The Gibson Murphy Lab 1957 SJ-200 is a resounding tribute to the illustrious heritage of the often-revered “King of the Flat Tops”. A product of the meticulous artistry of the Murphy Lab, this instrument has been aged to perfection by skilled artisans, offering players and collectors alike the opportunity to experience the sound and feel of a true vintage SJ-200.
The 1957 SJ-200 begins with a Thermally Aged Sitka Spruce top, renowned for its resonant qualities and tonal depth. Complementing this is its exquisite Flame Maple back and sides, true of course to the original SJ-200.
This guitar exemplifies elegance, with multi-ply binding adorning both the top and back, and single ply binding about the fretboard and headstock. The neck, a two-piece Maple construction, features a rounded profile, ensuring a comfortable and inviting playing experience. This Murphy Lab acoustic features the classic Mother of Pearl “Graduated Crown” inlay, unique to the SJ-200.
The Murphy Lab’s meticulous craftsmanship is evident in the aging process. The 1957 SJ-200 undergoes the signature Murphy Lab Light Aged finish treatment, faithfully simulating decades of gentle usage and careful preservation. The Murphy Lab team meticulously reverse engineered the original nitrocellulose lacquer formula, ensuring authenticity in every aspect of the guitar. The result is an instrument that exudes the warmth and character of a well-loved, vintage classic.
Completing the 1957 SJ-200 are a host of features including the classic Four Bar Moustache bridge design, hand scalloped X-Bracing, and lightly aged Gotoh tuners with Keystone buttons. The Murphy Lab ensures that this guitar not only looks the part but also performs to the highest standards. A bone nut and saddle contribute to its tonal precision, while the period-correct hardshell case offers protection and style.
In essence, the Murphy Lab 1957 SJ-200 encapsulates the formula of the iconic SJ-200 and delivers it in a brand new instrument resonating with the authenticity and craftsmanship that define the Gibson legacy. For those in search of the unmatched presence and sound of the “King of the Flat Tops,” this guitar is a compelling choice, promising to inspire musicians for generations to come.
- Murphy Lab Gibson Acoustic based on the Iconic 1957 SJ-200
- Thermally Aged Adirondack Spruce Top with Hide Glue Bracing
- Flame Maple Back and Sides
- Two Piece Maple Neck with 12″ Rosewood Fingerboard
- Classic Mother of Pearl Graduated Crown Inlays
- Vintage Sunburst Finish
- Period Correct Hardshell Case