I bought the Tribute as I wanted to own a 'real' Les Paul and it was in my price range. I have to say that I am delighted with it. I love the feel of it. The best thing that I can say about it is that it makes me want to play more, and it takes me to other places, old hippy that I am!!
A real les paul …. Twat . I own a 59 VOS custom shop and a 1990 studio from the good wood years . Ebony fretboard. Both are REAL Gibson les Paul’s … Both are great . It’s about the player and the creativity not the ego .
Agree 100 percent.. im 38 and been playing Epiphones since i was 13. Had about 10 diff ones and swore by them.. Had to own a Gibson and got a Tribute 2 years ago.. the feel is so different and just made me fall in love with music all over again and been playing alot more.. since i got it my skills alone made more progress in 2 years then the last 20
I did the exact same thing. I didn't need a Tribute, but I just couldn't resist. Now I own a PRS SE 245, a Jackson Soloist 2, and a US Telecaster. The Tribute is now among my favorites. It is definitely worth the money. I can't put it down. And mind you, I love my Jackson. :0)
I'm biased because I became the owner of a Tribute recently, but it's an absolutely lovely guitar. I appreciate that this video backed up my own thoughts recently which is that I have no idea how I could justify spending more than 2x as much for a Standard when almost all of the differences are just cosmetic, OR they're just "differences" but not necessarily better or worse differences (I.e. Maple neck, satin neck, different pickups, etc). Kinda crazy that Gibson is charging so much extra for the Standard when you can get a wonderful sounding, fantastic playing USA made Gibson Les Paul for so much less.
Nice review man. I had a 2012 standard in desert burst that I ended up selling due to G, and B string tuning instabilities. Tried everything to correct it and nothing seemed to work. Ten years later I just picked up a barely used 2020 Tribute in satin cherry sunburst for $800 and I couldn't be happier. This guitar stays in tune like my American Stratocaster and I'm really digging the neck profile.
I have a 2008 studio I bought for $800 last month and a 2017 Tribute (with 498t in bridge) for about $650 a few years back. Both are fantastic, the tribute is a bit brighter which I love and the studio has the fat neck. Gibson makes great guitars!
A bit of a stressful retiree's week here [Yeah I know!!] But the perfect antidote - enjoyed the video very much Colin, well done. After a soothing and reflective beer, I've decided you should should keep the Tribute, sell the others and keep us entertained with the proceeds. Cheers.
I've owned a tribute (honey burst) for about 4 months and LOVE it. I can't imaging there's much I could ask of it, that it can't do. The satin neck feels great; it's a bit rounder than my strat, and tele, but it's very comfortable. I'd still like to own a standard, or custom someday, but I see those as pieces of art, and keep them on the wall. the tones are excellent with a little OD. pickup's are easy to swap, if you really prefer the 498. Also, my fretboard darkened up nicely after an oil treatment.
I was leaning towards the tribute for my first Gibson but the more I thought about it I said the hell with it & got the Standard. I wanted a Gibson Les Paul standard since I was a kid (I'm 52). I have budget Les Pauls (Epiphones) already & so I treated myself. I also didn't want weight relief, I wanted a solid body. I'm extremely happy with my 60's Standard in Unburst.
If you had the money then the standard should have been your only choice. If you were on a tight budget then you wouldn't have been sorry about getting the Tribute. I love mine.
I have a 2002 Studio in wine red, with gold hardware, and it's awesome. Got it for a steel because it had a neck break, but it was professionally repaired and has killer feel and sustain.
Your videos on les paul have been enjoyable and educational on my journey back onto learning guitar in my 40s keep up with the great and enjoyable content.
With both Epiphone and Gibson, these days it's less about what you NEED and more about what you WANT! There is something for everyone at every price point 👌
I think each guitar has what I call its own "soul" which is a mixture of parts, and processes that cant ever be the same twice, you may think they are the same but they are all 10% different from the last one you played! And 10% is a big difference in guitar sound and feel
A great review Colin as always I have the Standard since 2013 it is a premium 4A flame in tea burst it is my pride and joy and I will never sell it I will handing it down to my grandson loving your videos keep up the good work :-)
I own a tribute, a studio and a 59 reissue. My tribute is 2017 model and has a mahogany neck and while it is weight relieved it weighs just over 9lbs. I'm curious when Gibson changed them to maple necks?
Excellent stuff mate. I have to confess I've never owned a Gibson Les Paul of any variety. Have been tempted many times to buy one or other of these or even a standard. When I retire (not long) I might treat myself but I would want to get them in my hands before to see which one appealed to me most. Looking forward to the head to head with the standard.
Thanks for the comparison. Spot on, as usual. I think the best solution is a Tribute and replace the 490T with a 498T. I've had my Tribute with a 498T replacement for 6 months and I am very pleased. Cheers.
if you're going to do a pickup swap there are much better options than the 498T imo. The 57 from gibson or tried and true models from SD and Dimarzio. Plus you could get them in different pickup colors like zebras to really make the guitar yours
I like the Tribute. Basic and to the point. I also think there are better choices under $1,000 and several under $600-$700 that can be upgraded to keep you under a grand. If I wanted to have a Gibson Les Paul just to have one that I would play often I’d want the Tribute. I also like the maple neck. Thanks Colin!
My first Gibson Les Paul was a 2018 gold top tribute. It was amazing. I’ve since gotten a. Custom shop 57 reissue and you really don’t miss anything besides the inlays/fancy binding. Wish I Could’ve kept it. I believe the 2018 one I had had a mahogany neck and not maple.
What makes me nervous is the history of how easy the headstock snaps. Great review, and why they decided to go with that circuit board. Baffles me, why?! Thank you , go ride 🤟🤟
@@timothy5974 are you mistresting your guitars? Keep it in its case and vice verse when you play it. Unless you are careless with your guitars and just throw them around then I'd have no worries.
@@timothy5974 I know the characteristics of pick ups but nothing about circuit boards and wiring, whats wrong with the one they went with is it just cheaper or ?
I am going with the Tribute. Get the Les Paul sound and I plan to use it as my touring guitar. I won’t feel so bad if it gets dinged up a little. Plus, based on Tone, I think the Tribute sounds just a tad brighter than the studio.
The Tribute sounds and looks like a proper no frills working player guitar, which would be my choice , no frills just like my playing to be honest. Great video .
Another excellent episode as usual, I miss my 2011 60's Tribute with P90s and should of never sold it but it did fund my 2011 Les Paul Classic which now I hardly play since getting my Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG and Epiphone Alex Lifeson Signature Les Paul Axcess
I love my tribute! I have 2 standards which are awesome but there is no denying Tributes are killer guitars in their own right. and the satin neck is very smooth and fast. I like your videos! New sub here.
Greetings from sunny Arizona. Another excellent review! I owned both of these last year, and kept the Studio. I sold the Tribute and bought a Slash-Epi, which I love. Great playing (as always). Cheers…
I have a Tribute I love the way it plays and the understated look of the guitar. The satin finish if a huge positive for me along with the extra $300 I had to put towards my amp. I'd like to see you compare these guitars with an ESP-LTD EC-1000.
I agree this would make a great comparison. I have a Gibson Les Paul Standard with 57 Classic Plus and 57 Classic pickups and an ESP-LTD EC-1000S Fluence with the Fishman Modern pickups. I use both regularly in my home recording set-up. Les Paul for rock and ESP-LTD for metal. They are both fabulous guitars but my Gibson cost me twice as much to buy as the ESP-LTD which makes the ESP-LTD an absolute steal. If I was to pick just one it would be the ESP-LTD EC-1000 without hesitation. The build quality is flawless and on a par with the Gibson. It is half the cost to buy, the upper neck access is better than the Gibson and it also is lighter in weight. The old saying "horses for courses" springs to mind.
I have two Tributes,one is a 2013 with two P90s and a baked maple fretboard and weighs 7 lbs 10 ounces,slim neck,my favorite. The next Tribute has humbuckers ,a slim neck and weighs 8 lbs,perfect. I love those guitars,both are my favorites. I have Duncan 59s on one,hum cancelling DiMarzio direct mount P90s on the other. Ive played lots of other LPs but I love these the most
I just subscribed!😊👍🏿 I have a 2003 studio premium plus w gold hardware and lovely desert burst with figured top.Because of you ,I’ve learned so much about this guitar.I got it for a grand w nice case.thanks!im 73 yrs old
Excellent video ! Thank you! I'll just buy a (not much) used studio for my rehearsals! I had a black Custom Les Paul in the end of the 70's (the one you should never have sold, you know...) and this one will be close to that energic sound 🙃). I immediately go to see your videos about each model.
The Tangerine Burst studio is a truly amazing looking guitar, other than that it feels like the Tribute is a better value as an entry level Gibson. For the price of a new Studio I would probably look for a used Traditional instead. Thanks for another great comparison, these are very useful when navigating the Gibson range!
Thank you for the review and the Bowie. I have a 2013 50s tribute which has been my go to guitar since I bought it. At the time of buying I really wanted a Standard but after playing a few and comparing them with the Tribute I just couldn't justify the extra £1000 or so. You are really just paying all the extra money for appearances.
Is that "The Man Who Sold World"? Sounds great, your channel is by far my favorite guitar channel anymore, you cut no corners with your reviews and are completely unbiased which is so rare to find nowadays.
My first electric guitar was a cherry red epiphone studio. To this day it's probably my favorite guitar. When paired with a versatile amp such as a Katana Artist, it can do any genre and sound stellar at it. I put .12's on it and occasionally tune all the way down to C standard/drop A# and it handles it flawlessly.
Hey Colin, your closing riff of this vid is absolutely haunting, gotta try and learn this. I've watched this video over and over again, finally pulled the trigger so I have a used satin 17 tribute p90 on the way🙂 keep it up, thanks again
Best guitar channel on TH-cam! You are fabulous. Thank you for WEIGHING each guitar; for your accent, which I wish were mine, by the way; for being honest but never cheeky; and for your common-sense approach. Simply love your insight!
Hey Colin! Great video! Little late to tune in this week but I enjoyed the thorough comparison as always! Was surprised to hear how similar the 498T and 490T sounded despite the first being much hotter. I like what you said at the end though, it really does depend and hard to say one is better. Each guitar has it’s unique qualities, and which one is best really depends on the player and their needs. I also feel the law of diminishing returns definitely applies to these guitars and the standard 50’s, a big jump in price will yield only a small improvement in quality or sound if any.
Mr. Guitarista, you are so generous with your knowledge and experience, I thought I would take a shot at getting some. You say that neither of these fretboards are treated (with oil, I suppose, and maybe a fret rub)but, most of the other guitar guys say to do that very first thing. What's the deal? I certainly respect your opinion above the others, as you speak my language, and I don't mean English.
Hey John, I only really do it if it looks really dry... but that's because I generally only fix rings if they are broken 😆 they say the best way to oil the fingerboard is to play it hard and a lot because the natural oils from your fingers do the job best! 😁👍
Amazing video! Cheers. I went a few months ago to a local shop with intention to buy a Standard .I tried the Special tribute, Tribute, Studio and Standard. The maple neck of the Tribute just made me want to play more. Amazing tone IMHO. Zero regrets. Some may disagree( totally fine) but it is to me a real Les Paul.
Another great, fun session - thanks very much! I would go for the Tribute myself, the clean sounds, esp. neck just a touch nicer + looks and no push/pull thing. But def a case could be made for keeping all of them! :)
Gibson has discontinued the Les Paul Tribute...probably because its biting into the sales of standards and studios. I bought a Honeyburst Tribute a few months back and i play that axe everyday, i can't say that about other guitars i own. I'm tempted to grab a Tobacco Burst before they are all gone off the shelves...great video....love the Les Paul Tribute! Cheers!
@@theguitaristas I saw that as well and decided to buy a Tribute in Tobacco Burst. Beautiful guitar, (surpisingly) flawless fit & finish and the dealer even confirmed the weight before they shipped it: 3890 grams, or 8.56 lbs :) It's a proper les paul and I love it.
Great review once again Colin. I'm in the camp of the Tribute on this one. Probably because I'm mainly a strat guy. I like the snap of the maple neck. I do however have a studio that I love. I guess it boils down to a tone preference. Thanks sir. Cheers.
So I looked into it and the Dunlop lemon oil I use to condition my fretboard is definitely a darkening agent. I endorse this product if you have a light grain rosewood fretboard or a Laurel fretboard. Not only does it darken the fretboard but, it conditions it and protects it from drying and thus, cracking. But, it does say....NOT for use on maple fretboards.
Hello Colin, another comprehensive review of two Gibson LPs . I have a LP studio and a SG tribute… close enough I’d say. I prefer the LP studio because I feel that the mahogany neck is more authentic to the feel of a Gibson LP. Of the two on the episode I like the look of the Tribute though… I’d say try them both and get what you like.
Excellent video once again, Colin. I have a 2018 Tribute, same finish as yours, and it is brilliant. Mine has a mahogany neck and it came with the upgraded soft shell case. I don’t play it often, but when I do pick it up, I always think, “Wow”, and I had forgotten how well it plays, how great it sounds and how solid it feels.
After years of playing Stratocasters, finally I got my first Les Paul: a cherry burst Tribute. Definitively I fell in love with her. Great feeling and sound, modern but vintage ..greetings from Italy.
While I prefer the satin neck I think I prefer the studio. Is it worth 300 more ? Maybe. I have a 2012 50s tribute which I really like. The neck is a bit chunky though.
I’ve never had tuning issues with a Gibson Les Paul. I just lube the nut with some mechanical pencil lead and properly string to the tuners, and I play forever with no tuning issues!
Another cool video Colin! The feature that drew me to the Tribute was the (fake) look of binding the Maple top gives, but I prefer the 498T pickup in the Studio. However, I've since sold off most of my Gibsons and am perfectly content with my Epiphone 1959 Les Paul and other Epiphones.
Thanks my dudes for the comments….most of most of my guitars are Fenders and G&L. Walked in the guitar center yesterday to specifically check in a olympic white strat but instead… a sunburst tribute gibson caught my eyes. Both goin for $1200. Sometime this week im taking the Gibson home. Thanks for this video
Was looking forward to this and it’s a great review super info on woods, finish, hardware, pickups with great tips on tuning stability… enjoyed the tones … Studio sure got the punch but the Tribute got the grunt .. well why not both !… be good to see the Standard in the mix
I love your videos. One thing I would like to say is by "flossing" through the nut slot with a larger string gauge you make the slot wider but also deeper and that can cause buzzing, when it's too low.
I have had all three, the studio, the tribute and the standard. I currently have a 2005 studio and love it, it is a cherry sunburst so it has the look of the standard, and I prefer the neck over all. I sold the other two because I never played them once I got the studio. Tricky.... Love your work and videos....✌😎
Bought a Studio Plus and installed an OBSIDIANwire Mark II harness. The neck pup is 50s setting and the bridge 60s - great sonic options from this company and the 490n and 498t stock pups.
I got the Tribute because I wanted a Les Paul with that natural finish. I stuck some Seymour Duncan Antiquities Humbuckers in it and it’s a dream sound
The best ones is the old Tribute that still had a mahogany neck (2010-2018). Plenty of those on the Gibson Demo Shop. I got a used 60s 2017 Tribute T for $450 about 4 years ago. it has fret sprout, some scratchy pots, the bridge pickup is pretty thin, and the finish will she very quickly. That said, even if I paid full price, it'd still want it over a Studio.. The satin feels better, and the price difference is low enough that I can swap the pickups and have it set up.
Nice work Colin. Might be worth getting a Les Paul classic and doing a shoot out between that and the standard. Classics are about a grand cheaper than the standard.
On the Gibson Les Paul Studio the body was ⅛ to ¼ inch thinner than a standard Les Paul. Initially made of alder from 1983-1985, Gibson moved back to maple top/mahogany body combination after the alder body proved prone to lacquer problems. Ash and some exotic woods have been used for tops and replaced Maple from time to time for limited runs.
Man , I feel old now! Considering that I have a LP Tribute with a gold top for $900 when it came out in 2018 , all mahogany no maple and my LP Studio (Pelham blue) for $1200 in 2016. Love them both.
Great review, the Tribute and the 300 pounds or dollars sounded better to me. In the future 3 way comparison, perhaps you could add one more test. Swap the pick-ups in the Studio and the Tribute, to see if the extra weight really does make a difference. From your other reviews, it looks like they're just plug and play, no tools required. But I've never owned a guitar that advanced, so I don't know for sure.
Well, Colin, partly due to this excellent video review, and partly due to my complete lack of impulse control, I've just today (Feb 19 2024) aquired a 2019 Les Paul Tribute in Honeyburst. It is far and away better than the Epiphone '59 Outfit that I had a year back. It smells and feels like furniture with a woody organic quality. It's a keeper.
I bought the Tribute as I wanted to own a 'real' Les Paul and it was in my price range. I have to say that I am delighted with it. I love the feel of it. The best thing that I can say about it is that it makes me want to play more, and it takes me to other places, old hippy that I am!!
Cheers man! 😎✌️
A real les paul …. Twat . I own a 59 VOS custom shop and a 1990 studio from the good wood years . Ebony fretboard.
Both are REAL Gibson les Paul’s … Both are great . It’s about the player and the creativity not the ego .
Agree 100 percent.. im 38 and been playing Epiphones since i was 13. Had about 10 diff ones and swore by them.. Had to own a Gibson and got a Tribute 2 years ago.. the feel is so different and just made me fall in love with music all over again and been playing alot more.. since i got it my skills alone made more progress in 2 years then the last 20
And that’s what a guitar is supposed to do. Inspire you to play more
I did the exact same thing. I didn't need a Tribute, but I just couldn't resist. Now I own a PRS SE 245, a Jackson Soloist 2, and a US Telecaster. The Tribute is now among my favorites. It is definitely worth the money. I can't put it down. And mind you, I love my Jackson. :0)
These are the best guitar reviews on TH-cam! Appreciate the work that you put into these.
Cheers Mike that's appreciated! 😎👍
I agree. I really enjoy these reviews. Well done!
I'm biased because I became the owner of a Tribute recently, but it's an absolutely lovely guitar. I appreciate that this video backed up my own thoughts recently which is that I have no idea how I could justify spending more than 2x as much for a Standard when almost all of the differences are just cosmetic, OR they're just "differences" but not necessarily better or worse differences (I.e. Maple neck, satin neck, different pickups, etc). Kinda crazy that Gibson is charging so much extra for the Standard when you can get a wonderful sounding, fantastic playing USA made Gibson Les Paul for so much less.
It looks better
I got one too bro .. Its a wonderful guitar satin iced tea
I got the Tribute in honey burst couple years back . It is a gem.
Nice review man. I had a 2012 standard in desert burst that I ended up selling due to G, and B string tuning instabilities. Tried everything to correct it and nothing seemed to work. Ten years later I just picked up a barely used 2020 Tribute in satin cherry sunburst for $800 and I couldn't be happier. This guitar stays in tune like my American Stratocaster and I'm really digging the neck profile.
@@loosabway3400 he said cosmetic
I have a 2008 studio I bought for $800 last month and a 2017 Tribute (with 498t in bridge) for about $650 a few years back. Both are fantastic, the tribute is a bit brighter which I love and the studio has the fat neck. Gibson makes great guitars!
A bit of a stressful retiree's week here [Yeah I know!!] But the perfect antidote - enjoyed the video very much Colin, well done. After a soothing and reflective beer, I've decided you should should keep the Tribute, sell the others and keep us entertained with the proceeds. Cheers.
Cheers Bob, it will definitely be something along those lines! 😆👍 Have a great weekend mate.
I've owned a tribute (honey burst) for about 4 months and LOVE it. I can't imaging there's much I could ask of it, that it can't do. The satin neck feels great; it's a bit rounder than my strat, and tele, but it's very comfortable. I'd still like to own a standard, or custom someday, but I see those as pieces of art, and keep them on the wall. the tones are excellent with a little OD. pickup's are easy to swap, if you really prefer the 498.
Also, my fretboard darkened up nicely after an oil treatment.
Thank you! I have a Studio, now I have to have a Tribute. It's gorgeous. Good video, I like the humour. All the best
Eventually, the rest of the world is going to know what we here already know; one of the best channels on YT!!
Thanks for the kind words that’s appreciated! 🙏😊
I was leaning towards the tribute for my first Gibson but the more I thought about it I said the hell with it & got the Standard. I wanted a Gibson Les Paul standard since I was a kid (I'm 52). I have budget Les Pauls (Epiphones) already & so I treated myself. I also didn't want weight relief, I wanted a solid body. I'm extremely happy with my 60's Standard in Unburst.
I think that’s the right decision if you had your heart set on a standard nothing else would really do 😎👍
If you had the money then the standard should have been your only choice. If you were on a tight budget then you wouldn't have been sorry about getting the Tribute. I love mine.
I have a 2002 Studio in wine red, with gold hardware, and it's awesome. Got it for a steel because it had a neck break, but it was professionally repaired and has killer feel and sustain.
Your videos on les paul have been enjoyable and educational on my journey back onto learning guitar in my 40s keep up with the great and enjoyable content.
Cheers man! 😎👍
With both Epiphone and Gibson, these days it's less about what you NEED and more about what you WANT! There is something for everyone at every price point 👌
I think each guitar has what I call its own "soul" which is a mixture of parts, and processes that cant ever be the same twice, you may think they are the same but they are all 10% different from the last one you played! And 10% is a big difference in guitar sound and feel
Nicely put! 😎👍👍
@@theguitaristas have a great day/night mate :)
Agreed 100%
😎👍❤🖖
You hit it on the head, guitars have souls that connect to our's.
@@pinkiewerewolf Thats why it feels so right when you touch that certain guitar no matter what brand or price it is the one!
A great review Colin as always I have the Standard since 2013 it is a premium 4A flame in tea burst it is my pride and joy and I will never sell it I will handing it down to my grandson loving your videos keep up the good work :-)
I think I prefer the tribute 😅 The smile on your face when you play punk makes the all video worth it btw.
I own a tribute, a studio and a 59 reissue.
My tribute is 2017 model and has a mahogany neck and while it is weight relieved it weighs just over 9lbs. I'm curious when Gibson changed them to maple necks?
Thanks for putting all the hard work into these informative and entertaining videos. Easily the best content I've come across in a long time.
The way the intros of your videos are edited are far and away the best, gets me excited for the video
Cheers Ryan, that’s appreciated… takes me ages sometimes that bit! 🤣🤣
I just bought the Tribute because I got an amazing deal on a used one. I am really blown away with the guitar.
Excellent stuff mate. I have to confess I've never owned a Gibson Les Paul of any variety.
Have been tempted many times to buy one or other of these or even a standard. When I retire (not long) I might treat myself but I would want to get them in my hands before to see which one appealed to me most.
Looking forward to the head to head with the standard.
Thanks for the comparison. Spot on, as usual. I think the best solution is a Tribute and replace the 490T with a 498T. I've had my Tribute with a 498T replacement for 6 months and I am very pleased. Cheers.
Nice plan!.. best of both worlds?? 👍
if you're going to do a pickup swap there are much better options than the 498T imo. The 57 from gibson or tried and true models from SD and Dimarzio. Plus you could get them in different pickup colors like zebras to really make the guitar yours
@@Rollermanfromspace I’ve got a Pearly Gates neck and Duncan Custom bridge in my Epiphone Les Paul Custom. Great pickups!!
I bought a new Gibson LP Studio in wine red with a gig bag in 2014 for £800, I was shocked how much they have increased in price.
I like the Tribute. Basic and to the point. I also think there are better choices under $1,000 and several under $600-$700 that can be upgraded to keep you under a grand.
If I wanted to have a Gibson Les Paul just to have one that I would play often I’d want the Tribute. I also like the maple neck.
Thanks Colin!
I second that
My first Gibson Les Paul was a 2018 gold top tribute. It was amazing. I’ve since gotten a. Custom shop 57 reissue and you really don’t miss anything besides the inlays/fancy binding. Wish I Could’ve kept it. I believe the 2018 one I had had a mahogany neck and not maple.
What makes me nervous is the history of how easy the headstock snaps. Great review, and why they decided to go with that circuit board. Baffles me, why?! Thank you , go ride 🤟🤟
@@timothy5974 are you mistresting your guitars? Keep it in its case and vice verse when you play it. Unless you are careless with your guitars and just throw them around then I'd have no worries.
@@timothy5974 I know the characteristics of pick ups but nothing about circuit boards and wiring, whats wrong with the one they went with is it just cheaper or ?
I am going with the Tribute. Get the Les Paul sound and I plan to use it as my touring guitar. I won’t feel so bad if it gets dinged up a little. Plus, based on Tone, I think the Tribute sounds just a tad brighter than the studio.
The Tribute sounds and looks like a proper no frills working player guitar, which would be my choice , no frills just like my playing to be honest. Great video .
Another fantastic review and today's bonus for this old punk was a bit of English Civil War - nice one! Have a great weekend, Colin
Cheers man and you! 😎👍
Nice one brother from Warren 😎 I've just replaced my les paul with a studio that is black and has no coil split! I love it!😎
The Tribute surprised me. It did quite well. Interesting show Colin, great job!!
At 13:00 when testing, i really love the slight "crackle" the tribute offers to be honest. It reminds me of my vintage vinyl records for some reason.
Don,t forget the Led Paul Classic! Love your channel cheers mate.
This is getting expensive! 🤣👍👍
Another excellent episode as usual, I miss my 2011 60's Tribute with P90s and should of never sold it but it did fund my 2011 Les Paul Classic which now I hardly play since getting my Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG and Epiphone Alex Lifeson Signature Les Paul Axcess
I love my tribute! I have 2 standards which are awesome but there is no denying Tributes are killer guitars in their own right. and the satin neck is very smooth and fast. I like your videos! New sub here.
Cheers man! 😎👍
Your consistency is on point! been looking forward to this one (as previous ones!)... cheers... ok watching now.
Greetings from sunny Arizona. Another excellent review! I owned both of these last year, and kept the Studio. I sold the Tribute and bought a Slash-Epi, which I love. Great playing (as always). Cheers…
Cheers Rico!… I still need to relieve my GAS for a Slash Les Paul! 😆👍
Cheers mate . I enjoyed your video . Thank you. Please make some more videos . I quite enjoyed your humor and genuine nature. Thank you.
My tribute gold top has become my go to guitar..love everything about it
I have a Tribute I love the way it plays and the understated look of the guitar. The satin finish if a huge positive for me along with the extra $300 I had to put towards my amp. I'd like to see you compare these guitars with an ESP-LTD EC-1000.
I agree this would make a great comparison. I have a Gibson Les Paul Standard with 57 Classic Plus and 57 Classic pickups and an ESP-LTD EC-1000S Fluence with the Fishman Modern pickups. I use both regularly in my home recording set-up. Les Paul for rock and ESP-LTD for metal. They are both fabulous guitars but my Gibson cost me twice as much to buy as the
ESP-LTD which makes the ESP-LTD an absolute steal. If I was to pick just one it would be the ESP-LTD EC-1000 without hesitation. The build quality is flawless and on a par with the Gibson. It is half the cost to buy, the upper neck access is better than the Gibson and it also is lighter in weight. The old saying "horses for courses" springs to mind.
I agree about the satin finish. Always looks good! No dust, no fingerprints. Always looks the same.
I have two Tributes,one is a 2013 with two P90s and a baked maple fretboard and weighs 7 lbs 10 ounces,slim neck,my favorite. The next Tribute has humbuckers ,a slim neck and weighs 8 lbs,perfect. I love those guitars,both are my favorites. I have Duncan 59s on one,hum cancelling DiMarzio direct mount P90s on the other. Ive played lots of other LPs but I love these the most
I just subscribed!😊👍🏿 I have a 2003 studio premium plus w gold hardware and lovely desert burst with figured top.Because of you ,I’ve learned so much about this guitar.I got it for a grand w nice case.thanks!im 73 yrs old
Cheers Reggie thanks for the support!
Excellent video ! Thank you! I'll just buy a (not much) used studio for my rehearsals! I had a black Custom Les Paul in the end of the 70's (the one you should never have sold, you know...) and this one will be close to that energic sound 🙃). I immediately go to see your videos about each model.
Thank you so much for doing this video, I think I’m going to go for the Tribute. Have a great weekend.
Cheers Max and you! 😎👍
Just really enjoy your understated and humorous reviews......and I've learned alot too. Cheers Colin. Look forward to the next review
Cheers Howard! 😎👍
The Tangerine Burst studio is a truly amazing looking guitar, other than that it feels like the Tribute is a better value as an entry level Gibson. For the price of a new Studio I would probably look for a used Traditional instead. Thanks for another great comparison, these are very useful when navigating the Gibson range!
Thank you for the review and the Bowie. I have a 2013 50s tribute which has been my go to guitar since I bought it. At the time of buying I really wanted a Standard but after playing a few and comparing them with the Tribute I just couldn't justify the extra £1000 or so. You are really just paying all the extra money for appearances.
Love ur channel I feel like I'm watching this old house home improvement show very relaxing and peaceful u rock!!❤❤❤
I have a 2021 Studio in Smokehouse Burst. Love it! That Tribute sounds great too.
Is that "The Man Who Sold World"? Sounds great, your channel is by far my favorite guitar channel anymore, you cut no corners with your reviews and are completely unbiased which is so rare to find nowadays.
Yes that's the loop!... Cheers Bob thanks for the support 😎👍
My first electric guitar was a cherry red epiphone studio. To this day it's probably my favorite guitar. When paired with a versatile amp such as a Katana Artist, it can do any genre and sound stellar at it. I put .12's on it and occasionally tune all the way down to C standard/drop A# and it handles it flawlessly.
you're the only reviewer I trust along with Elmo Kajalainen. SOLID , UNBIASED, scientific reviews! it was time! thanks from Italy
Thanks Max that's appreciated!
That Tribute natural finish is gorgeous.
Hey Colin, your closing riff of this vid is absolutely haunting, gotta try and learn this. I've watched this video over and over again, finally pulled the trigger so I have a used satin 17 tribute p90 on the way🙂 keep it up, thanks again
Cheers Tim, that's appreciated! 😁👍
Best guitar channel on TH-cam! You are fabulous. Thank you for WEIGHING each guitar; for your accent, which I wish were mine, by the way; for being honest but never cheeky; and for your common-sense approach. Simply love your insight!
Cheers Mark that's appreciated! 😁🙏
he is cheeky as F*ck but that's why we love him
That gold Tribute looks really good. It’s smaller than a Standard, but it seems like it’s more a player’s guitar.
Hey Colin! Great video! Little late to tune in this week but I enjoyed the thorough comparison as always! Was surprised to hear how similar the 498T and 490T sounded despite the first being much hotter. I like what you said at the end though, it really does depend and hard to say one is better. Each guitar has it’s unique qualities, and which one is best really depends on the player and their needs. I also feel the law of diminishing returns definitely applies to these guitars and the standard 50’s, a big jump in price will yield only a small improvement in quality or sound if any.
Mr. Guitarista, you are so generous with your knowledge and experience, I thought I would take a shot at getting some. You say that neither of these fretboards are treated (with oil, I suppose, and maybe a fret rub)but, most of the other guitar guys say to do that very first thing. What's the deal? I certainly respect your opinion above the others, as you speak my language, and I don't mean English.
Hey John, I only really do it if it looks really dry... but that's because I generally only fix rings if they are broken 😆 they say the best way to oil the fingerboard is to play it hard and a lot because the natural oils from your fingers do the job best! 😁👍
@@theguitaristas God bless you! Thank you, friend.
I think I might go for the Tribute, as i'm usually more of an SG guy and it sounds like it has more of a chime to it. Also that honeyburst is lovely 😄
Amazing video! Cheers. I went a few months ago to a local shop with intention to buy a Standard .I tried the Special tribute, Tribute, Studio and Standard. The maple neck of the Tribute just made me want to play more. Amazing tone IMHO. Zero regrets. Some may disagree( totally fine) but it is to me a real Les Paul.
Nice one, it's definitely got it's own thing going on... and you saved enough $$$ for a nice amp or several other guitars!! 😎👍
Another great, fun session - thanks very much! I would go for the Tribute myself, the clean sounds, esp. neck just a touch nicer + looks and no push/pull thing. But def a case could be made for keeping all of them! :)
Very great and honest reviews! Love your videos! I love how in depth you go with it
As usual, fantastic video! You did a great job comparing these two models.
Gibson has discontinued the Les Paul Tribute...probably because its biting into the sales of standards and studios.
I bought a Honeyburst Tribute a few months back and i play that axe everyday, i can't say that about other guitars i own.
I'm tempted to grab a Tobacco Burst before they are all gone off the shelves...great video....love the Les Paul Tribute! Cheers!
Yes I’m tempted to get another one too… 🤔
@@theguitaristas I saw that as well and decided to buy a Tribute in Tobacco Burst. Beautiful guitar, (surpisingly) flawless fit & finish and the dealer even confirmed the weight before they shipped it: 3890 grams, or 8.56 lbs :) It's a proper les paul and I love it.
Great review once again Colin. I'm in the camp of the Tribute on this one. Probably because I'm mainly a strat guy. I like the snap of the maple neck. I do however have a studio that I love. I guess it boils down to a tone preference. Thanks sir. Cheers.
I like the studio in the gloss-ish black, that's the one I have. Looks like a slick guitar for sure
So I looked into it and the Dunlop lemon oil I use to condition my fretboard is definitely a darkening agent. I endorse this product if you have a light grain rosewood fretboard or a Laurel fretboard. Not only does it darken the fretboard but, it conditions it and protects it from drying and thus, cracking. But, it does say....NOT for use on maple fretboards.
Thanks, great review of 2 great guitars!
I also appreciate the comment on the LP Standard and how the shine wore off!
What a great review. You managed to entertain, inform, and educate in the process. Great playing too. Many thanks.
Cheers man! 😎👍
Hello Colin, another comprehensive review of two Gibson LPs . I have a LP studio and a SG tribute… close enough I’d say. I prefer the LP studio because I feel that the mahogany neck is more authentic to the feel of a Gibson LP. Of the two on the episode I like the look of the Tribute though… I’d say try them both and get what you like.
You are the James May of guitars! Thank you for this Vid! Super helpful.
Excellent video once again, Colin. I have a 2018 Tribute, same finish as yours, and it is brilliant. Mine has a mahogany neck and it came with the upgraded soft shell case. I don’t play it often, but when I do pick it up, I always think, “Wow”, and I had forgotten how well it plays, how great it sounds and how solid it feels.
Cheers Anthony! 😎👍
Just purchased this exactly guitar. Very happy with it. Thanks for the video review. Learned a few things about it. Subscribed.
Thanks for the sub! 😁👍
I have a Tribute with Alnico 2s and 50’s wiring, and I absolutely love it.
After years of playing Stratocasters, finally I got my first Les Paul: a cherry burst Tribute. Definitively I fell in love with her. Great feeling and sound, modern but vintage ..greetings from Italy.
Nice one Domenico! Greetings from UK... enjoy the weekend! 😎👍
Congratulations Domenico! Same boat, strat owner saving my pennies for a LP. Salud
While I prefer the satin neck I think I prefer the studio. Is it worth 300 more ? Maybe. I have a 2012 50s tribute which I really like. The neck is a bit chunky though.
I’ve never had tuning issues with a Gibson Les Paul. I just lube the nut with some mechanical pencil lead and properly string to the tuners, and I play forever with no tuning issues!
Thanks!
🌟 Cheers Tim, that's very much appreciated! 🙏😊
Another cool video Colin! The feature that drew me to the Tribute was the (fake) look of binding the Maple top gives, but I prefer the 498T pickup in the Studio. However, I've since sold off most of my Gibsons and am perfectly content with my Epiphone 1959 Les Paul and other Epiphones.
Thanks my dudes for the comments….most of most of my guitars are Fenders and G&L. Walked in the guitar center yesterday to specifically check in a olympic white strat but instead… a sunburst tribute gibson caught my eyes. Both goin for $1200. Sometime this week im taking the Gibson home. Thanks for this video
Was looking forward to this and it’s a great review super info on woods, finish, hardware, pickups with great tips on tuning stability… enjoyed the tones … Studio sure got the punch but the Tribute got the grunt .. well why not both !… be good to see the Standard in the mix
I love your videos. One thing I would like to say is by "flossing" through the nut slot with a larger string gauge you make the slot wider but also deeper and that can cause buzzing, when it's too low.
6:27 thats from guitar to guitar, my 2021 tribute has a really dark rosewood fretboard, it almost looks like ebony from far
I have had all three, the studio, the tribute and the standard. I currently have a 2005 studio and love it, it is a cherry sunburst so it has the look of the standard, and I prefer the neck over all. I sold the other two because I never played them once I got the studio. Tricky.... Love your work and videos....✌😎
Your videos are so good. Massively informative and helpful. Thanks so much
Thank you for keeping it simple (and not trying to show off)….very informative! Thank you again!
Such a beautiful guitar, I love the honey burst color! Thanks for the vid!
Bought a Studio Plus and installed an OBSIDIANwire Mark II harness. The neck pup is 50s setting and the bridge 60s - great sonic options from this company and the 490n and 498t stock pups.
I got the Tribute because I wanted a Les Paul with that natural finish. I stuck some Seymour Duncan Antiquities Humbuckers in it and it’s a dream sound
The best ones is the old Tribute that still had a mahogany neck (2010-2018). Plenty of those on the Gibson Demo Shop. I got a used 60s 2017 Tribute T for $450 about 4 years ago. it has fret sprout, some scratchy pots, the bridge pickup is pretty thin, and the finish will she very quickly. That said, even if I paid full price, it'd still want it over a Studio.. The satin feels better, and the price difference is low enough that I can swap the pickups and have it set up.
Agree, i have a 2011 goldtop 60.s tribute, but after changing pickups, electronics, fret crowning etc. It is a great guitar.
That Tribute looks and sounds wonderful. I love a honeyburst Yours almost looks like a gold top in the video.
Nice work Colin. Might be worth getting a Les Paul classic and doing a shoot out between that and the standard. Classics are about a grand cheaper than the standard.
Great review by Stephen Fry 👏 😀. Was not sure until now . Made me decide to go for the Les Paul Tribute honey burst. Thank you.
Thank you for your great kindness! 😆👍
On the Gibson Les Paul Studio the body was ⅛ to ¼ inch thinner than a standard Les Paul. Initially made of alder from 1983-1985, Gibson moved back to maple top/mahogany body combination after the alder body proved prone to lacquer problems. Ash and some exotic woods have been used for tops and replaced Maple from time to time for limited runs.
The ebony Studio model was the one I went with in the end, I could not resist that sleek black glass look and monolithic color from head to toe.
Man , I feel old now! Considering that I have a LP Tribute with a gold top for $900 when it came out in 2018 , all mahogany no maple and my LP Studio (Pelham blue) for $1200 in 2016. Love them both.
I have one of the early Tributes with the mahogany neck. $809.00. My Studio is a 1992 and I’m the original owner. $749.00 in 1992.
I scored a new in the box 2017 Les Paul classic gold top for 1299.99 Canadian.
Yay new video! Friday just got better. Cheers :)
Aw man , this Comparison is so helpful and honest , and the most important is BADASS! Thanks so much for sharing these !
Cheers man thanks for the support glad its helpful! 😎👍
Thank you for such a great review. I think your review is the best on You Tube. I am looking forward to your next review.
Thanks Ron that’s appreciated! 😎👍
Another great video Colin .
Can never scroll passed one of your video reviews .. so addictive 🎸
Keep em coming buddy 👍🏻
Nice one Adam thanks mate! 😎👍👍
Really enjoyed this, thanks. Recent owner of the 70's LP tribute.
Cheers man! 😎👍
Great review, the Tribute and the 300 pounds or dollars sounded better to me. In the future 3 way comparison, perhaps you could add one more test. Swap the pick-ups in the Studio and the Tribute, to see if the extra weight really does make a difference. From your other reviews, it looks like they're just plug and play, no tools required. But I've never owned a guitar that advanced, so I don't know for sure.
Cheers man that’s a smart idea and as you say pretty simple… will think on that! 😎👍
I ended up buying a Tribute after your first video, I am very pleased!
Nice one Andy! 😎👍
Well, Colin, partly due to this excellent video review, and partly due to my complete lack of impulse control, I've just today (Feb 19 2024) aquired a 2019 Les Paul Tribute in Honeyburst. It is far and away better than the Epiphone '59 Outfit that I had a year back. It smells and feels like furniture with a woody organic quality. It's a keeper.