The 1964 Gibson ES-330TD in Sunburst is a remarkable vintage American electric guitar, combining the rich acoustic resonance of a fully hollow body with the unmistakable sound of two original Gibson P-90 pickups. Lightweight, expressive and full of character, the ES-330TD represents one of Gibson's most distinctive early-1960s designs, offering a playing experience that bridges traditional jazz guitars and the emerging sounds of electric blues and rock.

Built around a laminated maple hollow body, set mahogany neck and rosewood fingerboard, the ES-330TD delivers a wonderfully responsive playing experience. Unlike the semi-hollow ES-335, the ES-330 features a completely hollow construction without a solid centre block, giving it an airy, woody character and a strong connection between the strings and the resonant body.

This particular 1964 example retains its two original Gibson P-90 pickups, original tone potentiometers and Bumblebee capacitors, preserving important elements of its vintage electronics. The volume potentiometers were replaced in the late 1970s, while the original tuning machines have been replaced with Gibson Kluson '60s Reissue tuners.

The guitar has experienced a headstock break at some point in its history, which has subsequently been repaired. Its frets are also very low, an important consideration for players assessing the feel and future maintenance requirements of a vintage instrument.

Finished in classic Sunburst, this example carries serial number 66954, weighs just 6.08 lbs (approximately 2.76kg) and is supplied with a hardcase.

For players and collectors seeking a genuine 1964 Gibson ES-330TD with original P-90 pickups, significant retained vintage electronics and a clearly documented history of modifications and repair, this guitar offers an appealing opportunity to own a characterful instrument from Gibson's golden era.

At A Glance

Pre-Owned Condition Report

Vintage Condition Overview

This 1964 Gibson ES-330TD is a genuine vintage instrument with a documented history of replacement components, a repaired headstock break and very low frets.

The guitar retains several important original components, particularly its two Gibson P-90 pickups, original tone potentiometers and Bumblebee capacitors. These are desirable features for buyers who appreciate vintage Gibson construction and electronics.

The instrument also shows evidence of maintenance and modification throughout its life, which is not unusual for a guitar manufactured more than six decades ago. These details should be considered when assessing its playing condition, originality and collectability.

A specific Fair Deal Music cosmetic condition grade has not been supplied. Customers should study the detailed photographs to assess the finish, hardware, neck and individual signs of age.

Previous Headstock Break & Repair

This guitar has suffered a headstock break at some point in its history, and the break has been repaired.

Headstock repairs are an important consideration when purchasing vintage Gibson instruments, particularly those with angled headstocks. The repair forms part of this guitar's history and should be considered when assessing its value and long-term ownership requirements.

The date, method and extent of the repair have not been documented. Although the break has been repaired, no separate structural inspection result has been provided.

Very Low Frets

The frets on this guitar are very low, an important aspect of its present playing condition.

Low frets can influence the amount of grip a player has on the strings during bends, vibrato and more technical playing. They may also affect the scope for future fret dressing, depending on how much fret material remains.

Players accustomed to modern medium-jumbo or taller frets should expect a noticeably different playing experience. A refret may be worth considering in the future, depending on individual playing preferences and the remaining fret condition.

Original Gibson P-90 Pickups

One of the most significant features of this example is the presence of its two original Gibson P-90 pickups.

These pickups are central to the ES-330's distinctive sound, combining single-coil clarity and attack with a thicker, more powerful midrange response than many conventional narrow single-coil designs.

Retaining the original pickups is particularly appealing on a vintage Gibson, allowing players to experience an important part of the instrument's original tonal character.

Original Tone Pots & Bumblebee Capacitors

The guitar retains its original tone potentiometers and Bumblebee capacitors, preserving significant components of its vintage control circuitry.

The Bumblebee capacitors are particularly interesting to vintage Gibson enthusiasts because of their association with historic Gibson electric guitars and traditional passive tone circuits.

Together with the original pickups, these retained components are a valuable part of the guitar's specification.

Late-1970s Replacement Volume Pots

The original volume potentiometers were replaced during the late 1970s.

This is an important modification to disclose, particularly for collectors assessing component originality. The replacement volume controls form part of the guitar's existing electrical configuration, while the original tone controls and Bumblebee capacitors remain present.

Replacement Gibson Kluson Tuners

The original tuning machines have been replaced with Gibson Kluson '60s Reissue tuners.

These maintain a vintage-style appearance appropriate to the guitar's overall design while providing a replacement tuning mechanism. The original tuners have not been listed as included.

Weight & Hardcase

This is the stated weight of the individual guitar, making it an exceptionally manageable full-size hollow-body electric.

The guitar is supplied with a hardcase, providing protection for storage and transportation.

What's Included

• 1964 Gibson ES-330TD Sunburst Electric Guitar

• Hardcase

The guitar retains its original P-90 pickups, tone potentiometers and Bumblebee capacitors. Its replacement volume potentiometers and Gibson Kluson '60s Reissue tuners are fitted.

Fair Deal Music Quality Control Assessment

Fair Deal Music's vintage guitar assessment considers general functionality, electronics, neck condition, fret wear, hardware, structural repairs and overall playability. For this ES-330TD, the most important areas include the previously repaired headstock, very low frets, original P-90 pickups and the mixture of original and replacement electronics.

A separate item-specific inspection or testing report has not been provided, so the condition information above reflects the documented details of this guitar rather than additional unconfirmed test results.

Service & Setup

Vintage guitars require careful consideration when setting action, neck relief, intonation and playing height, particularly where the instrument has very low frets or a history of structural repair. On this Gibson ES-330TD, fret height and the repaired headstock should be considered during any future setup or maintenance work, with structural assessment and specialist repairs undertaken by an appropriately experienced guitar technician. Please note that guitar setups can naturally change over time due to fluctuations in humidity, temperature and environmental conditions, which may affect neck relief, string action and overall playability.

Key Features

• Genuine 1964 Gibson ES-330TD: An original early-1960s American-made hollow-body electric guitar.

• Classic Sunburst Finish: Traditional Gibson styling with vintage visual character.

• Fully Hollow Laminated Maple Body: Airy resonance, expressive dynamics and a distinctive acoustic response.

• Set Mahogany Neck: Traditional Gibson construction with the familiar 24.75-inch scale length.

• Rosewood Fingerboard: Classic vintage feel and appearance.

• Two Original Gibson P-90 Pickups: Authentic vintage single-coil character, warmth, clarity and midrange presence.

• Original Tone Pots & Bumblebee Capacitors: Significant retained components of the guitar's original electronics.

• Late-1970s Replacement Volume Pots: Clearly documented changes to the original control circuitry.

• Gibson Kluson '60s Reissue Tuners: Vintage-style replacement tuning machines.

• Repaired Headstock Break: Important historical structural repair openly disclosed.

• Very Low Frets: A significant playing-condition detail for prospective owners.

• Lightweight Construction: Just 6.08 lbs.

• Hardcase Included: Practical protection for a valuable vintage instrument.

Why You'll Love It

The appeal of a genuine 1964 Gibson ES-330TD goes well beyond its age. Its lightweight hollow construction, responsive P-90 pickups and early-1960s Gibson design combine to create a playing experience that is fundamentally different from a conventional solid-body electric guitar.

The ES-330 has an acoustic liveliness that can be felt as well as heard, with the hollow body contributing to the instrument's expressive response and natural resonance. Plugged into a suitable valve amplifier, its P-90 pickups can move from rounded, articulate cleans to biting blues and richly textured overdrive.

This particular example also retains several important vintage electronic components, including both original Gibson P-90s, original tone pots and Bumblebee capacitors.

For musicians who appreciate the individuality of older instruments, its replacement components, repaired headstock and low frets form part of a clearly documented history rather than an undisclosed surprise.

Detailed Features & Benefits

Authentic 1964 Gibson Construction

The Gibson ES-330TD was part of the company's celebrated early-1960s electric guitar range, combining traditional craftsmanship with a practical thinline body designed for amplified performance. Manufactured in the USA, the ES-330 offered a lighter, more compact alternative to larger jazz guitars while retaining the resonance and playing response associated with fully hollow construction. A genuine 1964 example represents an important period in Gibson's history, making it particularly attractive to players and collectors interested in original vintage instruments.

Fully Hollow Laminated Maple Body

Unlike the Gibson ES-335, which features a solid centre block, the ES-330TD uses a completely hollow thinline body constructed from laminated maple. This design allows the body to resonate more freely, contributing to the guitar's airy response, woody tonal character and expressive dynamics. The hollow construction is especially rewarding for clean playing, blues and lower-gain styles, although players using substantial amplifier gain should be aware that a fully hollow guitar can be more susceptible to acoustic feedback than a centre-block semi-hollow model.

Classic Sunburst Finish

The Sunburst finish gives this ES-330TD the timeless appearance associated with Gibson's early electric hollow-body instruments, complementing the traditional body shape, cream binding and vintage-style hardware. The finish works particularly well with the guitar's understated design, emphasising the contours of the thinline body and the classic twin f-holes. For players who appreciate the visual character of vintage guitars, a 1964 Sunburst ES-330 offers an unmistakably traditional Gibson appearance.

Mahogany Set Neck & Rosewood Fingerboard

The ES-330TD features a traditional set mahogany neck paired with a bound rosewood fingerboard, delivering the familiar short-scale playing feel associated with vintage Gibson instruments. The 24.75-inch scale length provides a slightly softer string response than the longer 25.5-inch Fender scale, making chord work, bends and expressive vibrato particularly comfortable when the guitar is appropriately set up. On this individual example, the very low frets are an important factor in the actual playing experience and should be considered alongside the underlying neck specification.

Two Original Gibson P-90 Pickups

The two original Gibson P-90 pickups are among the most desirable features of this particular instrument, providing the distinctive combination of clarity, warmth and midrange presence that makes vintage ES-330 guitars so expressive. The neck pickup offers rounded, articulate sounds suitable for jazz, blues and melodic lead playing, while the bridge pickup delivers greater bite and definition for rhythm work and overdriven tones. Unlike humbuckers, P-90s retain the open response and characteristic noise behaviour of single-coil pickups, giving the guitar a particularly direct connection between the player's technique and the amplified sound.

Three-Way Pickup Selection & Independent Controls

The ES-330TD uses a traditional Gibson two-pickup control arrangement, with a three-way selector and independent volume and tone controls for each pickup. This allows players to choose the warm response of the neck pickup, the brighter attack of the bridge pickup or a combination of both, while adjusting the relative balance between them. The arrangement is especially useful for players who shape their sound using the guitar's controls rather than relying entirely on effects pedals or amplifier adjustments.

Original Tone Pots & Bumblebee Capacitors

Retaining the original tone potentiometers and Bumblebee capacitors is an important aspect of this ES-330TD's vintage specification. These components form part of the original passive tone circuitry, influencing how the guitar's high-frequency response changes as the tone controls are adjusted. For collectors, their presence is significant because they preserve elements of the original electronics, while for players they contribute to retaining the control arrangement associated with the instrument's production era.

Replacement Volume Pots & Kluson Tuners

This guitar has undergone several practical changes during its lifetime, including replacement volume potentiometers fitted in the late 1970s and a set of Gibson Kluson '60s Reissue tuning machines. These modifications mean the instrument is not entirely factory-original, an important distinction for collectors and buyers assessing vintage value. However, the guitar retains its original pickups and tone circuitry, while the replacement tuners maintain an appearance sympathetic to the instrument's early-1960s design.

Traditional Bridge & Trapeze Tailpiece Design

The original 1964 ES-330TD specification features an adjustable Tune-o-matic-style bridge and a trapeze tailpiece, a combination characteristic of Gibson's fully hollow thinline guitars. Unlike a stop-tailpiece arrangement, the trapeze design anchors the strings towards the lower end of the body, allowing a distinctive relationship between string tension, bridge response and hollow-body resonance. This traditional hardware arrangement is part of the ES-330's characteristic design, although the originality of the specific bridge and tailpiece fitted to this example has not been separately established.

Exceptionally Lightweight at 6.08 lbs

At just 6.08 lbs, approximately 2.76kg, this ES-330TD is a particularly lightweight electric guitar, offering the comfortable playing experience associated with fully hollow thinline construction. This can make a noticeable difference during long rehearsals, recording sessions or performances, especially for musicians accustomed to heavier solid-body guitars. The combination of low weight, compact hollow-body depth and familiar Gibson scale length makes the ES-330 an appealing choice for players who value comfort without sacrificing a full-sized instrument.

Who Is It For?

Vintage Gibson Collectors: An authentic 1964 ES-330TD retaining original pickups and significant vintage electronics, with documented modifications and repair history.

Blues Guitarists: The expressive response of the hollow body and original P-90 pickups is particularly rewarding for dynamic blues playing and naturally overdriven valve amplifier tones.

Jazz Guitarists: The warm neck pickup, lightweight construction and resonant hollow body make the ES-330 suitable for articulate jazz chords and melodic playing.

Classic Rock Players: The bridge P-90 delivers clear attack and strong midrange character, making it effective for vintage-inspired rock and rhythm guitar.

Recording Musicians: Its distinctive hollow-body response and original P-90 character offer an interesting alternative to conventional solid-body electric guitars.

Experienced Vintage Players: Particularly suitable for musicians who understand the maintenance and playing considerations associated with older instruments, including low frets and previous structural repairs.

Playing Styles & Applications

The Gibson ES-330TD is particularly well suited to jazz, blues, rhythm and blues, early rock and roll, classic rock, soul, indie and vintage-inspired music.

Its neck pickup provides a warm, rounded response for clean chord work and expressive lead playing, while the bridge pickup adds clarity and bite for rhythm guitar and overdriven passages. The combination of both pickups provides another useful tonal option for recording and live performance.

The fully hollow body is especially responsive at clean and moderate gain levels, making the ES-330 ideal for players who appreciate natural resonance and a direct connection between their picking technique and amplified tone.

When played at higher gain or stage volume, the guitar's hollow construction can encourage feedback. For some musicians this can be used creatively, while others may prefer to manage amplifier positioning and gain settings carefully.

How It Compares

Gibson ES-330TD vs Gibson ES-335

Although the ES-330 and ES-335 share a broadly similar double-cutaway thinline appearance, their internal construction and electronics create distinctly different playing experiences. The ES-335 features a solid centre block and traditionally uses humbucking pickups, providing greater resistance to feedback and a more focused amplified response. The ES-330 is fully hollow and equipped with P-90 single coils, producing an airier, more acoustically responsive sound with a different balance of clarity and midrange character. Players prioritising hollow-body resonance may favour the ES-330, while those requiring greater control at high gain may prefer the ES-335.

Gibson ES-330TD vs Gibson ES-125

The Gibson ES-125 is another classic hollow-body electric guitar associated with warm jazz and blues tones, but it offers a different body format and playing experience. The ES-330's thinner double-cutaway design provides a more compact playing platform with two P-90 pickups and greater tonal flexibility, while the traditional ES-125 is often associated with a larger body and a simpler pickup arrangement. Players seeking vintage hollow-body character in a more manageable format may find the ES-330 particularly attractive.

1964 Gibson ES-330TD vs Modern ES-330 Reissues

Modern Gibson ES-330 reissues reproduce many of the characteristics of the original hollow-body design while offering the benefits of contemporary manufacturing and newer components. A genuine 1964 example provides the historical appeal of an instrument built during the model's original production era, including period construction and, in this case, original P-90 pickups and significant retained electronics. Modern reissues may be preferable for players seeking newer frets, fewer historical repairs and more predictable maintenance requirements, while this vintage example offers the individuality and heritage of an original 1960s Gibson.

Gibson ES-330 Heritage

The Gibson ES-330 was introduced in 1959, joining the company's expanding family of thinline electric guitars.

While its appearance shared many similarities with the ES-335, the ES-330 adopted a fully hollow body and traditional P-90 pickups, creating a distinctly different tonal character.

Its lightweight construction, comfortable dimensions and dynamic response made it appealing to musicians exploring jazz, blues, rhythm and blues, early rock and roll and the evolving sounds of the 1960s.

During the early 1960s, the ES-330 developed its own identity as an expressive, resonant alternative to both larger hollow-body guitars and centre-block semi-hollow instruments.

Today, original 1960s examples remain sought after by players and enthusiasts who appreciate the distinctive combination of hollow-body resonance, P-90 tone and vintage Gibson craftsmanship.

Technical Specifications

Power Requirements

The 1964 Gibson ES-330TD uses passive Gibson P-90 pickups and conventional passive volume and tone controls.

No battery or external power supply is required.

The guitar connects to a suitable amplifier, effects processor or audio interface using a standard ¼-inch instrument cable.

Fair Deal Music Expert Verdict

★★★★★

The 1964 Gibson ES-330TD Sunburst is a particularly characterful vintage electric guitar, combining genuine early-1960s Gibson construction, the rich resonance of a fully hollow body and the unmistakable sound of two original P-90 pickups.

At just 6.08 lbs, this is an exceptionally manageable vintage instrument, offering the responsive playing experience and natural acoustic character that make the ES-330 such a distinctive alternative to the more familiar ES-335.

The presence of its original Gibson P-90 pickups, original tone potentiometers and Bumblebee capacitors is especially appealing, preserving several important elements of the guitar's vintage electronics.

Its history is equally important to understanding the instrument. The late-1970s replacement volume pots, Gibson Kluson '60s Reissue tuners, repaired headstock break and very low frets are all significant considerations for prospective buyers.

For someone seeking an entirely unmodified collector-grade example, those changes will influence its appeal. For a player who appreciates the character, resonance and historical significance of a genuine 1964 Gibson, this ES-330TD represents an intriguing opportunity.

Best Suited For: Experienced guitarists, vintage Gibson enthusiasts, blues musicians, jazz players and collectors seeking an original early-1960s hollow-body instrument with documented modifications.

Customers Usually Upgrade From: Modern ES-330 reissues, Epiphone Casino models, contemporary hollow-body guitars and other vintage-inspired electric instruments.

Most Commonly Paired With: Fender-style valve amplifiers, low-gain overdrive pedals, analogue delay, spring reverb and traditional vintage-style guitar accessories.

Our Tip: Explore the neck P-90 through a clean valve amplifier with the guitar's tone control slightly reduced. Then switch to the bridge pickup with a touch of amplifier breakup to experience the contrast between warm hollow-body cleans and articulate vintage overdrive.

Showroom Advice: The very low frets and previous headstock repair deserve particular attention when evaluating this instrument. We recommend discussing the guitar's playing feel, repair history and potential future maintenance requirements before purchase.

Why Buy Pre-Owned From Fair Deal Music?

Buying a vintage Gibson from Fair Deal Music gives you access to instruments with genuine history, individual character and specifications that may no longer be available in modern production.

Our experienced team understands the importance of clearly identifying original components, replacement parts, structural repairs and condition details when presenting older instruments.

For a vintage guitar such as this 1964 ES-330TD, transparency about its history is essential.

This individual example offers several important original components, including its Gibson P-90 pickups, original tone pots and Bumblebee capacitors, alongside clearly documented replacement volume controls and tuning machines.

The previous headstock repair and very low frets are also important parts of its condition description, helping prospective owners make an informed decision.

We understand that vintage guitars are often purchased for different reasons. Some customers prioritise absolute originality, while others are looking for a historically interesting instrument with a distinctive sound and playing character.

Our aim is to help customers understand the individual instrument they are purchasing rather than simply relying on the reputation of the model.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

As Birmingham's largest independent music store, Fair Deal Music has spent nearly four decades helping musicians find the right instruments, amplifiers and equipment.

Our family-run business combines specialist product knowledge with personal customer service, giving players the opportunity to discuss individual guitars with experienced musicians before purchasing.

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you benefit from:

• Independent family-run retailer established in 1987

• Birmingham's largest independent music store

• Over 6,000 Trustpilot reviews

• Knowledgeable, musician-led advice

• Extensive experience buying and selling vintage and pre-owned guitars

• Honest descriptions of modifications, repairs and included accessories

• Competitive pricing

• Secure online ordering

• UK delivery options

• Large Birmingham showroom at Holloway Head

• Friendly advice by phone, online and in-store

• Part-exchange and trade-in services

For a historically significant instrument such as this 1964 Gibson ES-330TD, our team can discuss its specification, condition and suitability to help you make an informed buying decision.

Part Exchange – Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Considering upgrading to a vintage Gibson?

Fair Deal Music buys and part-exchanges a wide range of musical equipment, including vintage guitars, modern electric guitars, acoustic instruments, amplifiers, basses and effects pedals.

Your existing instrument could help towards the cost of this 1964 Gibson ES-330TD.

We also consider collections and higher-value musical instruments for purchase or part exchange.

Contact our team for a no-obligation valuation and discover what your existing equipment could be worth towards this vintage Gibson.

Frequently Asked Questions

What year was this Gibson ES-330TD manufactured?

This guitar is identified as a 1964 model and carries serial number 66954, consistent with Gibson's 1964 serial-number range.

Is this an original 1964 Gibson guitar?

Yes. This is presented as a genuine 1964 Gibson ES-330TD, although it has undergone several modifications and a previous structural repair during its lifetime.

Is the ES-330TD fully hollow or semi-hollow?

The ES-330TD is fully hollow. Unlike the Gibson ES-335, it does not feature a solid centre block running through the body.

What is the body made from?

The original ES-330TD specification uses laminated maple construction for the top, back and sides.

What finish does this guitar have?

This example features a classic Sunburst finish.

Does it retain its original pickups?

Yes. Both original Gibson P-90 pickups are present.

Are the P-90 pickups single coils?

Yes. Gibson P-90 pickups are single-coil pickups known for their strong midrange response, clarity and expressive character.

Are the tone pots original?

Yes. The guitar retains its original tone potentiometers.

Does the guitar have original Bumblebee capacitors?

Yes. Its Bumblebee capacitors have been identified as original.

Are the volume pots original?

No. The volume potentiometers were replaced during the late 1970s.

Does it have original tuning machines?

No. The original tuners have been replaced with Gibson Kluson '60s Reissue tuning machines.

Has this guitar suffered a headstock break?

Yes. The guitar has experienced a headstock break at some point in its history.

Has the headstock break been repaired?

Yes. The previous headstock break has been repaired. The repair method and a separate structural assessment have not been supplied.

How are the frets on this guitar?

The frets are very low, which is an important consideration for prospective buyers.

Will the guitar need a refret?

A future refret may be worth considering depending on personal playing preferences and the remaining fret condition. Whether one is necessary should be determined through an individual assessment.

Does the repaired headstock affect the guitar's value?

Previous structural repairs can influence the value and desirability of vintage instruments, particularly when compared with otherwise equivalent examples without a repair history. The extent and quality of the repair are important considerations.

What is the scale length?

The Gibson ES-330TD uses a traditional 24.75-inch scale length.

How much does this guitar weigh?

This particular guitar weighs just 6.08 lbs, approximately 2.76kg.

Does the guitar come with a hardcase?

Yes. A hardcase is included. It has not been identified as the original factory case.

Is the ES-330TD suitable for blues?

Yes. The combination of a fully hollow body and P-90 pickups makes the ES-330 particularly suitable for expressive blues guitar, from warm cleans to gritty, dynamic overdrive.

Is this guitar suitable for jazz?

Yes. Its hollow-body construction and warm neck pickup response make it a popular style of instrument for jazz and melodic clean playing.

Can the ES-330TD be used for rock music?

Yes. The P-90 pickups provide strong attack and midrange character, making the ES-330 well suited to vintage rock, blues rock and alternative guitar styles.

Will this guitar feed back at high volume?

A fully hollow guitar can be more susceptible to acoustic feedback than a solid-body or centre-block semi-hollow instrument, particularly at high volume or with significant distortion.

How does the ES-330 differ from an ES-335?

The ES-330 features a fully hollow body and P-90 single-coil pickups, while the traditional ES-335 uses a semi-hollow construction with a solid centre block and humbucking pickups.

Is this guitar suitable for a vintage Gibson collector?

Yes, particularly for a collector who appreciates original early-1960s Gibson construction and understands the significance of documented modifications, previous repairs and fret wear.

Can I request more information about the headstock repair?

Yes. Please contact the Fair Deal Music team to discuss the available condition information and request further photographs or a video demonstration where available.

Can I part-exchange another guitar towards this Gibson?

Yes. Fair Deal Music considers vintage and modern guitars, amplifiers and other musical equipment for part exchange.