Description: This Gibson L6-S Custom solid body electric guitar was built in 1972 and was probably in one of the batches as Gibson got ready for the 1973 roll out of this model. It was the working musician's descendant of the L5S jazz solid body electric guitar. It was the same shape, very much like a Gibson Les Paul, but with a 24 fret two-octave neck, the first Gibson guitar to have this. I believe this was also the first Gibson guitar to have a maple fingerboard.The L6-S was the first cooperation between Bill Lawrence and Gibson. It was designed in 1972 and first released in 1973. The idea was to make a "multi-sound system" under a very tight budget to compete with the Fender strats and tele’s. The L6-S was available from 1973-1979 and received high profile endorsements from the likes of Carlos Santana, Al DiMeola, and others. All models were dropped from price lists in 1979, but the L6-S is now generally considered to be the most underrated of all the Gibson solid body guitars.Hardware: 100% original except for replacement EMG passive humbucking pickups. There were people who played these guitars, but found the sound of the original pickups too harsh sounding. I’m sure the individual who owned this guitar originally was from that school. I do know that these pickups sound very good and full so I never considered looking for a pair of original humbuckers. Controls include a six position pickup selector, master volume, mid-range and treble roll-off controls.The L6-S Custom is noted for its six way rotary selector switch, complete with "chicken head" pointer knob. Starting with switch position #1, in the most counter-clockwise position, the available pickup switching options are as follows:1. Both pickups, in series2. Neck pickup, alone3. Both pickups, in parallel4. Both pickups, parallel out of phase, with the neck pickup's bass response restricted thought a series capacitor.5. Bridge pickup, alone6. Both pickups, series out of phase.The capacitor in the #4 position gives a fuller tone than the otherwise very nasal out of phase tone. The capacitor serves to limit the low end response of the neck pickup, and also phase delays the signal from that pickup, resulting in a fuller tone, not too unlike the #2 and #4 switch positions on a Fender Stratocaster guitar.Condition:• This guitar appears to be all original other that the pickups• This example shows no cracks• Some buckle rash on back• Minimal to NO thumb or fretboard wear• Minimal fret wear in certain areas from lower F to B• Several small blemishes on the front and back • Minimal to NO check marks • The silver hardware is oxidized in several areas• Pickguard has small cracks in (2) corners• All electronics workCase: Original Plush hardshell case that is in excellent condition for its ageIf you've been searching for one of these vintage beauties, don't hesitate because this is a fine example of a 45 year old Gibson that looks good, plays good, and sound good.Email me for any further information and sorry about the glare in several photos.