Hi Robert - I do like Les Pauls and SG's and due to pricing I bout Epiphones. Now, I won't buy Epiphones as they are made in China and China is a current enemy of ours and we are at a cold war with them that noone is really talking about, so I do not want to give my money to the Chinese Government. I would love to have a real Gibson Les Paul but even used they really aren't affordable. I can get 3 to 5 used Fenders or Squiers and then upgrade them all to play and sound just as nice as 1 used Gibson Les Paul and yet have far more tonal options. I do agree with you on guitar heroes, but all of my guitar heroes that had played Gibsons all switched to Fender Strats overtime except for Peter Frampton. These heroes certainly could have afforded to continue buying Les Pauls had they wanted. For clarity, some of my heros used both Gibsons and Fenders Jimmy Page for example, but most of my heroes switched to Fenders.
I love the current used prices I just picked up a lp tribute, 850$ what a great value, and there are actual American strat standards all over for under a thousand, so it’s fantastic,
Never pay full price that someone is asking on Reverb or whatever. If they don't accept I move on to something else. You can get used LPJ / LP Tribute / LP Studio for about 25% off the price of new at a minimum if you're patient.
A few years back I walked into Guitar Center and there was a used 2003 Gibson Melody Maker hanging on the wall, LPJ body and single P90, tone and volume, that’s it. Had a bunch of magic marker scribbles all over the body. Price was $299. It sounded AMAZING, so I snapped it up. Took it home and started trying to figure out what all the scribbles were. Turns out they were signatures, all four members of KISS circa 2003 (Tommy Thayer instead of Ace), Ted Nugent, and get this….PETER FRAMPTON! So yeah, I like to shop the used section.
I would just make sure that those are legit signatures… thats a rather suspicious price tag for that and I’ve seen knockoffs with fake signatures at guitar center before.
I was lead guitar player for Georgia Clay and Harrison Station. I own 5 full Less Pauls and two Jr’s. I only paid 400.00 for my Jr. If you ever saw me play, 9 times out of 10, I’m playing the Jr. Your right it does so much with so little. It has beautiful tone. It really stands out during live performances.
Killer git! I’ve gigged the hell out of my LPJ. Looks like it’s been through hell and back because it has. What a killer machine. I did swap the pickups for Seymour Duncan’s and swapped the nut and saddle to Graphtech. But it’s a rager!
@@zerolatitude2923 Hasn't happened yet, you mean. I will say this, Gibson sure makes luthiers and repair techs a whole lot of money! They even now come with poorly cut nuts and bad fretwork to make sure they have a steady supply of work.
Man, great to hear you talk about the personal meaning of playing the same brand as your heroes. I love how great affordable guitars are those days, but there is a different feeling playing a Gibson LP than an Epiphone. I have wanted a LP for a long time, and finally I found myself in a position where I could afford a 2008 LP Slash signature model, and it is a great feeling playing that thing. It sounds and feel great too, and although it coated me like three Epiphones I haven't regretted this a second. Playing guitar is also about the looks, the aura of the instrument and what it makes you feel! If you feel cool and happy when you pick it up, you play more often and better. At least for me that's the case. So thanks for making this point!
It took me nearly 25 years of playing to get my first Jr. Within the last year I now own 2 Jrs and a Special. God I wish I had discovered them sooner, I would have never lusted after another guitar. Better late than never. Juniors forever
The best Gibson deal I bought was during the COVID pandemic. Bought a used scratch and dent Gibson LP JR special double cut (2020) in satin black for $500 from Zzounds. Zero scratches zero dents zero chips, just hand to file some fret edges other than that a great guitar
I agree about the Gibson brand, and the vibe that goes with it. Up until recently, I’ve owned Epiphone’s, Squier’s, a MIM Fender Strat, and other various names, but never a Gibson. I chose to sell a few of those just to get a Gibson SG. I absolutely love it, and in my heart “feel” the difference. It may be minor or even non-existent, but to me it means a ton to me to finally own and play a Gibson.
The Les Paul "Tribute" is an absolutely killer guitar...They are selling for 1,300. I feel like it is another guitar that is within reach and could be considered affordable..
Because I went without a decent guitar for many years (sold off or traded all the great ones in the mid to late '80s) I started buying guitars from 2014 to April this year. Ten of them are Gibsons and six were used. I'll convert Canadian dollars to US (more or less.) 2022 ebony Junior, $1,100 2019 satin ebony Junior Tribute DC, $450 2019 ebony ES-235, $1,100 2007 burst Melody Maker '59 reissue, $340 2018 natural Explorer, $900 2013 '50s Tribute gold top, $340 in 2014 but I spent another $450 in parts. Only the Tribute wasn't bought at my local store. I've gotten some good deals from them, even during the pandemic. I have other makes of guitars and I have used ones in that batch, too. A few years ago I bought a 2009 Epiphone '59 Reissue Junior for $300 and it's a great guitar, but I'm happy to have the Gibson version now.
I was stranded in a far away city on buisness and I ended up staying there for months. Missed my stable of guitars and was in withdrawal from playing. Bought an Epiphone LP Jr brand new for under $200 and played it through headphones in the hotel to releive my agony...it was a great guitar, low action, great frets, great sound. Several years later it became a great gift for my Nephew to start learning guitar. At least the truss cover said "Gibson" on it!
In 1982 I found a used melody maker, double cut and two single coil pick ups. Bought it and have been playing it ever since. Had to have it re- fretted 10 years ago and that’s it. Love the sound I get out of it. Also it’s a walnut color and light. As far asI can tell it was a ‘76 reissue.
I ordered my GLPC ‘57 BB Reissue with HHH and Bigsby in November 2020. I finally received it in October ‘22. It cost £6,300.00 and it’s the best guitar I ever owned. ..but buy one today…cost is now £8,300.00. I’m very pleased I bought it when I did. I also have a Corona built 2010 Strat which cost £1,000.00 and the only mod I have made is Fender locking tuners. Both guitars are excellent in there own way. I recall back in 1968 when I was told by a good guitarist to buy the best guitar I could afford as it would pay dividends in the future…I agree with that advice.
I'm still waiting for my Les Paul special tribute, white with P90's to come in at Sweetwater. Purchased it June of last year $999.99. They have been discontinued but have been reassured by my rep that they are still coming. I know there will never be a sub 1K Gibson again so I'm still hanging in there.
The Les Paul Junior and the SG Special are currently the entry-level price for a Gibson at $1599. I am completely sold on both guitars. I got my LPJ for trade over two years, and it has been my gateway to other P90 guitars. At the beginning of the year, I bought a used SG Special. The only mod done was adding cream pickup covers, and it looks amazing! They both sound great. As far as I'm concerned, these guitars are worth. Simple yet well made. And you get a nice case.
My 17 yo son and 13 yo son walked into our local guitar center and picked up 2012 Gibson LP studios used for $850 each. Incredible value for an American made Gibson. They are wonderful instruments.
If your going to buy a LP Jr, get yourself a Music City Bridge to replace the stock wrap tailpiece. The improvement in tuning intonation and tone is so worth it!
I have the older brother the LP Special where I believe the neck P-90 is underrated. It is twangy, clean when you want it to be and the P-90 gets really mean if need be. For a $200 more it was an easy decision for me.
I always hear complaints about Gibson prices. But if the complainers actually loo. Both Reverb and Ebay have many used Gibson guitars for under $1000. Now I know my story is old but back in the day (2012) I bought a modified L P studio, ebony w/ gold trim ebony fretboard, off Ebay for $800 free ship. Mods were 496/500 pups and straplocks in the chainsaw case. Now I've done a lot more modding. Pots, wiring, bridge, nut, and new tuners. But because I'm looking specifically for some things I'm not finding my price. So ain't buying yet but still looking. It's there if you look long and hard for it.
just going by guitar center used selection, I think the used LP studio and the LP tribute are great buys. I got a wine red studio new a few years back. plays amazing. not the most classic looking LP, but I love it. I've been eyeing a new second hand tribute with P90's. and yeah, I grew up with gibson on the headstock. does it matter to your playing? it all depends how you're inspired. if the guitar doesn't inspire, you won't play something inspiring. (btw, I'm old enough to have seen metallica when they played gibsons, but just missed zep. and of course angus!!)
@ 2:10... What do I consider to be an "affordable" Gibson? 🤔 An Epiphone, even with the recent price increases. I don't mind being thought of as cheap and I still love and appreciate Gibsons for their many good points.
I bought one of those the first week it came out. Guitar Center had a special deal for a short time where it was $800. And it wasn't a junior. Rather, it is a 50's reissue, honeyburst finish, the 2 P-90's and the same time it was at GC so cheap, it was at Sweetwater for 2 days online for $1600. It also had the tune-o-matic bridge. I love it almost as much as my 335. And one of these days, you gotta get your hands on a Schecter C1 E/A. An early one, with the original f-holes and piezo pickups. Not just a beauty, but really great sounding and can be used all over the board. Just a few random thoughts because I have been playing all of them lately
Cool guitar Robert and a bargain! I have a few Gibsons - Les Paul Standard, an SG and a LPJr -DC in worn white. I bought the Jr second hand around 2006, only a couple of years old - a Gibson special run 'guitar of the day'. The previous owner had the tuners changed to Grovers, changed that the tail piece to a compensated one and had a custom made tortoiseshell pickguard to replace the original black one. The original P90 was still in place and the other original parts in the case candy pocket. I paid £600. The worn finish was already starting to wear in places and has continued to do so. Such a simple design yet it looks and sounds amazing - pure rock n roll and so much natural sustain through the wood. It does feel like a budget Gibson compared to the LP Standard, but that is also part of it's charm.
My fav Gibson of the dozen or so I’ve owned and sold is a 2010 guitar center LP jr Humbucker. I stripped off the tv yellow and had MJT paint it white. Upgraded the bridge and put in a Dimarzio. It’s the most Les Paul sounding guitar I’ve ever had and is amazing.
P90 is such an underrated pickup and so versatile. Gibson’s are super expensive right now and well out of the reach as a practical gigging guitar for a journeyman artist. I had a 58 DC LP junior made for me with a Catswhisker hand wound dog eared P90. It took me a while to dial in my set ups to get a tone that I could use for all genres but once I got the hang of it the guitar was bang on
I have a LP Special (2 P90s). Changed the PUs to Seymour Duncan P90s way back when (at a time when they were supposedly being wound by Seymour himself, which I doubt, but it's a cool story). I love it. But I love even more my Gibson Melody Maker, one P90 dog ear. Put a Bigsby on it. It's light, and barks like a rabid dog.
I am sick of people saying it's not the guitar it's the guitarist. Meh, i honestly don't feel anything with epiphone or squire. Not saying they are bad, of course, I have came across a lot of them when I was young. I think you hit the nail on the head for the reason why I have been feeling the the way I do towards epiphone or squire. All our guitar heroes didn't play those affordable brands. They all played fender and gibson. If you can afford it you should buy the "real deal" guitar. I mean I make enough money to buy gibson comfortably so I buy them. Simple as that.
Les Paul special tribute in worn white with P90s £839 new couple years back. Absolutely love this guitar. Juniors always seem overpriced in England except the 2015 versions which seem to range 650-900
I bought an Epiphone LesPaul Special 2 and it had 2,P90s and I put a Gibson bridge for intonation and the wrap tail bridge back on. It has that thin bolt on neck that sucks, it makes my left hand go numb, but I’m thinking about raising the action to play slide. It sounds good but that yardstick neck makes my hand go numb. I have big hands with long fingers. I wish I could have a Gibson neck set in. Those P90s sound great.
Just picked up an Epi Lp Jr in TV yellow, with Epi hard shell leather case. Love it. Got it for a fair price and it had the neck sanded down which is what I was going to do it.
I own one Gibson guitar, I've had it for six years. SG Special Tribute with mini humbuckers. I purchased it used for $900. I shopped used LP Studio and Faded models also and found they were affordable, but I didn't need another humbucker equipped guitar, since my Epiphone fills the bill perfectly.
The difference in how the guitar makes you feel when it says “Gibson” vs. “Epiphone” is higher than many think. You will just feel better about it every time you pick it up and thus might play it more, and ultimately it will give you far more satisfaction with your purchase in the long run.
I got a Gibson Les Paul Special for about $499 new in 1998. Gibson was trying to get into GC or something. So they had this deal, but it proves they can lower the price by a lot.
Bought one just for the heck of it. It’s a great guitar for the money. Lots of fun. It’s no Murphy Lab LP but it’s fun. Nice simple and light. It’s a nice addition to my collection. Great guitar to buy your kid if they’re getting into it.
, I loved the sound you were getting, "snappy" as you put it. I am now seriously considering purchasing, maybe a used one. I am not a big fan of the plastic tuner tips, but changing them would take away part of that minimalist aesthetic that is very welcoming to me. It looks like a guitar that needs to be played.
Owning a Gibson is like holding a membership card to the big trouser snake club. It’s always impressive, and always satisfies. So, welcome to the club, Baker.
Nope. It's just proof of our susceptibility to marketing and style over substance. Only we think it makes us look like we have a big dick. No one else cares 😁
Three years ago, I bought a used Gibson SG 60s Tribute with the two P90s, from a UK dealer, and I paid £500 for it. It doesn't look like anything special, but it's one of the best playing and sounding guitars that I own. The bargains are indeed out there. You just may have to wait a while. Keep looking!
I was playing around at Guitar Center last year and I really loved this one all black stingray. I played it for almost an hour. The price tag was for 1000! For a real Musicman stingray. It was just dinged up a bit, and the guys working there just said everyone who walked in the bass room played it. If I didn’t just pay 2k on a new fender P bass I would of walked out with that thing!
I agree that Gibson and affordable normally don't go together but I got VERY lucky with my Gibson. I was was in my GC YEARS and YEARS ago and they had a Gibby that was on the used rack that my wife referred to as "Sex with Strings" and she told me I WAS going to play that while she looked at keyboards (no complaints from me). She came back after finding nothing and asked me how it was....Told her it was great. She then asked if I was going to buy it?? I started looking around for Alan Funt and the Candid Camera crew. She laughed and said "just buy the guitar already". I walked out with a like new 2008 Gibson SG Diablo in Candy Apple Red for about $1200. Hands down the best deal I EVER found on a used Gibson.
New Gibson guitars can be affordable if you are willing to wait and/or keep an eye out for during sales. I paid about $600 for a LPJ-pro and about the same amount for a 60's tribute SG during different years at a "year-end-blowout-sale" at a local GC, back in 2013 and 2014. Normally, those would have been almost twice as much(at least at the time I bought them).
Great video! I have wanted an LPJ since seeing Paul Westerberg at the Wiltern, maybe 30 years ago. Watching your video has inspired me to make it happen!!!! Subscribing ...
Ha!!! And to confirm what you're saying I bought my LPjr.from Sweetwater music and just when I ordered it I saw another one for 1199 and bought that one too.I figured that when am I gonna be blessed twice with a couple left handed Gibsons ?
Great video, I love p-90 pickups and single pickup Jrs look and sound awesome. I bought a Tribute in March for 1299 with a very good soft case. The guitar is resonant,lighter and both humbucker pickups are bright . The maple cap helps as does the maple neck. Maybe less prone to break at the headstock. I looked around and found a 2016 60s tribute with 2 p-90s for 800. I like that it has the bridge for intonation and separate tailpiece. USA made baby !!! Both fine guitars , thanks for crankin yours !
John Lennon at one time played a LP Junior, but also an Epiphone. So , have you heard of Heritage, a company in Kalamazoo, that makes guitars in the old Kalamazoo factory? They are run by former Gibson employees.
Les Paul Studios are also going for similar prices. I can’t help but love having the real thing. My 2008 LP Studio just feels like a really nice guitar and makes me smile every time I pick it up. It’s also cheap enough that I don’t mind modding it and playing gigs.
Thx Robert . I trust you ❤! I’ve been eying these since I was in grade school. My buddy had a red Gibson les Paul Jr. in the sixties in elementary school. I loved that guitar and I have an Epiphone jr. and I’m shopping for one now. They are around if you take your time.
I got a used SG for £600, which over here in the UK is a good deal. Ya, it's been gigged and needed a bit of love but zero money to sort out setup etc. It has a bit of buckle rash but it hasn't gone through the paint and because it's used, I don't feel overly precious about it. It's a 92 standard and it's such a good guitar. I definitely say used is worth looking at. I love juniors too. I have one that I bought new but I'd also say folks shouldn't turn their nose up at second hand, their are some fantastic instruments out there.
I have a Melodymaker form 2013 with a P90 in the neck and Dirty Fingers in the bridge position. I love the guitar. I get it from second hand in change off my Framus Panthera (made in Germany 1998). The Panthera was the better guitar. Sounds till the day after tomorrow. But it was too heavy - 2,5 pound (1,2 kg).
There was a time when I would've said that I also wanted to play the same types of gear as the people I was listening to. But guitar guys are so much a thing of the past, and I've come to learn that just having the ability to play my own gear, is nice. My guitar and amp are both inexpensive ones, but the guitar is more than 30 years old. And despite having bought and sold many other inexpensive ones, that guitar is still in its place.
Yep! Gibson is selling a a fake connection to a nostalgic past. It's exploiting workmanship and artistry from decades ago. They really appeal to the guitarists ego. It's no different than Disney World exploiting younger generations by pimping out a name that's many decades old. Both Disney and Gibson's current owners and executives have nothing to do with the products they sell. They only appeal to the ego.
It's refreshing to see a video that treasures this iconic guitar and brand.. instead of spending 10 minutes trashing every little imperfection followed by a segue into why people should buy a Schecter instead. Great video as always Robert!
What I consider an affordable Gibson is $1400.00. The reason being is they're all made in the USA. They use quality proprietary pickups that are just as good if not better than aftermarket ones. I think the $1399.99 Les Paul tribute is the bench mark for an affordable Gibson for the new market. In 05 I bought a TV Yellow Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker for $399.99 new. It had the paddle headstock but everything else was Les Paul, a Mahogany(Sycamore the first year 04) body Mahogany neck, tune o matic bridge & stop tailpiece. a single p-90 master volume/master tone. Those were such bargin.
Anyone looking for a reasonable priced Gibson - check out the Les Paul CM. Reduced thickness. Maple cap. 1 Humbucker. Thin finish. Every one is different. I own 2 - they're freakin Awesome.
Ace of Kiss and Joe from Aerosmith played Paul's,,, Uncle Ted played the Gibson Byrdland. I love my Les Paul's, Strats, and my ESP and PRS, Ovation, oh Ibanez, and my Epiphone's, and the others lol.
I bought my two 2019 DC specials for $650 new on clearance, my 2019 tribute honeyburst for $750 scratch and dent. There are deals out there but you have to search.
A few years back Gibson did Double Cut Junior & Special tribute models (Tribute=maple neck) and Chicago Music Exchange did dealer orders in TV Yellow and TV White. Those do show up sometimes, but not cheap since Gibson doesn’t sell anything like those now. If you can find one, look for a G&L Ascari GT-90, it’s their take on a Special, but in a carved top strat shape. Their custom P90s are really great (really nice balance between neck and bridge) and it’s sad they don’t make them these days.
bought my lp tribute t in 2017 for $999 and still have it, great guitar. I only buy instore when it comes to high-end guitars because for me at this point its about feel and tone and when I die my kids can sell then for some cash.
I just have an epi Traditional pro 2 model. I absolutely love it. I do want to change pickups though. I was going to get a Gibson, it just seemed , just a little bit better for an insane amount of money.
The Les Paul Double Cut Jr Tribute worn - I can find them used well under $1k CAD here - and they are wicked good guitars! One can find one or two pickup versions, both reasonable. Even new, under $1k CAD still! 👌
My first electric "real" guitar was in 1964 a Gibson LP Junior. Not sure what year it was but the hook was set...I'm still at it...being a guitar player is worse than drugs.
IMO affordable LPs are Tributes and Studios. They are classical LPs. Juniors are different story. If you want LP Junior - get LP Junior. They have a different feeling than classical LPs, P90 are the best Gibson pickups, from vintage through crunchy to modern tones, yes, you are able to get. "Simplicity is a beauty", but it is totally different guitar. While SG Juniors are qute closer to Standards and Specials, more stiff string tension, better sound, the same from vintage to modern - get everything you want. If you stucked between SGs - get the cheapest, but all mahogany, no maple necks, they are all quite close between each other. Or if you want exactly Junior - get Junior.
I have a special, but I want a jr. Love the Tobacco burst, it's on my want list. If you really want a dream guitar, check out the seniors. The last time I remember Gibson being affordable was back in the 70's, they wasn't cheep but with in most guitar player's reach.
Robert, I got a brand new Gibson Les Paul Junior about three years ago at Guitar Center for $1249.00. It was some sale they had at all the Guitar Centers for some reason.
Robert, please try the Harley Benton DC LPJ.... You are going to love it! The only gripe I had as that the pickup is too low! A 3mm shim, or was it 4mm, I forget, turned it into the growling, nasty P90 rock/punk monster I wanted! I also hear you about "Gibson"... That name on the headstock, all of my heros had it on their guitars, why shouldnt I? Yeah, one day, maybe, but I have found the perfect, for me, non Gibson guitars LP, LPJ that, having A/B my Cort LP with a 1980s Gibson LP Standard, absolutely killed the Gibson, not my words, the words of the Gibson owner!
Just found a anniversary lpj here locally for $900 messaged the guy meet him today he was the original owner really stoked my first p90 and single coil guitar necks gonna take a little getting used to but I'm up for it done guitar shopping for a bit
What do you guys think about the current state of used prices?
Honestly you can find some good deals on used Studios as well. Under 1K almost all the time. I think the Junior is a better deal though.
Hi Robert - I do like Les Pauls and SG's and due to pricing I bout Epiphones. Now, I won't buy Epiphones as they are made in China and China is a current enemy of ours and we are at a cold war with them that noone is really talking about, so I do not want to give my money to the Chinese Government.
I would love to have a real Gibson Les Paul but even used they really aren't affordable. I can get 3 to 5 used Fenders or Squiers and then upgrade them all to play and sound just as nice as 1 used Gibson Les Paul and yet have far more tonal options.
I do agree with you on guitar heroes, but all of my guitar heroes that had played Gibsons all switched to Fender Strats overtime except for Peter Frampton. These heroes certainly could have afforded to continue buying Les Pauls had they wanted. For clarity, some of my heros used both Gibsons and Fenders Jimmy Page for example, but most of my heroes switched to Fenders.
Hey Robert, I bought the Epiphone Les Paul and it sounds amazing! I bought mine from Sweetwater for $300. Sounds just like Gibson Les Paul 🎸
I love the current used prices I just picked up a lp tribute, 850$ what a great value, and there are actual American strat standards all over for under a thousand, so it’s fantastic,
Never pay full price that someone is asking on Reverb or whatever. If they don't accept I move on to something else. You can get used LPJ / LP Tribute / LP Studio for about 25% off the price of new at a minimum if you're patient.
A few years back I walked into Guitar Center and there was a used 2003 Gibson Melody Maker hanging on the wall, LPJ body and single P90, tone and volume, that’s it. Had a bunch of magic marker scribbles all over the body. Price was $299. It sounded AMAZING, so I snapped it up. Took it home and started trying to figure out what all the scribbles were. Turns out they were signatures, all four members of KISS circa 2003 (Tommy Thayer instead of Ace), Ted Nugent, and get this….PETER FRAMPTON! So yeah, I like to shop the used section.
I would just make sure that those are legit signatures… thats a rather suspicious price tag for that and I’ve seen knockoffs with fake signatures at guitar center before.
@@DirtyDirkDiggler They were definitely legit, they just didn’t know what they had. I sold it for $1800 a few months back. 😀
I was lead guitar player for Georgia Clay and Harrison Station. I own 5 full Less Pauls and two Jr’s. I only paid 400.00 for my Jr. If you ever saw me play, 9 times out of 10, I’m playing the Jr. Your right it does so much with so little. It has beautiful tone. It really stands out during live performances.
2013 lpj and sgj were the last of the good affordable gibsons..They are true les Paul's without clearcoat and binding..
Yeah I had one and I sold it and I really hate myself for it.
I Stills got it and will never sell it, so Good and cheap 🤩 Bought it only 350€ 😂
@jeromebarrat1978 yep I have 2 2013 lpj and 1 sgj..They are awesome and mine were around 500 each.
They were also thinner
Killer git! I’ve gigged the hell out of my LPJ. Looks like it’s been through hell and back because it has. What a killer machine. I did swap the pickups for Seymour Duncan’s and swapped the nut and saddle to Graphtech. But it’s a rager!
I love this demo because you get to see a Gibson with the headstock still attached.
yeah, I have been playing them for 30 years and never had that happen. BUT you can always get yerself a FrankenStrat and carry on. Derp!
PRO TIP: Don't drop your guitar.
@@zerolatitude2923 Hasn't happened yet, you mean.
I will say this, Gibson sure makes luthiers and repair techs a whole lot of money! They even now come with poorly cut nuts and bad fretwork to make sure they have a steady supply of work.
@@kyoneko87Mine have been fine.
@ferox965 Well, I am glad that is the case
Man, great to hear you talk about the personal meaning of playing the same brand as your heroes. I love how great affordable guitars are those days, but there is a different feeling playing a Gibson LP than an Epiphone. I have wanted a LP for a long time, and finally I found myself in a position where I could afford a 2008 LP Slash signature model, and it is a great feeling playing that thing. It sounds and feel great too, and although it coated me like three Epiphones I haven't regretted this a second. Playing guitar is also about the looks, the aura of the instrument and what it makes you feel! If you feel cool and happy when you pick it up, you play more often and better. At least for me that's the case. So thanks for making this point!
It took me nearly 25 years of playing to get my first Jr. Within the last year I now own 2 Jrs and a Special. God I wish I had discovered them sooner, I would have never lusted after another guitar. Better late than never. Juniors forever
The best Gibson deal I bought was during the COVID pandemic. Bought a used scratch and dent Gibson LP JR special double cut (2020) in satin black for $500 from Zzounds. Zero scratches zero dents zero chips, just hand to file some fret edges other than that a great guitar
I agree about the Gibson brand, and the vibe that goes with it.
Up until recently, I’ve owned Epiphone’s, Squier’s, a MIM Fender Strat, and other various names, but never a Gibson. I chose to sell a few of those just to get a Gibson SG. I absolutely love it, and in my heart “feel” the difference. It may be minor or even non-existent, but to me it means a ton to me to finally own and play a Gibson.
The Les Paul "Tribute" is an absolutely killer guitar...They are selling for 1,300.
I feel like it is another guitar that is within reach and could be considered affordable..
I bought a tribute last month. The guitar is amazing to say the least.
I had a Studio Tribute a decade ago, still kicking myself I sold it. Though I do think my Epiphone probably does everything it did just as well.
@@Mikey__R Epiphone Les Paul Standards made 2018 -- Current are easily competing with guitars at twice their cost.
Charlie Starr plays one.
the black studio is so cool
I have the Godin version of the LPJ and it is fantastic. Light, loud, and made in Canada 🤘
I was playing around with one of those not long ago at a shop. Really nice guitar
I love the junior. I had a Epiphone. Love the one pick up. No push pull. Two knobs. And they rock N roll.
Because I went without a decent guitar for many years (sold off or traded all the great ones in the mid to late '80s) I started buying guitars from 2014 to April this year. Ten of them are Gibsons and six were used. I'll convert Canadian dollars to US (more or less.)
2022 ebony Junior, $1,100
2019 satin ebony Junior Tribute DC, $450
2019 ebony ES-235, $1,100
2007 burst Melody Maker '59 reissue, $340
2018 natural Explorer, $900
2013 '50s Tribute gold top, $340 in 2014 but I spent another $450 in parts.
Only the Tribute wasn't bought at my local store. I've gotten some good deals from them, even during the pandemic.
I have other makes of guitars and I have used ones in that batch, too.
A few years ago I bought a 2009 Epiphone '59 Reissue Junior for $300 and it's a great guitar, but I'm happy to have the Gibson version now.
I was stranded in a far away city on buisness and I ended up staying there for months. Missed my stable of guitars and was in withdrawal from playing. Bought an Epiphone LP Jr brand new for under $200 and played it through headphones in the hotel to releive my agony...it was a great guitar, low action, great frets, great sound. Several years later it became a great gift for my Nephew to start learning guitar. At least the truss cover said "Gibson" on it!
That is absolutely the greatest intro jam you've ever done, and you always do great ones. This one was outstanding.
In 1982 I found a used melody maker, double cut and two single coil pick ups. Bought it and have been playing it ever since. Had to have it re- fretted 10 years ago and that’s it. Love the sound I get out of it. Also it’s a walnut color and light. As far asI can tell it was a ‘76 reissue.
Leslie West absolutely carved out mind blowing tone out of that Les Paul Junior. Monster rock!!! Worth every penny.
I have a Gibson LPJ. Love the sound of the 490 pickups, and the push/pull pots. This was an affordable option for me.
What do the push pull pots do?
@@bradwebber3211 push/pull pots (aka coil splitting) are able to let you play single-coil on guitars with humbuckers
The J in those LPJ models doesn't mean Junior though.
@@Paul-rt4ix I don't think it does either. But, Gibson seems to be very vague on this. Do you have any information on this?
Love my LP Junior. Play it way more than my Standard. Basically my 52 Reissue Tele and my LP Junior, that's it!
I ordered my GLPC ‘57 BB Reissue with HHH and Bigsby in November 2020. I finally received it in October ‘22. It cost £6,300.00 and it’s the best guitar I ever owned.
..but buy one today…cost is now £8,300.00. I’m very pleased I bought it when I did.
I also have a Corona built 2010 Strat which cost £1,000.00 and the only mod I have made is Fender locking tuners.
Both guitars are excellent in there own way.
I recall back in 1968 when I was told by a good guitarist to buy the best guitar I could afford as it would pay dividends in the future…I agree with that advice.
I bought a 2019 Les Paul Special with P90’s on Reverb for $950 total. Great playing and sounding guitar. Great value.
I'm still waiting for my Les Paul special tribute, white with P90's to come in at Sweetwater. Purchased it June of last year $999.99. They have been discontinued but have been reassured by my rep that they are still coming. I know there will never be a sub 1K Gibson again so I'm still hanging in there.
I love my Junior.. Got it like a year ago and can't put it down. Love Gibsons.
The Les Paul Junior and the SG Special are currently the entry-level price for a Gibson at $1599. I am completely sold on both guitars. I got my LPJ for trade over two years, and it has been my gateway to other P90 guitars. At the beginning of the year, I bought a used SG Special. The only mod done was adding cream pickup covers, and it looks amazing! They both sound great. As far as I'm concerned, these guitars are worth. Simple yet well made. And you get a nice case.
My 17 yo son and 13 yo son walked into our local guitar center and picked up 2012 Gibson LP studios used for $850 each. Incredible value for an American made Gibson. They are wonderful instruments.
If your going to buy a LP Jr, get yourself a Music City Bridge to replace the stock wrap tailpiece. The improvement in tuning intonation and tone is so worth it!
I have the older brother the LP Special where I believe the neck P-90 is underrated. It is twangy, clean when you
want it to be and the P-90 gets really mean if need be. For a $200 more it was an easy decision for me.
Got a 19 les paul jr dc tribute for super cheap a year ago. One of my favorite guitars. I’m a Gibson guy for the same reason. Love the channel.
Yup our gtr hero’s played Fenders , Gibson etc Right on the money. Welcome to town !
I always hear complaints about Gibson prices. But if the complainers actually loo. Both Reverb and Ebay have many used Gibson guitars for under $1000. Now I know my story is old but back in the day (2012) I bought a modified L P studio, ebony w/ gold trim ebony fretboard, off Ebay for $800 free ship. Mods were 496/500 pups and straplocks in the chainsaw case. Now I've done a lot more modding. Pots, wiring, bridge, nut, and new tuners. But because I'm looking specifically for some things I'm not finding my price. So ain't buying yet but still looking. It's there if you look long and hard for it.
just going by guitar center used selection, I think the used LP studio and the LP tribute are great buys. I got a wine red studio new a few years back. plays amazing. not the most classic looking LP, but I love it. I've been eyeing a new second hand tribute with P90's.
and yeah, I grew up with gibson on the headstock. does it matter to your playing? it all depends how you're inspired. if the guitar doesn't inspire, you won't play something inspiring. (btw, I'm old enough to have seen metallica when they played gibsons, but just missed zep. and of course angus!!)
Tried one of these at CME and it was one of the best sounding/feeling they had in the store imo!
@ 2:10... What do I consider to be an "affordable" Gibson? 🤔 An Epiphone, even with the recent price increases. I don't mind being thought of as cheap and I still love and appreciate Gibsons for their many good points.
I bought one of those the first week it came out. Guitar Center had a special deal for a short time where it was $800. And it wasn't a junior. Rather, it is a 50's reissue, honeyburst finish, the 2 P-90's and the same time it was at GC so cheap, it was at Sweetwater for 2 days online for $1600. It also had the tune-o-matic bridge. I love it almost as much as my 335. And one of these days, you gotta get your hands on a Schecter C1 E/A. An early one, with the original f-holes and piezo pickups. Not just a beauty, but really great sounding and can be used all over the board. Just a few random thoughts because I have been playing all of them lately
Cool guitar Robert and a bargain! I have a few Gibsons - Les Paul Standard, an SG and a LPJr -DC in worn white. I bought the Jr second hand around 2006, only a couple of years old - a Gibson special run 'guitar of the day'. The previous owner had the tuners changed to Grovers, changed that the tail piece to a compensated one and had a custom made tortoiseshell pickguard to replace the original black one. The original P90 was still in place and the other original parts in the case candy pocket. I paid £600. The worn finish was already starting to wear in places and has continued to do so. Such a simple design yet it looks and sounds amazing - pure rock n roll and so much natural sustain through the wood. It does feel like a budget Gibson compared to the LP Standard, but that is also part of it's charm.
My fav Gibson of the dozen or so I’ve owned and sold is a 2010 guitar center LP jr Humbucker.
I stripped off the tv yellow and had MJT paint it white.
Upgraded the bridge and put in a Dimarzio.
It’s the most Les Paul sounding guitar I’ve ever had and is amazing.
Great intro. Glad I bought all my Les Pauls years ago when you could get a nice New Traditional for 1600 $1700 day back around 2014
Bought my Gibson Les Paul Classic in 22, through Sweetwater, and have been very happy with it. I still love my other guitars, too
P90 is such an underrated pickup and so versatile. Gibson’s are super expensive right now and well out of the reach as a practical gigging guitar for a journeyman artist. I had a 58 DC LP junior made for me with a Catswhisker hand wound dog eared P90. It took me a while to dial in my set ups to get a tone that I could use for all genres but once I got the hang of it the guitar was bang on
I have a LP Special (2 P90s). Changed the PUs to Seymour Duncan P90s way back when (at a time when they were supposedly being wound by Seymour himself, which I doubt, but it's a cool story). I love it. But I love even more my Gibson Melody Maker, one P90 dog ear. Put a Bigsby on it. It's light, and barks like a rabid dog.
I am sick of people saying it's not the guitar it's the guitarist. Meh, i honestly don't feel anything with epiphone or squire. Not saying they are bad, of course, I have came across a lot of them when I was young. I think you hit the nail on the head for the reason why I have been feeling the the way I do towards epiphone or squire. All our guitar heroes didn't play those affordable brands. They all played fender and gibson. If you can afford it you should buy the "real deal" guitar. I mean I make enough money to buy gibson comfortably so I buy them. Simple as that.
Some legends used to play Epiphone guitars but those were made in the USA before Gibson bought the company.
Les Paul special tribute in worn white with P90s £839 new couple years back. Absolutely love this guitar. Juniors always seem overpriced in England except the 2015 versions which seem to range 650-900
I bought an Epiphone LesPaul Special 2 and it had 2,P90s and I put a Gibson bridge for intonation and the wrap tail bridge back on. It has that thin bolt on neck that sucks, it makes my left hand go numb, but I’m thinking about raising the action to play slide. It sounds good but that yardstick neck makes my hand go numb. I have big hands with long fingers. I wish I could have a Gibson neck set in. Those P90s sound great.
Just picked up an Epi Lp Jr in TV yellow, with Epi hard shell leather case. Love it. Got it for a fair price and it had the neck sanded down which is what I was going to do it.
I own one Gibson guitar, I've had it for six years. SG Special Tribute with mini humbuckers. I purchased it used for $900. I shopped used LP Studio and Faded models also and found they were affordable, but I didn't need another humbucker equipped guitar, since my Epiphone fills the bill perfectly.
I bought my lp jr.dc. p90 for $750 cdn. Craigslist. Love it! Grab one!
The difference in how the guitar makes you feel when it says “Gibson” vs. “Epiphone” is higher than many think. You will just feel better about it every time you pick it up and thus might play it more, and ultimately it will give you far more satisfaction with your purchase in the long run.
I got a Gibson Les Paul Special for about $499 new in 1998. Gibson was trying to get into GC or something. So they had this deal, but it proves they can lower the price by a lot.
Bought one just for the heck of it. It’s a great guitar for the money. Lots of fun. It’s no Murphy Lab LP but it’s fun. Nice simple and light. It’s a nice addition to my collection. Great guitar to buy your kid if they’re getting into it.
, I loved the sound you were getting, "snappy" as you put it. I am now seriously considering purchasing, maybe a used one. I am not a big fan of the plastic tuner tips, but changing them would take away part of that minimalist aesthetic that is very welcoming to me. It looks like a guitar that needs to be played.
Owning a Gibson is like holding a membership card to the big trouser snake club. It’s always impressive, and always satisfies. So, welcome to the club, Baker.
Nope. It's just proof of our susceptibility to marketing and style over substance. Only we think it makes us look like we have a big dick. No one else cares 😁
It's a nice club to be a member of, though. 🎉
Aha haha!! Perfect.
Unfortunately, it like having the huge meat but being Mr. Softy.
Three years ago, I bought a used Gibson SG 60s Tribute with the two P90s, from a UK dealer, and I paid £500 for it. It doesn't look like anything special, but it's one of the best playing and sounding guitars that I own. The bargains are indeed out there. You just may have to wait a while. Keep looking!
I was playing around at Guitar Center last year and I really loved this one all black stingray. I played it for almost an hour. The price tag was for 1000! For a real Musicman stingray. It was just dinged up a bit, and the guys working there just said everyone who walked in the bass room played it. If I didn’t just pay 2k on a new fender P bass I would of walked out with that thing!
I bought a nice LP Jr for $400 in Canada a couple of years. It was a private sale, used. It's a two-tone burst.
Gibson Les Paul Junior?
I agree that Gibson and affordable normally don't go together but I got VERY lucky with my Gibson. I was was in my GC YEARS and YEARS ago and they had a Gibby that was on the used rack that my wife referred to as "Sex with Strings" and she told me I WAS going to play that while she looked at keyboards (no complaints from me). She came back after finding nothing and asked me how it was....Told her it was great. She then asked if I was going to buy it?? I started looking around for Alan Funt and the Candid Camera crew. She laughed and said "just buy the guitar already". I walked out with a like new 2008 Gibson SG Diablo in Candy Apple Red for about $1200. Hands down the best deal I EVER found on a used Gibson.
Did her mother come for an extended stay the next week? 🤔
It was waiting for you
@@castleanthrax1833 🤣 🤣🤣
@@henrymrowicki7004 It feels like it was....I'm usually not THAT lucky.
I have a Gibson Les Paul custom studio. Bought it used for $1,100 which I didn’t think was bad. I really love it!!!
New Gibson guitars can be affordable if you are willing to wait and/or keep an eye out for during sales. I paid about $600 for a LPJ-pro and about the same amount for a 60's tribute SG during different years at a "year-end-blowout-sale" at a local GC, back in 2013 and 2014. Normally, those would have been almost twice as much(at least at the time I bought them).
Great video! I have wanted an LPJ since seeing Paul Westerberg at the Wiltern, maybe 30 years ago. Watching your video has inspired me to make it happen!!!! Subscribing ...
You need to do that guitar a favour. Get over to Glazers and pick up a Music City Savvy compensated bridge. It will make a big difference.
Ha!!! And to confirm what you're saying I bought my LPjr.from Sweetwater music and just when I ordered it I saw another one for 1199 and bought that one too.I figured that when am I gonna be blessed twice with a couple left handed Gibsons ?
Great video, I love p-90 pickups and single pickup Jrs look and sound awesome. I bought a Tribute in March for 1299 with a very good soft case. The guitar is resonant,lighter and both humbucker pickups are bright . The maple cap helps as does the maple neck. Maybe less prone to break at the headstock. I looked around and found a 2016 60s tribute with 2 p-90s for 800. I like that it has the bridge for intonation and separate tailpiece. USA made baby !!!
Both fine guitars , thanks for crankin yours !
John Lennon at one time played a LP Junior, but also an Epiphone. So , have you heard of Heritage, a company in Kalamazoo, that makes guitars in the old Kalamazoo factory? They are run by former Gibson employees.
Les Paul Studios are also going for similar prices. I can’t help but love having the real thing. My 2008 LP Studio just feels like a really nice guitar and makes me smile every time I pick it up. It’s also cheap enough that I don’t mind modding it and playing gigs.
Thx Robert . I trust you ❤! I’ve been eying these since I was in grade school. My buddy had a red Gibson les Paul Jr. in the sixties in elementary school. I loved that guitar and I have an Epiphone jr. and I’m shopping for one now. They are around if you take your time.
I got a used SG for £600, which over here in the UK is a good deal. Ya, it's been gigged and needed a bit of love but zero money to sort out setup etc. It has a bit of buckle rash but it hasn't gone through the paint and because it's used, I don't feel overly precious about it. It's a 92 standard and it's such a good guitar. I definitely say used is worth looking at.
I love juniors too. I have one that I bought new but I'd also say folks shouldn't turn their nose up at second hand, their are some fantastic instruments out there.
Dig the Allman-esque outro. Gotta love the Jr.
I have a Melodymaker form 2013 with a P90 in the neck and Dirty Fingers in the bridge position. I love the guitar. I get it from second hand in change off my Framus Panthera (made in Germany 1998).
The Panthera was the better guitar. Sounds till the day after tomorrow. But it was too heavy - 2,5 pound (1,2 kg).
There was a time when I would've said that I also wanted to play the same types of gear as the people I was listening to. But guitar guys are so much a thing of the past, and I've come to learn that just having the ability to play my own gear, is nice. My guitar and amp are both inexpensive ones, but the guitar is more than 30 years old. And despite having bought and sold many other inexpensive ones, that guitar is still in its place.
Right on!
Yep! Gibson is selling a a fake connection to a nostalgic past. It's exploiting workmanship and artistry from decades ago. They really appeal to the guitarists ego. It's no different than Disney World exploiting younger generations by pimping out a name that's many decades old. Both Disney and Gibson's current owners and executives have nothing to do with the products they sell.
They only appeal to the ego.
I'm in love with that axe now and have one on order!
It's refreshing to see a video that treasures this iconic guitar and brand.. instead of spending 10 minutes trashing every little imperfection followed by a segue into why people should buy a Schecter instead. Great video as always Robert!
Always wanted a Gibson Les Paul especially the junior I really like the one pickup p90. Closest I came was to an Epiphone Les Paul.
Sitting here with a as new black 2023 Jr. in my lap that I bought last Sunday for $1100 and couldn't be happier. Just a pant load of fun.
What I consider an affordable Gibson is $1400.00. The reason being is they're all made in the USA. They use quality proprietary pickups that are just as good if not better than aftermarket ones. I think the $1399.99 Les Paul tribute is the bench mark for an affordable Gibson for the new market. In 05 I bought a TV Yellow Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker for $399.99 new. It had the paddle headstock but everything else was Les Paul, a Mahogany(Sycamore the first year 04) body Mahogany neck, tune o matic bridge & stop tailpiece. a single p-90 master volume/master tone. Those were such bargin.
Anyone looking for a reasonable priced Gibson - check out the Les Paul CM. Reduced thickness. Maple cap. 1 Humbucker. Thin finish. Every one is different. I own 2 - they're freakin Awesome.
That Les Paul Jr sounds incredible. Thanks for sharing.
Ace of Kiss and Joe from Aerosmith played Paul's,,, Uncle Ted played the Gibson Byrdland. I love my Les Paul's, Strats, and my ESP and PRS, Ovation, oh Ibanez, and my Epiphone's, and the others lol.
I love mine. Got a CS Jr used on music zoo for under $3k. Would do it again. Love the Jr... go to ax when plucking on the couch.
Buy whatever makes you pickup that guitar and play...and that would be the GIbson. I LOVE the pickups in a Gibson!
One of my fist guitars was a 70/74 deluxe, Dimarzio SD(hb) routed, pre patent, I loved it. Could get sound with sub 300$, now.
I bought my two 2019 DC specials for $650 new on clearance, my 2019 tribute honeyburst for $750 scratch and dent. There are deals out there but you have to search.
I Found a limited run model from 2018 and knew I was walking out the door with it 2 weeks before I saw it! It has a Kinman Hx Nasty 90 in it.
I’m a SG fan. I just love them. My issue is that I cannot let my love slip and influence my Grandson’s choices and style.
A few years back Gibson did Double Cut Junior & Special tribute models (Tribute=maple neck) and Chicago Music Exchange did dealer orders in TV Yellow and TV White. Those do show up sometimes, but not cheap since Gibson doesn’t sell anything like those now.
If you can find one, look for a G&L Ascari GT-90, it’s their take on a Special, but in a carved top strat shape. Their custom P90s are really great (really nice balance between neck and bridge) and it’s sad they don’t make them these days.
bought my lp tribute t in 2017 for $999 and still have it, great guitar. I only buy instore when it comes to high-end guitars because for me at this point its about feel and tone and when I die my kids can sell then for some cash.
I just have an epi Traditional pro 2 model. I absolutely love it. I do want to change pickups though. I was going to get a Gibson, it just seemed , just a little bit better for an insane amount of money.
Those intro licks was killer
The Les Paul Double Cut Jr Tribute worn - I can find them used well under $1k CAD here - and they are wicked good guitars! One can find one or two pickup versions, both reasonable. Even new, under $1k CAD still! 👌
My first electric "real" guitar was in 1964 a Gibson LP Junior. Not sure what year it was but the hook was set...I'm still at it...being a guitar player is worse than drugs.
ever listened to leslie west in the vagrants? never knew he was in mountain till not that long ago since i haven’t listened to their discography yet
IMO affordable LPs are Tributes and Studios. They are classical LPs. Juniors are different story. If you want LP Junior - get LP Junior. They have a different feeling than classical LPs, P90 are the best Gibson pickups, from vintage through crunchy to modern tones, yes, you are able to get. "Simplicity is a beauty", but it is totally different guitar.
While SG Juniors are qute closer to Standards and Specials, more stiff string tension, better sound, the same from vintage to modern - get everything you want. If you stucked between SGs - get the cheapest, but all mahogany, no maple necks, they are all quite close between each other. Or if you want exactly Junior - get Junior.
I have a special, but I want a jr. Love the Tobacco burst, it's on my want list. If you really want a dream guitar, check out the seniors. The last time I remember Gibson being affordable was back in the 70's, they wasn't cheep but with in most guitar player's reach.
Supply and demand!
A lot of prices have been dipping lately.
Personally, I would rather go for a used studio or special for about the same price
Robert, I got a brand new Gibson Les Paul Junior about three years ago at Guitar Center for $1249.00. It was some sale they had at all the Guitar Centers for some reason.
I've got 4 juniors from 80s to 20 22 they are great .
Would you consider putting a set of Grover’s on that?🧐
Love any guitar with P-90s. Can’t go wrong with them.
I’m the same with guitars, Gibson means the world to me, cause of my hero’s also!
I miss the Melody Maker reissues with the single coil $480 new. Les Paul Jr. Is a studio workhorse. They're perfect in the mix.
Robert, please try the Harley Benton DC LPJ.... You are going to love it! The only gripe I had as that the pickup is too low! A 3mm shim, or was it 4mm, I forget, turned it into the growling, nasty P90 rock/punk monster I wanted! I also hear you about "Gibson"... That name on the headstock, all of my heros had it on their guitars, why shouldnt I? Yeah, one day, maybe, but I have found the perfect, for me, non Gibson guitars LP, LPJ that, having A/B my Cort LP with a 1980s Gibson LP Standard, absolutely killed the Gibson, not my words, the words of the Gibson owner!
Just found a anniversary lpj here locally for $900 messaged the guy meet him today he was the original owner really stoked my first p90 and single coil guitar necks gonna take a little getting used to but I'm up for it done guitar shopping for a bit