Let's dive into the world of the Gibson Explorer Cherry Sunburst, a guitar that's not just an instrument but a statement. For decades, this iconic axe has been wielded by rock legends and admired by guitar enthusiasts worldwide. In this article, we'll explore what makes the Gibson Explorer Cherry Sunburst so special, its history, features, and why it continues to be a sought-after guitar today.

A Brief History of the Gibson Explorer

The Gibson Explorer first emerged in 1958 as part of Gibson's modernist series, which also included the Flying V. These guitars were designed to push the boundaries of guitar aesthetics and appeal to a futuristic market. However, their initial reception was lukewarm, and production was halted after just a few years. The radical body shape was simply too avant-garde for the guitar-buying public at the time. It was a bold move by Gibson, aiming to redefine what an electric guitar could look like. This forward-thinking approach, though initially unsuccessful, laid the groundwork for the Explorer's eventual rise to fame.

In the mid-1970s, the Explorer experienced a resurgence in popularity, driven by rock and hard rock guitarists who were drawn to its aggressive appearance and powerful sound. Players like Allen Collins of Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Edge of U2 embraced the Explorer, solidifying its status as a rock icon. This renewed interest led Gibson to reissue the Explorer, cementing its place in guitar history. The Explorer's distinctive look became synonymous with rock rebellion and sonic innovation. It stood out from the crowd of traditional guitar designs, offering a visual representation of the genre's evolving sound.

The Cherry Sunburst finish, in particular, adds a touch of classic elegance to the Explorer's otherwise aggressive design. This finish, characterized by a gradient of color that fades from a deep red at the edges to a warm amber in the center, enhances the guitar's visual appeal and gives it a timeless quality. It's a finish that's both eye-catching and sophisticated, making the Explorer Cherry Sunburst a true work of art.

Key Features of the Gibson Explorer Cherry Sunburst

The Gibson Explorer Cherry Sunburst boasts several features that contribute to its distinctive sound and playability. Let's break down some of the key elements:

Body Wood

Typically, the body is crafted from mahogany, a tonewood known for its warm, resonant qualities. Mahogany provides a solid foundation for the Explorer's powerful sound, delivering rich sustain and a balanced tonal response. The choice of mahogany ensures that the guitar produces a full, thick sound that's perfect for rock and blues. The weight of the mahogany also contributes to the guitar's overall feel, providing a substantial and comfortable playing experience.

Neck and Fingerboard

The neck is usually made from mahogany as well, offering a comfortable and familiar feel. It often features a slim-taper profile, which allows for fast and effortless playing. The rosewood fingerboard adds warmth and smoothness to the guitar's tone, while the medium-jumbo frets provide excellent playability and precise intonation. The combination of mahogany and rosewood creates a neck that's both comfortable and responsive, allowing players to execute complex riffs and solos with ease.

Pickups

The Gibson Explorer Cherry Sunburst is typically equipped with two humbucker pickups. These pickups deliver a thick, powerful tone with plenty of sustain and crunch. Whether it's the classic '57 Classic or a more modern variant, the humbuckers provide a versatile range of tones suitable for various genres, from blues to hard rock to metal. The pickups are designed to capture the nuances of the guitar's mahogany body and neck, producing a sound that's both articulate and aggressive. They're a crucial component of the Explorer's signature sound, providing the power and punch that players have come to expect.

Hardware

The hardware components of the Gibson Explorer Cherry Sunburst are designed for reliability and performance. The Tune-O-Matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece ensure excellent sustain and precise intonation. The Grover tuners provide stable and accurate tuning, allowing players to focus on their performance without worrying about their guitar going out of tune. The hardware is built to withstand the rigors of live performance and studio recording, ensuring that the guitar remains in top condition for years to come.

The Allure of the Cherry Sunburst Finish

Let's talk more about that Cherry Sunburst finish, guys. It's not just paint; it's an art form. The way the color fades from a deep, rich red on the edges to a warm, inviting amber in the center gives the Explorer a touch of class that you don't always see on rock guitars. It's like saying, "Yeah, I can shred, but I also have impeccable taste."

The Cherry Sunburst finish enhances the natural grain of the mahogany body, adding depth and dimension to the guitar's appearance. The glossy finish reflects light beautifully, making the guitar stand out on stage and in photos. It's a finish that's both timeless and modern, appealing to players of all ages and styles. The Cherry Sunburst finish is a testament to Gibson's attention to detail and commitment to quality, making the Explorer a true collector's item.

Why the Gibson Explorer Cherry Sunburst Remains Popular

So, why is the Gibson Explorer Cherry Sunburst still so popular after all these years? Here are a few reasons:

Iconic Status

The Explorer has achieved iconic status thanks to its association with legendary guitarists and its distinctive design. It's a guitar that's instantly recognizable and associated with rock and roll history. Owning a Gibson Explorer is like owning a piece of rock history, a symbol of rebellion and innovation. The Explorer's unique shape and powerful sound have made it a favorite among players who want to stand out from the crowd.

Unique Aesthetics

The Explorer's radical body shape sets it apart from other guitars. It's a guitar that demands attention and makes a statement. The combination of the Explorer's shape and the Cherry Sunburst finish creates a visually stunning instrument that's sure to turn heads. The Explorer is not just a guitar; it's a work of art, a symbol of individuality and creativity.

Powerful Sound

The Explorer's mahogany body and humbucker pickups deliver a thick, powerful tone that's perfect for rock, blues, and metal. It's a guitar that can handle high-gain distortion with ease, producing a sound that's both aggressive and articulate. The Explorer's sound is its own, and it has become a staple in many genres of music.

Collectibility

Vintage Gibson Explorers, especially those with the Cherry Sunburst finish, are highly sought after by collectors. These guitars are rare and valuable, representing a significant piece of guitar history. Owning a vintage Explorer is like owning a piece of art, a tangible connection to the past. The collectibility of the Explorer adds to its mystique and appeal, making it a guitar that's both playable and investment-worthy.

Is the Gibson Explorer Cherry Sunburst Right for You?

If you're a guitarist looking for a unique and powerful instrument, the Gibson Explorer Cherry Sunburst is definitely worth considering. It's a guitar that offers a combination of iconic status, distinctive aesthetics, and powerful sound. However, it's not for everyone.

Consider Your Playing Style

The Explorer is well-suited for rock, blues, and metal genres. If you primarily play acoustic or clean styles of music, there might be better options available. The Explorer's aggressive tone and high output pickups are designed for players who want to make a statement.

Think About the Ergonomics

The Explorer's body shape can take some getting used to. It's not the most comfortable guitar to play sitting down, so if you primarily play in a seated position, you might want to try it out first. The Explorer is designed for players who like to move around on stage, who want a guitar that's as dynamic as their performance.

Consider Your Budget

The Gibson Explorer is a premium instrument, so it comes with a premium price tag. Be prepared to invest a significant amount of money if you want to own one. However, the Explorer is an investment in quality and craftsmanship, a guitar that will last a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

The Gibson Explorer Cherry Sunburst is more than just a guitar; it's a symbol of rock and roll rebellion, a testament to Gibson's innovative design, and a timeless classic that continues to inspire guitarists around the world. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an aspiring player, the Explorer offers a unique playing experience that's sure to ignite your passion for music. So, if you're looking for a guitar that's as bold and unique as you are, the Gibson Explorer Cherry Sunburst might just be the perfect choice. Rock on, guys!