The Gibson Advanced Jumbo, officially introduced in 1936, was built in very limited numbers, however these early flattop jumbos have gained a huge reputation and are some of the most valuable Gibson acoustics in existence. The Gibson Advanced Jumbo is one of the most revered pre war Gibson designs and influenced many later models. 

During the great depression, Gibson launched the ‘Advanced’ series of of instruments. They were designed to be louder, and more powerful for the professional musician playing in ensembles and on stage. Gibson acknowledged the capability of Martin guitars in this area, so it is no surprise that the Advanced Jumbo bears several similarities to the Martin Dreadnought. 

The Advanced Jumbo features a spruce top, mahogany neck with rosewood back and sides. As such, this guitar produces a dry, bright sound with great projection. Despite the physical resemblance to the J-45, this model is sonically not dissimilar to that of a Martin Dreadnought. This is due to the choice of tone woods and also the longer, 25.5” scale length - which aids in brightness and power. 

This guitar sports a K&K Pure mini pickup. This is a passive pickup, attached to the underside of the bridge. Aside from the tailpiece jack input, there are no modifications to the instrument. The K&Ks have no batteries, no controls. With an quality external preamp they provide a more natural acoustic sound than the under saddle piezo systems without much of that dreaded piezo ‘quack’. Seeing as they aren’t squished under the bridge saddle like a conventional piezo, the K&K does not detract from the acoustic quality of the instrument. 

This 2003 model is in great shape, with only very slight markings on the finish and a small chip in the clear coat on the binding on the 7th fret (see photo).

The action is medium-low at 2mm on the low E at the 12th fret. At 43.7mm the nut width is wide enough to feel comfortable in larger hands without seeming chunky or cumbersome. Original frets are in great shape with minimal signs of use.

Love the sound of Martins, but prefer the classy aesthetic of Gibson acoustics? This Advanced Jumbo may be the instrument you didn’t know you needed. 

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Brand: Gibson
Model: Advanced Jumbo
Country: USA
Year: 2003
Serial: 01083042
Case: OHSC
Body Colour: Sunburst
Neck Colour: Natural
Finish Type: Nitro
Body Material: Rosewood/ Sitka Spruce
Neck Material: Mahogany
Fretboard Material: Rosewood
Scale Length: 25.5”
Frets: 19
Fretboard Radius: 12”
Action (Low E): 2mm
Neck Profile: C
Nut Width: 43.7mm
10th Fret Width: 52mm
1st Fret Depth: 20.7mm
10th Fret Depth: 22.2mm
Pickups: K&K Pure Mini
Electronics: Passive
Knobs: N/A
Pick Guard: Tiger Stripe Tortoiseshell
Tuners: Gotoh Open Back
Hardware: Chrome
Weight: 2.15kg