Fender Versus Gibson Iconic American Guitar Companies Gibson is based in Nashville, Tennessee. Founded in 1902 by Orville Gibson to make mandolins, Gibson invented archtop guitars by building carved, arched tops, as used on violins. Fender is particularly known for solid-body electric guitars, including the Stratocaster and Telecaster. The company was founded in Fullerton, California, by Leo Fender in 1946. Gibson Gibson's most famous model is probably the Les Paul. That model has come in a great variety, from the budget “Junior” model to the expensive Custom Shop models. Gibsons typically come with humbucking pickups. Famous Gibson Players Bob Marley Joan Jett Bibi McGill Sonny Sharrock Joni Mitchell Mick Jones Fender Fender's most famous model is undoubtedly the Stratocaster. Other influential Fender models include the Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, and Precision bass. Fender guitars are best known for single-coil pickups. Famous Fender Players Albert Hammond Jr Curtis Mayfield Nile Rogers Jonny Greenwood PJ Harvey Lee Ranaldo Top