Patrick Keegan

This is the question that has plagued guitarists since the 50’s. Being forced to decide between the two is a nightmare; it’s like trying to decide what type of wings to order at band practice (only not as serious). There are arguments for both sides, and a lot of it comes down to personal taste. What I’m going to do here is point out the differences between the two in the hopes that it may help you in some way, shape, or form.

Fender Coronado II

Gibson and Fender are known for completely different things. With a Gibson guitar it is a pretty safe assumption that you will find a set neck, humbuckers, a 3 and 3 headstock configuration and maybe a couple of  f-holes. On a Fender you are likely to see almost the complete opposite: A bolt-on neck, single coil pickups, and a 6 in-a-line headstock configuration are prime examples of the iconic Fender style. I’m not saying that both brands have stuck to this, both have dabbled in the others area of expertise. The Fender Coronados were an attempt to break into the semi-hollowbody market that was (and continues to be) dominated by Gibson whereas the Gibson SG Standard 3* (a SG with 3 single coils) was clearly meant to compete with the Stratocaster.

Gibson SG with 3 single coil pick ups

*This guitar was not mass produced, only 400 were made

As I mentioned earlier, the Fender brand has formed itself into an icon of music. The Stratocaster has been used by so many people that its contoured body is engrained in peoples’ minds at a young age. Many times when people think electric guitar they think of a Fender. Unfortunately the same cannot be said for Gibson. Sure they’ve got the Les Paul and the SG but those are just attempts (successful ones) at improving upon Leo Fenders designs, and the original always gets more fame.

Come back soon for part 2!

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