Classical electric guitar

The Gibson Chet Atkins CE/CEC was a classical-electric guitar manufactured by Gibson and released in 1982.[1] Developed with guitarist Chet Atkins and Kentucky luthier Hascal Haile,[2] the Chet Atkins CEC (Cutaway Electric Classical) merged solid-body electric guitar with classical guitar, resulting in a nylon-string instrument that could be played at high volumes in large auditoriums without feedback.[1]

Gibson Chet Atkins CE/CEC
Sting playing a Chet Atkins CE live in 1987
Manufacturer	Gibson
Period	1982–2005
Construction
Body type	Solid
Woods
Body	Mahogany
Colors available
Black, natural, white, red wine

The instrument featured a 25½ inch scale length and was produced in two neck widths, the CE (1 7/8 inch) and the CEC (2 inches, the standard for most classical guitars).[2] The body featured sound chambers to reduce weight while the top was solid spruce or ceder. The Chet Atkins CEC had a mahogany neck while its pick up system consisted of six individual pieces installed under the bridge. Volume and tone controls were located on the rim.[1]

Classical guitarists have given the innovation little credence, but pop and rock music stars like Sting,[2] Earl Klugh, Zappacosta, David Gilmour,[2] Jack Johnson,[2] Gipsy Kings, Mark Knopfler,[1] Gustavo Cerati, have played it to millions of concert-goers. Gibson also manufactured a model called the Chet Atkins CE which had a smaller 1-7/8" nut width.

The guitar was marketed in black, natural, white, and red wine colors.[3] Gibson discontinued the CEC on January 1, 2006.[4]

The Chet Atkins family had also a steel-string acoustic version released in 1987, the "Chet Atkins SST".