Gibson started making guitars as far back as the 1880's in Kalamazoo, Michigan USA. Renowned for crafting instruments using carved techniques, Gibson produced a range of acoustic guitars. The electric guitar did not appear until the late 1930's when Gibson developed the electromagnetic pickup. This pickup allowed steel strung guitars to be electronically amplified and was used in a range of hollow and solid body guitars.

In 1969 Gibson was taken over by ECL which led to the formation of Norlin.

In 1948 Leo Fender introduced the first production model solid body electric guitar. The original Broadcaster, later renamed Telecaster remains in production to this day. Fender went on to design the Precision bass and legendary Stratocaster guitar.

In 1965 the Fender company was sold to CBS and resulting changes in production methods during the 1970's proved detrimental to the quality of the guitars. Some fine instruments were produced during the 70's but "pre-CBS" Fender guitars are considered the best.