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Post by wiz on Apr 8, 2015 17:37:09 GMT -6
I am thinking I might offload a couple of guitars I don't use much, and gets me a nice Les Paul.
I was looking at the 2015 models.. and I dunno about things like the new zero fret and motorised tuning... I just know that stuff will be taste of the day....
Also, the price is just INSANE!!
sooooo I wanted to look at the second hand market.
I don't know squat about which years are good or bad.
I think my budget would stretch to maybe 2500 to 3000 USD.
I have a Les Paul Studio that is from 2010. Its got (supposedly) a 50s neck, which is quite thick, its okay not great. I am not a fan of real thin necks.
I like the idea of having the ability to split the hum buckers and put the two pickups out of phase, so that there is plenty of tonal options.
I have never played a 59 so I would have no idea of what they felt like.
I would like, something thats quite attractive...I thought the Root Beer color from a couple of years ago looked great, and I like the Burst Finishes.
So, what years are good to look for from the past? and more importantly which years are the clunkers?
cheers
Wiz
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Post by carymiller on Apr 8, 2015 18:07:40 GMT -6
I have a 1990 Les Paul 1960 reissue...it's fantastic but I've had to change the electronics twice now in pursuit of a tone in my head (I now use Suhr Thornbuckers with a 50mm in the Bridge position and I'm extremely happy.)
I've lowered the action a bit even though that does cut some sustain out...it feels right to me. And I am going to have to replace the original tuning pegs soon (bear in mind this guitar has been on US tours six times and seen a lot of studio use. I've also owned it since 2002.)
I also use a Graphite Nut...which is sacrilege to some purists. Again I lose a little sustain, but tuning stability is better and there's better overall note separation string to string when you start to add in a lot of gain. When I want more sustain I just use a compressor or an overdrive pedal to taste in order to compensate. The neck feels GREAT on this guy. It's one of three electrics that see regular use here...the others being a Gibson ES135 with P90's...and a 1979 Fender American Strat made out of Ash with a U Shaped neck (fatter than a 59 Les Paul's neck.)
The only other Gibson I've played that I wish I'd bought was a VOS Goldtop 56 or 57 with P90's from 2006-2008 (had to be one of those years, it was a used guitar made around that time which had seen one owner.) I actually went back to buy it a day after trying it out because it haunted me so much at a little shop I sometimes hit up in AZ...and it had sold within 24 hours of me playing on it. I also really dug the Bille Joe Armstrong Sig model Les Paul Jr...but I would play on a few if you can and pick the one that sounds best (unit to unit they were a bit inconsistent, but LOVED a few of the ones I got to noodle on.)
I've played hundreds of these guitars over the years, but I can't find one that feels better than my 1960 reissue from 1990 to play...though I'm sure there are probably other good years to focus on. I'm a bit scared to try out the new models with mechanical tuning machines because the neck radius and fret-board shape had to change to accommodate them.
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Post by wiz on Apr 8, 2015 23:32:37 GMT -6
I have a 1990 Les Paul 1960 reissue...it's fantastic but I've had to change the electronics twice now in pursuit of a tone in my head (I now use Suhr Thornbuckers with a 50mm in the Bridge position and I'm extremely happy.) I've lowered the action a bit even though that does cut some sustain out...it feels right to me. And I am going to have to replace the original tuning pegs soon (bear in mind this guitar has been on US tours six times and seen a lot of studio use. I've also owned it since 2002.) I also use a Graphite Nut...which is sacrilege to some purists. Again I lose a little sustain, but tuning stability is better and there's better overall note separation string to string when you start to add in a lot of gain. When I want more sustain I just use a compressor or an overdrive pedal to taste in order to compensate. The neck feels GREAT on this guy. It's one of three electrics that see regular use here...the others being a Gibson ES139 with P90's...and a 1979 Fender American Strat made out of Ash with a U Shaped neck (fatter than a 59 Les Paul's neck.) The only other Gibson I've played that I wish I'd bought was a VOS Goldtop 56 or 57 with P90's from 2006-2008 (had to be one of those years, it was a used guitar made around that time which had seen one owner.) I actually went back to buy it a day after trying it out because it haunted me so much at a little shop I sometimes hit up in AZ...and it had sold within 24 hours of me playing on it. I also really dug the Bille Joe Armstrong Sig model Les Paul Jr...but I would play on a few if you can and pick the one that sounds best (unit to unit they were a bit inconsistent, but LOVED a few of the ones I got to noodle on.) I've played hundreds of these guitars over the years, but I can't find one that feels better than my 1960 reissue from 1990 to play...though I'm sure there are probably other good years to focus on. I'm a bit scared to try out the new models with mechanical tuning machines because the neck radius and fret-board shape had to change to accommodate them. thanks Cary cheers Wiz |
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Post by carymiller on Apr 9, 2015 0:13:45 GMT -6
I have a 1990 Les Paul 1960 reissue...it's fantastic but I've had to change the electronics twice now in pursuit of a tone in my head (I now use Suhr Thornbuckers with a 50mm in the Bridge position and I'm extremely happy.) I've lowered the action a bit even though that does cut some sustain out...it feels right to me. And I am going to have to replace the original tuning pegs soon (bear in mind this guitar has been on US tours six times and seen a lot of studio use. I've also owned it since 2002.) I also use a Graphite Nut...which is sacrilege to some purists. Again I lose a little sustain, but tuning stability is better and there's better overall note separation string to string when you start to add in a lot of gain. When I want more sustain I just use a compressor or an overdrive pedal to taste in order to compensate. The neck feels GREAT on this guy. It's one of three electrics that see regular use here...the others being a Gibson ES139 with P90's...and a 1979 Fender American Strat made out of Ash with a U Shaped neck (fatter than a 59 Les Paul's neck.) The only other Gibson I've played that I wish I'd bought was a VOS Goldtop 56 or 57 with P90's from 2006-2008 (had to be one of those years, it was a used guitar made around that time which had seen one owner.) I actually went back to buy it a day after trying it out because it haunted me so much at a little shop I sometimes hit up in AZ...and it had sold within 24 hours of me playing on it. I also really dug the Bille Joe Armstrong Sig model Les Paul Jr...but I would play on a few if you can and pick the one that sounds best (unit to unit they were a bit inconsistent, but LOVED a few of the ones I got to noodle on.) I've played hundreds of these guitars over the years, but I can't find one that feels better than my 1960 reissue from 1990 to play...though I'm sure there are probably other good years to focus on. I'm a bit scared to try out the new models with mechanical tuning machines because the neck radius and fret-board shape had to change to accommodate them. thanks Cary cheers Wiz No worries! Choosing guitars is a super personal thing...the neck and feel being the most important part with an LP...you can always swap out electronics for something else if it's not quite right, but if the neck doesn't feel right move onto another model/make/year. |
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Post by joelhamilton on Apr 9, 2015 7:24:36 GMT -6
Mid 90's historical models are pretty sweet. Even early 2010's can be amazing. If you find a model you like, do a little research on the tenon length and finish. If you find good things about that era and model I don't think you can go wrong.
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Post by swurveman on Apr 9, 2015 7:35:03 GMT -6
Since there are so many versions with different necks, pickups and bodies, the best way is to understand all the versions and then go to a guitar store that is well stocked with all the versions and play them without an amp, and then with a similar amp to the one you own. I know it's still a risk due to the amount of money you're going to spend, but at least you'll buy from your own intuition of what works for you based on playing the guitar.
As for clunkers: Some people believe the Norlin years were clunkers, though others are happy with theirs. Some believe that any chambered Les Paul is inferior to full body ones, while others disagree. This stuff gets to be like religion to people. So, imo it's best to play all the types yourself and go with your gut.
BTW: Buying an electric guitar is imo one of the problems with the music store "supermarket" world that we now live in with Guitar Center's often being our only option. Every guitar on the rack is setup at the factory. So, if they screw it up, the guitar will sound like shit off the rack. I played a Gibson E335 the other day-the most expensive guitar in the GC store- and it was unplayable because it was out of tune at various places up and down the neck. They didn't even bother to play the damn thing before putting it up on the rack. If I wanted to buy that guitar, should I trust that a tech could fix it? For me, no I wouldn't. Just because it says Gibson isn't enough for me, particularly after owning a Les Paul that never stayed in tune-even after having a few tech's try to fix the problem - and playing many other guitars that had no problem staying in tune.
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Post by jimwilliams on Apr 9, 2015 9:09:41 GMT -6
New Gibson products are lacking in quality and quality materials. There are plenty of good used Les Pauls around, thousands of them. Look for a straight neck in the porportion you like. Colors are meaningless. So is weight for a sit down studio guitar.
Pickups? If those modern types, 480 or whatever, dump them. A Burstbucker 1 and 57 in the bridge is the magic 1960's classic sound. I used Bourns conductive plastic pots to avoid tone losses when turned down. Skip gimmicks like graphite nuts, a little pencil lead dust works just as good on a bone or plastic nut.
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Post by mrholmes on Apr 9, 2015 10:41:45 GMT -6
All I can say I have seen, in my guitar classes, in the last two years better Epis than the original Gibson's...
I have no glue what Gibson sends to Europe, but it does not makes the impression its a GIBSON, even if the Brand is on it.
I saw one SG and one Les Paul with bad positioned truss rod in the last 2 months.
Seems their QC is going bad?
I would watch into Epi LP.
I played one with a thicker neck!!
There was no reason not to use it!!
Sweet looking, and a very long sustain.... near no resonances.
Will buy one soon too.
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Post by mobeach on Apr 9, 2015 14:52:22 GMT -6
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Post by carymiller on Apr 9, 2015 17:59:37 GMT -6
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Post by mobeach on Apr 9, 2015 18:22:36 GMT -6
I want to try an Agile wide neck LP
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Post by carymiller on Apr 9, 2015 18:26:51 GMT -6
I want to try an Agile wide neck LP Well if you're in the NY Tri State you can head to NJ to try one at Rondo...they've been letting people extensively try out guitars for years. |
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Post by mobeach on Apr 9, 2015 18:46:39 GMT -6
I want to try an Agile wide neck LP Well if you're in the NY Tri State you can head to NJ to try one at Rondo...they've been letting people extensively try out guitars for years. Cape Cod, so not exactly close. They don't cost that much so I don't think it's that much of a gamble to buy one. I bought a Brice 6 string fretless bass and still own it, big bang for the buck! |
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Post by wiz on Apr 9, 2015 18:48:33 GMT -6
thanks for all the advice fellas...I am going to follow up on all of it.
Problem I have, is getting to play them.... might even hold out till I come the US later in the year... 8)
cheers
Wiz
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Post by carymiller on Apr 9, 2015 18:52:46 GMT -6
Well if you're in the NY Tri State you can head to NJ to try one at Rondo...they've been letting people extensively try out guitars for years. Cape Cod, so not exactly close. They don't cost that much so I don't think it's that much of a gamble to buy one. I bought a Brice 6 string fretless bass and still own it, big bang for the buck! I've tried all the Agile models...I really didn't dig anything aside from the two 3200 models. The 3200 with a slim neck I also didn't care for (I have really big hands so...it's just no mas for me.) If you buy a 3200...get someone you trust to put on a bone or graphite nut and set it up...and swap out the pickups with Suhr Thornbuckers like I recommended. The guitar will sound three times as expensive after those simple changes. If I was going to take that route that's what I'd do. I really want to try the Eastwood...if I like the neck better that might be a good solution for a guitar to take out on the road. |
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Post by jcoutu1 on Apr 9, 2015 18:57:32 GMT -6
I want to try an Agile wide neck LP Well if you're in the NY Tri State you can head to NJ to try one at Rondo...they've been letting people extensively try out guitars for years. I thought Rondo was in NH for some reason. I was looking into the Agiles and Epi Tributes (maple cap and real Gibson pickups), but found a good deal on a used faded SG that plays like a dream. Anyway, wiz, a buddie of mine has a 2011 Les Paul Traditional Pro with a 60's slim taper neck. I was at the store with him when he bought it. It was immediately decided that it was the one. Sounded great. Alive. Really great guitar with the coil tap option that you're looking for. IMO, it's worth checking out, but like what's been said, it's a pretty personal decision. |
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Post by wiz on Apr 9, 2015 18:59:25 GMT -6
Well if you're in the NY Tri State you can head to NJ to try one at Rondo...they've been letting people extensively try out guitars for years. I thought Rondo was in NH for some reason. I was looking into the Agiles and Epi Tributes (maple cap and real Gibson pickups), but found a good deal on a used faded SG that plays like a dream. Anyway, wiz, a buddie of mine has a 2011 Les Paul Traditional Pro with a 60's slim taper neck. I was at the store with him when he bought it. It was immediately decided that it was the one. Sounded great. Alive. Really great guitar with the coil tap option that you're looking for. IMO, it's worth checking out, but like what's been said, it's a pretty personal decision. thanks mate I will reseearch that model.. it does sound like the right area to be looking... cheers Wiz |
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Post by odyssey76 on Apr 10, 2015 3:55:00 GMT -6
thanks for all the advice fellas...I am going to follow up on all of it. Problem I have, is getting to play them.... might even hold out till I come the US later in the year... 8) cheers Wiz This is a great idea wiz. You're going to be in L.A. and Nashville - there should be tons of nice used LP's in those cities. I have a 2002 LP 60's Classic. The stock P'ups were crap (490r and 498t I think) and I have burstbucker pros in there now but still want to changeover to low output p'ups. Really like the slim taper neck on these models and it plays like a dream. You'll know the one when you play it.......... |
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Post by carymiller on Apr 10, 2015 18:45:41 GMT -6
thanks for all the advice fellas...I am going to follow up on all of it. Problem I have, is getting to play them.... might even hold out till I come the US later in the year... 8) cheers Wiz This is a great idea wiz. You're going to be in L.A. and Nashville - there should be tons of nice used LP's in those cities. I have a 2002 LP 60's Classic. The stock P'ups were crap (490r and 498t I think) and I have burstbucker pros in there now but still want to changeover to low output p'ups. Really like the slim taper neck on these models and it plays like a dream. You'll know the one when you play it.......... Order a pair of Suhr Thornbuckers...they solved the same problem for me! Get 50mm for the Bridge unit. |
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Post by carymiller on Apr 10, 2015 18:47:44 GMT -6
thanks for all the advice fellas...I am going to follow up on all of it. Problem I have, is getting to play them.... might even hold out till I come the US later in the year... 8) cheers Wiz Hitting up used guitar shops in major music cities in the USA (NYC/Nashville/LA/Austin TX/Portland, etc.) is probably best if you really want a Gibson that just feels great right out of the box. Mainly because they take the time to do setups right in those shops, and they usually take notes on which guitars are real "players". It can be pricey, but it's worth it. |
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Post by odyssey76 on Apr 11, 2015 4:47:33 GMT -6
This is a great idea wiz. You're going to be in L.A. and Nashville - there should be tons of nice used LP's in those cities. I have a 2002 LP 60's Classic. The stock P'ups were crap (490r and 498t I think) and I have burstbucker pros in there now but still want to changeover to low output p'ups. Really like the slim taper neck on these models and it plays like a dream. You'll know the one when you play it.......... Order a pair of Suhr Thornbuckers...they solved the same problem for me! Get 50mm for the Bridge unit. I'll check out the Suhr's. I was looking at the Electric City p'ups and specifically at their low winding options. They have great reviews and I like what I hear in the demos. I'll have to have a listen to the Suhr's. Hopefully I can find someone other than Pete Thorn doing the demos. That guy is way too good. Fun watching his vids but, seriously, hard to judge what he demos because everything sounds great with his playing. |
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Post by carymiller on Apr 12, 2015 19:20:54 GMT -6
Order a pair of Suhr Thornbuckers...they solved the same problem for me! Get 50mm for the Bridge unit. I'll check out the Suhr's. I was looking at the Electric City p'ups and specifically at their low winding options. They have great reviews and I like what I hear in the demos. I'll have to have a listen to the Suhr's. Hopefully I can find someone other than Pete Thorn doing the demos. That guy is way too good. Fun watching his vids but, seriously, hard to judge what he demos because everything sounds great with his playing. Actually what I love about Pete Thorn...is he's a session player / hired gun who has some engineering experience. So, usually when you listen to his demos...he's spent hours really dialing in a tone and writing a little musical piece to demonstrate what he likes about something in use. When I wrote Suhr about the Thornbucker...apparently they made over 40 versions of those electronics under Pete Thorn's direction. They just kept trying different things until they found something that worked in most conditions, for a wide variety of amps and guitars and FX, etc. If you like the Electric City stuff go with what sounds right to you...but I just couldn't get the balance I wanted out of an LP until recently and the Thornbuckers got me there. |
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