Gibson Les Paul Guitar: Vintage Play and Qualitance
Where is the finest Gibson Les Paul guitar made?
The Gibson Les Paul first came into production in 1952, and since then, it has been through many iterations. The original model was designed by Ted McCarty and Lester Polsfuss (better known as Les Paul), and it quickly became the go-to guitar for many of the biggest names in music. Over the years, Gibson has released many different versions of the Les Paul, each with its own unique features and characteristics.
Nashville has been home to Gibson’s headquarters since 1984, and all of their high-end guitars are handcrafted in their state-of-the-art facility there. If you want a true Nashville-made Gibson Les Paul, you’ll have to fork over some serious cash – but it will be worth every penny. These guitars are built to last a lifetime (and then some), and they just keep getting better with age.
The factory in Nashville has been churning out some of the best guitars in the world for years, and they show no signs of slowing down. If you want a top-notch Gibson Les Paul, then this is definitely the place to get it. The craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each and every guitar is second to none, and you’ll be getting a truly top-quality instrument if you choose one from here.
So if you’re looking for the best of the best when it comes to Gibson Les Pauls, then there’s really only one place to go: Nashville, Tennessee. You won’t be disappointed! The Gibson Les Paul is the quintessential rock ‘n’ roll guitar, and Nashville is home to some of the finest luthiers in the world.
So if you’re looking for the best possible Gibso nLesPaul money can buy, then head on down to Music City – you won’t be disappointed!
What materials are used to make a Gibson Les Paul guitar?
Few instruments in the history of music have been as iconic as the Gibson Les Paul. The thick, rich tone and massive sustain that has come to define rock ‘n’ roll can be traced back to this groundbreaking instrument, which has been a mainstay in the arsenal of some of the greatest guitarists ever. But what exactly are Gibson Les Pauls made of? Let’s take a look at the materials that go into making these legendary guitars.
The body of a Les Paul is generally made from mahogany, though some models (such as the ‘50s Tribute series) feature a maple top. Mahogany is known for its warm tones and strong midrange presence, making it an ideal choice for rock and blues players looking to get those thick, meaty tones. The mahogany used in Les Pauls is generally sourced from Africa or Central America, though Due to CITES regulations on Mahogany exports, Gibson has had to source their mahogany from sustainable plantations in recent years.
The sides and back are generally composed of two or three pieces of mahogany glued together. The top may also be carved with a figured maple design known as "flamed" or "burst". There is typically a white binding around the top edge of the body.
The neck of a Les Paul is also typically made from mahogany, though more recent models have featured maple necks for a brighter sound. The necks are attached to the body with four large screws, which also holds the metal plate that bears the Les Paul logo. The fretboard is made from rosewood or ebony, and contains 22 frets for standard Les Pauls (24 for Les Paul Standards) and trapezoid inlays. The headstock of a Les Paul has six tuning keys on each side (12 total), each held in place with three small screws.
The pick-ups on a Gibson Les Paul are typically two single-coil units, though some models feature humbucking pick-ups for a fuller sound. These pick-ups are mounted under chrome covers, and are controlled by independent volume and tone knobs for each pickup, as well as a three-way switch that allows the user to select between either pickup individually or both at once.
The pick-ups, tuning heads, bridge and tailpiece on a Gibson Les Paul are all made from metal. The most common type of metal used for these parts is zinc-plated steel, but some high-end models may use nickel-plated steel or even gold-plated hardware. The strings on a Les Paul guitar are also typically made from metal, usually steel or nickel-plated steel. The pickups on a Les Paul guitar are typically made from Alnico magnets, which are wrapped in copper wire.
If you're looking for an electric guitar that will turn heads and provide years of playing pleasure, then you can't go wrong with a Gibson Les Paul.
Which Gibson Les Paul guitar has changed most over time?
There are many different types of Gibson Les Paul guitars that have been released over the years. Some of the most popular models include the Standard, the Custom, and the Studio. Each of these models has undergone some changes throughout the years, but which one has changed the most?
The Standard model is one of the original Les Paul designs and it remains fairly similar to its original form. The biggest change that this guitar has seen is in its pickups. Early Standard models were equipped with PAF humbuckers, but nowadays they usually come with Gibson's modern day equivalents, like the '57 Classic or '490R. Other than that, the only other major change that has occurred is a switch from an ebony to a rosewood fretboard in 1959.
The Custom model was designed as an upgrade to the Standard. It featured higher quality materials and appointments such as binding on both the body and neck and gold hardware. Over time, Gibsons Les Paul Customs have remained pretty true to their original design though there have been some slight changes. One notable change is that manyCustoms now come equipped with Seymour Duncan pickups instead of PAFs. Another change that has occurred is that some Custom models now feature a split headstock which was not an option in the past.
The Les Paul Studio has changed the least of any of the Les Paul models over time and remains true to its original form with only small changes being made here and there such as different color finishes or pickups being offered.
The first Gibson Les Paul Standard was introduced in 1958 and featured a body made from a mahogany/maple/poplar sandwich with an arched top, two PAF humbucking pickups, and a trapeze tailpiece. This combination of woods and construction techniques resulted in a tone that was both warm and punchy with excellent sustain. The 1958 Les Paul Standards are some of the most highly sought after vintage guitars on the market today and can command prices in excess of $100,000.
In 1959, Gibson made some changes to the design of the Les Paul Standard which included a new rounded neck profile, dot inlays instead of block inlays, and an increased depth to the body from 1 11/16” to 1 3/4”.The Les Paul Custom also saw some changes such as a new headstock logo and a more elaborate inlay on the body.In 1957, Gibson made another change to the Les Paul Standard by changing the pickups from P-90s to PAF humbuckers which helped give the guitar more of an aggressive sound. They also increased the size of the headstock and added binding to it. The last change that was made to the Les Paul Standard was in 1961 when they switched from using nitrocellulose lacquer to polyurethane which helped cut down on production costs. The most distinct difference between these two finishes is that nitrocellulose lacquer ages better and gives off a warmer tone while polyurethane doesn't age as well and can give off a harsher tone.
The biggest change that Gibson made to the Les Paul Custom was in 1954 when they switched from using gold plated hardware to chrome plated hardware which gave the guitar a more modern look. In 1958, they changed the pickups from P-90s to PAF humbuckers like they did with the Les Paul Standard. Another change that was made was switching from using dot inlays to block inlays on the fingerboard. This was done in order to make room for the logo which was placed at the top of the fingerboard. The last change that was made to the Les Paul during this time period was switching from a trapeze tailpiece to a stopbar tailpiece. This change was made because it increased sustain and gave the guitar a tighter sound.
The next big change to the Les Paul came in 1961 when they switched from using mahogany for the body to using swamp ash. They also changed the neck profile from a V shape to a more rounded profile. These changes were made in order to try and reduce feedback and give the guitar a brighter sound. The final change that was made during this time period was switching from having two Volume pots and two Tone pots to having three Volume pots and one Tone pot. This change allowed for more control over each individual pickup.
The next major change came in 1968 when Gibson introduced what is known as the “Lost Year” model Les Pauls. These models were unique in that they featured smaller pickguards, dot inlays instead of block inlays, binding on both the body and neck, as well as chrome hardware instead of nickel hardware. One of the most distinguishable changes to the Les Paul came in 1954 when Gibson introduced the now-famous Les Paul Custom. This guitar was basically a gold-top Les Paul with binding on both the body and neck, as well as gold hardware instead of nickel hardware.
In recent years, Gibson has released several new Les Paul models that feature different construction techniques and electronics than the original models from the 1950s and 1960s. One example is the 2017 Standard Historic 1959 Les Paul Reissue, which features an Authentic '59 Profile neck and handwired ABR-1 bridge with vintage PAF humbucking pickups. Another example is the 2018 Standard HP (High Performance) models that feature an asymmetrical Slim Taper neck profile with ultra-modern weight relief for greater comfort and faster access to the upper frets.
How do I care for a Gibson Les Paul guitar?
When you're not playing your Gibson Les Paul guitar, it's important to keep it stored properly in order to keep it in good condition. Here are some tips on how to care for your axe while it's not in use:
First and foremost, always store your guitar in a hard case when you're not using it. This will protect your investment from bumps, scrapes and scratches that can occur if you just leave it out in the open.
Avoid storing your guitar near humid places like open windows or in hot cars during summer weather - this can cause the wood to warp and potentially damage the instrument beyond repair. Similarly, don't store your guitar where there may be big temperature swings, such as an attic or basement - these extremes can make the wood and glue holding the instrument together expand and contract which leads to cracking and other structural damage.
When you do need to clean your Gibson Les Paul guitar, only use a soft, dry cloth. Wiping down the body after every play session is a good idea, as it will remove any dirt or grime that has built up. If you notice anybuildup of residue, you can use a very soft toothbrush to lightly scrub the area. Avoid using any kind of cleaning solution on your guitar, as this can damage the finish.
If your guitar gets wet, be sure to dry it off immediately. Water can cause the wood and glue holding the instrument together to expand and contract, which leads to cracking and other structural damage. Never store your guitar in its case while it’s still wet.
The strings of your Gibson Les Paul guitar need to be changed every few months, depending on how often you play. You will know it is time to change the strings when they start to sound dull and lose their resonance. When changing strings, be sure to wipe down the fingerboard with a clean cloth to remove any dirt or grime that has built up.
Every few months, you should also check the condition of your guitar's fretboard and if necessary, apply some lemon oil to it. This will help keep the fretboard moisturized and prevent wear and tear.
1. Keep the fretboard moisturized: The fretboard is one of the most important parts of the guitar, and it is also one of the most vulnerable to wear and tear. You should therefore make sure that you keep it properly moisturized in order to prevent damage. A good way to do this is to use a high-quality fingerboard oil, which you can apply using a lint-free cloth. Apply the oil evenly across the board, and then buff it off with a soft cloth.
2. Protect the finish: The finish on your Gibson Les Paul guitar is another area that needs to be taken care of in order to keep your investment looking its best. There are a number of products on the market designed specifically for this purpose, so make sure you choose one that is appropriate for your particular guitar model. In general, you should avoid using polish or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish over time. Instead, opt for a cleaner that is specifically designed for use on musical instruments.
3. Store your guitar properly: When you're not playing your Gibson Les Paul guitar, it's important to store it properly. Invest in a good quality guitar case or gig bag to protect your instrument when it's not in use. Avoid extremes of temperature and humidity, and never store your guitar near an open flame.
4. Inspect your Gibson Les Paul regularly: Get into the habit of inspecting your guitar regularly for any signs of wear and tear. Check the strings for any fraying or corrosion, and make sure that all the hardware is tightened properly. If you spot any problems, take your guitar to a qualified repair technician as soon as possible to get it sorted out.
5. Be careful with string changes: When changing strings on your Gibson Les Paul, be careful not to damage the finish on the body of the guitar. It's best to use a soft cloth when removing old strings, and be gentle when putting new ones on so you don't scratch the surface of the guitar.
6. Keep it clean: As with any musical instrument, it's important to keep your Gibson Les Paul clean if you want it to look its best and continue sounding great for years to come. Wipe down the body after each session using a damp cloth; avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning materials which could damage the finish. If necessary, use a very lightly dampened cloth with distilled water to remove stubborn dirt or grime. Avoid getting the guitar too wet; refrain from using a hose, and never submerge your instrument in water.
When changing strings, always work one string at a time so that you don’t put undue stress on the neck of your instrument; this could cause long-term damage. To properly restring your guitar:
1) Begin by loosening each string one at a time, starting with the low E (6th) string. I like to use an electric guitar restringing tool for this part, as it makes life much easier. If you don’t have one of these tools, you can do it by hand, but be extra careful not to strip the tuning peg holes.
2) Once the old string has been removed, take your new string and thread it through the body of the guitar and then up through the corresponding tuning peg hole. Make sure that you leave enough slack so that you can wrap the string around the tuning peg at least 3-5 times. This provides extra stability and helps to keep your tuning in place.
3) Begin winding the string around the tuning peg, making sure that you wind in a clockwise direction. Be careful not to wind too tightly, as this can cause problems down the road. You want just enough tension on the string so that it is held securely in place but still has some “give” to it.
4) Once you have wound the string around the tuning peg a few times (3-5), cut off any excess string so that there is only about 1/2″ left sticking out. This will help to prevent the string from slipping and coming loose while you’re playing.
5) Use your peg winder to tighten the string until it is in tune. Be careful not to over-tighten the string, as this can cause it to break.
6) Repeat steps 2-5 for each of the remaining strings.
That’s all there is to it! Once you’ve changed all of the strings, give your guitar a good tuning and you’re ready to play.
What's the best pickup in a Gibson Les Paul guitar?
When it comes to choosing a pickup for your Gibson Les Paul, there are a few things that you need to take into consideration. The first is what type of music you want to play. If you're looking for that classic rock sound, then you'll want to go with something like a PAF or '59 pickup. These pickups have been around for decades and have been used by some of the most iconic guitarists in history. They tend to have a warm and round sound that is perfect for anything from blues to hard rock.
If you're looking for something with a bit more bite and attitude, then you might want to consider some of the modern pickups available for the Gibson Les Paul guitar. For example, the Seymour Duncan SH-4 JB is a great choice for players who want to get a bit more of that classic rock sound. Or, if you're looking for something with a bit more attitude, then the DiMarzio Super Distortion might be just what you need.
Of course, there are also pickups available from other manufacturers that will fit into your Les Paul guitar. For example, EMG makes some great high-output pickups that are perfect for hard-hitting rock and metal styles.
For something with a little bit more versatility, check out the Seymour Duncan SH-2N Jazz Model Neck Pickup. It's great for everything from clean tones to high-gain sounds, and it has a really nice warm quality to it. This is a great option if you want a versatile neck pickup that can do it all.
If you're on a budget but still want something that Sounds great, take a look at the Epiphone ProBucker™ 3 Bridge Pickup. It delivers classic PAF tones at an affordable price, and it's perfect for rock and metal guitarists.
On the other hand, if you want something that's perfect for blues and classic rock, try the Gibson '57 Classic Plus™ Neck Pickup. It delivers warm tones with just the right amount of bite.
Unique and rare Les Paul guitars
There are many different types of Les Paul guitars out there, but some are more unique and rare than others. Here is a look at some of the most unique and rare Les Paul guitars out there:
1. The Gibson Les Paul Custom 'Black Beauty'
The Gibson Les Paul Custom 'Black Beauty' is one of the most iconic and well-known Les Paul models out there. It was first introduced in 1954, and it quickly became one of the most popular guitars ever made. The 'Black Beauty' features all black hardware and a beautiful ebony fingerboard. It's definitely a rarity to see one of these guitars in person, let alone own one!
2. The Gibson Les Paul Standard 'Sunburst'
The Gibson LesPaul Standard 'Sunburst' is another very popular and well-known model. It was first introduced in 1958 and quickly became one of the most desired guitars on the market. The Standard 'Sunburst' features a two-tone sunburst finish and a maple top. These guitars are becoming increasingly hard to find as they get older, making them quite a rarity indeed!
3. The Gibson Les Paul Deluxe Goldtop
The Gibson Les Paul Deluxe Goldtop is a beautiful guitar that is becoming increasingly hard to find. These guitars are getting older, so they are quite a rarity indeed. The Goldtop finish is stunning and will definitely turn heads when you play it. This guitar is perfect for those who want a unique and rare Les Paul guitar.
Rare and unique Les Paul guitars are highly sought after by collectors and guitar enthusiasts. The Goldtop finish is one of the most iconic and beautiful finishes ever seen on a guitar. These guitars are perfect for those who want a piece of history that is also an excellent player. There are few things as cool as owning a rare and unique Les Paul guitar.
There are many different Les Paul guitars out there, but some are more unique and rare than others. Here are just a few of the most unique and rare Les Paul guitars that have been seen on a guitar:
The "Big Red" Les Paul - This guitar was made in 1953 and is one of only six ever made. It is nicknamed "Big Red" because of its large size and bright red color. This guitar is extremely valuable and has been owned by some of the most famous guitarists in the world, including Jimmy Page, Slash, and Mark Knopfler.
The "Dragon's Breath" Les Paul - This guitar was made in 2001 and is one of only four ever made. It gets its nickname from its intricate dragon-themed paint job. This guitar is also very valuable and has been owned by such famous guitarists as Zakk Wylde, Lenny Kravitz, and Steve Vai.
The "White Lightning" Les Paul - This guitar was made in 2007 and is one of only three ever made. It gets its nickname from its all-white finish with gold hardware. This beautiful guitar has been owned by such notables as Billy Gibbons, Slash, and Joe Bonamassa.
The White Gold Top was part of a small run of just three Les Pauls that were finished in an all-white color with gold hardware. The other two guitars in this small run were also built in 2007 and were nicknamed the “Snakeburst” Les Pauls due to their finishes resembling the colors of a snake shedding its skin.
These guitars are incredibly rare and there are only a few in existence. If you're lucky enough to find one, you'll have an incredible instrument that will last a lifetime.
