The Gibson Chet Atkins nylon string guitar presents an intriguing option for players seeking a classical sound in a stage-ready instrument. Having shared the stage with a fellow guitarist who played this model for several years, I gained firsthand experience with its nuances, both positive and negative. This article delves into the realities of owning and playing a Gibson Chet Atkins nylon string, focusing on its playability and, crucially, its often-discussed electronics system.
One of the immediate observations is the guitar’s unique pickup system. While innovative for its time, it relies heavily on proprietary, often now obsolete, components. Over the years, necessity led to several troubleshooting sessions to address electronic issues. Earlier models, in particular, utilized ribbon cables connecting individual piezo elements to the preamp. These ribbon cables are prone to becoming brittle and disintegrating over time, a common point of failure. The preamp itself is another custom design and can be susceptible to problems. In the model I encountered, a persistent hum was a recurring issue, requiring efforts to clear ground loops and shorts.
Despite these electronic challenges, the guitar itself offered a comfortable playing experience. It possesses a substantial feel, perhaps a bit on the heavier side for some, but it played well. The neck profile was a standard, pleasantly wide classical style, which many nylon-string players appreciate. Beyond the aging electronics, the guitar’s construction proved remarkably solid and robust. After addressing the initial electronic quirks, including adding insulation and reinforcing the ribbon cable connections, the electronics became more reliable. There was a period where a persistent hum was temporarily resolved by a makeshift grounding wire run from the jack, the other end tucked into a pocket – a testament to the lengths one might go to address these issues. Sonically, even with the older preamp design, it retained a characteristic piezo sound. However, this piezo character seemed to be more sonically forgiving with nylon strings compared to steel strings, resulting in an overall acceptable amplified tone.
Considering ownership of a Gibson Chet Atkins nylon string guitar, a crucial factor is the long-term viability of its electronics. Prospective buyers should be aware of the potential need to completely replace the original electronics should they fail beyond repair. Given the potential for electronic issues and the availability of numerous excellent modern alternatives, it might be wise to approach purchasing a Gibson Chet Atkins nylon string with careful consideration, especially when factoring in potentially high prices. While possessing a unique charm and comfortable playability, the electronic system’s potential for obsolescence and failure is a significant point to consider.
