Quote:
Originally Posted by Willie Voltaire
More likely they figured, "Look, it's a millimeter of inconsequential cosmetic imperfection that has no bearing whatsoever on the sound or playability of an otherwise great guitar. Let's not send it to the dustbin over a decal glitch."
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Exactly.
My J-35 had more of a problem than a rosette decal. It was sent back on warranty due to ramping of the fretboard at the neck joint and because the frets had been dressed down so much to get it within Gibson spec, that the luthier couldn't do a setup! The guitar was "fixed" by having the bridge sanded down for clearance and a new, taller bone saddle installed. This approach worked but it seems that it shouldn't have been needed.
It still sounds fantastic but I'm a bit bummed that this occurred, that Gibson are such cheapskates with regard to their warranty claims, and that I had to go through the hassle and aggravation. But the guitar now has a story, remains a stunner, and most importantly, I didn't have to start the search over again (It took 6 copies to find "the one"). Gibson rusticity and loose tolerances may be related to that.
I still prefer the sound of an excellent Gibson over, say, a Taylor which will be impeccable in construction, nearly identical copy-to-copy, and flawless in finish. The Taylor likely will not have a decal problem but won't sound as individual as a Gibon will.
I'll put up with the flaws for the uniqueness and sound.