The Sonex line was released by Gibson in 1980, and really was one of the 'cheap' options at the time, along with the maligned 'The Paul' in the late '70s. The Sonex 180 took the single-cutaway aesthetics of the Les Paul, but instead implemented a bolt-on neck in tandem with lower grade parts and materials. Notably, these used a technique called Resincore, which was essentially a composite of some mahogany with a resin outer layer. Otherwise these featured three-piece necks, and the standard Norlin neck volute.
Don't let all of this discourage you however! This is a sonic beast, with plenty of punch and resonance. Courtesy of the factory pickups, these guitars had quite a bit of output and punch making them perfect for the emerging punk and hardcore scenes of the time. This example plays quite nicely, and features a beautifully full and rounded neck profile.
Cosmetic condition is okay with notable dings and scratches throughout. It also appears someone fitted a Bigsby tremolo system at one point to the body, which has now been dowelled and covered. We also have a sneaking suspicion it might have had a headstock break at some point which has been professionally glued and finished over, so it is barely noticeable. Hardware and electronics are fully functional, and plays well with quite hefty strings and low-medium action.
