I've always liked the look of the Studio more than the Standard. It's utilitarian and minimalist. It's like a no-nonsense working stiff's Les Paul, which is something that needs to exist. I have a mid 2000s "faded cherry" Studio with the Burstbucker Pros in it. It's easily one of my favorite guitars. I believe the early 90s Studios are the really well regarded ones, but I love mine anyway. The sound and playability are unreal. I'm never selling it.
I have the same Studio. Up until recently it was my only Les Paul. Last year I got a Standard 60s and though I love the Standard, I still play the studio more.
Heck yeah, it is the best Gibson out there, it ain't got all the bells and whistles, but it is a workhorse.! Best sound, weighs less, and a dream to play, I dearly love mine, no it ain't for sale !
The studio is the "workhorse" of the family, it's got the same pickups as the "Custom" and don't have all the esthetic look features of a "Standard" or "Custom". But it's definitely got the "meat and potatoes" of the les paul family just like its counterparts. If you mean business with no frills grab a studio, and if you are worried about looks grab a Standard or a custom. I personally like these pickups, they have more "bite" than the burstbucker pickups
I’ve had em all from a 1976 custom to a new Custom Shop LP and I’ll put my 1994 Studio Lite up against any of them. Feels amazing and she’s a screamer!
As a super happy owner of a very basic smokehouse brown studio LP i thank you for your knowledge and thought process! Your reviews continue to be excellent!
I have a Studio in Smokehouse too. Got it because it closely resembles a LP copy I was playing in the late 70’s. Love it. Did put locking Grovers on it though.
I have an early 2012 studio faded no push pull pots . And a new ebony studio with gold hardware and push pull pots. They are both great guitars & both les Paul's 100% thank you for the video !
In 1988, I bought a new wine red Studio and a new Marshall 50 watt Silver Jubilee amp. believe me, it was the real deal. Lacked nothing, did everything. Never looked back. Later put it through a Peavey Stereo Chorus 212 and it still sounded fantastic. The next owner used it for years through a '67 Fender Twin Reverb. Just a flawless sounding Les Paul, and one of the best handling guitars I have ever played. I know nothing about the later ones.
I have a 1997 Alpine white (it's yellow now) Studio with ebony fretboard and my bass player says he prefers it over my 2016 Traditional. Studios usually come with higher output 496T 490R pickups (especially on the bridge) unlike Standards, Classic and Traditionals which come with a more traditional type of pickups like Classic 57, Burstbuckers etc. The Studios are heavy-rocking machines and i like them for what they are, they are their own thing and they are built with the same quality as any other model that comes out of the factory, they use plek machines for the fretwork etc etc. Play the hell out of your Studio and don't get distracted by meaningless arguments
Pickup wise Studios have generally swapped between 490T/498T/Classic 57/Classsic 57+ over the years. Standards, Classics, and Trraditionals have all changed over the years as well. Preferences are preferences when it comes to different models... but the only thing that matters is that you like the guitar! Cheers -Ryan
I have Gibson Les Paul Special Tributes all the way up to Gibson Les Paul Customs... they are all Les Pauls. That's one Les Paul that I have trouble not picking up when I see them... the old Faded Series or the LPJ models. I almost bought one last summer, but it had EMGs in it, so I passed. Cheers -Ryan
@@Crypticmaskguitar Thanks needed to be SAID!!! Proud owner of a Gibson Les Paul Special Tribute, A swamp ash and a Gary Moore model. All Gibson Les Pauls!!
I have a late 90s Studio, supposedly weight relieved but it still weighs nearly 10 pounds, which is too heavy for me usually. I bought the Studio because I don't give a damn about flame tops, burst finishes and binding, not because I was trying to save money. It has block inlays and I wish it had dots like all my other guitars. Some people just don't like too many embellishments.
As a Gibson Les Paul Studio owner, I really appreciate you making this video. I have the Smokehouse burst, and I’m in love with it. When the pick ups are closer to the strings, it can make some awesome metal tones.
I don’t care what no one says I love my studio. Mine is a 04-05 model. Before I bought mine I played Atleast 50 Gibsons. I played classics and standards and other studios before I bought mine. It’s all about the way the guitar feels to u. Mines a desert burst it sounds awesome feels awesome and is a bad ass work horse!!!
I hadn't thought about this till recently, but the studio, or even the tribute are a pretty good deal for a USA made, nitro finished guitar. A lot of indonesian/korean built guitars out there with a poly finish are now reaching into this price range.
Is The Gibson Les Paul Studio A REAL Les Paul? WHY IS THIS EVEN A QUESTION????????????? OF COURSE IT IS!!!! First, if Gib F'N son says it is a Les Paul, it is a Les Paul. Second, I bet my house that all of the ignorant ppl who question if a LP Studio is a real LP have never played ANY Les Paul. . . ever. Please, don't let bedroom guitar heroes and RUclips fanatics ruin your fun.
Exactly the point of the video! It's annoying when I have to clarify that once every 2 weeks or so when someone is in a mild panic because they spent their hard earned money and someone tells them that it's not a real Les Paul. My hope is that I can just refer them to this video which compares them all with the Studio instead of typing back and forth with all of this information. Cheers -Ryan
Just bought a les Paul studio plus .why I loath binding I like seeing the thickness flame maple top all the way to the edges..I also like the fact it has a AA flame maple top and coil splitting for both pickups.I didn't mind saving over a grand for it..
Nice! The “Natural Binding” as it were! PRS does that by taping of the binding area before spraying. You would have saved more than a grand, though. The Studio Plus would have been used, unless it’s “New Old Stock”, which does happen! Enjoy the Studio! Cheers -Ryan
@@Crypticmaskguitar Yes the mfr date is 6 18 2023 special made for sweetwater so they said.I'm impressed with it so far.the pic of it is on my RUclips pic
Basically the studio and the standard are built on the same line same build.then the standard gets binding and fancy flame finish nitro thats the extra cost.and whatever the current pick ups are. Then the studio gets basic paint job.
Everything except the Custom Shop and some Limited Editions are built on the same line. The differences are always specs. Weight Relief, No Weight Relief (VERY IMPORTANT), Binding, Electronics, Logo Inlay or Silk Screen. Lots go into the differences. Whether that’s important to the player or not, who knows. They are all great guitars. Cheers -Ryan
@@Crypticmaskguitar I have 2012 studio it came with the pick ups from gibsons 2008 standard. ..the standard is double the price just for looks.the custom shop is just greed and the Murphy lab is just robbery
Pickup pricing isn’t that much of a difference and they used to change what pickups came with what guitar from year to year. Most times the Studio would come with 498/490 or Classic 57s. 498s are also on the lower end Les Paul Custom (hard to say lower end but $3,000 difference from the 57 or 68). Sometimes they will do runs with tributes or studios with Burstbuckers… but that’s like an $80 difference to the consumer. Baseline specs are where the differences come into play between the guitars. Graded Tops, Amount of wood, Potentiometer and capacitor differences ($20 difference to the consumer), binding (the most expensive), and logos being inlayed or silk screened. Lots of things go into the differences. The pricing is all still ridiculous… but all still great guitars. Cheers -Ryan
I own a 2011 Gibson Les Paul Studio and my close playimg friend bought the custom Les Paul and he likes mine better than his! The weight difference really makes a difference when you play for hours, and they soud near the same! If you couldn't see which guitar is playing, it would be hard for even a pro to tell the difference. I love my Studio, it is fantastic! You can have the heavy, pretty one, I will keep mine, it is a work horse, but does it play and sound outstanding? You bet!
I have LP Sudio , Epiphone LP Joe Bonamassa , and Steve Stevens signature models they all are nice guitars. The Epiphones I bought new but the Gibson Studio was used all were similar in cost. Where I begin to wonder is my concern with the Chinise knock offs being sold as genuine Gibsons. My friend ended buying a SG copy and am wondering are there tell tale things to look out for that can identify a genuine LP from a knock off besides price?
Tons of videos out there that show differences. Lots of key differences like the Logo, Neck Joint, Heel, but usually the Bridge tells you right away. They use the Metric Bridges, rather than Imperial. Cheers -Ryan
Even a Gibson Les Paul tribute is a 'true' Les Paul. 99% comes down to talent, pickups and hardware. Basically it's all just a way for wealthy people to feel better about themselves. Even when they suck at playing guitar.
I would use the word "Real" as opposed to "True". I can see the side of being a stickler for Specs when it comes to the word "True". But an Epiphone Les Paul is a real Les Paul. Cheers -Ryan
@TriCrow Studios I agree I could use 'real' instead of true. Either way, you would have to define the word. I'd define a 'real' Les Paul by being Gibson U.S.A made strictly, but that is my definition. 🍻 cheers
Agreed, Tribute reviews are well received across the board. I guess it's like having a sports car, you can have a $50,000 car or you can have a $500,000 sports car. It comes down to the driver, car setup and how much you want to show off to other rich people.
I have a Les Paul Custom Plus, heavy flame maple top, ebony fretboard and mother of pearl that pops like a New Years firework display. I also have a Les Paul Studio, 2002, in the right light it has a bit of flame on the Maple Top, Rosewood fretboard, no mother of pearl. Both have 490R/498T pickups. Both play beautiful, both sound fantastic. Which gets played most by me? My Studio. Lighter. Not so precious. Sounds like God. Go figure.
My 2013 gibson les paul studio deluxe 2 with the 50s neck is my favorite guitar that I own. It's a beast and a workhorse. I've put it through hell and have only upgraded the nut and the bridge. People can't believe how good it sounds, not being a standard or custom. I'm glad I didn't waste money on the more expensive models or, worse, cheap out and get an epiphone.
I have a 60’s std, a classic, a trad pro V and a tribute. If you forced me to pick one, I probably still couldn’t. My tribute is every bit as good of a guitar as my standard, in some ways it’s better. As a side note, anyone is more than welcome to give their thoughts on my guitars…douchebags are welcome to their opinion just like anyone else.
Tenho uma Studio wine red 2010 e uma standard 2014, a Studio é mais confortável e tem mais som, mesmo ambas estarem com os captadores burstbucker. Guitarra é sorte, nenhuma é igual a outra.
Dude, these are Beautiful, but why so many of the same guitars. Are you collecting them,can’t get enough of them, or is it just your favorite only brand. There’s a lot of “other” good manufacturers out there. Anyhow lots of good intel 😮
I have a bit of an addiction with Les Paul’s and Strats. Definitely other brands out there… I’ve owned quite a few of them. But I’m at a point where I know what I enjoy playing. Les Paul’s are all different as well: weight relief, neck carves, gloss/satin nitro, etc… cheers -Ryan
It is more expensive than American made fenders. The idea it’s cheap is silly. I don’t want to buy a Gibson LP but I’d get a studio or maybe a used classic if I did. 3000 grand is absurd for a standard
I bought the ebony one with gold hw in 2009..It came with a nice hard case back then.. I did like the guitar.. but on a totally personal basis I always craved the body and neck binding of the standards and the customs... I ended up selling it and buying a Gibson les paul cherry burst standard with burst buckers on board.... I actually missed the bite of the 498T/490R pickup pairing... I found the answer in the new 2024 epiphone les paul custom in ebony and gold hw... My standard is now taking a back seat whilst I am getting so much pleasure playing my new 2024 epiphone les paul custom that is equipped with the 498T /490R matched pickups. Excellent
Billy Squier used to play Les Paul Jr's on stage and in the studio. One P90 pickup;but it's the best sounding pickup. No frills Gibson model that screams mojo and plays like butter. Johnny Winter played early Epiphone Coronet models and Reverse Firebirds. All no frills Gibsons that sound like Heaven. Buy a 90s good wood era LP studio. You will not be disappointed.
@1:38 those guys don't know SHIT about what a Les Paul is. At all. The Les Paul of 1952 is quite different from almost EVERY other Les Paul of today, including the Standard. It has P90s, a Trapeze tailpiece and it would squeal like a hog if you overdrive since the pickups are unpotted. The Les Paul has evolved a lot from those days
Also, not all Studios are created equal. I've got a 2005 Faded T series, and the T is why I like it. What is unique about this particular Studio is that it has a mohagany top, and it is non-weight relief. It has Burstbucker Pros and no PCB. It's wired old school. It also came with a hardshell case. It's a Standard without the bling.
I've had three Gibson Les Paul studios and now I have a classic. My first studio was a 2015 studio T satin with BB pro pickups... and it was one of the worst guitars I've ever owned... never stayed in tune...had intonation issues... and looked cheap. I didn't like the BB pro pickups either... though I know they are in standards. I sold it and bought two other studios which were 2022 models I think and they were both night and day better. One smokehouse burst and the other tangerine burst. I never liked either color and I had a chance to buy a classic for just $180 more than I sold my last studio for. My studio was perfectly made as is my classic. I'm not sure one sounds, feels, or is built better than the other... They just sound slightly different because of the pickups used... but both pickups great... just comes down to preference. I have no clue why the classic costs about $700 more other than the binding and coil tapping... maybe those things are expensive to add... but at the end of the day I don't think the classic is worse in any way... just no binding which isn't needed anyway just cosmetic. I honestly think the coil tapping is worthless on my classic anyway compared to coil tapping on my PRS guitars... night and day difference... so not with the added cost. Oh I forgot... you do get a nice hard case with the classic... so I guess if you add that, the binding, and coil tapping then it may justify the higher cost... but again you don't really need those things... and for those who don't the studio is perfect. I wouldn't have bought a classic over a studio if I hadn't gotten such a killer deal... not really worth it otherwise... unless you need a case I guess... and love the look of binding...
I bought my Studio from the Demo Shop with the headstock stamped Mod. It's got a Burstbucker in the neck with a Lead pro at the bridge, push pulls for coil split, in-out phase and a bypass. also Grover keystones. It'll burn the fuckin house down.
Gibson is a Marketing Genius.... The smell taking it out of that case ,the smooth feel of the back of the neck,They are all great guitars .If you are a great player any guitar sounds amazing...
"The Log" wasn't called a "Les Paul", was it? I guess that could be considered the first "Les Paul Plus" as it included a cut up Epiphone guitar... Are we also considering Multi-Track Recording a "Les Paul"? Cheers -Ryan
@@Crypticmaskguitar I was being slightly cynical and ironic, pretty sure people whom get smack can use this knowledge to their advantage ;). I only called it a "real les paul" because it was used for pioneering the electronic guitar as we know it by no other than Les Paul himself.
Your cynicism was well noted. It is a well known and widely touted fact about "The Log". Most Epiphone Owners will scream it from the trees as Les Paul cut up an Epiphone guitar to make it look more "Guitar-Like". Cheers -Ryan
@@Crypticmaskguitar I don't care who owns what, I only advise against extremely budget oriented guitars or house brands. Not that they are bad, but often you need to invest in them to the price where you can better get a nice Epiphone or even a secondhand Gibson studio (if you're lucky).
All those Gibson guitars come from 100% same line, same workers same everything. All thing that change in some of those customshop models you can have different pickups or if you did order something different specs and then just that is it.
They certainly come from the same place (Aside from the Custom Shop Models). But it's the differences in the body, bindings, and quality of tops. Binding is an expensive process... doesn't change the sound of the guitar, but changes the feel (Especially over years with the wood movement with multiple weather changes), The quality of the Tops (Grading) will always change pricing on guitars (Standards tend to start in the AA Range, where as Studios stick to the A Range, aside from some special editions). Tops doesn't change the sound or feel of a guitar... but still fetch a prettier penny. Body differences play the biggest role in Sound and Feel on a Les Paul. Studios tend to use lighter Mahogany and then of course they Route it out for Modern/Ultra Modern Weight Relief, whereas Standards use heavier Mahogany and don't have Weight Relief. The Modern/Supreme Series (And the older Standards that were Weight Relieved) use the same heavier Mahogany and use the same Weight Relief process as the Studio. To some... these differences matter, to some... the don't. The point is always "What Matters To You". They certainly come from the same line... but materials, routing, binding, and quality of tops... that's where the pricing differences come in. Cheers -Ryan
Gibson USA and Gibson Custom Shop are made in different buildings. The Custom Shop has their own CNC Machine. If you read what I replied to you... you would notice that I stated that Binding DOES NOT Change the Sound... it changes the feel. This can become more and more apparent over time if you live in a climate that goes from Cold to Warm as the wood shrinks and expands. With Bound Necks the fret Nibs stay intact, whereas the Unbound Necks you can start to feel the Fret Ends protrude. It's still a preference thing... if you like unbound necks then get someone that doesn't have binding... if you like them then hunt down something with binding. Most Les Pauls have changed over the years with their weight relief. There was a large period where Les Pauls were either 9 Hole or completely chambered. I don't believe that there were any Studios that were Non-Weight Relieved apart from special run, which is a shame as there was a line of Tributes that were Non-Weight Relieved. Non-Weight Relieved Les Pauls were only special run up until recently (I believe that started around the 70s). So Studios would have been either Chambered, 9 Hole, or Ultra Modern weight relief. Gibson has different Stocks of Mahogany. The Lighter stock of mahogany is generally used for Tributes and Studios, whereas the Heavier stocks are used for Classics, Standards, and Moderns. That would be the reason as to why holding a Studio in one hand and holding a Modern (Or a Pre-2019 Standard) in the other you would notice that the Modern/Standard feels heavier. That is still all down to preference. So owning a Standard or owning a Studio doesn't really hold "Prestige"... the "Prestige" is up to you. They are all great Guitars. It's nice to have variance in the line-up because you can pick and choose which is best suited for you. It's a shame that they have discontinued the Studio as it was a great line up! Cheers -Ryan
USA Factory Tour: ruclips.net/video/r4Vv5BI6msg/видео.html Custom Shop Factory Tour: ruclips.net/video/2ODwU7mbeUI/видео.html You should be able to see that they are 2 separate buildings from these videos. Cheers -Ryan
Hi everyone, i will get one LP, im thinking about les paul studio 1993 red gold hardware or a les paul classic cherry 2020 upgraded with alnico II instead of zebra...what are you thoughts? Lp studio 1,150€, lp classic 1500. Thanks everyone
Yep. I have three Studios and a Classic, all from the 90s. The Classic admittingly looks and plays great, but I prefer the somewhat thinner studio. The classic feels too thick somehow... Then again Im also a sucker for Melody Makers which are even thinner... so its just my preferences. They all sound great regardless... I really dislike the customs though with all the useless plastic everywhere..looks like its going to a costume party.. :)
I've always wanted a Les Paul but knew I would modify it as there are things I'd want to change, so I got a studio and then proceeded to spend a lot of money on changing hardware on it to make it perfect for me - gold EMGs, gotoh locking tulip tuners, tonepros locking bridge and tail piece, different knobs and a black gloss jack plate to match the other new hardware. Probably all in all still cheaper than a standard, but I have both a Les Paul and a guitar that suits what I want, so it's a win win.
My story also. I'm a Strat player. Bought my 1st Strat in the 70's. My current Strat I bought in 96. Guy I learned guitar from has a Gold top 68 L P deluxe. I played his Ric 360 to learn. Yrs later I also wanted a L P cause I thought they were cool. So I Ebayed a lot of items and was also looking at L P's. Found a 97 ebony Studio for the same basis price as the newer studios. It came w/496/500 pups,straplocks and a chainsaw case. Ebony w gold trim, ebony fretboard. So I like you modded this guitar to be everything it could be. 500K pots, Garrett cloth wire in a 50's style, Switchcraft switch and jack, Tonespro locking bridge and alum tailpiece, Tusc XL nut,Kluson locking tuners. Just a classic look with all the right parts in place. Even changed the knobs cause can't read the gold knob quickly. So found some on Ebay that have gold center and black outside to read # on the fly. They look original at least to me anymore. Now it sits next to a butt ugly yellow(vintage blonde)Strat w/ maple neck. So a black L P with ebony fretboard and a yellow Strat with a maple fretboard. Kinda exact opposites. Didn't even realize this myself. Someone pointed it out.
Personally I would say yes. But it all depends on what year of standard… some years were weight relieved. But it all depends on your tastes. As always try them both out side by side and see what works best for you. Cheers -Ryan
Yes even Epiphone studio Les Paul is a real LP ! If it says Less Paul on it undoubtedly it is a Les Paul . I have a Standard Epiphone and a studio Gibson Les Paul love them both .
That’s the whole point of the video… I also consider Epiphone Les Pauls to be… Les Pauls. I wouldn’t consider them Gibson Les Pauls… but as long as you like your Guitar it doesn’t matter. Cheers -Ryan
As a Les Paul player I like many les paul copys as well I have owened many before i got my Studio it weighs about 9 pounds I don't like light weight guitars I prefer 8 1/2 to 10 pounds in weight I don't want anything over 11 pounds .
That’s one of the best things about Les Paul’s and Singlecuts… lots of options. Personally I prefer Non-Weight relieved, but that’s how preferences work haha. Cheers -Ryan
My wallet HATES ME! I've always gone for what speaks to me, rather than what my wallet lies to me about haha! BUT An Epiphone Les Paul IS a Les Paul... just not a Gibson Les Paul. But that doesn't always matter. Cheers -Ryan
There is a lot of snobbery in the guitar world, where it comes from who knows but there is always someone prepared to piss on your parade! I always thought there was something wrong with them.
Imagine putting all that money into it and then let other people affect your feelings about it
I've always liked the look of the Studio more than the Standard. It's utilitarian and minimalist. It's like a no-nonsense working stiff's Les Paul, which is something that needs to exist. I have a mid 2000s "faded cherry" Studio with the Burstbucker Pros in it. It's easily one of my favorite guitars. I believe the early 90s Studios are the really well regarded ones, but I love mine anyway. The sound and playability are unreal. I'm never selling it.
I have the same Studio. Up until recently it was my only Les Paul. Last year I got a Standard 60s and though I love the Standard, I still play the studio more.
Heck yeah, it is the best Gibson out there, it ain't got all the bells and whistles, but it is a workhorse.! Best sound, weighs less, and a dream to play, I dearly love mine, no it ain't for sale !
If it's made by Gibson...It's a Gibson!!!...If Gibson says it's a Les Paul...It's a Les Paul!!!
The studio is the "workhorse" of the family, it's got the same pickups as the "Custom" and don't have all the esthetic look features of a "Standard" or "Custom". But it's definitely got the "meat and potatoes" of the les paul family just like its counterparts. If you mean business with no frills grab a studio, and if you are worried about looks grab a Standard or a custom. I personally like these pickups, they have more "bite" than the burstbucker pickups
My Studio PLAYS LIKE A DREAM...I've had it for 22 years...LOVE IT!!!!!!
I've had mine for 33 years (studio lite). It still rocks.
How much you pay $$
I’ve had em all from a 1976 custom to a new Custom Shop LP and I’ll put my 1994 Studio Lite up against any of them. Feels amazing and she’s a screamer!
I have a 97 in Trans Blue and it rocks!
As a super happy owner of a very basic smokehouse brown studio LP i thank you for your knowledge and thought process! Your reviews continue to be excellent!
Best finish in the whole range
I have one too, just beautiful! Im taking it out right now
I have that too and I love it. If the pickup height is up closer, they sound great!
The tobacco sunburst studio is way nicer than the wine red ones from the 90s
I have a Studio in Smokehouse too. Got it because it closely resembles a LP copy I was playing in the late 70’s. Love it. Did put locking Grovers on it though.
I have an early 2012 studio faded no push pull pots . And a new ebony studio with gold hardware and push pull pots. They are both great guitars & both les Paul's 100% thank you for the video !
I have one the same that jerry cantrell uses on the would video
In 1988, I bought a new wine red Studio and a new Marshall 50 watt Silver Jubilee amp. believe me, it was the real deal. Lacked nothing, did everything. Never looked back. Later put it through a Peavey Stereo Chorus 212 and it still sounded fantastic. The next owner used it for years through a '67 Fender Twin Reverb. Just a flawless sounding Les Paul, and one of the best handling guitars I have ever played.
I know nothing about the later ones.
I have a 1997 Alpine white (it's yellow now) Studio with ebony fretboard and my bass player says he prefers it over my 2016 Traditional.
Studios usually come with higher output 496T 490R pickups (especially on the bridge) unlike Standards, Classic and Traditionals which come with a more traditional type of pickups like Classic 57, Burstbuckers etc.
The Studios are heavy-rocking machines and i like them for what they are, they are their own thing and they are built with the same quality as any other model that comes out of the factory, they use plek machines for the fretwork etc etc.
Play the hell out of your Studio and don't get distracted by meaningless arguments
Pickup wise Studios have generally swapped between 490T/498T/Classic 57/Classsic 57+ over the years. Standards, Classics, and Trraditionals have all changed over the years as well.
Preferences are preferences when it comes to different models... but the only thing that matters is that you like the guitar! Cheers -Ryan
I had a Studio that sounded better than my Standard. Studios are badass Les Pauls and gig great and jam great..
Yes, it's a real Les Paul. Even the old Studio Worn models are real LPs.
I have Gibson Les Paul Special Tributes all the way up to Gibson Les Paul Customs... they are all Les Pauls. That's one Les Paul that I have trouble not picking up when I see them... the old Faded Series or the LPJ models. I almost bought one last summer, but it had EMGs in it, so I passed. Cheers -Ryan
@@Crypticmaskguitar Thanks needed to be SAID!!! Proud owner of a Gibson Les Paul Special Tribute, A swamp ash and a Gary Moore model. All Gibson Les Pauls!!
Bought a 2014 LP Studio Pro. Have it 10 years and love it, plays and sounds great.
I have a late 90s Studio, supposedly weight relieved but it still weighs nearly 10 pounds, which is too heavy for me usually. I bought the Studio because I don't give a damn about flame tops, burst finishes and binding, not because I was trying to save money. It has block inlays and I wish it had dots like all my other guitars. Some people just don't like too many embellishments.
As a Gibson Les Paul Studio owner, I really appreciate you making this video. I have the Smokehouse burst, and I’m in love with it. When the pick ups are closer to the strings, it can make some awesome metal tones.
I don’t care what no one says I love my studio. Mine is a 04-05 model. Before I bought mine I played Atleast 50 Gibsons. I played classics and standards and other studios before I bought mine. It’s all about the way the guitar feels to u. Mines a desert burst it sounds awesome feels awesome and is a bad ass work horse!!!
I hadn't thought about this till recently, but the studio, or even the tribute are a pretty good deal for a USA made, nitro finished guitar. A lot of indonesian/korean built guitars out there with a poly finish are now reaching into this price range.
Fuck that noise my Les Paul Studio Rocks!
They are GREAT Guitars! Cheers -Ryan
Is The Gibson Les Paul Studio A REAL Les Paul? WHY IS THIS EVEN A QUESTION????????????? OF COURSE IT IS!!!! First, if Gib F'N son says it is a Les Paul, it is a Les Paul. Second, I bet my house that all of the ignorant ppl who question if a LP Studio is a real LP have never played ANY Les Paul. . . ever. Please, don't let bedroom guitar heroes and RUclips fanatics ruin your fun.
Exactly the point of the video! It's annoying when I have to clarify that once every 2 weeks or so when someone is in a mild panic because they spent their hard earned money and someone tells them that it's not a real Les Paul. My hope is that I can just refer them to this video which compares them all with the Studio instead of typing back and forth with all of this information. Cheers -Ryan
Just bought a les Paul studio plus .why I loath binding I like seeing the thickness flame maple top all the way to the edges..I also like the fact it has a AA flame maple top and coil splitting for both pickups.I didn't mind saving over a grand for it..
Nice! The “Natural Binding” as it were! PRS does that by taping of the binding area before spraying. You would have saved more than a grand, though. The Studio Plus would have been used, unless it’s “New Old Stock”, which does happen! Enjoy the Studio! Cheers -Ryan
@@Crypticmaskguitar Yes the mfr date is 6 18 2023 special made for sweetwater so they said.I'm impressed with it so far.the pic of it is on my RUclips pic
I play a Gibson Les Paul tribute and I don't care if people talk shit cause I traded up for it and pretty much paid 100$ for it 🤣
I love my Tribute as well! It's a GREAT Guitar! Cheers -Ryan
Yes, even the old Studio Worn models are real LPs.
100% Yes!! My ‘96 studio growls and sounds immense, the best guitar I ever gigged, I’ll never sell it!
1996 as well. I will never get rid of it. lol
Basically the studio and the standard are built on the same line same build.then the standard gets binding and fancy flame finish nitro thats the extra cost.and whatever the current pick ups are. Then the studio gets basic paint job.
Everything except the Custom Shop and some Limited Editions are built on the same line. The differences are always specs. Weight Relief, No Weight Relief (VERY IMPORTANT), Binding, Electronics, Logo Inlay or Silk Screen. Lots go into the differences. Whether that’s important to the player or not, who knows. They are all great guitars. Cheers -Ryan
@@Crypticmaskguitar I have 2012 studio it came with the pick ups from gibsons 2008 standard. ..the standard is double the price just for looks.the custom shop is just greed and the Murphy lab is just robbery
Pickup pricing isn’t that much of a difference and they used to change what pickups came with what guitar from year to year. Most times the Studio would come with 498/490 or Classic 57s. 498s are also on the lower end Les Paul Custom (hard to say lower end but $3,000 difference from the 57 or 68). Sometimes they will do runs with tributes or studios with Burstbuckers… but that’s like an $80 difference to the consumer. Baseline specs are where the differences come into play between the guitars. Graded Tops, Amount of wood, Potentiometer and capacitor differences ($20 difference to the consumer), binding (the most expensive), and logos being inlayed or silk screened. Lots of things go into the differences. The pricing is all still ridiculous… but all still great guitars. Cheers -Ryan
I have a studio LP and it plays like a king.
I own a 2011 Gibson Les Paul Studio and my close playimg friend bought the custom Les Paul and he likes mine better than his! The weight difference really makes a difference when you play for hours, and they soud near the same! If you couldn't see which guitar is playing, it would be hard for even a pro to tell the difference. I love my Studio, it is fantastic! You can have the heavy, pretty one, I will keep mine, it is a work horse, but does it play and sound outstanding? You bet!
I have LP Sudio , Epiphone LP Joe Bonamassa , and Steve Stevens signature models they all are nice guitars. The Epiphones I bought new but the Gibson Studio was used all were similar in cost. Where I begin to wonder is my concern with the Chinise knock offs being sold as genuine Gibsons. My friend ended buying a SG copy and am wondering are there tell tale things to look out for that can identify a genuine LP from a knock off besides price?
Tons of videos out there that show differences. Lots of key differences like the Logo, Neck Joint, Heel, but usually the Bridge tells you right away. They use the Metric Bridges, rather than Imperial. Cheers -Ryan
Buddy of mine is selling me a studio with a Dimarzio super distortion in the bridge. I’m super stoked
Even a Gibson Les Paul tribute is a 'true' Les Paul.
99% comes down to talent, pickups and hardware.
Basically it's all just a way for wealthy people to feel better about themselves. Even when they suck at playing guitar.
I would use the word "Real" as opposed to "True". I can see the side of being a stickler for Specs when it comes to the word "True". But an Epiphone Les Paul is a real Les Paul. Cheers -Ryan
@TriCrow Studios I agree I could use 'real' instead of true. Either way, you would have to define the word. I'd define a 'real' Les Paul by being Gibson U.S.A made strictly, but that is my definition. 🍻 cheers
Agreed, Tribute reviews are well received across the board. I guess it's like having a sports car, you can have a $50,000 car or you can have a $500,000 sports car.
It comes down to the driver, car setup and how much you want to show off to other rich people.
I have a Les Paul Custom Plus, heavy flame maple top, ebony fretboard and mother of pearl that pops like a New Years firework display. I also have a Les Paul Studio, 2002, in the right light it has a bit of flame on the Maple Top, Rosewood fretboard, no mother of pearl. Both have 490R/498T pickups. Both play beautiful, both sound fantastic.
Which gets played most by me?
My Studio. Lighter. Not so precious. Sounds like God.
Go figure.
My 2013 gibson les paul studio deluxe 2 with the 50s neck is my favorite guitar that I own. It's a beast and a workhorse. I've put it through hell and have only upgraded the nut and the bridge. People can't believe how good it sounds, not being a standard or custom. I'm glad I didn't waste money on the more expensive models or, worse, cheap out and get an epiphone.
I have a 60’s std, a classic, a trad pro V and a tribute. If you forced me to pick one, I probably still couldn’t. My tribute is every bit as good of a guitar as my standard, in some ways it’s better. As a side note, anyone is more than welcome to give their thoughts on my guitars…douchebags are welcome to their opinion just like anyone else.
Kia ora from New Zealand. Gibson, great guitars full stop.
Tenho uma Studio wine red 2010 e uma standard 2014, a Studio é mais confortável e tem mais som, mesmo ambas estarem com os captadores burstbucker. Guitarra é sorte, nenhuma é igual a outra.
My studio sounds just a great as my standard and I can play it on the road and not stress so much about scratching it. It’s a work horse 🤷♂️
FYI the jams that you do before & after your reviews are the best!!
The guitarist for Rascal Flatts uses a Les Paul Studio, so it must be good :)
Sadly, the Studio is treated the same as a Sportster in the Harley world!
Dude, these are Beautiful, but why so many of the same guitars. Are you collecting them,can’t get enough of them, or is it just your favorite only brand.
There’s a lot of “other” good manufacturers out there. Anyhow lots of good intel 😮
I have a bit of an addiction with Les Paul’s and Strats. Definitely other brands out there… I’ve owned quite a few of them. But I’m at a point where I know what I enjoy playing. Les Paul’s are all different as well: weight relief, neck carves, gloss/satin nitro, etc… cheers -Ryan
That's like asking if a Ford Mustang is really a Ford ?!! ( The NEW Mustang 4 door Is Not a REAL mustang, but it's still a FORD).
And yet… people still say it. I could never understand it. Cheers -Ryan
It is more expensive than American made fenders. The idea it’s cheap is silly. I don’t want to buy a Gibson LP but I’d get a studio or maybe a used classic if I did. 3000 grand is absurd for a standard
Yes. It is. You’re welcome.
If it says Gibson Les Paul on it then yes it is one. A mark VI Volkswagon Golf is still a Golf even if has nothing to do with the MK1 whatsoever.
HOW DARE YOU BRING VOLKSWAGEN INTO THIS!!!! GOOD DAY SIR!!! lol Cheers -Ryan
I bought the ebony one with gold hw in 2009..It came with a nice hard case back then.. I did like the guitar.. but on a totally personal basis I always craved the body and neck binding of the standards and the customs... I ended up selling it and buying a Gibson les paul cherry burst standard with burst buckers on board.... I actually missed the bite of the 498T/490R pickup pairing... I found the answer in the new 2024 epiphone les paul custom in ebony and gold hw... My standard is now taking a back seat whilst I am getting so much pleasure playing my new 2024 epiphone les paul custom that is equipped with the 498T /490R matched pickups. Excellent
Billy Squier used to play Les Paul Jr's on stage and in the studio. One P90 pickup;but it's the best sounding pickup. No frills Gibson model that screams mojo and plays like butter. Johnny Winter played early Epiphone Coronet models and Reverse Firebirds. All no frills Gibsons that sound like Heaven. Buy a 90s good wood era LP studio. You will not be disappointed.
@1:38 those guys don't know SHIT about what a Les Paul is. At all. The Les Paul of 1952 is quite different from almost EVERY other Les Paul of today, including the Standard. It has P90s, a Trapeze tailpiece and it would squeal like a hog if you overdrive since the pickups are unpotted. The Les Paul has evolved a lot from those days
Thanks, great video. I have a 1996 Les Paul Studio and would not swap it for anything. Punk, Blues, Rock and Country it does it all.
I’ve had mine since 92. Plays better than any. ANY custom or standard I’ve ever touched. Weight and vibe and feel are perfect for me.
Also, not all Studios are created equal. I've got a 2005 Faded T series, and the T is why I like it. What is unique about this particular Studio is that it has a mohagany top, and it is non-weight relief. It has Burstbucker Pros and no PCB. It's wired old school. It also came with a hardshell case. It's a Standard without the bling.
I've had three Gibson Les Paul studios and now I have a classic. My first studio was a 2015 studio T satin with BB pro pickups... and it was one of the worst guitars I've ever owned... never stayed in tune...had intonation issues... and looked cheap. I didn't like the BB pro pickups either... though I know they are in standards. I sold it and bought two other studios which were 2022 models I think and they were both night and day better. One smokehouse burst and the other tangerine burst. I never liked either color and I had a chance to buy a classic for just $180 more than I sold my last studio for. My studio was perfectly made as is my classic. I'm not sure one sounds, feels, or is built better than the other... They just sound slightly different because of the pickups used... but both pickups great... just comes down to preference. I have no clue why the classic costs about $700 more other than the binding and coil tapping... maybe those things are expensive to add... but at the end of the day I don't think the classic is worse in any way... just no binding which isn't needed anyway just cosmetic. I honestly think the coil tapping is worthless on my classic anyway compared to coil tapping on my PRS guitars... night and day difference... so not with the added cost. Oh I forgot... you do get a nice hard case with the classic... so I guess if you add that, the binding, and coil tapping then it may justify the higher cost... but again you don't really need those things... and for those who don't the studio is perfect. I wouldn't have bought a classic over a studio if I hadn't gotten such a killer deal... not really worth it otherwise... unless you need a case I guess... and love the look of binding...
I bought my Studio from the Demo Shop with the headstock stamped Mod. It's got a Burstbucker in the neck with a Lead pro at the bridge, push pulls for coil split, in-out phase and a bypass. also Grover keystones. It'll burn the fuckin house down.
Gibson is a Marketing Genius.... The smell taking it out of that case ,the smooth feel of the back of the neck,They are all great guitars .If you are a great player any guitar sounds amazing...
But is a custom a REAL les paul? For all we know the only true les paul is "the log".
"The Log" wasn't called a "Les Paul", was it? I guess that could be considered the first "Les Paul Plus" as it included a cut up Epiphone guitar... Are we also considering Multi-Track Recording a "Les Paul"? Cheers -Ryan
@@Crypticmaskguitar I was being slightly cynical and ironic, pretty sure people whom get smack can use this knowledge to their advantage ;). I only called it a "real les paul" because it was used for pioneering the electronic guitar as we know it by no other than Les Paul himself.
Your cynicism was well noted. It is a well known and widely touted fact about "The Log". Most Epiphone Owners will scream it from the trees as Les Paul cut up an Epiphone guitar to make it look more "Guitar-Like". Cheers -Ryan
@@Crypticmaskguitar I don't care who owns what, I only advise against extremely budget oriented guitars or house brands. Not that they are bad, but often you need to invest in them to the price where you can better get a nice Epiphone or even a secondhand Gibson studio (if you're lucky).
Mine is.
Ive owned 1 since 91 hangs with all otger gits ive had since .some have gone still have my 91 studio
All those Gibson guitars come from 100% same line, same workers same everything. All thing that change in some of those customshop models you can have different pickups or if you did order something different specs and then just that is it.
They certainly come from the same place (Aside from the Custom Shop Models). But it's the differences in the body, bindings, and quality of tops. Binding is an expensive process... doesn't change the sound of the guitar, but changes the feel (Especially over years with the wood movement with multiple weather changes), The quality of the Tops (Grading) will always change pricing on guitars (Standards tend to start in the AA Range, where as Studios stick to the A Range, aside from some special editions). Tops doesn't change the sound or feel of a guitar... but still fetch a prettier penny. Body differences play the biggest role in Sound and Feel on a Les Paul. Studios tend to use lighter Mahogany and then of course they Route it out for Modern/Ultra Modern Weight Relief, whereas Standards use heavier Mahogany and don't have Weight Relief. The Modern/Supreme Series (And the older Standards that were Weight Relieved) use the same heavier Mahogany and use the same Weight Relief process as the Studio. To some... these differences matter, to some... the don't. The point is always "What Matters To You". They certainly come from the same line... but materials, routing, binding, and quality of tops... that's where the pricing differences come in. Cheers -Ryan
Gibson USA and Gibson Custom Shop are made in different buildings. The Custom Shop has their own CNC Machine. If you read what I replied to you... you would notice that I stated that Binding DOES NOT Change the Sound... it changes the feel. This can become more and more apparent over time if you live in a climate that goes from Cold to Warm as the wood shrinks and expands. With Bound Necks the fret Nibs stay intact, whereas the Unbound Necks you can start to feel the Fret Ends protrude. It's still a preference thing... if you like unbound necks then get someone that doesn't have binding... if you like them then hunt down something with binding. Most Les Pauls have changed over the years with their weight relief. There was a large period where Les Pauls were either 9 Hole or completely chambered. I don't believe that there were any Studios that were Non-Weight Relieved apart from special run, which is a shame as there was a line of Tributes that were Non-Weight Relieved. Non-Weight Relieved Les Pauls were only special run up until recently (I believe that started around the 70s). So Studios would have been either Chambered, 9 Hole, or Ultra Modern weight relief. Gibson has different Stocks of Mahogany. The Lighter stock of mahogany is generally used for Tributes and Studios, whereas the Heavier stocks are used for Classics, Standards, and Moderns. That would be the reason as to why holding a Studio in one hand and holding a Modern (Or a Pre-2019 Standard) in the other you would notice that the Modern/Standard feels heavier. That is still all down to preference. So owning a Standard or owning a Studio doesn't really hold "Prestige"... the "Prestige" is up to you. They are all great Guitars. It's nice to have variance in the line-up because you can pick and choose which is best suited for you. It's a shame that they have discontinued the Studio as it was a great line up! Cheers -Ryan
USA Factory Tour: ruclips.net/video/r4Vv5BI6msg/видео.html
Custom Shop Factory Tour: ruclips.net/video/2ODwU7mbeUI/видео.html
You should be able to see that they are 2 separate buildings from these videos. Cheers -Ryan
Still the Les Paul Classic I had with the 1960's neck was amazing!!
i wish they made it with binding on the body only
I’d much prefer a bound neck. But we all have different preferences. Cheers -Ryan
This is guitar porn! Such beautiful Les Pauls!
Hi everyone, i will get one LP, im thinking about les paul studio 1993 red gold hardware or a les paul classic cherry 2020 upgraded with alnico II instead of zebra...what are you thoughts? Lp studio 1,150€, lp classic 1500. Thanks everyone
Get the one that feels the best in your hands.
Yep. I have three Studios and a Classic, all from the 90s. The Classic admittingly looks and plays great, but I prefer the somewhat thinner studio. The classic feels too thick somehow... Then again Im also a sucker for Melody Makers which are even thinner... so its just my preferences. They all sound great regardless... I really dislike the customs though with all the useless plastic everywhere..looks like its going to a costume party.. :)
Haha! That’s the first time I’ve ever heard that type of description for a Les Paul Custom! Hilarious! Cheers -Ryan
I've always wanted a Les Paul but knew I would modify it as there are things I'd want to change, so I got a studio and then proceeded to spend a lot of money on changing hardware on it to make it perfect for me - gold EMGs, gotoh locking tulip tuners, tonepros locking bridge and tail piece, different knobs and a black gloss jack plate to match the other new hardware. Probably all in all still cheaper than a standard, but I have both a Les Paul and a guitar that suits what I want, so it's a win win.
My story also. I'm a Strat player. Bought my 1st Strat in the 70's. My current Strat I bought in 96. Guy I learned guitar from has a Gold top 68 L P deluxe. I played his Ric 360 to learn. Yrs later I also wanted a L P cause I thought they were cool. So I Ebayed a lot of items and was also looking at L P's. Found a 97 ebony Studio for the same basis price as the newer studios. It came w/496/500 pups,straplocks and a chainsaw case. Ebony w gold trim, ebony fretboard. So I like you modded this guitar to be everything it could be. 500K pots, Garrett cloth wire in a 50's style, Switchcraft switch and jack, Tonespro locking bridge and alum tailpiece, Tusc XL nut,Kluson locking tuners. Just a classic look with all the right parts in place. Even changed the knobs cause can't read the gold knob quickly. So found some on Ebay that have gold center and black outside to read # on the fly. They look original at least to me anymore. Now it sits next to a butt ugly yellow(vintage blonde)Strat w/ maple neck. So a black L P with ebony fretboard and a yellow Strat with a maple fretboard. Kinda exact opposites. Didn't even realize this myself. Someone pointed it out.
The 50s standards also get a long neck tenon
Is a standard les paul worth buying over a studio?
Personally I would say yes. But it all depends on what year of standard… some years were weight relieved. But it all depends on your tastes. As always try them both out side by side and see what works best for you. Cheers -Ryan
Yes even Epiphone studio Les Paul is a real LP ! If it says Less Paul on it undoubtedly it is a Les Paul . I have a Standard Epiphone and a studio Gibson Les Paul love them both .
That’s the whole point of the video… I also consider Epiphone Les Pauls to be… Les Pauls. I wouldn’t consider them Gibson Les Pauls… but as long as you like your Guitar it doesn’t matter. Cheers -Ryan
As a Les Paul player I like many les paul copys as well I have owened many before i got my Studio it weighs about 9 pounds I don't like light weight guitars I prefer 8 1/2 to 10 pounds in weight I don't want anything over 11 pounds .
That’s one of the best things about Les Paul’s and Singlecuts… lots of options. Personally I prefer Non-Weight relieved, but that’s how preferences work haha. Cheers -Ryan
Love the tone comparisons across the range! Excellent video!
Thanks for watching!
Letting the opinions of others dissuade you from playing what and how you like, is silly.
Absolutely the point of the video. Cheers -Ryan
My wallet says it's a Les Paul... heck, my wallet even states that the Epiphone is also a Les Paul and I take my wallet's opinion as Bible truth 😅
My wallet HATES ME! I've always gone for what speaks to me, rather than what my wallet lies to me about haha! BUT An Epiphone Les Paul IS a Les Paul... just not a Gibson Les Paul. But that doesn't always matter. Cheers -Ryan
There is a lot of snobbery in the guitar world, where it comes from who knows but there is always someone prepared to piss on your parade! I always thought there was something wrong with them.
Love the push/ pull, wouldn’t do it out it.
Well if it says Les Paul on the label...then it's real. It's not pretending.