Gibson Les Paul Studio Review – Worth the Investment?
Since 1983, the Gibson Les Paul Studio has been one of the company’s best selling instruments. Though in the beginning targeted at studio players (hence the name), it has since become a popular guitar for both recording and live use.
It lacks aesthetic appointments like neck and body binding, but still catches the thick sound that characterizes the Les Paul sound.
The neck is sure enough Les Paul through and through. It reminded us of a 50′s Les Paul, which in all probability helps the instrument grab that chunky sound Gibson is so well-known for. The pickups (490T and 490R) also help capture this classic tone.
Even though it was in the beginning designed for use as a Studio guitar, several guitarists soon learned that the lighter weight made it perfect as a gigging guitar. Why? It’s simple. The chambered body results in a lighter weight, which makes it acceptable for 2-3 hour sets.
Our inspection model came equipped with a beautiful black finish with gold hardware. Try as we could, we couldn’t find any faults in the finish or fretwork. The instrument played very well with no buzzing whatsoever.
The rosewood fretboard was pure Les Paul, down to the immediately distinctive trapezoid inlays. From lead guitar to thick power chords, the instrument felt, played, and sounded like a much more high-priced Les Paul.
If you’re curious what the distinctions are between a Les Paul Studio and a more traditional Les Paul, it’s actually pretty easy. The Studio model lacks body and neck binding and has a chambered, lighter body.
It’s easy to understand why the Les Paul Studio is one of Gibson’s best-selling models, and we give it our heartfelt recommendation.
Discussion Area - Leave a Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.