We just took in a truly amazing guitar: here we have a 1992 Gibson Howard Roberts Fusion III in Sunburst.  It's an exceptionally versatile semi-hollowbody electric guitar that occupies a tonal space between a Les Paul and an ES-335.  This particular model year is known by Gibson collectors for its top-notch craftsman ship, high-quality materials and overall excellent quality.

This Howard Roberts Fusion II features a laminated maple top, back, and sides, complemented by a feedback-reducing chromite/balsa center block. The guitar has a compact 15-inch lower bout and a deep cutaway, facilitating easy access to the higher frets.  The maple neck has a comfortable '59 rounded profile, paired with a quick-playing ebony fretboard.  To top it off with a touch of class, it's adorned with mother-of-pearl dot inlays.  This guitar also features gold hardware, including a unique fingers-style adjustable tailpiece that enables players to fine-tune the tension of individual strings.

Of course it looks beautiful but how does it sound?  Actually, that's where it really shines, as it's outfitted with a powerful Gibson 498T humbucker in the bridge position and a smooth Gibson 490R humbucker in the neck position.  Those pickups give you a full, rich sound, perfect for a variety of styles but especially clean playing.  However, it suprisingly handles overdriven sounds as well - you can rock out if you want.  But our guess is that you'll be playing jazz or clean blues on this guitar, or perhaps some tasteful fusion.  While it does have the taste of an ES-335, you get more of a hollow voice.  What's nice is that the center block not only creates resistance to feedback, it also helps to create beautiful sustain and a great midrange tone for lead playing.

We were blown away as soon as the guitar came in.  This Howard Roberts Fusion III is in great shape, especially considering it's age, and has been setup to play perfectly by the techs in our shop.  The original hardshell case is included.  It's a rare find and a great score for any serious player!

Serial Number: 91142305