594 vs Gibson 59 reissue?

[Jaysop]

I currently have a core 594 that I love.

I’m considering adding a Gibson R9.

Knowing the 594 was inspired by the original 59 Gibsons, I’m curious if anyone has any experience with both.

Specifically how the neck profiles compare.
I love the vintage profile of the 594 and not in love with Gibson’s 60s profile.

 

[tiboy]

I have both. The neck shape/size feels similar to me. The fret wire is noticeably different. I also do not like 60’s profile Gibson necks.

 

[El Fenix]

Play a few and see what you like. What area are you in?

 

[MarcWink]

The necks on the two feel pretty similar to me, but as noted, the frets themselves feel different between the two, and then everything else about them is totally different too. One thing to note with the R9 is that the pickups are not potted and can vary a bit guitar to guitar.

 

[Jaysop]

I have both. The neck shape/size feels similar to me. The fret wire is noticeably different. I also do not like 60’s profile Gibson necks.

I’ve noticed the frets are very different from the few standards and classics I’ve demoed.
I’ve even measured them.
Anywhere from .022 to .045 between different guitars.

 

[Jaysop]

Play a few and see what you like. What area are you in?

I’m in the Charleston SC area.
Other than a run down Guitar center and a few very small mom and pops, there isn’t much.
Back in Charlotte there were a few good options
A 7 hour round trip is hard to stomach.

 

[Jaysop]

The necks on the two feel pretty similar to me, but as noted, the frets themselves feel different between the two, and then everything else about them is totally different too. One thing to note with the R9 is that the pickups are not potted and can vary a bit guitar to guitar.

Well that’s good to know.
I did notice that every Gibson I’ve picked up had been incredibly unique in feel and tone.

My first and only high end guitar purchase has been the 594.

Consistency between the few of those I demoed led me to just end up picking my favorite based on appearance.

 

[El Fenix]

I’m in the Charleston SC area.
Other than a run down Guitar center and a few very small mom and pops, there isn’t much.
Back in Charlotte there were a few good options
A 7 hour round trip is hard to stomach.

I was going to suggest Casino Guitars, but that's just as far, and they don't have much Gibson.

 

[Lwilliams]

I have a 594 and two R9s, and a 2022 Standard LP.

The frets on the R9 are very different than what you find on the Standards, Customs, Traditionals, Tributes, and Classics.

The feel of the neck carve of the 594 is very similar to the R9......but not to the others.

The frets of the 594 are a bit wider than the R9, but similar in height. I have not measured them.

Gibsons are not as consistent as PRS. You can play 10 in a row and they will each be different.

 

[László]

A 7 hour round trip is hard to stomach.

I totally understand this, it's a pain.

On the other hand, given the variables with Gibson product, it might be a good idea to suffer the drive if you're spending several grand on a guitar. At least you'll know it's money well spent, and you'll have something to look forward to on the return trip.

However, there are dealers who will give you a 24 hour approval, though you'll be stuck with return shipping costs.