body? One piece neck? My ass!

[@filipdemeyst8842]

+Daniel Ibanez One piece ass?

[@diegovargas4734]

I came here to appreciate the handcraft of the Gibson Les Paul building process. After 15yrs playing Epiphone I was finally able to get my first, Les Paul Classic 2019. Is an stunning instrument. No wonder why the price.

[@sciense3078]

that WAS really cool. thank-you Premier

[@metspin1]

They're using Dr Pepper to clean the pickups.Hahahaha !

[@GravyHucker]

Only the best at Gibson

[@Allbbrz]

That is super cool video !! Almost everything is hand made; computers are used where they are most efficient to achieve consistency. Very nice indeed. Thanks for posting.

[@utubehound69]

Peavey made CNC Guitars & basses in the late 70's. They were laughed at now all these name brand guitar makers use CNC mach to build their guitars. CNC should cut the Prices by at lest 50-60 % lower being done by CNC.

[@AshtonFlynn007]

Its nice and amazing overview of the factory and quality of the guitars. really amazing.

[@maryannemartin796]

I love to see how they were made!

[@allamericandude15]

People keep bitching about the factory - wtf did you expect? A bunch of Keebler elves making one guitar at a time by hand? This is the real world - and in fact this place seems pretty nice compared to a lot of other shitholes. And if you think they're "overpriced", that's only a personal opinion - either you just don't like them, or you can't afford them. It's a valid opinion, but opinion nonetheless. Plenty of people think otherwise, also for valid reasons.

[@Goldeneraguitars]

Crunge92 i was thinking exactly the same thing.

[@JonathanRingo]

ha ha, Keebler elves.............. I like that

[@quattro4468]

Crunge92 Lol paying $3500 for a robit made guitar.

[@Beringtunes]

Keebler elves would HAVE to make crumby guitars!

[@Klang4evre]

Thank you finally someone who's more realistic.

[@dezziwood555]

Gibson does not offer tours to the public at this plan in Nashville. The only Gibson plant you can tour is in Memphis, TN which I toured in May 2015 (as well as visiting the amazing historical music sights in this fun city) . The tour was quite interesting but the tour guide showed no love or enthusiasm for the semi hollow body electric guitars being made there-nor willing to answer questions. It was also quite short in time. No pictures permitted. 2 weeks earlier I toured Fender in Corona, CA. The tour of the plant was an hour and a half long and was led by a total Fender guitar Geek (Dave). You can take pics of anything (I took over 100) and the guide answered lots of questions from us. He was also friendly to the production workers and knew many by name. The tour also included a tour of the Custom Shop. You can also put "dibs" on a guitar or bass if you see one you like and I was tempted to pull out the MasterCard and bring another bass home. Some people prefer either a Gibson or Fender but for tours, Fender is far better.

[@GravyHucker]

Dave is my boy. Glad you enjoyed the tour!

[@GuitarsAndSynths]

agree and Suhr/Fender/Jackson/Charvel make amazing guitars!

[@acousticshadow4032]

I would not permit pics at my plant either. That's the mistake the American Furniture Industry made with Chinese tours; "Oh, weren't they cute taking so many pictures, and asking all those questions?!". Yup, until the container cargo ships started showing up on our shores with same furniture at a fraction of the price. Go ask the 100,000+ who lost their jobs in the Blue Ridge Mtn area. No pics allowed in my plant, thank you very much.

[@alanlott5553]

Thanks for making this video and thanks to Gibson for allowing you to make it!

[@bobdavis6511]

Loved the Gibson tour josh. Thanks Gibson...

[@MrSammy1776]

I dont have a problem with Gibson's prices at all.The sound of a les paul is priceless to me,although i would never buy anything over a standard or a trad.

[@xcape62386]

This comment has not aged well

[@tempestfury8324]

A drove by this place a few times but never had a chance to poke my head in the door (I was a truck driver for 12 years). This is a great video! It shows you just how much the Henry Ford approach to manufacturing changed the world....which has it's pro's and con's. As a worker, I certainly wouldn't want to be at my station for 8 hours doing repetitive stuff over and over! That fret-dressing machine is crazy!!! Yep it's made in the USA and we can take some pride in that! But you can't sneer at someone from buying a "cheap" guitar from other countries either! I bought a "cheap" Yamaha 12-string (made in China - go figure) for $280 shipped to my door. It plays and sounds just as good as guitars four times that price...and those weren't American made either! If you really want to dabble deeper - make your own guitar! Look into it! I was fortunate enough to know a luthier - a friend of a friend. And started making my own Tele. I probably spent 30-40 hours alone on the flame maple neck alone! But I'm a perfectionist and it's fantastic! Some community colleges offer courses into making your own guitar. I highly recommend it to anyone willing to work with wood and the tools needed to create your own guitar! Or find a local luthier in your area. This friend of a friend was more than willing to show me every step for the price of materials, a six pack, and buying him dinner! Thoughts for your consideration, TF

[@bldallas]

Very cool! It really is amazing to see how much work goes into manufacturing an electric guitar. I’ve watched lots of videos on acoustic guitar making (i.e. Martin factory tours, individual boutique builders, etc.), but this was just as fascinating to me. Great stuff.

[@unclefoiley819]

My 2011 Gibson SG is one of my favorite guitars. It's cool to see Gibson making SGs.

[@Raul1971xxx]

There are a lot of guitar builders in the world. And in every video I see tons of guitars. ¿Is there not a risc of saturation?, I mean, more production than demand?. Just curious..

[@lemlem35]

For sure, in fact that's why the market has been difficult for guitars lately, ESPECIALLY when companies are making guitars with the same methods at like 1/10 of the price

[@Macsk8ing]

My guitar was made there

[@NHfiddle]

Makes me appreciate my 2016 Gibby LP Traditional even more after watching this. Love my Les Paul.

[@Clemshortzy]

What a great video! Thanks again PG.

[@benweissman2472]

Stop hating on Gibson. They do a lot of things by hand, and are made in America. This is what guitar factories look like, whether it be Gibson, fender, or ESP. If you don't like that pay a luthier.

[@TheAce78]

for any instrument that "made in america" isn't really guaranteed that it will have a good quality. they're a lot more expensive because of american labour cost is a lot more expensive than those in china or indonesia.

[@benweissman2472]

+TheAce78 what's your point?

[@Sora-o]

+Ben Weissman I'll keep hating on Gibson because they make their things off machines not real craftsmanship

[@seanmcaleavy2369]

Hey Ben, I hate to break it to you this way, but the vast majority of Gibson Guitars are made overseas. It's true. I think the only big name manufacturer that still builds exclusively in the U.S. is Rickenbaker. But by now, they too may have shipped their production offshore also. I don't know for sure. But I do know this, although I would prefer that things were made in America, because, after all, I am an American. But we don't have some magic ability to make superior instruments. Great guitars are built by great guitar builders who use premium wood in climate controlled workshops. And that can happen anywhere on the planet.

[@Bhatt_Hole]

@@benweissman2472 His "point", is that he's a typical nut-hugging Gibson worshiper. Gibson has sucked for a long, long, long time.

[@TheNewGranada]

Gibson has always been my favorite guitar maker and after watching this I respect them even more. the haters are poor motherfuckers who can't afford quality

[@pt8175]

Respect lol that slave driving shithole is not a great place to work see all those women in there they are not guitar lovers they are just working there cause they need a job. The conditions there are below acceptable. Your just a Gibson Fan Boy that can not see pass your love for those guitars. If you ever worked there you would have a completely different opinion of that place and that brand.

[@jacquesmarais1475]

well said brother

[@wiseguy9202]

Yeah I've worked there for a little over 5 years and in no way are the conditions unacceptable. They place both the safety and welfare of each person in high regards and often conduct training. You're the perfect example of who the OP was talking about. And yes there are some employees that only work there for a paycheck but I ask, and?

[@MrSameeg]

Thank you for a wonderfull insight into the manufacture of beutifull guitars Regards Mike from Scotland UK

[@bockdrums]

Awesome - I'd so love to visit the factory one day!

[@ChuckNorrisCutsMyLaw]

Gibsons are overpriced high quality guitars, just as they have been as long as I've been alive. I really don't get why people come to a video like this to whine about Gibson, If you don't want a Gibson ... don't buy one, it's really that simple.

[@jonathanmosher72]

High Quality? Yeah, not really anymore.

[@user-lj3tg4nk3e]

Indo Surfer, very true. If Gibson would listen to it's customers they wouldn't be in financial trouble right now.

[@fam4sta611]

and now they file for bankruptcy.

[@donharrold1375]

Gibson still make great guitars. Much much better than most other manufacturers. They are difficult to manufacture due to some of the vintage details like body binding that are extremely difficult to get perfect (don’t confuse painting a stripe to mimic binding that you will see on cheaper guitars). The return rate from dealers is very low; literally a few guitars out of hundreds sold. Most returns relate to very minor blemishes rather than issues with playability or sound. The problem is the unrealistic expectations of consumers. We expect perfection when we spend $3500, that’s just not realistic when you consider the hand crafting involved.

[@colonelfonky]

Frustrated by not being able to buy one :p

[@superancientmariner1394]

DeVillbis airless air assisted guns.? No respirators.surprises me.

[@dodieshoemaker7888]

That was a great tour! Of course you would automate it as much as possible. I am surprised by how much hand work there still is. Really nicely done and in the USA!

[@laxr5rs]

Great factory tour! Thanks!

[@periurban]

Health and safety! I cannot imagine a factory like this ever getting started these days anywhere in Europe. Some of those operators were a sneeze away from permanent disability. And wasn't there a marked lack of face masks and ear defenders?

[@GravyHucker]

Health and safety? You are what's wrong with the mindset of Great Britian - I hope you're wearing protective gloves, UV resistant goggles and a Hi-Vis vest as you're typing your comment... Ugh you're really disgusting.

[@pirateofthesus8255]

26:25 *TRUE LEGEND NEVER USE A STRING TO ROCK!*

[@GuitaristEliKing]

Awesome tour!

[@dave1986R]

This is really cool to watch. I love Gibson guitars, particularly the Les Paul. My dad showed me this and I told him he should have become a luthier.

[@evilcowboy]

lmfao. The 4 piece glued together body blanks would have never happened in the day of Orville Gibson. The two piece ones will be the 5 grand guitars and the 4 piece will be the 1 grand guitars. Just shows not all guitars are created equal. Orville Gibson would have slapped the shit out of every person there that pressed the button on a machine to do what he did by hand. Thats exactly why so many people are starting to move more to making their own guitar. A lot of people say that the machine will be more accurate that a person and this is very much true. But it sure as shit don't get half the quality checks doing it by hand does.

[@Andyw1228]

I would have though that a 7000 € Guitar would be 100% handwork by 1 to 5 people. What do I pay for ? CNC mashining and assembly line work ? Or did I get something wrong ? Is there an additional custom workshop ?

[@chrisdee5032]

+Andyw1228 Agreed!

[@green323turbo]

+Andyw1228 , These guitars are 10% better than a guy with a band saw and a hand samder. Look how they make sure the wood it the right moisture.. most custom builders don't have that technology.

[@Merjia]

+Andyw1228 Gibson has a separate custom shop that handles their custom orders, this is just for their "mass produced" guitars.

[@Yohahn]

This is the nashville factory.. not the custom shop.

[@chrisdee5032]

green323turbo 10% better? Well when Gibson were making the greatest instruments they ever put together, back in the 50's/60's, they didn't have that technology either.

[@markchaplin196]

Wow super professional operation! Great video tour

[@RickRaulston]

Impressive company. Great video. Thanks!

[@mrjackbilbo]

Thehigh price has been justified

[@thisisit130]

mr jack right it takes so much time care and people just to make 1

[@smedfordj]

Proudly made in the USA by a machine made in China.

[@ricardocabeza9309]

You know that for a fact?

[@frankh2349]

lmao thats good

[@precbsfender]

NO WAY all made in USA when it comes to GIBSON! Dude must of bought a counterfeit and is just venting over it LOL.

[@precbsfender]

sal Carrubba Machinery all made from Pittsburgh steel no Chinese steel there at all!

[@precbsfender]

That's just a plainer! They,'ve used plainers all the way back in the 50s.yes they mass produce now days nobody can stay in business when your fighting with the supply and demand factor.the old day's of hand crafted instruments is gone its a new world these day's! But there still a very good instrument compared to China or Indonesia.

[@jamesholland2109]

Very interesting and educational. Thanks for the tour.

[@82littlerock]

An outstanding presentation; thank you for posting it.

[@javablues83]

is there any chance i can get the Gibson that failed the quality checks for free???

[@tyerestes7554]

That would be a cool thing to do, but guitars that fail the Gibson quality inspection are burned. They run them through the wood chipper, and send the wood chips to Jack Daniels (the whiskey company) so they can burn them and they use the charred wood to filter the whiskey. I think.

[@BassForever44]

Tyer Estes Lol what??? to Jack Daniels??? wow that sounds amazing

[@tyerestes7554]

That's what the word on the street is. I'm not sure if it's true or not.

[@TheBigDean18]

Tyer Estes That sounds like there could be some marketing for the companies with that. "Next time you play your Gibson Les Paul, don't forget to enjoy some Jack Daniels after you're done."

[@javablues83]

***** are they any cheap?

[@GuitarSal66]

Great video, I love Gibson ,but too much $$$$$$$$, worth it I'm sure...someday!!!

[@Alex-es2cf]

there not

[@DennisBastian]

That $ represents all the

[@boboutelama5748]

You don't have much time Sal Scalafani. They are dealing with money issues. In a few years, they will be out of the market.

[@PeterHenrichsen]

Wow, awesome tour! Thanks so much!

[@alexis80330]

Thanks for sharing that video!

[@Breadfan00]

Why do they cut the wood just to glue it together again?

[@dirkvanvlanderen]

We rarelly (i'm a cabinet maker) use large boards because: -it will tend to bend overtime. Using smaller pieces and alternate them makes it far more stable -getting the right thickness in one piece will cause to much waste because raw wood is uneven -it allows to get rid of imperfections in the wood. A tree trunk is cut in layers, each layer will have it's con's and pros, and by habit you know what part to use and what to avoid. -many machines won't be able to deal with large pieces

[@johnsimms3957]

Multi pieces also makes it stronger.

[@58icarus]

In order to have the grain of the wood going in different directions and at different angles. That lessens the wood's reaction to changes in its moisture content as affected by changing humidity. With modern glues, the joint is often stronger than the woodgrain itself, adding stability too. I've seen wood break along the grain right next to the glue joint, while the joint remained intact.

[@shovelheadseven]

True

[@Shimmerstrike1]

When your trying to make a boring procedure sound interesting 15:22

[@chocodiledundee1]

Wow that was amazing to watch !!!! A lot of work indeed !!!

[@random275]

Very informative! I had a tour of the Gibson acoustic factory in Bozeman Montana and would love to visit the Nashville plant. I have 7 Gibson's, electric and acoustics and they are all brilliant ! Great video.!!