Gibson Warns of Counterfeit Guitars Sold in USA
April 24th, 2007
Gibson has sent out an official press release to warn consumers of counterfeit guitars being sold in the United States after several people launched complaints of receiving below quality guitars. Apparently lately there has been an influx of fake Gibsons coming in from China. If you want to protect yourself, here is your best way: buy from an authorized Gibson retailer. Authorized dealers are supplied directly by Gibson and are registered. When you buy from anyone else, you can not be sure what you are getting.
Here are some pointers on determining whether you have an authentic Gibson or not:
- Make sure the size is not undersized
- The headstock and headstock logo should match those of authentic Gibson guitars
- Pearl should always be inlaid
- Les Paul Model script is always in cursive
- If the guitar has a 3 screw truss rod it is not authentic
- Check the control and pick up cavities for sloppy routing or wiring
- Real Gibson guitars use one piece necks
- Many fake Gibsons have their pickup cavities painted black inside
- If purchasing a Gibson always ask for the Gibson’s Owner Manual and Gibson/Warranty Inspection Card
- Check the wiring, if it is plastic it isn’t a true Gibson
[Via Gibson]
Edit:
On a side note, I just found this eBay guide for spotting fake Gibsons on the online auction site. This might be helpful for those of you who plan on purchasing one through there.
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