You could hear the difference between the two guitars and the Gibson was definitely recognizable in such a juxtaposition. It has a cleaner sound. Vintage kind of muddies the tones if you listen, but Vintage sounds good nonetheless.
It's a different sound. You can pick the Gibson right away. The Vintage sounds awesome, but it's really bright and plays a different colour. I would find myself getting frustrated with the vintage over time and would do significant setup changes. It's the music store catch. They sound cool and are attention grabbing but do not carry the range and toneability compered to the Gibson. In saying that, the Gibson is for the 0.1% Unless you are playing live regularly or recording the Vintage is the way to go.
I'd rather have ten $350 guitars than one $3,500 guitar. When I was a kid back in the 1970's, inexpensive guitars were crap. Today, you can get very well-made guitars in the $300-$500 range.
I think it depends on who is making the £3500 guitar - if it’s Gibson or Fender, then absolutely look at a cheaper model in their range if not elsewhere. If it’s PRS, Knaggs, Suhr, Tom Anderson etc etc then the quality difference is tangible. I tried several guitars before buying a core PRS Custom 24 and it blew the wheels of any comparably priced Gibson or Fender...
exactly, i started early 90s, and i remember guitars in price range (today) around 500-600 euros were totally crap, hardly you could play. I had a Washburn that was a pice of junk for that price. Now , 600 euros are truly good guitars. agree.
I had A as best sounding to be very critical but the difference was not big, speaking of sound. B had a little "canny like" tone but not bad at all, it was difficult to tell the difference
I agree... i own 3 Gibson's as well and I have been intrigued by these V100's for a while now. Honestly, i gotta say, the Vintage held up very well with the Gibson.
I was thinking about this and realistically, I usually swap my Gibson pickups out anyway. So the reactions here make sense. I normally reinstall their 496R/500T set which to me are like auditory gold.
Watched this believing B was the custom shop the whole time. A simply didnt have the clarity and in places sounded harsh. Then went out and bought a Lemon Drop, was so happy with it i now have two, one distressed and one non distressed. Absolutely stunning guitars!
@@TenPester Haha wise move mate. I've been ripping old unloved guitars apart and learning all about the guts and tricks of making a guitar sing myself. It's cheaper and more fun. Keep rocking 😎
If I send you my address will you send me one of those Les Pauls. I will make sure my grandchildren will still be telling the story of your generosity for generations to come.
I did, sold my 91 custom after buying a vintage jo bonamassa lawsuit les paul. The sound and feel were a little different to my gibson but given the price (£100 ebay bargain) i couldn't complain. However build quality wasn't particularly hot. Crack in the body needed gluing, tone pots were crap and the pick up screws kept coming out of the pick up holders. But I actually preferred it to my gibson so i let the Gibson go. Got about £1,700 for it as well.
I recently found my Vintage Les Paul on my parents attic. Not seen it for 10 years. Polished the frets and it honestly plays better than any of my current guitars even after being neglected for so long. Going to enjoy playing it again!
It was in 1972 or 73 I was 14 or 15. I’ve been playing sense 65 or 66 maybe before but not quite a decade. I went into Watkins Music on Jefferson Ave in Dallas, TX ready to step up my game. That day I learned what I suppose was one of the most invaluable lessons I’d ever learn. Even after going on to get a degree in music. It’s something I rely to musicians new & seasoned. On that day I went in and I was going to buy a Les Paul. Yes it was ridiculously heavy. But the details, the finishes on this very expensive guitar. made this brand new guitar almost seem used. The knobs, the surrounds around the pick ups. Where the neck attached to the body. The tuning pegs bridge all pretty disappointing at that price point. So first the salesman thought it was out of my budget and showed me a SG. It look like it had been put together by A carpenter who built fences or wooden decks. Though I did like it better because it was lighter. By then we had been talking for a bit. And he understood correctly that I really wanted Gibson. Then he said something that change the way I Purchased every instrument ever sense. Close your eyes. How does it feel in your hands? How does it sound when you play it? He had handed me an Aria model 1932A I think it is. This was their SG copy. Heavier than a Gibson SG but lighter than a Les Paul a little bit. It felt great in my hands. And sounded amazing. And when I open my eyes and saw a clear finish opposed to a poorly stained SG or painted Les Paul. She was beautiful as well. By the time the 70s rolled around American Guitar manufactures we’re both having a hard time keeping up with demand. And worse trying to squeeze every nickel a profit they could out of the guitar. Japan took advantage. They had been trying to flood the market with better built better sounding better playing guitars for a lot less money. I no longer have that exact same guitar because someone stole it. But I have one just like it. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
I bought a Vintage Lemon Drop a few months back and, to be fair, it blew my socks off. The tones you can get from the thing is simply amazing. And i’m not going to use the cliche “for the money” because it’s simply an amazing guitar. If I had heard one before I knew the price, I would easily have paid double what I did!
In all honesty, the V100 could be very good, but not with those pickups. They're obviously lacking in definiton. After a good pickup change - sure, it could probably compete with a Gibson.
Really interesting video, Adam. I found the split screen technique and the use of the same riffs on each section of the tone-test helped me listen carefully to the subtleties of tone. Great playing too! I would have been happy just to watch you play the riffs on a single guitar. I suppose it would be fair to factor in the other crucial thing, apart from sound and prestige which make people buy a Gibson and that’s the feel of the instrument in your hands. A simple difference like a nitro versus a poly finish, to say nothing of neck shape, weight and balance, can be hugely influential. The only way you’d ever find out what people really wanted would be if both guitars cost the same and it was a straight choice between them. Good to know you’re in South Wales. I hope to get to your shop before too long. Keep the videos coming.
You're right, a nitro finish can be hugely influential, especially when it ages and turns your investment a piss yellow colour, which some people think makes it more saleable but most of us think just makes it look piss coloured.
I just recently purchased a Vintage V6 Reissue and love it. Cut heel, Pearloid guard, Wilkinson hardware and pickups, EZ lock tuners, satin finished Canadian maple neck... ALL upgrades for even a player series strat.
Apparently Gibson sounds better because it says Gibson on the headstock , in reality the Vintage sounds easily as good as the Gibson , chuck an eq pedal on it and go and buy yourself a 1 bed flat in Caerphilly with the change 👍
Add me to the list of people who thought B was the Gibbo! But then I’m already a Vintage convert - bought a V6M24 purple meanie a couple of years back after seeing/hearing someone else play one and absolutely haven’t regretted it. Amazing bit of kit for the money. Seriously tempted to get the lemon drop 😎
I think A sounded warmer and B had more clarity. I got the vintage afd paradise with the intention of swapping the pickups to the slash Seymour Duncan’s but 6 years later I’m still happy with the Wilkinson’s they’re remarkable.
I prefered guitar B for almost every sounds. So i was thinking « yeah Easy B is the Gibson » I was suprised....makes me humble :) Interesting video The same with a Fender custom shop against something?
Me too! I put a Seymore Duncan neck pickup on my Vintage AFD Paradise and it was transformed. But I preferred the sound of the Wilkinson pickups on this video, to my surprise.
On the subject of Fender CS, I have a mate who got his hands on a Fender CS Surf Green Strat. It's a clear standout, one of the best guitars I've ever played. He's on a promise to give me first option if he ever sells. He won't, drat it.
I tried every guitar sub £500 in my local guitar shop, and the Vintage was by far my favourite. I knew next to nothing about the brand, but I've had it a while now and its been very impressive. I did like both of these on the drive tones but really did prefer B in all the clean tones, so its really interesting to hear this. It is also a pretty thing! Mick Ronson tribute.
I have a Fender, Gibson, Epiphone and a Vintage PGM. The Vintage sounds better than my other guitars. The Wilkinson pickups are HOT. I play my Vintage more than my other guitars. The out of phase sounds great, RIP Peter Green.
I have a Gibbo Traditional LP and an Epi Standard. Love them both. I did have to install some upgrades on the Epi (pups mainly) for it to stand up with my Gibson, tone wise. Obviously this adds extra cost but little value . So for the Vintage LP to sound that good off off the rack, is a no brainer for me when seeking that 'Gibson sound' on a budget. I am impressed..Nice work
I guessed B was the Gib. Imagine my surprise. Much warmer and rounder. I’ve had my hands on one of these and it played perfectly too. Didn’t get to plug it in but sat and played it for a good 15-20 min. Excellent value.
Well... I can say I have owned both. But, when playing The Vintage, it literally blew my mind!!!! I would recommend a Vintage to anyone looking for a single cut... Believe you me, it will be hard to put down lol :-)
Plus it wouldn't be anywhere near as worrying to gig a less expensive guitar than it is to gig an expensive one in terms of the guitar being stolen, lost or damaged.
I recently bought a secondhand Vintage VS6 (SG copy) for £100 and it is fantastic! It looks like an SG, it sounds like an SG, and it feels like an SG. Everything about it is quality. The only reason I would by the real thing for six or seven times as much is to have "Gibson" on the headstock.
me: "tsk, the A is the vintage, listen how good sounds the one on the B, you can clearly hear the better pups" *B being literally the Vintage* Me: ooooooooooooh... *opens wallet*
@@MultiGoulash thank you SO much! If you buy another let me know and I’ll upgrade you to the custom pro service on the house. 🏠. Appreciate the support 😊 👍
Great video! The Gibson pickups have more string/definition and clarity to my ears. I’d wager if you put Gibson pups in the Vintage they would sound almost identical. The real test is how they play and feel to the player because sound and look-wise they’re pretty close. Cheers!
On that sound test they were very close however the test is when you play the guitar at different sound levels and then hear how it reacts to your playing.
Controversial, but my road worn Lemon Drop is one of the best single cut 59 style guitars I've ever played. I actually pick it up more that my Gibson Les Pauls... I'll just leave that there.
To my ears: Vintage owns when it comes to clean tones and Gibson nailed in the overdrive but the competitor did very good in both tests. I have a Vintage V100 Wine Reissue and I don't wanna get rid of this baby. Ever!
Unless you’re playing sell out concerts at Wembley then just concentrate on perfecting your art with the guitar. There’s no point in spending stupid amounts of money as 99.9% of people that are listening wouldn’t even be able to tell the difference. I once saw a guy who didn’t have a lot of money and had a “cheap” guitar but played it like he was an angel from heaven. It’s like the things between your legs - it’s all about what you can do with it that counts - not how impressive it looks.
I guessed the blind test right, chose A in all the examples. But for the price, Vintage is a great choice. I particularly still prefer an Epiphone Tribute 1960+ over Vintage. Thanks so much for the video (and for no volume differences between one guitar and another). Cheers!
Proof that a good guitar is a good guitar no matter what the name it is on the headstock. I preferred the sound of guitar B and was blown away that it was the Vintage. For far too long my Vintage V100 MK1 has been left in it's case while my Epi and Gibson Studio gets all the glory. It is about time the Vintage got it's fair share of the limelight.
I have two Vintages and for the price point, they are spot on. I have the reverse headstock 80s style strat and the Tele style. I love both of them. I also own 14 guitars altogether so i have a rough idea of what a good guitar is. Buy one man you won't be disappointed.
I recommend getting a vintage and even checking the second- hand market if you are on a budget. I bought one recently for €200 and very impressed. Also check out spider guitar cases in staffordshire, they do a tweed les paul case for all money 😀
Great Video!! I have a Vintage and a Gibson....I liked B better most of the time, but I could not have told you which brand it was......I guess that's why I like my Lemon Drop PGM so much!
Pickups make a lot of difference. The same pickups in two guitars would be a better indicator of sound difference and playability differences being the criteria. I recently changed to Dimarzio's on my Vintage V6 and now it roars and has better clarity.
So True. For the comment that the vintage sounds Clanky....£300 for pickups and fitting.. The pick ups on this vintage are good.. Find me someone who owns one and thinks otherwise.. Play mine through a blues jr... Goodness..
to make it fair on the gibson.lol..i think if you able to compare a ford with a rolls royce then rolls royce have either become shit or ford are now in the same bracket as rolls royce
@@Hendrix67297 I know your comment was a while ago but I've had tremendous quality from Iron Gear pickups . Not expensive , tremendous quality . You should check them . Best wishes
I finally got one of the older distressed VS100 lemon drops from the late 2000's and was blown away by the look, feel, and sound. I usually get guitars like this and rip out the pickups but the Wilkinson PAF's are awesome and I am not touching a thing. It is super heavy but I like the neck c profile and I can't stress how good it sounds.
The Gibson did sound a bit more detailed. The Vintage just didn’t have all the little overtones of the Gibson but for the price it held its own. I’ve played of few of the Vintage guitars and they’re a great value. If you put them against most Epiphones they win hands down.
I have a Vintage V100 and played more than just the one I own, so I'm pretty familiar with the sound. I instantly picked B to be the Vintage, but I'm incredibly amazed by everyone thinking B was the Gibson... Just goes to show! I absolutely love the Vintage brand, got 4 Vintage guitars as of now (out of the 6 guitars that I own!), and my V100 is the one I often refer to as "my baby". It's easily my favourite guitar!
Just bought the Lemon Drop... tested it right away through my motu soundcard black Lyons preamps ( Qbase + Amplitube plugg-in ) Did Just a rough Rtm guit shot on one of my rock songs... the result is far above from what I expected > a kinda precise huge modern rock sound. Btw : its output level is quiet good, ( not too loud ) and that's perfect for what you need when you want to keep you guit sound fit for an " intelligent " mix. Can't wait to see what's about to get out from the forthcoming mix cession, thx to this new Guit. For now, it makes no doubt that this Lemon Drop is giving me preaty cool feelings. Also, very important , the neck is really confortable ... perfect for more precise guit licks ... > conclusion > A preatty good tool for an affordable price !! (Y) ;-)
From the get go I thought "B" was the Gibson, ,beautiful neck pup and great out of phase tone definition on the bridge was on the money. I stopped name hunting many years ago as I've heard to many fellas get superb tone from very ordinary instruments. The build quality may have been not "up there" but for me its all about tone and sometimes ,especially these days, money often doesn't buy that as it really is all in the hands. I've seen a lot of fellas with some real high end hardware get uninspiring and sometimes awful tone from a big name.
I came back ad listened again in the studio this time. I prefer the bridge sound on the gibbo on most settings but prefer the middle and neck on the Vintage by a long way.
Meus amigos brasileiros que estão aqui, toquei essa vintage 100 afd, o som dela é muito bonito, bem construída, madeira boa, se está buscando um custo benefício pode levar! Tamo junto, bom som!
wow, i really thought guitar B was the Guibson. This is proof that price and reputation do not make quality. It's a Gibson Custom Shop, and the other is a Vintage V100, I think there's about $ 1,500 difference between the two.
I thought B. Not just because it sounded like the pickups were a tad more powerful, but because the sound was more refined. Certainly amazed me. But having played Gibson and Epiphone before, the feel of the real deal is as important when you're gigging, playing sets. The feel of a neck definitely influences your playing and inspiration.
I've just bought a Vintage v100 paradise reissued. Waiting for it to be delivered. I nearly went for the lemon drop but slightly preferred the open pickups and a 50 quid cheaper price label. Can't wait for the delivery!!
Well, I play a Vintage had a similar test with a friends Gibby... and came to the same result: They both have their "playground"... hard to compare. To me the Vintage is a bit more defined... and I was glad to hear it here the same! The V is a great beginners guitar on which you can do the gigs as well as studio. The question is: Are we all hooked up onto what is mentioned at the headplate? Your decision! I am happy with mine!
Get in there vintage...when purchasing,, I was dead set on a Gibson,,played one in-store,,then shop owner said try the vintage...looking at him strange,I did..totally blew me away for the price..I went in with 3k.....I came out with 2600......guess which I bought....!!
@@nickburmanmusic more than happy with the vintage..fantastic build and sound quality...an old Gibson friend of mine has also got the vintage bug...and purchased one...blew him away too..if you ain't bought one yet, go play one in store like I did...I bet you buy one....all the best.
I thought guitar A was easily the best sounding guitar and thus, thought that A maybe the Gibson. To my ear the guitar B was muddy and I just did not like the tone as much as A. I am amazed that I am one of the few that knew which was the Gibson and preferred it.
Im a big fan of bang for buck. I've really been into modding imports lately. Deans, ltd's, schecters, squire, and Epiphones. Often times, the bodies.of these guitars are great. A good setup, and swapping in some premium hardware and electronics, will give you an instrument that rivals those costing ten times more. Plus you have EXACTLY what you want. I'll have to give these a shot. I'm already a big fan of Wilkinson.
Thanks for this side by side comparison. After watching this I bought a V100 tobacco sunburst that's distressed. If buying new I would have bought a flamed amber or lemon drop for $600 new. But found mine used for $300 with a fresh set of strings and a setup. It plays great and feels amazing! I haven't put it down. I named him Steve. In memory of Mr Steve Clark 🤙 I am telling everyone in California about the vintage brand. Cheers
The cool thing about Vintage guitars is the magic that it somehow possess. It is the same magic that a lot of LP had back in the 60's, 70's and 80's. If your lucky to own one of these guitar you will quickly notice how your guitar playing enhances. The guitar technically whisper in your ears and it makes you believe your a Rock Star. I have a Vintage V100AFD reissued paradise guitar and believe me its freaking amazing. Wilkinson ready deserves to be on top side by side with all the great guitar makers.
Got it right! The Gibson was more defined, clearer and had more "girth". The Vintage is a very good guitar though---I know because I've got one. I would say though that to get that Peter Green tone, you have to twiddle(technical term)both the tone and volume controls till you find it.
The Gibson definitely has more character in the sound and the gloss is much more refined, but I reckon with a pickup swap out on the Vintage for maybe a set of deacci we could be getting even closer. There’s definitely a difference but not a four grand difference.
I have 4 Harley Benton guitars with the Wilkinson pickups and figured I would swap them out when they arrived but then after playing them I was really happy with the tone and clarity of them. They actually sound really great. No way I would spend the money it would take to swap them out with anything. Honestly think it would be a waste of time and money.
Yes B was a better sound overall all pick up choices however the volume was soft,,, that’s not how you will play in a club gig etc so the real test is at speed or volume and finally you need to play it and see how it feels & sounds to your own playing.
Gibson sounds better period. 4:55 is what I needed to hear. The way to tell is look for the thinner sound which is always the copy. Same goes for PRS, they all sound great, but never next to a Gibson Custom Shop. I can’t speak for Gibson USA however.
I own a vintage lp. And it's probably my number one guitar. While playing it, you'd swear it's a gibson.... but it sounds better. And the quality on it is top notch. I love my vintage
From the first note, I felt that Guitar B had the better sound. It was clearer and crisp where guitar A, sounded muddy (too much middle) to me. I'm not surprised that guitar B is the Vintage Lemon Drop.
Was having a difficult on the clean sound. But as soon as gain was added I knew that A was the Gibson. You could hear the pickup choking a bit on the B. But as for the point you made, I agree "Is it worth 10 times the price?"
I got rid of a v100 recently and bought a les Paul standard. The les Paul was truly awful for a guitar that was £2000. Going to sell it and get a v100 lemon drop. These v100s are superb guitars for the money. Can’t believe how much better this one sounds on the video
JHS make really good guitars - its no surprise that the Vintage sounded pretty good. What you do lack though is the tightness as the hardware is potted steel and the body won't be expensive woods, etc, etc - you'll definitely heard it when you record with it.
I am blown away. Guitar B sounded better across the board, I wrongly assumed B to be the Gibson. Well done Vintage. Nice video
Me too, but Im not a LP player, so thats my excuse ;)
same and also a proud owner of a vintage v100 lemondrop :)
You could hear the difference between the two guitars and the Gibson was definitely recognizable in such a juxtaposition. It has a cleaner sound. Vintage kind of muddies the tones if you listen, but Vintage sounds good nonetheless.
It's a different sound. You can pick the Gibson right away.
The Vintage sounds awesome, but it's really bright and plays a different colour.
I would find myself getting frustrated with the vintage over time and would do significant setup changes. It's the music store catch.
They sound cool and are attention grabbing but do not carry the range and toneability compered to the Gibson.
In saying that, the Gibson is for the 0.1% Unless you are playing live regularly or recording the Vintage is the way to go.
@@duplexedfm3820You own a Gibson then?
I'd rather have ten $350 guitars than one $3,500 guitar. When I was a kid back in the 1970's, inexpensive guitars were crap. Today, you can get very well-made guitars in the $300-$500 range.
a squier stratocaster CV now , is better quality made of a stratocaster 1960 .
I think it depends on who is making the £3500 guitar - if it’s Gibson or Fender, then absolutely look at a cheaper model in their range if not elsewhere. If it’s PRS, Knaggs, Suhr, Tom Anderson etc etc then the quality difference is tangible. I tried several guitars before buying a core PRS Custom 24 and it blew the wheels of any comparably priced Gibson or Fender...
OddTimeMan Not a Les Paul.
@@guilletjean-jacques5107 Nah!! Pretty sure you've never had a pre-80's Strat in that case.
exactly, i started early 90s, and i remember guitars in price range (today) around 500-600 euros were totally crap, hardly you could play. I had a Washburn that was a pice of junk for that price. Now , 600 euros are truly good guitars. agree.
I am a huge Gibson fan.....I have 3!.....but if I was buying and had to buy on sound alone...I would have picked B
I had A as best sounding to be very critical but the difference was not big, speaking of sound. B had a little "canny like" tone but not bad at all, it was difficult to tell the difference
I agree... i own 3 Gibson's as well and I have been intrigued by these V100's for a while now. Honestly, i gotta say, the Vintage held up very well with the Gibson.
You must like dull sounding guitars
@@jasonladd6400 absolutely.
Yep, esp. in the middle position it was a dead giveaway! The reverse neck pup got the Greeny tone!
I thought B was the Gibson.. To me B sounded better.
Exactly the same for me. I was sure B was the Gibson. Very useful for saving money.
Guilty!
agree i think the same .....
I agree. B soundet much better to me. Unbelievable!
I was thinking about this and realistically, I usually swap my Gibson pickups out anyway. So the reactions here make sense. I normally reinstall their 496R/500T set which to me are like auditory gold.
Watched this believing B was the custom shop the whole time. A simply didnt have the clarity and in places sounded harsh. Then went out and bought a Lemon Drop, was so happy with it i now have two, one distressed and one non distressed. Absolutely stunning guitars!
I thought the same, the Lemon Drop had a better sound to my ears.
I'm surprised that I thought B was the Gibby. Preferred the sound of it. I don't need another guitar, i don't need ano....
That was a year ago. Admit it, you're amongst fellow guitar addicts, it's a safe place. How many more guitars have your bought since lol 😂
@@martin-1965 I actually built my own last year.
@@TenPester Haha wise move mate. I've been ripping old unloved guitars apart and learning all about the guts and tricks of making a guitar sing myself. It's cheaper and more fun. Keep rocking 😎
Yeah, exactly the same that happened to me... Nice sound...
@@patriciaydiegoormaza-marti2446 me too. The tones were just better
I currently use a V100 sunburst as part of my setup and I absolutely love it
I’ve got 7 Les Pauls and I thought it was B. Looks like I wasted a tonne of money.
7 les pauls? jesus
For richs like you nah, it'll be fine.
i quess, sell 5 of those. keep the 2 best ones. and buy another...uhmm.. 40/50 vintage les pauls? :D
nah i think that might be a little too mutch:)
Nope, keep the GB's. If I have the money, I go for Gb
If I send you my address will you send me one of those Les Pauls. I will make sure my grandchildren will still be telling the story of your generosity for generations to come.
I preferred B and I own a Gibson! Maybe time to cash in and get myself a vintage. Great sound for 350 sheets!!
I did, sold my 91 custom after buying a vintage jo bonamassa lawsuit les paul. The sound and feel were a little different to my gibson but given the price (£100 ebay bargain) i couldn't complain.
However build quality wasn't particularly hot. Crack in the body needed gluing, tone pots were crap and the pick up screws kept coming out of the pick up holders. But I actually preferred it to my gibson so i let the Gibson go. Got about £1,700 for it as well.
I recently found my Vintage Les Paul on my parents attic. Not seen it for 10 years. Polished the frets and it honestly plays better than any of my current guitars even after being neglected for so long. Going to enjoy playing it again!
That would be a dream come true for me
To see a cheaper guitar being able to go head to head with a Custom Shop Lespaul is definitely worth checking out.
...and if you buy a Gibson sticker to the Vintage, you will have a Vintage Gibson which worth $5,000 😂
Gotta love the buttery smooth wilkinson hardware vintage guitars get shipped out with.
I love mine I will say the pots don’t hold up but the pickups and neck are great
Thanks for the blind test so good. Earned a sub. Thank you
It was in 1972 or 73 I was 14 or 15. I’ve been playing sense 65 or 66 maybe before but not quite a decade. I went into Watkins Music on Jefferson Ave in Dallas, TX ready to step up my game.
That day I learned what I suppose was one of the most invaluable lessons I’d ever learn. Even after going on to get a degree in music. It’s something I rely to musicians new & seasoned.
On that day I went in and I was going to buy a Les Paul. Yes it was ridiculously heavy. But the details, the finishes on this very expensive guitar. made this brand new guitar almost seem used. The knobs, the surrounds around the pick ups. Where the neck attached to the body. The tuning pegs bridge all pretty disappointing at that price point.
So first the salesman thought it was out of my budget and showed me a SG. It look like it had been put together by A carpenter who built fences or wooden decks. Though I did like it better because it was lighter.
By then we had been talking for a bit. And he understood correctly that I really wanted Gibson. Then he said something that change the way I Purchased every instrument ever sense. Close your eyes. How does it feel in your hands? How does it sound when you play it?
He had handed me an Aria model 1932A I think it is. This was their SG copy. Heavier than a Gibson SG but lighter than a Les Paul a little bit. It felt great in my hands. And sounded amazing. And when I open my eyes and saw a clear finish opposed to a poorly stained SG or painted Les Paul. She was beautiful as well.
By the time the 70s rolled around American Guitar manufactures we’re both having a hard time keeping up with demand. And worse trying to squeeze every nickel a profit they could out of the guitar. Japan took advantage. They had been trying to flood the market with better built better sounding better playing guitars for a lot less money.
I no longer have that exact same guitar because someone stole it. But I have one just like it. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
I bought a Vintage Lemon Drop a few months back and, to be fair, it blew my socks off. The tones you can get from the thing is simply amazing. And i’m not going to use the cliche “for the money” because it’s simply an amazing guitar. If I had heard one before I knew the price, I would easily have paid double what I did!
In all honesty, the V100 could be very good, but not with those pickups. They're obviously lacking in definiton. After a good pickup change - sure, it could probably compete with a Gibson.
Really interesting video, Adam. I found the split screen technique and the use of the same riffs on each section of the tone-test helped me listen carefully to the subtleties of tone. Great playing too! I would have been happy just to watch you play the riffs on a single guitar. I suppose it would be fair to factor in the other crucial thing, apart from sound and prestige which make people buy a Gibson and that’s the feel of the instrument in your hands. A simple difference like a nitro versus a poly finish, to say nothing of neck shape, weight and balance, can be hugely influential. The only way you’d ever find out what people really wanted would be if both guitars cost the same and it was a straight choice between them. Good to know you’re in South Wales. I hope to get to your shop before too long. Keep the videos coming.
You're right, a nitro finish can be hugely influential, especially when it ages and turns your investment a piss yellow colour, which some people think makes it more saleable but most of us think just makes it look piss coloured.
I just recently purchased a Vintage V6 Reissue and love it. Cut heel, Pearloid guard, Wilkinson hardware and pickups, EZ lock tuners, satin finished Canadian maple neck... ALL upgrades for even a player series strat.
Apparently Gibson sounds better because it says Gibson on the headstock , in reality the Vintage sounds easily as good as the Gibson , chuck an eq pedal on it and go and buy yourself a 1 bed flat in Caerphilly with the change 👍
...and you could probably play there at the annual cheese festival with your band...
Haha
Ive been to Caerphilly, stepped in sheep shit near the castle
@@rubenTR309 That was my nan , sorry .
Well Johnny bach
You should have been walking more Caerphilly, innit.
I honestly thought they were the other way round, hats off to the Vintage.
Add me to the list of people who thought B was the Gibbo! But then I’m already a Vintage convert - bought a V6M24 purple meanie a couple of years back after seeing/hearing someone else play one and absolutely haven’t regretted it. Amazing bit of kit for the money. Seriously tempted to get the lemon drop 😎
My mind is blown. I wish you guys would do this for every guitar ever!!!
I have a vintage les paul, sounds as good as my gibson and cost nearly 10 times less
I think A sounded warmer and B had more clarity. I got the vintage afd paradise with the intention of swapping the pickups to the slash Seymour Duncan’s but 6 years later I’m still happy with the Wilkinson’s they’re remarkable.
I prefered guitar B for almost every sounds. So i was thinking « yeah Easy B is the Gibson »
I was suprised....makes me humble :)
Interesting video
The same with a Fender custom shop against something?
Against Vintage V6?
Me too! I put a Seymore Duncan neck pickup on my Vintage AFD Paradise and it was transformed. But I preferred the sound of the Wilkinson pickups on this video, to my surprise.
Me too
Same here.
On the subject of Fender CS, I have a mate who got his hands on a Fender CS Surf Green Strat. It's a clear standout, one of the best guitars I've ever played. He's on a promise to give me first option if he ever sells. He won't, drat it.
I tried every guitar sub £500 in my local guitar shop, and the Vintage was by far my favourite. I knew next to nothing about the brand, but I've had it a while now and its been very impressive. I did like both of these on the drive tones but really did prefer B in all the clean tones, so its really interesting to hear this. It is also a pretty thing! Mick Ronson tribute.
I have a Fender, Gibson, Epiphone and a Vintage PGM. The Vintage sounds better than my other guitars. The Wilkinson pickups are HOT. I play my Vintage more than my other guitars. The out of phase sounds great, RIP Peter Green.
I have a Gibbo Traditional LP and an Epi Standard. Love them both. I did have to install some upgrades on the Epi (pups mainly) for it to stand up with my Gibson, tone wise. Obviously this adds extra cost but little value . So for the Vintage LP to sound that good off off the rack, is a no brainer for me when seeking that 'Gibson sound' on a budget. I am impressed..Nice work
I guessed B was the Gib. Imagine my surprise. Much warmer and rounder. I’ve had my hands on one of these and it played perfectly too. Didn’t get to plug it in but sat and played it for a good 15-20 min. Excellent value.
I was the same, thought B was the Gibson...and I just sold my Gibson too..maybe the Vintage is Under-rated?
Yes and B was my choice. I know there is more than the sound and even that can compensated for with amp settings or a booster or eq pedal.
I picked B as the Wilkinson AND as the preferable sound.
Well... I can say I have owned both. But, when playing The Vintage, it literally blew my mind!!!!
I would recommend a Vintage to anyone looking for a single cut...
Believe you me, it will be hard to put down lol :-)
So, I prefer 10 different Vintage guitars than just one Gibson!
Me too
Plus it wouldn't be anywhere near as worrying to gig a less expensive guitar than it is to gig an expensive one in terms of the guitar being stolen, lost or damaged.
That is true at all
I actually prefer one good 59 Gibby.
Me too
Genuinely thought B was the Gibson, seems vintage sounds better! Good job Trev!
I recently bought a secondhand Vintage VS6 (SG copy) for £100 and it is fantastic! It looks like an SG, it sounds like an SG, and it feels like an SG. Everything about it is quality. The only reason I would by the real thing for six or seven times as much is to have "Gibson" on the headstock.
WOAH The vintage sounded FANTASTIC. Very single coil-like and jangly, just how I like my low output humbuckers.
I really was at the B-side for the Gibson. It had a warmer sound.
I have the Vintage AFD100 and I love it. Damn thing plays better than any Gibson I've ever picked up.
me: "tsk, the A is the vintage, listen how good sounds the one on the B, you can clearly hear the better pups"
*B being literally the Vintage*
Me: ooooooooooooh... *opens wallet*
Wow. Fantastic! As a Vintage specialist I am super excited to see this video. Cool!
Bought three different V100's from you lol
@@MultiGoulash thank you SO much! If you buy another let me know and I’ll upgrade you to the custom pro service on the house. 🏠. Appreciate the support 😊 👍
Great video! The Gibson pickups have more string/definition and clarity to my ears. I’d wager if you put Gibson pups in the Vintage they would sound almost identical. The real test is how they play and feel to the player because sound and look-wise they’re pretty close.
Cheers!
I am so happy to find out that B was the Vintage. I am actually working on a possible deal to acquire one now.
On that sound test they were very close however the test is when you play the guitar at different sound levels and then hear how it reacts to your playing.
Blindfold, I will definitely pick B as my choice.
Vintage sounds so much better!!!
Recognized Vintage right away, has the exact same quirks in sound as my own.
Controversial, but my road worn Lemon Drop is one of the best single cut 59 style guitars I've ever played. I actually pick it up more that my Gibson Les Pauls... I'll just leave that there.
To my ears: Vintage owns when it comes to clean tones and Gibson nailed in the overdrive but the competitor did very good in both tests. I have a Vintage V100 Wine Reissue and I don't wanna get rid of this baby. Ever!
Unless you’re playing sell out concerts at Wembley then just concentrate on perfecting your art with the guitar. There’s no point in spending stupid amounts of money as 99.9% of people that are listening wouldn’t even be able to tell the difference.
I once saw a guy who didn’t have a lot of money and had a “cheap” guitar but played it like he was an angel from heaven. It’s like the things between your legs - it’s all about what you can do with it that counts - not how impressive it looks.
I agree. My example is that Tiger Woods could putt with a broomstick.
Dave Simpson of youtube comes to mind. He doesn't own a Gibson either.
Like everything in life the people who actually need Les Paul's never pay for them.
@@imacnz He could , what , with a broomstick ?
I guessed the blind test right, chose A in all the examples. But for the price, Vintage is a great choice. I particularly still prefer an Epiphone Tribute 1960+ over Vintage.
Thanks so much for the video (and for no volume differences between one guitar and another).
Cheers!
I, too, like my 1960 Tribute. There IS a maple cap under the veneer, and the '57 Classic pickups sing!
The only reason for buying the Gibson would be for investment purposes.
Proof that a good guitar is a good guitar no matter what the name it is on the headstock. I preferred the sound of guitar B and was blown away that it was the Vintage. For far too long my Vintage V100 MK1 has been left in it's case while my Epi and Gibson Studio gets all the glory. It is about time the Vintage got it's fair share of the limelight.
It would be fun to do Harley Benton vs Vintage :)
It was done and vintage won out
Vintage wins without doubt
I was looking what to get for my first guitar. I now think its gonna be a Vintage.
I have two Vintages and for the price point, they are spot on. I have the reverse headstock 80s style strat and the Tele style. I love both of them. I also own 14 guitars altogether so i have a rough idea of what a good guitar is. Buy one man you won't be disappointed.
I recommend getting a vintage and even checking the second- hand market if you are on a budget. I bought one recently for €200 and very impressed. Also check out spider guitar cases in staffordshire, they do a tweed les paul case for all money 😀
You will love it the v100 is my favourite guitar I have 😁🤘🏻
Great Video!! I have a Vintage and a Gibson....I liked B better most of the time, but I could not have told you which brand it was......I guess that's why I like my Lemon Drop PGM so much!
Pickups make a lot of difference. The same pickups in two guitars would be a better indicator of sound difference and playability differences being the criteria. I recently changed to Dimarzio's on my Vintage V6 and now it roars and has better clarity.
So True.
For the comment that the vintage sounds Clanky....£300 for pickups and fitting..
The pick ups on this vintage are good.. Find me someone who owns one and thinks otherwise..
Play mine through a blues jr...
Goodness..
to make it fair on the gibson.lol..i think if you able to compare a ford with a rolls royce then rolls royce have either become shit or ford are now in the same bracket as rolls royce
@@Hendrix67297 I know your comment was a while ago but I've had tremendous quality from Iron Gear pickups . Not expensive , tremendous quality . You should check them . Best wishes
I finally got one of the older distressed VS100 lemon drops from the late 2000's and was blown away by the look, feel, and sound. I usually get guitars like this and rip out the pickups but the Wilkinson PAF's are awesome and I am not touching a thing. It is super heavy but I like the neck c profile and I can't stress how good it sounds.
The Gibson did sound a bit more detailed. The Vintage just didn’t have all the little overtones of the Gibson but for the price it held its own. I’ve played of few of the Vintage guitars and they’re a great value. If you put them against most Epiphones they win hands down.
I agree. I have had two Vintage Lemon Drops and lots of different Epiphones. The Vintage pickups are superior to any which Epiphone use.
Wow really Gibson custom shop just to compare the off the shelve Vintage guitar? I think that alone is a win for Vintage guitar.. 😜
I was just sure guitar B was the custom shop. I was pleasantly surprised it was the vintage. I just bought one!
Me too!
Me too!!
That video is made just for you. That comparition pushed you over the edge. They are doing hell of a job in marketing.
I have a Vintage V100 and played more than just the one I own, so I'm pretty familiar with the sound. I instantly picked B to be the Vintage, but I'm incredibly amazed by everyone thinking B was the Gibson... Just goes to show! I absolutely love the Vintage brand, got 4 Vintage guitars as of now (out of the 6 guitars that I own!), and my V100 is the one I often refer to as "my baby". It's easily my favourite guitar!
Dave Simpson uses a lemon drop Vintage les Paul in his demo videos. He gets some unreal tones out of it.
Dave Simpson is the dog's bollocks ! ( If your not British , that means he's outstandingly good )
Why is the Vintage only £350?? Thinking of getting one. Beautiful looking guitar
I thought guitar B was the gibson it sound cleaner and crunchy
Just bought the Lemon Drop... tested it right away through my motu soundcard black Lyons preamps ( Qbase + Amplitube plugg-in ) Did Just a rough Rtm guit shot on one of my rock songs... the result is far above from what I expected > a kinda precise huge modern rock sound. Btw : its output level is quiet good, ( not too loud ) and that's perfect for what you need when you want to keep you guit sound fit for an " intelligent " mix. Can't wait to see what's about to get out from the forthcoming mix cession, thx to this new Guit.
For now, it makes no doubt that this Lemon Drop is giving me preaty cool feelings. Also, very important , the neck is really confortable ... perfect for more precise guit licks ... > conclusion > A preatty good tool for an affordable price !! (Y) ;-)
I totally agree. Better sounds - less money.
From the get go I thought "B" was the Gibson, ,beautiful neck pup and great out of phase tone definition on the bridge was on the money. I stopped name hunting many years ago as I've heard to many fellas get superb tone from very ordinary instruments. The build quality may have been not "up there" but for me its all about tone and sometimes ,especially these days, money often doesn't buy that as it really is all in the hands. I've seen a lot of fellas with some real high end hardware get uninspiring and sometimes awful tone from a big name.
I came back ad listened again in the studio this time. I prefer the bridge sound on the gibbo on most settings but prefer the middle and neck on the Vintage by a long way.
Meus amigos brasileiros que estão aqui, toquei essa vintage 100 afd, o som dela é muito bonito, bem construída, madeira boa, se está buscando um custo benefício pode levar! Tamo junto, bom som!
eu errei.
Nice Video.
Could you please tell me the chords from 4:55-6:27?
Thank you 🤜🤛
wow, i really thought guitar B was the Guibson. This is proof that price and reputation do not make quality. It's a Gibson Custom Shop, and the other is a Vintage V100, I think there's about $ 1,500 difference between the two.
Picking mine up on my birthday on the 17th, cant wait!
I have 4 guitars, one being a vintage lemon drop an other a fender telecaster. I like my lemon drop the best.
I thought B. Not just because it sounded like the pickups were a tad more powerful, but because the sound was more refined. Certainly amazed me. But having played Gibson and Epiphone before, the feel of the real deal is as important when you're gigging, playing sets. The feel of a neck definitely influences your playing and inspiration.
I will order the Vintage immediately! Unbelievable sound!
Found a AFD V100 with headstock broken for 50€. Repaired for 250€.
I've just bought a Vintage v100 paradise reissued. Waiting for it to be delivered. I nearly went for the lemon drop but slightly preferred the open pickups and a 50 quid cheaper price label. Can't wait for the delivery!!
Well, I play a Vintage had a similar test with a friends Gibby... and came to the same result:
They both have their "playground"... hard to compare. To me the Vintage is a bit more defined... and I was glad to hear it here the same!
The V is a great beginners guitar on which you can do the gigs as well as studio.
The question is: Are we all hooked up onto what is mentioned at the headplate? Your decision! I am happy with mine!
Get in there vintage...when purchasing,, I was dead set on a Gibson,,played one in-store,,then shop owner said try the vintage...looking at him strange,I did..totally blew me away for the price..I went in with 3k.....I came out with 2600......guess which I bought....!!
Squire strat HH
That’s a great story and says more than any review. Thanks for sharing. Are you still happy, 2 months later?
@@nickburmanmusic more than happy with the vintage..fantastic build and sound quality...an old Gibson friend of mine has also got the vintage bug...and purchased one...blew him away too..if you ain't bought one yet, go play one in store like I did...I bet you buy one....all the best.
I‘m the owner of a vintage v100 black/white/gold and im quite impressed to see this video because this is the proof that the vintage sounds better 😁✌🏻
I thought guitar A was easily the best sounding guitar and thus, thought that A maybe the Gibson. To my ear the guitar B was muddy and I just did not like the tone as much as A. I am amazed that I am one of the few that knew which was the Gibson and preferred it.
Holy shit I swear to god I had guitar B as the LP. I’m off to pick-up a lemon drop now. That is a fantastic guitar
B sounded the best out of the two, which really surprised me. I'd like to hear a test with both guitars through a Marshall JCM 800.
Best test I've seen yet. I have a Fender Strat Deluxe and a Vintage V6, and I have to say the price tag difference isn't justifiable.
Im a big fan of bang for buck. I've really been into modding imports lately. Deans, ltd's, schecters, squire, and Epiphones. Often times, the bodies.of these guitars are great. A good setup, and swapping in some premium hardware and electronics, will give you an instrument that rivals those costing ten times more. Plus you have EXACTLY what you want. I'll have to give these a shot. I'm already a big fan of Wilkinson.
Same here. I've become a players guitar guy, and I gig every weekend in a cover band that's getting over $1,000 a booking.
@@freepressright that's awesome. It's always good when you can do something you love, and making some extra cash is a big plus. 👍
Thanks for this side by side comparison. After watching this I bought a V100 tobacco sunburst that's distressed. If buying new I would have bought a flamed amber or lemon drop for $600 new. But found mine used for $300 with a fresh set of strings and a setup. It plays great and feels amazing! I haven't put it down. I named him Steve. In memory of Mr Steve Clark 🤙 I am telling everyone in California about the vintage brand.
Cheers
Damn I Though guitar B could be Gibson so I think Vintage Is great guitar too
I've got a Vintage v100 AFD. Picked out B was the Vintage as it sounded like my guitar.
The cool thing about Vintage guitars is the magic that it somehow possess. It is the same magic that a lot of LP had back in the 60's, 70's and 80's. If your lucky to own one of these guitar you will quickly notice how your guitar playing enhances. The guitar technically whisper in your ears and it makes you believe your a Rock Star. I have a Vintage V100AFD reissued paradise guitar and believe me its freaking amazing. Wilkinson ready deserves to be on top side by side with all the great guitar makers.
wilkinsons DONT MAKE GUITARS.....they make pickups lol
Got it right! The Gibson was more defined, clearer and had more "girth". The Vintage is a very good guitar though---I know because I've got one. I would say though that to get that Peter Green tone, you have to twiddle(technical term)both the tone and volume controls till you find it.
The Vintage Destroyed the Gibson in this one
B is the better sounding guitar, its more crisp and stronger in tone. I was convinced the Gibson was B. Great video 👍
The Gibson definitely has more character in the sound and the gloss is much more refined, but I reckon with a pickup swap out on the Vintage for maybe a set of deacci we could be getting even closer. There’s definitely a difference but not a four grand difference.
what does 'character in the sound' mean?
I have 4 Harley Benton guitars with the Wilkinson pickups and figured I would swap them out when they arrived but then after playing them I was really happy with the tone and clarity of them. They actually sound really great. No way I would spend the money it would take to swap them out with anything. Honestly think it would be a waste of time and money.
I would have bet my bottom dollar that B was the Gibson.
That's what I thought, and I own many custom shop gibby's. But we were wrong lol
Yes B was a better sound overall all pick up choices however the volume was soft,,, that’s not how you will play in a club gig etc so the real test is at speed or volume and finally you need to play it and see how it feels & sounds to your own playing.
I was definitely confused there.
Just seen a Vintage LP very good condition for £100 or near offer. Might have to give it a go.
Me got both,a Gibson Standard and 2 vintage les pauls
I prefer the Gibson every single time
Gibson sounds better period. 4:55 is what I needed to hear. The way to tell is look for the thinner sound which is always the copy. Same goes for PRS, they all sound great, but never next to a Gibson Custom Shop. I can’t speak for Gibson USA however.
I own a vintage lp. And it's probably my number one guitar. While playing it, you'd swear it's a gibson.... but it sounds better. And the quality on it is top notch. I love my vintage
This is why I have 2 Vintage Lemon Drops (the distressed and the sunburst). My favourite Les Pauls :)
From the first note, I felt that Guitar B had the better sound. It was clearer and crisp where guitar A, sounded muddy (too much middle) to me. I'm not surprised that guitar B is the Vintage Lemon Drop.
Was having a difficult on the clean sound. But as soon as gain was added I knew that A was the Gibson. You could hear the pickup choking a bit on the B. But as for the point you made, I agree "Is it worth 10 times the price?"
PS: i'm a proud owner of a Vintage V100
And stay in tune for years...
I got rid of a v100 recently and bought a les Paul standard. The les Paul was truly awful for a guitar that was £2000. Going to sell it and get a v100 lemon drop. These v100s are superb guitars for the money. Can’t believe how much better this one sounds on the video
YOU CAN MAKE ANY GUITAR SOUND GOOD IF YOU KNOW WHAT YOUR DOING....
JHS make really good guitars - its no surprise that the Vintage sounded pretty good. What you do lack though is the tightness as the hardware is potted steel and the body won't be expensive woods, etc, etc - you'll definitely heard it when you record with it.
Hi , what's differences between reissued and distressed series?
And thanks for your video thats nice and very good ❤