A superb example of the Gibson Howard Roberts Fusion III, one of Gibson's most distinctive and underrated semi-hollow electric guitars. Designed in collaboration with legendary jazz guitarist and educator Howard Roberts, the Fusion III combines the warmth and resonance of a traditional archtop with the versatility, feedback resistance and playability of a modern semi-hollow. First introduced in 1991 as the final evolution of the Howard Roberts Fusion series, it remained in production until around 2010 and has become increasingly sought after by players looking for something beyond the usual ES-335.

Built in the USA with a laminated maple body, set maple neck and ebony fingerboard, the Fusion III offers exceptional sustain, impressive note definition and a rich, articulate voice. Its thinner body and lightweight centre block make it more comfortable than a traditional jazz box while still retaining the warmth and airiness that make these guitars so inspiring to play.

Whether you're playing jazz, blues, fusion, country, classic rock or session work, the Howard Roberts Fusion III is one of Gibson's most versatile artist models.

Condition – Very Good Used Condition

This guitar has been professionally inspected and tested by our guitar team and is in very good overall condition.

• Very good overall condition for its age
• Light cosmetic wear consistent with careful use
• Frets remain in very good playing condition with plenty of life remaining
• Neck is straight and plays comfortably
• Electronics operate exactly as they should
• Hardware functions correctly
• Comfortable, professional playing action
• Structurally excellent with no issues affecting performance
• Professionally checked and ready to play
• Serial No - 10180722
• Year - 2010
• Weight - 8.3lbs or 3.76kg

Please study all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description and accurately show the condition of the instrument.

Why Players Love the Howard Roberts Fusion III

The Fusion III occupies a unique place in Gibson's catalogue. It delivers much of the warmth and sophistication of a full-size jazz guitar while remaining compact, comfortable and remarkably versatile.

Players value it for:

• USA-made Gibson craftsmanship
• Semi-hollow construction with reduced feedback
• Fast, comfortable neck
• Ebony fingerboard
• Rich, articulate humbucker tones
• Exceptional sustain
• Lightweight feel compared to many archtops
• Increasing rarity on the used market

Unlike a traditional ES-175, the Fusion III incorporates a lightweight centre block, making it far more manageable at stage volumes while still retaining much of the acoustic character of a hollow-body instrument.

Tonal Character

The Howard Roberts Fusion III is remarkably adaptable.

Expect:

• Warm, rounded jazz tones
• Smooth blues leads
• Rich fusion sounds
• Clear chord definition
• Excellent note separation
• Strong sustain
• Controlled feedback at higher gain settings

Many players describe the Fusion III as sitting comfortably between an ES-335 and an ES-175, offering the best characteristics of both designs in a single instrument.

Ideal for:

• Jazz
• Blues
• Fusion
• Country
• Classic Rock
• Session Work
• Recording
• Live Performance

Specifications

• Gibson Howard Roberts Fusion III
• Cherry Red Finish
• Made in USA
• Laminated Maple Body
• Set Maple Neck
• Ebony Fingerboard
• 24.75" Scale Length
• 22 Frets
• Dual Gibson 490R & 490T Humbuckers
• Individual Volume Controls
• Individual Tone Controls
• Three-Way Pickup Selector
• Tune-O-Matic Bridge
• Howard Roberts Finger Tailpiece
• Gold Hardware
• Right-Handed

Included

• Gibson Howard Roberts Fusion III
• Hard Case

Why Buy This One?

The Howard Roberts Fusion III remains one of Gibson's hidden gems. While models such as the ES-335 often receive the spotlight, the Fusion III has built a loyal following among players who appreciate its comfortable body size, elegant design and exceptional tonal versatility. With production ending around 2010 and relatively few appearing on the used market, clean examples have become increasingly difficult to find.

This guitar has been professionally inspected, is fully functional and is ready for its next owner. Offered in Very Good condition, it represents an excellent opportunity to own one of Gibson's most distinctive semi-hollow designs.

Professionally packed and ready for worldwide shipping. For international shipping, please message with your shipping address and we will send you a quote as soon as possible.

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