“CME Spec”??

Newbie 1 · Apr 7, 2023

Hi all! I’m new to this forum, and this is my first post. A couple of days ago. I played my first Gibson R9!. Wow is all I could say, now I’m addicted! A question for you all: Chicago music exchange’s website posts “CME specs”, does this refer to their neck carves, and other specifications they request of Gibson to make exclusively for their store, or is the CME spec referring to the pick ups exclusively? Thanks!

Thunder Dump · Apr 7, 2023

It depends on the model and the run. Most have their underwound Custom Bucker "S" pickups, a spec neck carve (Carmalita, etc.), a spec finish, or some combination thereof. Great guitars though (I own two).

Newbie 1 · Apr 7, 2023

Thanks! In your opinion is there any downside from a resell value or guitar valuation standpoint if it’s a CME spec or straight up Gibson?
Also, would you have any hesitation in shopping at Chicago music exchange for a reissue?

djcmusician · Apr 7, 2023

On the models that are supposed to be historic reissues, I don’t personally care for the CME serial number and the other specs like extra underwound pickups, thinner necks, etc. but that’s me.

My preference would be for the factory specs.

corpse · Apr 7, 2023

I have had several R9's and love my '18 CME. I had a Historic Makeover and soundwise and playability wise they are about the same.

axeman565758 · Apr 7, 2023

it could be a neck spec, but most likely it would be electronics (p'ups) or color (one-off special run color)
The current R9/Carmelita neck carve seems to be the go-to spec, so I don't think that would be it. CME (or Wildwood or any other retailer) typically describes what makes that model unique

El Gringo · Apr 7, 2023

Newbie 1 said:
Thanks! In your opinion is there any downside from a resell value or guitar valuation standpoint if it’s a CME spec or straight up Gibson?
Also, would you have any hesitation in shopping at Chicago music exchange for a reissue?

None what so ever . Chicago Music Exchange is a Fine shop on the North side ! A nice place to shop in person if you ever get the chance , with a knowledgeable staff , and the best part is that it is a hassle free environment where you can try instruments out in peace and quiet where they don't hassle you and let you think ! Great Shop , with great inventory !

Tim Plains · Apr 7, 2023

Newbie 1 said:
In your opinion is there any downside from a resell value or guitar valuation standpoint if it’s a CME spec or straight up Gibson?

The CME serial number is a downside for some people, the same bunch who wouldn't buy a regular historic with a six-digit serial.

jb_abides · Apr 8, 2023

No hesitation. One of my favorites!

Newbie 1 · Apr 12, 2023

I've read that 2012 may be a year to steer clear of. (though some might argue otherwise, or say it's strictly guitar dependent) Aside from 2012, are there other years after that, that are supposedly sub-par in terms of build quality?? Thanks!

renderit · Apr 12, 2023

Nope.

I have them from every year after that up till 2017 and they are excellent.

No "send backs" needed after that.

bogdan101 · May 1, 2023

I believe the CME spec LP's have potted custombuckers, which may or may not be what you want.

MattD1960 · May 1, 2023

i have two CME les pauls both are absolutely brilliant guitars. me personally i look for the CME spec, the underwound custombuckers are KILLER.

NikSimonChicago · Jul 23, 2023

Newly acquired CME 58 Carmelita. Second owner. Immediatly noticed two thumbwheels per post. One against the body and other under the bottom of the bridge. I dont believe they shipped this way, but I get it. ABR-1 screw stability/lean fix. Also, saddles have very tiny notches. I know Gibson just hammers a string on each saddle. G string rattling like crazy. Did the obvious and added a drop of clear nail polish. Doesnt seem to help. May go the Faber ABRH route. The stock bridge moves around on the posts way too much. Really considering nylon saddles. Thoughts?

Hardcase · Jul 23, 2023

I bought a 2022 CME spec '59 reissue two weeks ago. Love the guitar. When I asked about CME spec at the store the salesman said that they hand picked the tops and specced out some other things for their special orders. In my case it was a '59 reissue with a 1960 V2 neck and their 15% underwound and potted custombuckers and I believe a carmelita top carve. I've seen a lot of their CME specs advertised with a carmelita neck carve though. You have to ask as the CME spec changes over time.

corpse · Jul 24, 2023

Interesting. Mine has a Carmelita neck carve and a very scooped top.

MattD1960 · Jul 24, 2023

Hardcase said:
I bought a 2022 CME spec '59 reissue two weeks ago. Love the guitar. When I asked about CME spec at the store the salesman said that they hand picked the tops and specced out some other things for their special orders. In my case it was a '59 reissue with a 1960 V2 neck and their 15% underwound and potted custombuckers and I believe a carmelita top carve. I've seen a lot of their CME specs advertised with a carmelita neck carve though. You have to ask as the CME spec changes over time.

yeah the Carmelita neck carve is probably the most popular option along with the underwound custom buckers. I really think if they offered these custombuckers for sale they would go like hotcakes, they are really really mellow and i think to my ears capture the tone of an old guitar

Hardcase · Jul 24, 2023

MattD1960 said:
yeah the Carmelita neck carve is probably the most popular option along with the underwound custom buckers. I really think if they offered these custombuckers for sale they would go like hotcakes, they are really really mellow and i think to my ears capture the tone of an old guitar

I'd love to put them in my burstbucker standard.

“CME Spec”??

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