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What do you guys think of my dream guitar?? Edit: by the way, just to clarify, in the QC bit I show binding around the neck joint area. The neck joint seems to be fine, it's just that the finish doesn't seem to be perfectly scraped off the binding. That's why it looks a little wobbly but the actual wood and binding itself is fine. Just wanted to clarify. It's a cosmetic thing!
Dunno about feel and sound in hands of this LP, but my ESP Eclipse I CTM GVBK (2012) with gold pickups and binding looks as same gorgeous :) Congrats all the way!
So are you saying that money are worth for that Gibson?Is this one in tune?G string is working?So how much Gibson has to cost to have guitar which tune?
About 2 months ago I got my Gibson Alpine White Les Paul Custom and I absolutely love it. Ever since I first started playing and I saw pictures of Randy Rhoads playing one I've always wanted to get one. Best guitar I've ever played hands down.
It is such a special feeling to have a new guitar. Even purchasing a high end used one is exciting. Congratulations. I can only imagine what a new one like that costs. All I can say is I'm glad I bought mine new when I did. A 76 black custom in February of 77.
I just bought the Gibson USA Slash model in Appetite Burst. It really is spectacular, and the QC on the new Gibsons is so much better than just a couple of years ago. They have really upped there game...
@@rockerboy84they just don't maintain consistency. I prefer 87 to 89....but as expected, you're not gonna find a mint one. But boy, do they sound good....!
Excellent, congratulations...one of my top two favorite guitars, the standard and custom. I have a 2020 Epi version in Alpine White, totally kicks butt. Someday I will get a Gibson Custom.
Jon, finally someone who says that Weight matters, cause i too believe that heavey Guitars have a different Tone and Feel to it especially when you play heavey Music. I can remeber when i bought my Gibson lzzy Hale Explorer at Thomann, i got to choose from 2 Models and went with the heavier one.
I got mine a few weeks ago just before the latest price increase. It is better than I expected. The sound is great and I think that the instrument itself is a piece of art. I have a couple of other Les Pauls too, Tribute and Standard. The difference between Standard and Custom is similar than it is between Tribute and Standard. Custom is just better in many ways than my Standard at least. The price is crazy though.
Great video. I purchased my dream guitar, an Alpine White Les Paul Custom, a few weeks ago. Looks beautiful, the craftsmanship is outstanding, and it plays “like butter”. Expensive, but YOLO. 👍
Hands-down my favorite looking guitar from the moment I first saw one (more years ago than I care to admit). I've got one in an Epi, bought that same case for it, and am considering my next step with it after about 5 months of owning it. There are very few flaws on it, which makes the flaws on a $5k+ usd Custom harder to stomach. Anyway, if I upgrade mine, it's getting either an Antiquity set, or the Saturday Night Specials (more likely I think), a bone nut, and a new bridge. I think the Epi is maybe 7/10ths of a Gibson. If the upgrades don't get me to 9/10ths of the real deal, I'll swap the pickups into something else. In 2000 I went looking for a new Custom, but just couldn't find one that wasn't fatally flawed. So I ended up getting TWO PRS! both 10 tops. I still have the Singlecut and it's amazing (and flawless), but like you, for me it wasn't scratching my yearning for a Les Paul. Something in the secret sauce I guess. I find that Les Pauls have it in spades in the tone dept I scratched that itch with a new Standard (exactly like yours actually!) in 2019. I couldn't believe the quality! After about 2 1/2 years, I still haven't had to touch it, other than string changes. I chalk it up to the, then new, Gibson leadership and then re-commiting to building quality pieces. Last year, I got a new SG ('61 RI) I love that one too, though it isn't flawless like my Standard, I still love it. Resonant! Great vid!
I got bit by the Gibson LP bug bad over the last few months. I tried a new LP Classic 2x and was horrified by the lack of QC, 1st and 2nd one returned. Found a very beautiful used LP Classic from a shop in Japan and OMFG, I know they don't lie when it's said that Japan gets the best LP's. The top on this Classic, the playability, and most of all the price. Fell hard. I sold off my Epi's, Squier CV's, USA and MiM Teles, kept a few hard to replace guitars and yeah, it's bad LOL. I never used to like relics until I picked up a few unique limited LP's that are aged and worn. These are hands down my most favorite guitars to play. I'd suggest buying a LP Custom Shop Aged/Relic, not necessarily a Murphy Lab, those are stupid expensive. Check out Reverb and pretty much damned near anything from Japan. You will love it and not be too worried about a bump or 2 :D
I have a 81 les paul, built like a tank. It sounds so versatile from the lead pickup to the neck pickup. How in the hell do that.? One thing is the frets are jumbo.. The regular les paul has smaller frets. Noticed when I got my 2020 sg,so much lighter it's hard to believe. I AGREE WITH EVERY OBSERVATION YOU MADE. WELL DONE,THANKS. ALL GUITAR PLAYERS KNOW HOW IT IS to want to a guitar so bad they can't. Stand it!!!
Congratulations! I love seeing someone getting their dream guitar and being over the moon with it. I recently pulled the trigger on buying an '74 Les Paul Deluxe. Took me a long time to make the purchase and I was scared shitless 'cause I bought it online and you never know with an old lady like that. But it ended up being an absolute dream to play and it sound so fat, yet barky and agressive. Enjoy the new guitar and play the shit out of it!
Congratulations on the new guitar. It's beautiful and sounds great! Making peace with imperfections is just part of owning a Gibson I guess. What I struggle to understand is the price Gibson commands for imperfect craftsmanship when PRS, Music Man, Suhr, Tom Anderson, & many others have been producing "perfection" for 20+ years now......?
I own several new(2 years or less) Gibsons and find no flaws on any. In the past there were issues but those seem to have been cleared up. The other brands aren't perfect either, you'll find tiny flaws on anything if you look hard enough. Also those brands generally have simpler designs compared to a Les Paul Custom. But it seems to depend on where you buy it. Some sellers get first pick at guitars and cherry pick the flawless models. Either way, with any of them just get one that you like and you'll be more than happy. If not, they will hold their value for resale.
I agree. To me Gibson has scripted on fit, finish, and a cheap fretboard, but demand more money. For that kind of price, I demand perfection and will not settle for anything less. If they charge that money, I'm getting my money's worth.
Sykes actually used the Gibson Dirty Fingers in his LP. He's the most famous player I know of to use that pickup. Its all over Whitesnake's 1987 album.
I'll be honest John, i admire you for being so calm. Any guitar that is that expensive and comes with such glaring cosmetic flaws, would be sent back instantly by me. Hell, my cheaper instruments don't have these flaws, nor the handmade ones, nor the factory ones. I honestly think that when you pay such a high price, a minimum of quality control is in order and they obviously fail at that
It's all about what you personally want/expect from such an instrument. I just wanted it to play and sound good. I did email Thomann today to see if they would give me a little discount because of the tool marks but I'm good, very pleased with this instrument and I'm never going to sell it!
@@SonicDriveStudio ofcourse! Its just that for that money, i would feel disrespected by the company. Its a matter of principle. Outside of that, it has no bearing on playing or tone luckily.
Last month, I bought a new ____ Custom Shop guitar which arrived with 3 fleck-sized paint chips on the black Sperzel tuners. I wrote back and was told: known issue with those tuners, sorry. The battery cover plastic came very scuffed too. I reasoned I could just peel it off. I plan to use the guitar and keep it forever, but expected perfection at that price point. It was my first time buying a guitar from the supposed highest production tier. Imagining that the tech or QC guy just thought “Hm chipped paint oh well” made my patronage feel taken for granted. What’s one dissatisfied customer? If proper QC costs more, price it in. I didn’t make a flawed payment. Why should I accept a glaringly flawed product? It’s not petty - it’s what normal people expect of top tier products.
@@SonicDriveStudio that’s great news I’m 14 at the moment and just started playing guitar I think when I’m much better I’ll think about getting this type
Absolutely beautiful guitar and it even sounds better than it looks. I own an Epiphone Les Paul, in a very nice red color. No it is no Gibson, but absolutely has the character, and sounds great. What you said about the heavy woods I can totally agree on. I have this Ibanez 8 string (yes it is heavy already) and the body of that guitar is just stupid heavy, but sounds absolutely amazing. Has a very thunderus low end. Love it and I guess I was lucky with that wood.
I have always wanted one of these. What I want most of all is a 1981 model (my birth year). Cunning stunts is also what introduced me to the les Paul custom, but also Bjorn Gelotte and Matt Heafy from Ascendancy era Trivium. That neck binding issue would have been a deal breaker for me but after I started using it I would probably never notice it again. Congratulations man
I as well have a 2021 epiphone custom silverbusrt and I agree it's a great guitar...but the closest to a Gibson custom is my 2003 Epiphone elite series...sounds and feels in my opinion the closest to a Gibson Custom...but I my self want a Gibson custom and hope to get it one day..enjoy r 2020 they are well made
Very cool review. I know exactly how you feel about this guitar because it's my dream guitar as well. I love the sounds and style of your guitar playing. I agree with your comments about the craftsmanship and the minor imperfections. Let's face it, a Gibson Les Paul Custom is an instrument of rock and not your mother's precious coffee table. Keep your awesome reviews coming. Good job. Cheers Paul
The Les Paul Custom is the most beautiful guitar ever made. Black, white, doesn't matter. They are works of art. I've owned hundreds of guitars. A dozen of which are Gibson. But never a Custom.......yet
You can tell the new management team is enthusiastic about Gibson brands. THanks for mentioning the difference in fingerboard. Make s a difference when people involved in a company take pride in the their product. THat's why I always loved Orange and Marshall...the people seem to love the products and the company which makes you trust the brand
Awsome guitar! Unfortunately I did the same mistake three years ago and today I have bought new 2023 custom! I hope you to enjoy yours and never sell again!
I have 90s Gibson Les Paul standard and 2023 Gibson Les Paul custom. They both share the same pickups (i.e. electronics). The custom noticably has better clarity that you clearly hear every single note. The tone is much fuller and creamier with the custom. If you have the money I wouldn't bother with the standard and would go straight for the custom because then you'll never look back.
Oh man, that guitar is gorgeous but that intro at 0:39 sounds killer brutal... definitely you're my youtube hero regarding guitar tones. What about a video tutorial of the mixing insights for this one ? Please please !!
Jon if you are in a band or have a project let me know! I love your songwriting, it sounds so original. It's always great to see your reviews AND listen to your riffage.
I would agree if you are planning on putting it in glass on an alter and worship it. Me personally, I did more damage to my 57 Black Beauty (2002), in the first 20 minutes.
I have an LP Studio which is the cheapest LP, and one thing I find weird about the Custom is that it has the same knobs and pickups. You would expect Gibson to put something a bit more special on their most expensive guitar.
Man I love that you like the pickups. I’ve been touring on a crescent moon inlay SG faded with 490 series pickups and I really like them. There’s so much hate for gibby pickups and I don’t really get it
Congrats on the guitar. I've been a Les Paul fan my whole guitar playing life. For a Gibson, I currently only own a 2020 Honeyburst Les Paul Tribute, but I love it.
I got a 2022 alpine white custom... Neither did I get a truss rod adjustment tool or a cloth... I phoned up my dealer and they made it right. Really Gibson? 6k for a guitar and you won't even provide a adjustment tool or cleaning cloth like my $1700 Gibson sg special olive drab USA? Oh well it was set up near perfect. Some of the binding wasn't scraped all the way but other than that it's an amazing guitar
This will be my next guitar. I bought the Custom Shop 1959 M2M. The Gibson Custom Shop Les Paul guitars are a huge step up from the Gibson USA. I just bought a Friedman BE Deluxe 100 w/ the 4x12 and a Gibson Explorer 70s last weekend, so I'm tapped out for a few months.
Well that’s my dream guitar too because of the same players that inspired you too. I have a tobacco burst and goldtop too, those are my other dream guitars haha. I like these classic looks that don’t seem out of place traditional r’n’r and metal.
Oh man, what a nice guitar. You gotta scratch an itch or it will bother you forever ;) The Gibson Les Paul Custom gives me good memories of when I started guitar. At my high school we were offered free guitar courses which I participated in. We learned a few classic songs and two of them we were gonna perform at the end of the year in front of the school, students and teachers. My group played the rhythm guitar (on acoustic/western guitars) of Hotel California and a teacher (who was also a professional jazz guitar player) was gonna play the solo. I still remember the first time when he came for the rehearsals and brought in a guitar-shaped case and inside was my the holy grail of guitars, a real authentic black Gibson Les Paul Custom. It was definitely a cartoon-ish „choir from heaven“ moment. I was in awe of the beauty of the guitar and after the teacher played the solo flawlessly I was so amazed and was determined to switch to electric guitar. I was only 16 at that time and played guitar for some months. Now, almost double that age, I‘ll get my own holy grail for sure, I don‘t know when but I‘ll get one.
Why does Gibson get a free pass with QC? But other brands gets ridiculed lol, it's just baffling with that type of money, the guitar should be pretty near flawless, thanks for the video 🤘
Give me 20 minutes with any guitar from any brand and I can find a flaw, especially with hand built guitars. I was at work and Jim DeCola pulled out a real 1959 ES 345 and the string spacing on the nut was completely off (original factory nut), and that's a guitar that's selling for 10's of thousands lol People spend the extra dough because of the name recognition
@@jacobmcvay123 Like i've said, give me 20 minutes with a guitar, from any brand, and I will find flaws. They're also built completely differently, because it's a bolt on. Most flaws are in the finish process, for almost every brand. A set neck or neck through construction will have more flaws that turn up in the QC station, because the guitar has to be painted all at once, versus the body/neck being painted separately. Gibson's problem is that the folks in charge think that painting cars on an assembly line translates well to painting nitro on guitars. It simply doesn't. They'll learn........ eventually.
Dude that guitar and ENGL Amp combo sounded unreal. Even just listening thru my phone! Gonna listen again thru headphones cuz that was siiiiick. Love the LP customs but for some reason I absolutely despise those "speed knobs". Black n gold is gorgeous but really tough to keep it looking new. Worth it though I think. So beautiful 😍
I played a bunch of Gibson Custom Shop guitars recently at a major guitar chain here in Canada, some close to 10k CAD, and Gibson doesn't make them like they used to...sadly. I am keeping all of my older guitars for sure. And for the money they charge today, the instruments should be constructed better, so details should matter.
Beautiful guitar!!! 🔥🔥🔥 Thanks too, for turning me on to the Wangs #2204. The amp is a monster nd I can get tones all across the spectrum from 80’s hair metal to John Mayer tones… Best! ✌🏼
Retired musician here. Sold off lots of my gear except my 71 LP Custom ( blame Slash for me always wanted a LP ) and 1st batch of Yamaha CPX - 900 acoustic ( no on board tuner )
I did the same thing! Sold my first LP Custom Black Beauty (to buy a cherry sunburst R9 LP which I adore) but began missing that Black Beauty right away. It took me one year to find another another Black Beauty and bought it new - this time a VOS R7. That was just 3 months ago. The specifications are a bit different on this newer Black Beauty. Lower output Custombucker PUs instead of the 498R/490T PUs and VOS finish is not as sparkling as yours. Most important difference is the neck. My old Black Beauty had a nicely substantial neck that suited me better than this thinner R7 neck. Anybody reading this - DO NOT FEEL JEALOUS!!! I don't really own this new R7. i bought this Black Beauty R7 entirely on credit and I'll be paying it off for some time into the future. Nonetheless I am happy with what I got, minus the neck up near the 12th fret though which is not such a big regret for me. I often wonder where this guitar will go after me. I hope that all future owners (I have 4 LPs and some other choice guitars) take care of this R7 and the others and play them regularly. Not that I plan to sell the R7, I just know it will outlast me and possibly go on for centuries. Why not?! p.s. YOUR ENGLISH IS THE BEST. You made not a single grammatical mistake! You speak better than the native speakers I know, many of them posessing graduate school education.
Its gorgeous. I had a LP CS with a ritchlite board. The guitar overall was really good but the thought of the ritchlite board bugged me. So I ended up selling it and bought a Mayones instead. Congratulations on the new baby.
Beautiful guitar 👍🏻👍🏻 I’m in 🇨🇦 and a new black custom is $6200, with tax=$6944. $ 6800 for a white one= $7600….just insane. I believe you get what you pay for and all, but how can I justify this price as a regular Joe and intermediate at best player?
Edit: I bought this guitar last week. 2022 and it gets delivered today. I’m so excited. I went with Ebony too. Afraid of scratches, but I love the ebony more than white. I would love to own this guitar. I’d probably chicken out and get it in white though (scratches).
the prices have indeed gone up... but despite getting two PRS's which I love from Private Stock, I still wanted the Custom Les Paul.. so what did I just do? I picked up a $10K+ 5A single piece top custom... although I must confess, I wish I'd gotten a black one like yours.
As where having a quality guitar is a small part of the equation Obviously dude you really know how to play guitar and that is the real answer your playing is great .
So badass, man! Cantrell has always been a Les Paul Custom user too. And with yours being tuned down to a half step down, we gotta hear that thing through the JJ!
That's a sweet custom. I was just looking at a 60s Les Paul standard in iced tea as well! I bought a Mesa Mark V 35 and cab instead. Wasn't an easy decision.
I’d love to own a Gibson LPC but it’s out of my price range but I did buy a Orville LPC 75 in wine red for 800 before Covid and I don’t feel like I need another guitar it’s that great
Congrats Jon !! Once we start with these great guitars and tube amps ….oh boy….. another virus hitting us 😀 Sounds killer dude no matter what you play and whatever gear you use !
5:10 I wish every youtube talking about products advise if it is sponsored or not, like you did here. 6:00 this part where you talk about ur feelings when looking and touching amd smelling it for the first time is very important, it adds a much more human and less commercial factor to the video.
Congrats Jon, she’s a beaut! I can put up with a lot of said “defects” as long as the guitar stays in tune and intonates properly :) I’m off to check out that new Kraken \m/
Congrats. I lucked into a smoking deal on an Alpine White in August of last year and a couple weeks later, the price went to $5499! I paid $4200 for mine. The reason your new one has the medallion and the old one didn’t may be because they didn’t always make the Custom in the Custom Shop. That is relatively recent (late 2003/early 2004). Before that, they were made beside the USA’s. Some people like to save that medallion so they put the extra plastic one on and preserve the special one. Hope you’re still rocking it. The 2022’s have an anniversary medallion! Lucky bastards! Lol. No the tool does not come with Customs. Why? F’d if I know. Lol. Like you, I have some. I have 4 Les Pauls and other Gibsons, so the most expensive one didn’t include a tool! I have the Music Nomad adjustment kit, so I have every truss rod adjustment tool you could need.
Beautiful and sounds huge! It's also my dream guitar and luckily I could get one. Life can go by unpredictable directions, but from my guitars, it's the only one I'm convicted not to sell it.
Such beautiful guitars. I've got a '77Custom in the antique white which has acquired a yeIIowish goId patina and is beautiful. Furthermore it just sounds good at almost 12 pounds. Always wanted a ebony one though. The 68 custom reissue in VOS sure is a fine instrument, perhaps my next.
Your color preferance for LP is mimicking my own. I also like black LP custom and ice tea burst LP standards 60. Back when I don't know anything about electric guitar, I always like the look a black les paul compared to other color. The one that I really like has split diamond inlay on the headstock. Years later I know it is a les paul custom. When I see the photo of black les paul standard, I don't feel it has the same beauty as the custom. After I learn more and more about electric guitar, I know there is a silverburst version of LP custom. I thought it's even more beautiful than the black one. Before you call me an Adam Jones fan boy, I must say I like and respect Tool, but Adam isn't my favorite guitarist. I like silverburst even before I realize Adam uses it. In my current mind, if I buy a les paul, a silverburst LP custom will be my first choice. I will be happy owning just ONE les paul, if it's a silverburst. For black LP style guitar, there are so many choice. Currently I prefer ESP eclipse. It's thin body, comfortable heel joint, and my preference toward ESP are the main reason. Jackson MF-1 is also nice and has more aggressive looking.
Man awesome!! Haha that's always been my problem with spending over $1500 because I play them... They get dings and knocks. Hell my studio Les Paul from 1996 is about the most worn thing you'd ever see. But it's great to have something you love so much! Keep up the great work!! 🤘
The only guitar over ever regretted selling was my custom shop R7 Gold top. I’ve recently acquired a new one as well, and I’m not selling it this time.
Love it man!! I’m after one of those next, I have the 60s standard and it’s also a beautiful instrument seems like the frets on my Gibsons hold up to a lot my first Les Paul was a 2019 classic cherry burst I still play it a lot I sold three of my other guitars to get that standard 60s model so now I’ve got two Les Pauls so far. Yeah you’re right man I love the fact that these instruments still get a lot of hands on treatment by human beings how they do the binding and everything a lot goes into the Gibson stuff and it makes me want more lol.
Hey John!!! I can believe the finest details fo the binding....Is the most expensive guitar of Gison and really, this is no acceptable....but well Gibson is Gibson...
WTF I saw the old pics and only now I realized you were in Intwine once! That band (or the music at least) was awesome man. You were a part of my first ‘metal’(-ish) gig I went to! :) Oh right, that guitar is also beautiful!
Beautiful 🔥🖤🔥 sounds phat man! Great vid, thanks. Shame for the imperfections but they are hand made & none of us are perfect, we’re unique.... I dream of owning your me of these!
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Well, I´m so lucky to own a LP Custom Black Beauty from 1976, and I will never sell it for sure. Have fun with your guitar :-)
Les Paul Custom, the KING of electric guitars, congrats!
What do you guys think of my dream guitar?? Edit: by the way, just to clarify, in the QC bit I show binding around the neck joint area. The neck joint seems to be fine, it's just that the finish doesn't seem to be perfectly scraped off the binding. That's why it looks a little wobbly but the actual wood and binding itself is fine. Just wanted to clarify. It's a cosmetic thing!
Dunno about feel and sound in hands of this LP, but my ESP Eclipse I CTM GVBK (2012) with gold pickups and binding looks as same gorgeous :) Congrats all the way!
What I call a ‘Black beauty’. As Always Great playing and sound, Jon. Have fun with your new ‘toy’. 😉✌️
So are you saying that money are worth for that Gibson?Is this one in tune?G string is working?So how much Gibson has to cost to have guitar which tune?
It’s super awesome, if I had one I’d be afraid to scratch it 😆
The ultimate chug machine.
About 2 months ago I got my Gibson Alpine White Les Paul Custom and I absolutely love it. Ever since I first started playing and I saw pictures of Randy Rhoads playing one I've always wanted to get one. Best guitar I've ever played hands down.
It is such a special feeling to have a new guitar. Even purchasing a high end used one is exciting. Congratulations. I can only imagine what a new one like that costs. All I can say is I'm glad I bought mine new when I did. A 76 black custom in February of 77.
I just bought the Gibson USA Slash model in Appetite Burst. It really is spectacular, and the QC on the new Gibsons is so much better than just a couple of years ago. They have really upped there game...
That’s means a lot thank you Jon!I work at the factory and I work specifically in final assembly!
I honestly see the same QC issues that Gibson had five years ago...
*their* not there😬👍
@@rockerboy84they just don't maintain consistency. I prefer 87 to 89....but as expected, you're not gonna find a mint one. But boy, do they sound good....!
Love my 2021 Anaconda too
I’m thinking of buying this after watching Bocchi the Rock play on this exact same guitar!
Chad
CHECK OUT SCHECTER SOLO II BLACK IN BLACK
Me too dude!!!
Excellent, congratulations...one of my top two favorite guitars, the standard and custom. I have a 2020 Epi version in Alpine White, totally kicks butt. Someday I will get a Gibson Custom.
Jon, finally someone who says that Weight matters, cause i too believe that heavey Guitars have a different Tone and Feel to it especially when you play heavey Music.
I can remeber when i bought my Gibson lzzy Hale Explorer at Thomann, i got to choose from 2 Models and went with the heavier one.
I got mine a few weeks ago just before the latest price increase. It is better than I expected. The sound is great and I think that the instrument itself is a piece of art. I have a couple of other Les Pauls too, Tribute and Standard. The difference between Standard and Custom is similar than it is between Tribute and Standard. Custom is just better in many ways than my Standard at least. The price is crazy though.
'She's a real beauty Clark.'
One of the two holy grail guitars for me. Exact same color and hardware as well. Congrats man.
Great video. I purchased my dream guitar, an Alpine White Les Paul Custom, a few weeks ago. Looks beautiful, the craftsmanship is outstanding, and it plays “like butter”. Expensive, but YOLO. 👍
Hands-down my favorite looking guitar from the moment I first saw one (more years ago than I care to admit). I've got one in an Epi, bought that same case for it, and am considering my next step with it after about 5 months of owning it. There are very few flaws on it, which makes the flaws on a $5k+ usd Custom harder to stomach. Anyway, if I upgrade mine, it's getting either an Antiquity set, or the Saturday Night Specials (more likely I think), a bone nut, and a new bridge. I think the Epi is maybe 7/10ths of a Gibson. If the upgrades don't get me to 9/10ths of the real deal, I'll swap the pickups into something else.
In 2000 I went looking for a new Custom, but just couldn't find one that wasn't fatally flawed. So I ended up getting TWO PRS! both 10 tops. I still have the Singlecut and it's amazing (and flawless), but like you, for me it wasn't scratching my yearning for a Les Paul. Something in the secret sauce I guess. I find that Les Pauls have it in spades in the tone dept
I scratched that itch with a new Standard (exactly like yours actually!) in 2019. I couldn't believe the quality! After about 2 1/2 years, I still haven't had to touch it, other than string changes. I chalk it up to the, then new, Gibson leadership and then re-commiting to building quality pieces.
Last year, I got a new SG ('61 RI) I love that one too, though it isn't flawless like my Standard, I still love it. Resonant!
Great vid!
I got bit by the Gibson LP bug bad over the last few months. I tried a new LP Classic 2x and was horrified by the lack of QC, 1st and 2nd one returned. Found a very beautiful used LP Classic from a shop in Japan and OMFG, I know they don't lie when it's said that Japan gets the best LP's. The top on this Classic, the playability, and most of all the price. Fell hard.
I sold off my Epi's, Squier CV's, USA and MiM Teles, kept a few hard to replace guitars and yeah, it's bad LOL. I never used to like relics until I picked up a few unique limited LP's that are aged and worn. These are hands down my most favorite guitars to play.
I'd suggest buying a LP Custom Shop Aged/Relic, not necessarily a Murphy Lab, those are stupid expensive. Check out Reverb and pretty much damned near anything from Japan. You will love it and not be too worried about a bump or 2 :D
I have a 81 les paul, built like a tank. It sounds so versatile from the lead pickup to the neck pickup. How in the hell do that.? One thing is the frets are jumbo.. The regular les paul has smaller frets. Noticed when I got my 2020 sg,so much lighter it's hard to believe. I AGREE WITH EVERY OBSERVATION YOU MADE. WELL DONE,THANKS. ALL GUITAR PLAYERS KNOW HOW IT IS to want to a guitar so bad they can't. Stand it!!!
A good custom always makes me smile. Enjoy that beast for years to come!
Congratulations! I love seeing someone getting their dream guitar and being over the moon with it. I recently pulled the trigger on buying an '74 Les Paul Deluxe. Took me a long time to make the purchase and I was scared shitless 'cause I bought it online and you never know with an old lady like that. But it ended up being an absolute dream to play and it sound so fat, yet barky and agressive. Enjoy the new guitar and play the shit out of it!
Congratulations on the new guitar. It's beautiful and sounds great! Making peace with imperfections is just part of owning a Gibson I guess. What I struggle to understand is the price Gibson commands for imperfect craftsmanship when PRS, Music Man, Suhr, Tom Anderson, & many others have been producing "perfection" for 20+ years now......?
I own several new(2 years or less) Gibsons and find no flaws on any. In the past there were issues but those seem to have been cleared up. The other brands aren't perfect either, you'll find tiny flaws on anything if you look hard enough. Also those brands generally have simpler designs compared to a Les Paul Custom. But it seems to depend on where you buy it. Some sellers get first pick at guitars and cherry pick the flawless models. Either way, with any of them just get one that you like and you'll be more than happy. If not, they will hold their value for resale.
I agree. To me Gibson has scripted on fit, finish, and a cheap fretboard, but demand more money. For that kind of price, I demand perfection and will not settle for anything less. If they charge that money, I'm getting my money's worth.
Ive been falling deeply in love with my new Randy Rhodes Custom it just feels& plays perfect in every way
I’ve wanted a Les Paul Custom ever since I saw John Sykes playing one. His black Custom with chrome hardware and Duncan Distortions is just too cool.
Dude I agree, he is one of the reasons I want a les paul custom, he is a truly a guitar god.
Sykes actually used the Gibson Dirty Fingers in his LP. He's the most famous player I know of to use that pickup. Its all over Whitesnake's 1987 album.
I'll be honest John, i admire you for being so calm. Any guitar that is that expensive and comes with such glaring cosmetic flaws, would be sent back instantly by me.
Hell, my cheaper instruments don't have these flaws, nor the handmade ones, nor the factory ones. I honestly think that when you pay such a high price, a minimum of quality control is in order and they obviously fail at that
It's all about what you personally want/expect from such an instrument. I just wanted it to play and sound good. I did email Thomann today to see if they would give me a little discount because of the tool marks but I'm good, very pleased with this instrument and I'm never going to sell it!
@@SonicDriveStudio ofcourse! Its just that for that money, i would feel disrespected by the company. Its a matter of principle. Outside of that, it has no bearing on playing or tone luckily.
Have you ever watched how the binding is scraped by hand? Honestly a clown comment.
Last month, I bought a new ____ Custom Shop guitar which arrived with 3 fleck-sized paint chips on the black Sperzel tuners. I wrote back and was told: known issue with those tuners, sorry. The battery cover plastic came very scuffed too. I reasoned I could just peel it off.
I plan to use the guitar and keep it forever, but expected perfection at that price point. It was my first time buying a guitar from the supposed highest production tier. Imagining that the tech or QC guy just thought “Hm chipped paint oh well” made my patronage feel taken for granted. What’s one dissatisfied customer?
If proper QC costs more, price it in. I didn’t make a flawed payment. Why should I accept a glaringly flawed product? It’s not petty - it’s what normal people expect of top tier products.
@@SonicDriveStudio that’s great news I’m 14 at the moment and just started playing guitar I think when I’m much better I’ll think about getting this type
Bocchi's Guitar!
Absolutely beautiful guitar and it even sounds better than it looks. I own an Epiphone Les Paul, in a very nice red color. No it is no Gibson, but absolutely has the character, and sounds great. What you said about the heavy woods I can totally agree on. I have this Ibanez 8 string (yes it is heavy already) and the body of that guitar is just stupid heavy, but sounds absolutely amazing. Has a very thunderus low end. Love it and I guess I was lucky with that wood.
I have always wanted one of these. What I want most of all is a 1981 model (my birth year). Cunning stunts is also what introduced me to the les Paul custom, but also Bjorn Gelotte and Matt Heafy from Ascendancy era Trivium.
That neck binding issue would have been a deal breaker for me but after I started using it I would probably never notice it again. Congratulations man
The binding isn't really an issue. The only thing I would consider an issue is the tool marks on the fret and I've sent Thomann an email about that
Amazing guitar. I have the Epiphone 2020 version and its easily my favorite guitar to play just about any style of music
That epiphone's probably the better way to go.
@@jorgea.9988 I figure if someone wanted to do some upgrades it could kill a Gibson
I as well have a 2021 epiphone custom silverbusrt and I agree it's a great guitar...but the closest to a Gibson custom is my 2003 Epiphone elite series...sounds and feels in my opinion the closest to a Gibson Custom...but I my self want a Gibson custom and hope to get it one day..enjoy r 2020 they are well made
@@leonsparta, Yes, the Epiphone Elite Les Paul’s are on the exact same level as Gibson‘s historic shop.
Very cool review. I know exactly how you feel about this guitar because it's my dream guitar as well. I love the sounds and style of your guitar playing. I agree with your comments about the craftsmanship and the minor imperfections. Let's face it, a Gibson Les Paul Custom is an instrument of rock and not your mother's precious coffee table. Keep your awesome reviews coming. Good job. Cheers
Paul
The Les Paul Custom is the most beautiful guitar ever made. Black, white, doesn't matter. They are works of art. I've owned hundreds of guitars. A dozen of which are Gibson. But never a Custom.......yet
The headstocks on those are so gorgeous
You can tell the new management team is enthusiastic about Gibson brands. THanks for mentioning the difference in fingerboard. Make s a difference when people involved in a company take pride in the their product. THat's why I always loved Orange and Marshall...the people seem to love the products and the company which makes you trust the brand
They seem to be doing a great job!
Awsome guitar! Unfortunately I did the same mistake three years ago and today I have bought new 2023 custom! I hope you to enjoy yours and never sell again!
I have 90s Gibson Les Paul standard and 2023 Gibson Les Paul custom. They both share the same pickups (i.e. electronics). The custom noticably has better clarity that you clearly hear every single note. The tone is much fuller and creamier with the custom. If you have the money I wouldn't bother with the standard and would go straight for the custom because then you'll never look back.
I've never seen a brand new Black Beauty. It's so clean and shiny...
That is spectacular. Not that it needed it but I was sold as of the first riff. Can't wait to see it/hear it more in future videos!
Oh man, that guitar is gorgeous but that intro at 0:39 sounds killer brutal... definitely you're my youtube hero regarding guitar tones. What about a video tutorial of the mixing insights for this one ? Please please !!
The guitar looks beautiful. Very expensive, but I get the sentimental value it holds for you. Have fun playing that beast!
Jon if you are in a band or have a project let me know! I love your songwriting, it sounds so original. It's always great to see your reviews AND listen to your riffage.
New studio project coming soon!
If you're spending over 4000$ on a guitar,then these kinds of flaws are unacceptable
I would agree if you are planning on putting it in glass on an alter and worship it.
Me personally, I did more damage to my 57 Black Beauty (2002), in the first 20 minutes.
Wrong
If you don't like flaws you better stay away from vintage guitars and they cost more
I just recently got a well worn 2002 ‘57 Les Paul Custom. Love it! Just had WolfeTones and a Les Trem put in.
Happy for you John.... 🥳
Thanks for the tiny details as well, this chanel is the besttt 🤘
Whoa, Gibson delivers the whole aesthetic style and you the tone. Great combination.
That’s the most beautiful guitar I’ve ever seen.
I have an LP Studio which is the cheapest LP, and one thing I find weird about the Custom is that it has the same knobs and pickups. You would expect Gibson to put something a bit more special on their most expensive guitar.
Dude I also have an LP Custom (2004 wine red) and the moment I heard that first riff I had to play it. Very good review! I love mine!
Man I love that you like the pickups. I’ve been touring on a crescent moon inlay SG faded with 490 series pickups and I really like them. There’s so much hate for gibby pickups and I don’t really get it
Congrats on the guitar. I've been a Les Paul fan my whole guitar playing life. For a Gibson, I currently only own a 2020 Honeyburst Les Paul Tribute, but I love it.
I got a 2022 alpine white custom... Neither did I get a truss rod adjustment tool or a cloth... I phoned up my dealer and they made it right. Really Gibson? 6k for a guitar and you won't even provide a adjustment tool or cleaning cloth like my $1700 Gibson sg special olive drab USA? Oh well it was set up near perfect. Some of the binding wasn't scraped all the way but other than that it's an amazing guitar
7:43 Ah, that's the proof of genuine Gibson!
This will be my next guitar. I bought the Custom Shop 1959 M2M. The Gibson Custom Shop Les Paul guitars are a huge step up from the Gibson USA. I just bought a Friedman BE Deluxe 100 w/ the 4x12 and a Gibson Explorer 70s last weekend, so I'm tapped out for a few months.
Well that’s my dream guitar too because of the same players that inspired you too. I have a tobacco burst and goldtop too, those are my other dream guitars haha. I like these classic looks that don’t seem out of place traditional r’n’r and metal.
I actually prefer the richlite. It’s more stable than ebony. Ebony is super cool though.
Oh man, what a nice guitar. You gotta scratch an itch or it will bother you forever ;)
The Gibson Les Paul Custom gives me good memories of when I started guitar. At my high school we were offered free guitar courses which I participated in. We learned a few classic songs and two of them we were gonna perform at the end of the year in front of the school, students and teachers. My group played the rhythm guitar (on acoustic/western guitars) of Hotel California and a teacher (who was also a professional jazz guitar player) was gonna play the solo. I still remember the first time when he came for the rehearsals and brought in a guitar-shaped case and inside was my the holy grail of guitars, a real authentic black Gibson Les Paul Custom. It was definitely a cartoon-ish „choir from heaven“ moment. I was in awe of the beauty of the guitar and after the teacher played the solo flawlessly I was so amazed and was determined to switch to electric guitar. I was only 16 at that time and played guitar for some months. Now, almost double that age, I‘ll get my own holy grail for sure, I don‘t know when but I‘ll get one.
This is my dream guitar too and i hope i get one soon!!! Great demo as always!!! Keep up the good work!!!
I bought one of these off the Gibson demo shop. Totally love it
Why does Gibson get a free pass with QC? But other brands gets ridiculed lol, it's just baffling with that type of money, the guitar should be pretty near flawless, thanks for the video 🤘
Give me 20 minutes with any guitar from any brand and I can find a flaw, especially with hand built guitars. I was at work and Jim DeCola pulled out a real 1959 ES 345 and the string spacing on the nut was completely off (original factory nut), and that's a guitar that's selling for 10's of thousands lol
People spend the extra dough because of the name recognition
@@void870 idk I’ve seen 5-6 2012 Fender American Deluxes in person, and literally all have been flawless. Must’ve been a good year.
@@jacobmcvay123 Like i've said, give me 20 minutes with a guitar, from any brand, and I will find flaws. They're also built completely differently, because it's a bolt on. Most flaws are in the finish process, for almost every brand. A set neck or neck through construction will have more flaws that turn up in the QC station, because the guitar has to be painted all at once, versus the body/neck being painted separately.
Gibson's problem is that the folks in charge think that painting cars on an assembly line translates well to painting nitro on guitars. It simply doesn't. They'll learn........ eventually.
Dude that guitar and ENGL Amp combo sounded unreal. Even just listening thru my phone!
Gonna listen again thru headphones cuz that was siiiiick.
Love the LP customs but for some reason I absolutely despise those "speed knobs". Black n gold is gorgeous but really tough to keep it looking new. Worth it though I think. So beautiful 😍
I played a bunch of Gibson Custom Shop guitars recently at a major guitar chain here in Canada, some close to 10k CAD, and Gibson doesn't make them like they used to...sadly. I am keeping all of my older guitars for sure. And for the money they charge today, the instruments should be constructed better, so details should matter.
hows the neck? Thomann says its "custom c" which doesn't say anything to me. I prefer slim necks, so how is it compared to a Stratocaster for example?
That's a very gorgeous guitar
Beautiful guitar!!! 🔥🔥🔥
Thanks too, for turning me on to the Wangs #2204. The amp is a monster nd I can get tones all across the spectrum from 80’s hair metal to John Mayer tones…
Best! ✌🏼
it looks amazing, i never thought my balance can go that far into the negatives
Retired musician here. Sold off lots of my gear except my 71 LP Custom ( blame Slash for me always wanted a LP ) and 1st batch of Yamaha CPX - 900 acoustic ( no on board tuner )
I did the same thing! Sold my first LP Custom Black Beauty (to buy a cherry sunburst R9 LP which I adore) but began missing that Black Beauty right away. It took me one year to find another another Black Beauty and bought it new - this time a VOS R7. That was just 3 months ago. The specifications are a bit different on this newer Black Beauty. Lower output Custombucker PUs instead of the 498R/490T PUs and VOS finish is not as sparkling as yours. Most important difference is the neck. My old Black Beauty had a nicely substantial neck that suited me better than this thinner R7 neck. Anybody reading this - DO NOT FEEL JEALOUS!!! I don't really own this new R7. i bought this Black Beauty R7 entirely on credit and I'll be paying it off for some time into the future. Nonetheless I am happy with what I got, minus the neck up near the 12th fret though which is not such a big regret for me. I often wonder where this guitar will go after me. I hope that all future owners (I have 4 LPs and some other choice guitars) take care of this R7 and the others and play them regularly. Not that I plan to sell the R7, I just know it will outlast me and possibly go on for centuries. Why not?! p.s. YOUR ENGLISH IS THE BEST. You made not a single grammatical mistake! You speak better than the native speakers I know, many of them posessing graduate school education.
Its gorgeous. I had a LP CS with a ritchlite board. The guitar overall was really good but the thought of the ritchlite board bugged me. So I ended up selling it and bought a Mayones instead. Congratulations on the new baby.
Beautiful guitar 👍🏻👍🏻 I’m in 🇨🇦 and a new black custom is $6200, with tax=$6944. $ 6800 for a white one= $7600….just insane.
I believe you get what you pay for and all, but how can I justify this price as a regular Joe and intermediate at best player?
Have you tried being a doctor, dentist or lawyer?
My dream guitar is the white version of this. Love the tones!
Congratulations customs are the best for me too
,I love mine
Edit: I bought this guitar last week. 2022 and it gets delivered today. I’m so excited. I went with Ebony too. Afraid of scratches, but I love the ebony more than white.
I would love to own this guitar. I’d probably chicken out and get it in white though (scratches).
This video made very happy for you, congrats!
Beautiful sound and beautiful looks too!! My dream guitar too buddy. Awesome!!!
Thanks man
Great video! My 2003 Les Paul Custom is such a workhorse. Here's hoping this one is that for you!
Any flaws at all on a 4k guitar is unacceptable to me personally if an Edwards custom costs a fraction of that and is near perfect in all regards.
the prices have indeed gone up... but despite getting two PRS's which I love from Private Stock, I still wanted the Custom Les Paul.. so what did I just do? I picked up a $10K+ 5A single piece top custom... although I must confess, I wish I'd gotten a black one like yours.
非常喜欢博主的测评视频！也非常喜欢GIBSON的这把琴，期待博主在这之后的所有有关LP CUSTOM的视频！感谢！
Thanks so much for this test 🙏🏽, Really good job, you helped me with my decision Man 👌🤘, continu 🔥
As where having a quality guitar is a small part of the equation Obviously dude you really know how to play guitar and that is the real answer your playing is great .
Too bad I can’t reply with a photo of my 60’s les paul in iced tea! It’s really a stunning guitar and not a cosmetic flaw anywhere! Nice choice.
So badass, man! Cantrell has always been a Les Paul Custom user too. And with yours being tuned down to a half step down, we gotta hear that thing through the JJ!
Thanks! I want to try this guitar through ALL my amps!
Wow, you look so happy 😄 Congrats on the amazing new guitar!
Haha thanks! I'm definitely very happy!
That's a sweet custom. I was just looking at a 60s Les Paul standard in iced tea as well! I bought a Mesa Mark V 35 and cab instead. Wasn't an easy decision.
I’d love to own a Gibson LPC but it’s out of my price range but I did buy a Orville LPC 75 in wine red for 800 before Covid and I don’t feel like I need another guitar it’s that great
Congrats, that really is a beauty. I've always like the look of a black Les Paul with gold hardware. Most importantly, It has great tones. 😎
Congrats Jon !! Once we start with these great guitars and tube amps ….oh boy….. another virus hitting us 😀
Sounds killer dude no matter what you play and whatever gear you use !
Thanks mate!
5:10 I wish every youtube talking about products advise if it is sponsored or not, like you did here.
6:00 this part where you talk about ur feelings when looking and touching amd smelling it for the first time is very important, it adds a much more human and less commercial factor to the video.
Congrats Jon, she’s a beaut! I can put up with a lot of said “defects” as long as the guitar stays in tune and intonates properly :) I’m off to check out that new Kraken \m/
Congrats. I lucked into a smoking deal on an Alpine White in August of last year and a couple weeks later, the price went to $5499! I paid $4200 for mine. The reason your new one has the medallion and the old one didn’t may be because they didn’t always make the Custom in the Custom Shop. That is relatively recent (late 2003/early 2004). Before that, they were made beside the USA’s. Some people like to save that medallion so they put the extra plastic one on and preserve the special one. Hope you’re still rocking it. The 2022’s have an anniversary medallion! Lucky bastards! Lol. No the tool does not come with Customs. Why? F’d if I know. Lol. Like you, I have some. I have 4 Les Pauls and other Gibsons, so the most expensive one didn’t include a tool! I have the Music Nomad adjustment kit, so I have every truss rod adjustment tool you could need.
Awesome gat. I've got one in wine red and love it. Sounds great with my Mark V especially on edge mode. Love your vids man
Congrats!! 🎉 Can't go wrong with Black and Gold. 👊😎
Beautiful and sounds huge!
It's also my dream guitar and luckily I could get one. Life can go by unpredictable directions, but from my guitars, it's the only one I'm convicted not to sell it.
Wow! Eye poppingly nice . Oooooh. Congrats on your dream guitar. Nice ! Thanks for posting . yeah from mtw in L.A.
Such beautiful guitars. I've got a '77Custom in the antique white which has acquired a yeIIowish goId patina and is beautiful. Furthermore it just sounds good at almost 12 pounds. Always wanted a ebony one though. The 68 custom reissue in VOS sure is a fine instrument, perhaps my next.
My dream guitar too, I hope to own it one day
Congrats! Excellent choice. Beautiful guitar and sounds great!
Great sounds and playing as usual. The guitars is of course awesome.
Your color preferance for LP is mimicking my own. I also like black LP custom and ice tea burst LP standards 60.
Back when I don't know anything about electric guitar, I always like the look a black les paul compared to other color. The one that I really like has split diamond inlay on the headstock. Years later I know it is a les paul custom. When I see the photo of black les paul standard, I don't feel it has the same beauty as the custom. After I learn more and more about electric guitar, I know there is a silverburst version of LP custom. I thought it's even more beautiful than the black one. Before you call me an Adam Jones fan boy, I must say I like and respect Tool, but Adam isn't my favorite guitarist. I like silverburst even before I realize Adam uses it.
In my current mind, if I buy a les paul, a silverburst LP custom will be my first choice. I will be happy owning just ONE les paul, if it's a silverburst. For black LP style guitar, there are so many choice. Currently I prefer ESP eclipse. It's thin body, comfortable heel joint, and my preference toward ESP are the main reason. Jackson MF-1 is also nice and has more aggressive looking.
I love Adam and Tool but I got my thirst for Silverburst from the boys in Mastodon
Man awesome!! Haha that's always been my problem with spending over $1500 because I play them... They get dings and knocks. Hell my studio Les Paul from 1996 is about the most worn thing you'd ever see.
But it's great to have something you love so much! Keep up the great work!! 🤘
The only guitar over ever regretted selling was my custom shop R7 Gold top. I’ve recently acquired a new one as well, and I’m not selling it this time.
Love it man!! I’m after one of those next, I have the 60s standard and it’s also a beautiful instrument seems like the frets on my Gibsons hold up to a lot my first Les Paul was a 2019 classic cherry burst I still play it a lot I sold three of my other guitars to get that standard 60s model so now I’ve got two Les Pauls so far. Yeah you’re right man I love the fact that these instruments still get a lot of hands on treatment by human beings how they do the binding and everything a lot goes into the Gibson stuff and it makes me want more lol.
Absolute beauty! Great riffs and tones, man. Subbed.
You’ll love the standard 60’s: I just got one and it’s beautiful.
Thanks! Released my review of the stabdard 60s today!
@@SonicDriveStudio very cool, I'll check it out!
Hey John!!! I can believe the finest details fo the binding....Is the most expensive guitar of Gison and really, this is no acceptable....but well Gibson is Gibson...
WTF I saw the old pics and only now I realized you were in Intwine once! That band (or the music at least) was awesome man. You were a part of my first ‘metal’(-ish) gig I went to! :)
Oh right, that guitar is also beautiful!
Also, why are you buying all MY dream guitars?! That 60’s LP is amazing as well!
Beautiful 🔥🖤🔥 sounds phat man! Great vid, thanks. Shame for the imperfections but they are hand made & none of us are perfect, we’re unique.... I dream of owning your me of these!
absolutely gorgeous and sounds mint..congrats