Details of two high-end Gibson solid body models, the Gibson L-5S and SG Custom guitars.
This was the final catalog inclusion of the SG Custom (under Norlin ownership) though it remained in price lists through 1979. Two new finishes were offered here (as compared to the previous 1975 solid bodies catalogue): Cherry and Tobacco Sunburst, joining the previously available White and Walnut. Sales had declined continually since a 1974 high of 939 - and the new finishes did not significantly improve things - just 217 SG Customs left the Kalamazoo plant in 1978.
The L-5S was shown for the first time with the adjustable TP-6 tailpiece as opposed to the gold/silver L5 tailpiece it had previously shipped with. It also was offered in new finishes for 1978, with Natural, Antique Sunburst and Fireburst joining the established Cherry Sunburst.
1978 US prices for these models were as follows: Gibson L-5S: $1079 (the second most expensive solid body listed, only after The Les Paul on page 2); SG Custom: $799.
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