Complete Guide to Buying a Gibson Les Paul

Your Guide to buying the best Gibson Les Paul

Overview

The Gibson Les Paul is a classic electric guitar that has been around for decades. It is known for its thick, rich sound and its versatility in many genres of music. The Les Paul is a popular choice for professional and amateur musicians alike, and this buying guide will provide an overview of the features to consider when shopping for one. We'll discuss the differences between the different models, various wood types and electronics, and help you decide which Gibson Les Paul is right for your playing style.

Key features

  1. Body Construction - Gibson Les Pauls typically feature a solid mahogany body with a maple top, while certain models may feature chambered bodies or other materials such as ash or walnut.
  2. Neck Construction - The neck of a Gibson Les Paul is normally made from mahogany with a rosewood fretboard. The neck features a rounded '50s profile, which is thicker than the '60s slim taper profile found on other models.
  3. Pickups - Gibson Les Pauls are usually equipped with two humbucking pickups, either the Burstbucker or the more traditional PAF pickups.
  4. Hardware - Gibson Les Pauls typically feature locking Grover tuners and a Tune-O-Matic bridge for improved sustain and tuning stability.

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Important considerations

Pros

  • Versatility: Gibson Les Paul guitars are renowned for their versatility. They can be used for almost any style of music, from blues to metal and beyond.
  • Durability: Gibson Les Pauls are made from solid mahogany and maple woods, providing stability and durability.
  • Tone: Gibson Les Pauls have a unique tone that is full, warm, and balanced. The combination of the mahogany and maple woods, along with the two humbucker pickups, give the guitar a distinct sound that is sought after by many guitarists.
  • Playability: The neck on Gibson Les Pauls is typically slim and fast, making it easy to play. The fingerboard is usually made of rosewood, providing a smooth feel for the player.
  • Quality: Gibson Les Pauls are known for their high quality construction and craftsmanship. Their attention to detail makes them a popular choice among serious guitarists.
  • Style: Gibson Les Pauls have a timeless look, making them a classic choice for any guitarist.

Cons

  • Cost: Gibson Les Pauls are expensive, especially compared to other electric guitars.
  • Weight: Gibson Les Pauls are heavy, due to their thick bodies. This may be uncomfortable over long periods of time.
  • Neck Profile: The neck profile of a Gibson Les Paul can be quite wide for some players, making it difficult to navigate certain chords.
  • Pickups: The stock pickups on Gibson Les Pauls are not as versatile as those on other guitars, so some players may need to upgrade to get the sounds they want.

Best alternatives

  1. Fender Stratocaster- A classic electric guitar that has a signature bright and twangy sound with a more comfortable neck shape compared to the Les Paul.
  2. Jackson Soloist- A modern electric guitar that is designed for metal and hard rock genres, featuring fast and shredding-friendly playability.
  3. PRS SE Custom 24- A solid-body electric guitar with a bright and articulate sound, offering a comfortable playing experience.
  4. Gretsch G5420T- A semi-hollow electric guitar with a vintage-inspired sound and a classic look.
  5. Ibanez RG550- An iconic electric guitar with a super-fast neck and a versatile, shred-friendly tone.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

    Guitar strap - A long piece of fabric or leather used to attach the guitar to the player. Guitar tuner - A device used to accurately tune the strings of a guitar. Guitar picks - Small pieces of stiff material used to strum the strings of the guitar. Guitar amplifier - An electronic device used to amplify the sound of a guitar. Guitar cable - A cord used to connect a guitar to a sound system or amplifier.

Common questions

  1. What are the main characteristics of the Gibson Les Paul?
    The Gibson Les Paul is a classic electric guitar with a mahogany body and set-neck construction. It features two humbucker pickups, a Tune-O-Matic bridge, and a range of finishes and colors. It is renowned for its powerful tone and sustain.
  2. What type of music is the Gibson Les Paul most commonly used for?
    The Gibson Les Paul has been used in a variety of genres, including Rock, Blues, Jazz, and Country. It is particularly associated with Rock music, especially Hard Rock and Heavy Metal.
  3. What is the difference between the Standard and Custom models of the Gibson Les Paul?
    The Standard and Custom models of the Gibson Les Paul are very similar, in terms of construction and features. The primary difference is in the look and feel, with the Custom model having more ornate appointments. The Standard model is typically less expensive.
  4. How much does a Gibson Les Paul typically cost?
    The price of a Gibson Les Paul can vary greatly, depending on the model and features. The Standard models typically range in price from $1,000-$2,500 while the Custom models can range from $2,500-$6,000.
  5. Where can I buy a Gibson Les Paul?
    Gibson Les Pauls are available from authorized Gibson retailers. They can also be found online from various retailers, including Reverb, Sweetwater, and Guitar Center.
  6. What accessories should I consider buying for my Gibson Les Paul?
    Common accessories to consider include a hardshell case, a strap, strings, and picks. For more serious guitarists, a set of pickups and/or a new bridge can also be beneficial.

Trivia

Gibson Les Paul guitars have been played by a host of legendary musicians over the decades, but one unlikely artist to pick up the instrument was former US President Jimmy Carter. During a visit to the Gibson factory in 1978, President Carter recalled his father playing a Gibson Les Paul when he was a child, so the workers presented him with a Les Paul of his own. Carter took the guitar home and can still be seen playing it from time to time. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.