Richie has a new Explorer

[Mincer]

I am not sure of the motivation all I can say it that fretboard feels amazing

Oh I prefer it to most regular wood, too. My Steinberger uses it.

 

[JMP/HBE]

I had one. Was okay. Played & sound alright.
Pickup changes are tight as the narrow control cavity can be a pain.
Awkward shape a little off balance and that large wing can torx on yer back.
Wouldnt rule out another but not black.

 

[orpheo]

The issue with Gibson is not that it innovates at all, or stays the same, but that its innovations are things noone asked for. Robot tuners, anyone? Why always stick to the same boring old designs with idiotic tweaks? Why not a multi-laminated LP neck, like in the past, or a REAL redesign of the neck joint, or things like carbon strengthening rods in the neck, or RVS frets, or wood bindings.

C'mon, Gibson. Look at what others are doing. Why always the same mahogany neck that can be snapped by baby's fingers.