Unveiling the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90: An Electric Guitar Odyssey

Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony: An Exquisite Masterpiece for Discerning Musicians

Editor’s Note:The Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is a remarkable instrument that deserves the attention of every serious guitarist. Its exceptional craftsmanship, premium materials, and unparalleled sound quality make it a standout choice for both professional and aspiring musicians.

Through meticulous analysis and extensive research, we have compiled this comprehensive guide to provide you with an in-depth understanding of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and insights you need to make an informed decision about whether this exceptional guitar is the right choice for your musical journey.

Key Differences or Key Takeaways

Transition to Main Article Topics

• Detailed Overview of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony
• Distinctive Features and Benefits
• Sonic Performance and Versatility
• Comparison with Similar Models
• Conclusion and Recommendation

1. Ebony Fingerboard

The ebony fingerboard on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is a key component that contributes to its exceptional playability and tone. Ebony is a dense and durable wood, known for its smooth, dark appearance and resonant qualities.

The smoothness of the ebony fingerboard allows for effortless fretting and string bending, enhancing the player’s comfort and technique. The dark color of the ebony provides a high contrast against the lighter-colored frets, making it easier to see and accurately place fingers on the fretboard, especially in low-light conditions.

The resonant qualities of ebony contribute to the guitar’s overall sustain and tone. Ebony is a dense wood that vibrates efficiently, allowing the notes to ring out longer and with greater clarity. This resonance also enhances the guitar’s harmonic richness, adding depth and complexity to the sound.

In addition to its playability and tonal benefits, the ebony fingerboard on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony also adds to its aesthetic appeal. The dark, rich color of the ebony complements the guitar’s classic sunburst finish, creating a visually stunning instrument that is sure to turn heads.

Overall, the ebony fingerboard on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is a significant feature that contributes to the guitar’s exceptional playability, tone, and aesthetics.

2. Mahogany Body

The mahogany body of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is a crucial component that contributes to its exceptional sound quality. Mahogany is a dense and resonant wood, known for its warm, rich, and balanced tonal characteristics.

The density of mahogany contributes to the guitar’s sustain and overall projection. The wood’s tight grain structure allows the vibrations of the strings to be transferred efficiently throughout the body, resulting in a longer-lasting and more powerful sound. This sustain and projection make the guitar ideal for a variety of musical genres, from classic rock and blues to heavier styles like hard rock and metal.

The tonal characteristics of mahogany are also highly desirable. Mahogany produces a warm and resonant sound with a strong midrange presence. This tonal balance provides a solid foundation for the guitar’s sound, allowing the nuances of the pickups and playing techniques to shine through clearly.

In addition to its tonal benefits, the mahogany body of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony also contributes to its overall weight and balance. Mahogany is a relatively lightweight wood, making the guitar comfortable to play for extended periods. The balanced weight distribution also enhances the guitar’s resonance and sustain.

Overall, the mahogany body of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is a key factor in its exceptional sound quality, playability, and overall desirability.

Key Insights:

• Mahogany is a dense and resonant wood that contributes to the guitar’s sustain and projection.
• The tonal characteristics of mahogany are warm, rich, and balanced, providing a solid foundation for the guitar’s sound.
• The mahogany body of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony enhances the guitar’s playability and overall resonance.

3. AAA Flame Maple Veneer

The AAA flame maple veneer on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is not merely a cosmetic enhancement; it is an integral part of the guitar’s identity and contributes to its overall value and desirability.

Flame maple is a highly figured wood, prized for its unique and visually striking grain pattern. The AAA grade of flame maple used on this guitar indicates that it is of the highest quality, with a tight and consistent grain that creates a mesmerizing effect.

The flame maple veneer is applied to the guitar’s body, which is made of mahogany. The combination of mahogany and flame maple creates a visually stunning contrast, with the dark, rich color of the mahogany providing a backdrop for the vibrant grain pattern of the flame maple.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the AAA flame maple veneer also contributes to the guitar’s tonal qualities. Flame maple is known for its bright and resonant sound, which complements the warm and rich sound of the mahogany body. This combination of woods results in a guitar with a balanced and versatile tone that is suitable for a wide range of musical styles.

In addition to its visual and tonal benefits, the AAA flame mapl
e veneer also adds to the guitar’s collectibility and value. Flame maple is a rare and sought-after wood, and its presence on this limited-edition guitar makes it a desirable item for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Overall, the AAA flame maple veneer on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is a significant feature that contributes to the guitar’s exceptional beauty, tone, and value.

Key Insights:

• AAA flame maple is a highly figured wood with a unique and visually striking grain pattern.
• The AAA flame maple veneer on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony contributes to the guitar’s stunning visual appeal.
• The combination of flame maple and mahogany creates a balanced and versatile tone.
• The AAA flame maple veneer adds to the guitar’s collectibility and value.

4. Gibson USA BurstBucker Humbuckers

The Gibson USA BurstBucker humbuckers are a crucial component of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony, contributing significantly to its exceptional sound quality and versatility.

• Component and Construction: Gibson BurstBucker humbuckers are renowned for their meticulous construction and high-quality materials. They feature Alnico II magnets, which provide a warm and vintage-inspired tone. The coils are wound with 42-gauge wire, resulting in a balanced and articulate sound.
• Tonal Range and Versatility: One of the defining characteristics of the BurstBucker humbuckers is their wide tonal range. They can deliver warm and clean tones that are ideal for jazz and blues, as well as aggressive and distorted tones that are perfect for rock and metal. This versatility makes the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony suitable for a diverse range of musical genres.
• Enhanced Clarity and Definition: The BurstBucker humbuckers are designed to provide excellent clarity and definition, even at high gain levels. This makes them ideal for complex musical passages and solos, where each note needs to beand articulate.
• Historic Authenticity: The Gibson BurstBucker humbuckers are based on the original PAF humbuckers that were used in the legendary Gibson Les Paul guitars of the 1950s and 1960s. This historic authenticity adds to the overall value and desirability of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony.

In conclusion, the Gibson USA BurstBucker humbuckers are a key element in the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony’s exceptional sound quality and versatility. Their meticulous construction, wide tonal range, enhanced clarity, and historic authenticity make this guitar a sought-after instrument for discerning musicians.

5. SlimTaper Neck Profile

The SlimTaper neck profile of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is a significant factor contributing to its exceptional playability and comfort.

• Enhanced Comfort: The SlimTaper neck profile is designed to fit comfortably in the player’s hand, reducing fatigue during extended playing sessions. Its slimmer profile and rounded edges provide a natural and ergonomic feel, making it easier to reach and fret notes across the entire fingerboard.
• Improved Speed and Accuracy: The fast-playing nature of the SlimTaper neck profile allows for effortless fretting and string bending, facilitating rapid and precise playing techniques. The slimmer profile reduces the distance between the strings and the fretboard, enabling faster finger movement and improved accuracy.
• Versatile Playing Styles: The SlimTaper neck profile is well-suited for a wide range of playing styles, from rhythm to lead guitar. Its comfortable and fast-playing design accommodates both intricate fingerpicking techniques and aggressive strumming patterns, making it an ideal choice for versatile guitarists.
• Historical Legacy: The SlimTaper neck profile is based on the classic neck profiles found on vintage Gibson Les Paul guitars, providing a familiar and comfortable playing experience for guitarists accustomed to traditional Les Paul models.

In conclusion, the SlimTaper neck profile of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is a key feature that enhances the guitar’s playability, comfort, and versatility, making it a highly desirable instrument for both professional and aspiring guitarists.

6. LockTone Tune-o-matic Bridge

The LockTone Tune-o-matic bridge is a key component of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony, contributing significantly to its exceptional playability and tone.

• Precise Intonation: The LockTone Tune-o-matic bridge allows for precise intonation adjustment of each string, ensuring that the guitar stays in tune even during heavy playing. This is achieved through the use of individually adjustable saddles, which can be fine-tuned to compensate for variations in string tension and scale length.
• Enhanced Sustain: The LockTone Tune-o-matic bridge is designed to maximize sustain, allowing notes to ring out longer and with greater clarity. This is due to its solid construction and the use of a stopbar tailpiece, which provides a stable and resonant foundation for the strings to vibrate against.
• Reliability and Stability: The LockTone Tune-o-matic bridge is known for its reliability and stability, ensuring that the guitar stays in tune and intonation over extended playing sessions. Its locking mechanism securely holds the saddles in place, preventing them from shifting or moving, even during aggressive playing.
• Vintage Aesthetics: The LockTone Tune-o-matic bridge adds to the vintage aesthetic of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony, complementing its classic body shape and appointments.

In conclusion, the LockTone Tune-o-matic bridge is an essential component of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony, contributing to its exceptional playability, tone, and overall desirability.

7. Stopbar Tailpiece

The stopbar tailpiece on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is a significant component that contributes to its classic aesthetic and tonal balance.

• Vintage Aesthetics: The stopbar tailpiece is a classic design element that has been used on Les Paul guitars for decades. It complements the guitar’s overall vintage aesthetic, giving it a timeless and iconic look.
• Enhanced Sustain: The stopbar tailpiece helps to enhance the guitar’s sustain by providing
  a stable and resonant foundation for the strings to vibrate against. This results in notes that ring out longer and with greater clarity.
• Improved Intonation: The stopbar tailpiece allows for precise intonation adjustment, ensuring that the guitar stays in tune even during heavy playing. This is achieved through the use of adjustable intonation screws, which can be fine-tuned to compensate for variations in string tension and scale length.
• Balanced Tone: The stopbar tailpiece contributes to the guitar’s overall balanced tone by providing a solid and stable foundation for the strings. This helps to prevent the strings from sounding too bright or too muddy, resulting in a well-rounded and pleasing sound.

In conclusion, the stopbar tailpiece on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is an essential component that contributes to its classic aesthetic, enhanced sustain, improved intonation, and balanced tone. These factors combine to make this guitar a highly desirable instrument for discerning musicians.

8. Limited Edition

The limited-edition nature of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony contributes significantly to its value and desirability among guitar enthusiasts and collectors.

• Rarity and Exclusivity: Limited-edition guitars are produced in small quantities, making them rarer and more exclusive than regular production models. This exclusivity increases their desirability and collector value.
• Enhanced Value: Limited-edition guitars often appreciate in value over time due to their rarity and the demand from collectors. This makes them a worthwhile investment for those looking to acquire a valuable instrument.
• Historical Significance: Limited-edition guitars often commemorate special events, collaborations, or anniversaries, making them historically significant and sought-after by collectors.
• Unique Features: Limited-edition guitars frequently feature unique design elements, special finishes, or upgraded components that are not available on regular production models, further enhancing their desirability.

In conclusion, the limited-edition status of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony adds to its collectibility, exclusivity, and overall value, making it a highly sought-after instrument for discerning musicians and collectors alike.

9. Ebony Finish

The ebony finish on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony plays a significant role in its overall aesthetic appeal and desirability.

• Classic Beauty: Ebony has been a prized wood for centuries, renowned for its deep black color and elegant appearance. The ebony finish on this guitar exudes a timeless sophistication that is both visually striking and understated.
• Enhanced Value: Ebony is a rare and valuable wood, and its use on this guitar adds to its perceived value and desirability among collectors and enthusiasts. The ebony finish not only enhances the guitar’s aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its investment potential.
• Durability and Longevity: Ebony is an extremely dense and durable wood, making it resistant to scratches, dents, and other forms of wear and tear. The ebony finish on this guitar will help to preserve its pristine appearance for years to come.
• Complements Other Appointments: The ebony finish complements the guitar’s other appointments, such as the gold hardware and pearl inlays, creating a cohesive and visually stunning overall package.

In conclusion, the ebony finish on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is not merely a cosmetic enhancement; it is an integral part of the guitar’s identity and contributes to its timeless appeal, enhanced value, durability, and overall desirability.

10. P-90 Pickups

The Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is equipped with P-90 pickups, which are vintage-inspired single-coil pickups known for their bright and twangy sound. These pickups play a crucial role in shaping the guitar’s overall tone and sonic characteristics.

Single-coil pickups are renowned for their clarity and articulation, and P-90 pickups are no exception. They offer a well-defined and punchy sound that is particularly suited for genres such as blues, rock, and country. The bright and twangy nature of P-90 pickups provides excellent note separation and definition, making them ideal for players who want a clear and articulate sound.

The P-90 pickups on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony are specifically designed to complement the guitar’s mahogany body and ebony fingerboard. The combination of these components results in a rich and resonant tone with a balanced and versatile sound. The P-90 pickups provide the guitar with a clear and articulate voice that cuts through the mix, making it suitable for both lead and rhythm playing.

Overall, the P-90 pickups are an integral part of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony’s identity and appeal. Their vintage-inspired design, bright and twangy sound, and excellent clarity make them an ideal choice for players seeking a versatile and expressive instrument.

Key Insights:

• P-90 pickups are single-coil pickups known for their bright and twangy sound.
• The P-90 pickups on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony complement the guitar’s mahogany body and ebony fingerboard, resulting in a rich and resonant tone.
• The bright and twangy sound of the P-90 pickups provides excellent note separation and definition, making them ideal for genres such as blues, rock, and country.

11. Custom Shop Craftsmanship

The Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is meticulously crafted in the Custom Shop, where skilled luthiers apply exceptional quality and attention to detail throughout the manufacturing process. This commitment to craftsmanship plays a significant role in the guitar’s superior quality, performance, and overall value.

The luthiers who build the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony are highly experienced professionals with a deep understanding of guitar design and construction. They use traditional techniques combined with modern tools and technologies to create instruments that are both visually stunning and sonically exceptional.

One of the most notable aspects of the Custom Shop’s craftsmanship is the careful selection and matching of the guitar’s components. The mahogany body and ebony fingerboard are chosen for their tonal qualities and aesthetic appeal, and the P-90 pickups are hand-wound to deliver a ri
ch and articulate sound. The guitar’s hardware, including the bridge, tailpiece, and tuners, is also carefully selected to ensure optimal performance and durability.

The result of this meticulous craftsmanship is an instrument that is not only beautiful but also highly playable and versatile. The Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is a guitar that will inspire and accompany musicians for years to come.

Key Insights:

• Custom Shop craftsmanship ensures exceptional quality and attention to detail in the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony.
• Skilled luthiers use traditional techniques and modern technologies to create instruments that are both visually stunning and sonically exceptional.
• The careful selection and matching of components, including the mahogany body, ebony fingerboard, and P-90 pickups, contributes to the guitar’s superior tone and performance.

FAQs About Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony, offering valuable insights for potential buyers and enthusiasts.

Question 1: What are the key features that distinguish the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony from other models?

Answer: The Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony stands out with its unique combination of premium materials, exceptional craftsmanship, and distinctive appointments. Its mahogany body with AAA flame maple veneer, ebony fingerboard, Gibson USA BurstBucker humbuckers, and P-90 pickups set it apart, delivering a versatile and exceptional playing experience.

Question 2: How does the ebony fingerboard contribute to the guitar’s playability and tone?

Answer: The ebony fingerboard on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony enhances playability with its smooth and dark surface, allowing for effortless fretting and string bending. Its dense and resonant nature contributes to the guitar’s overall sustain and tonal clarity, adding depth and richness to the sound.

Question 3: What are the sonic characteristics of the Gibson USA BurstBucker humbuckers and P-90 pickups?

Answer: The Gibson USA BurstBucker humbuckers deliver a warm and vintage-inspired tone, while the P-90 pickups provide a bright and twangy sound. This combination offers a wide tonal range, making the guitar suitable for various musical genres, from classic rock and blues to heavier styles like hard rock and metal.

Question 4: How does the Custom Shop craftsmanship impact the guitar’s quality and value?

Answer: The Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony benefits from the meticulous craftsmanship of the Custom Shop, where skilled luthiers employ traditional techniques and modern technologies to create an instrument of exceptional quality. This dedication to detail ensures the guitar’s superior playability, tone, and long-term value as a collector’s item.

Question 5: What is the significance of the guitar’s limited-edition status?

Answer: The limited-edition nature of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony adds to its exclusivity and collectibility. Its rarity and unique features make it a desirable instrument for discerning musicians and collectors, potentially increasing its value over time.

Question 6: How does the ebony finish contribute to the guitar’s aesthetics and durability?

Answer: The ebony finish on the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony exudes a timeless elegance and sophistication. Its deep black color complements the guitar’s other appointments, creating a visually stunning package. Furthermore, ebony is a dense and durable wood, providing excellent protection against scratches and wear, ensuring the guitar’s pristine appearance for years to come.

In summary, the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is a remarkable instrument that combines exceptional craftsmanship, premium materials, and unique appointments. Its distinctive features and versatile sound make it a highly sought-after guitar among discerning musicians and collectors.

Transition to the next article section:

To further enhance your understanding of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony, we recommend exploring additional resources that provide detailed reviews, sound demonstrations, and comparative analyses. These resources will empower you to make an informed decision about whether this exceptional guitar is the right choice for your musical journey.

Tips for Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony

The Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is a superb instrument that deserves the utmost care and attention. Here are some tips to help you maintain its exceptional quality and performance:

Tip 1: Proper Storage and Handling

Always store the guitar in its case when not in use to protect it from dust, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. Avoid exposing it to extreme heat or cold, as this can damage the finish and components.

Tip 2: Regular Cleaning

Use a soft, clean cloth to regularly wipe down the guitar’s body and neck. For the fingerboard, use a specialized fretboard cleaner and conditioner to maintain its smoothness and prevent dryness.

Tip 3: String Maintenance

Change the guitar strings regularly to maintain optimal intonation and sound quality. Use high-quality strings that are appropriate for the guitar’s scale length and playing style.

Tip 4: Hardware Maintenance

Periodically inspect the guitar’s hardware, including the bridge, tailpiece, and tuners. Ensure that all screws and nuts are securely tightened to prevent rattling or other issues.

Tip 5: Professional Setup and Adjustments

If you notice any changes in the guitar’s playability or sound, consider taking it to a qualified guitar technician for a professional setup and adjustment. This can optimize the guitar’s intonation, action, and overall performance.

Tip 6: Careful Modifications

While the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony is a remarkable instrument, any modifications should be made with caution. Consult with an experienced guitar technician before making any significant alterations.

Tip 7: Long-Term Care

With proper care and maintenance, the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony will provide decades of musical enjoyment. Keep it in a stable environment, avoid excessive wear and tear, and consider regular checkups with a qualified guitar technician.

Summary of Key Takeaways:

• Proper storage and handling are essential for preserving the guitar’s condition.
• Regular cleaning and maintenance help maintain optimal playability and sound quality.
• Professional setup and adjustments can enhance the guitar’s performance.
• Careful modifications and long-term care ensure the guitar’s longevity and value.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony remains a cherished companion on your musical journey.

Conclusion

The Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony stands as a
testament to exceptional craftsmanship, premium materials, and unparalleled sound quality. Its meticulously crafted mahogany body, adorned with a stunning AAA flame maple veneer, exudes both elegance and power. The ebony fingerboard provides unparalleled playability, while the Gibson USA BurstBucker humbuckers and P-90 pickups deliver a versatile tonal range that caters to a wide spectrum of musical genres.

Beyond its technical prowess, the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Ebony embodies a rich heritage and timeless appeal. Its limited-edition status adds to its collectibility and desirability, making it a prized possession for discerning musicians and collectors alike. With its exceptional quality and enduring value, this guitar is destined to become a cherished companion on countless musical journeys.