Electric guitars are undeniably one of the most popular instruments in the world. They’re used in a wide variety of musical genres, from rock to blues to jazz. And while there are many different electric guitars on the market, one of the most iconic is the Gibson Les Paul Studio.
Editor’s Note:The Gibson Les Paul Studio is a solid-body electric guitar that was first introduced in 1983. It’s based on the classic Les Paul Standard, but it has a few key differences that make it more affordable and accessible to a wider range of players.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the Gibson Les Paul Studio. We’ll discuss its features, sound, and playability. We’ll also compare it to other similar guitars on the market. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a better understanding of the Gibson Les Paul Studio and whether or not it’s the right guitar for you.
Key Differences Between the Gibson Les Paul Studio and Other Les Paul Models
| Feature | Les Paul Standard | Les Paul Studio |
|---|---|---|
| Body | Mahogany with a maple top | Mahogany with a weight-relieved maple top |
| Neck | Mahogany with a rosewood fretboard | Mahogany with a rosewood fretboard |
| Pickups | Two humbuckers | Two humbuckers |
| Price | $2,500 – $3,000 | $1,500 – $2,000 |
Main Article Topics
- Features of the Gibson Les Paul Studio
- Sound of the Gibson Les Paul Studio
- Playability of the Gibson Les Paul Studio
- Comparison to Other Similar Guitars
- Conclusion
1. Body
The body of the Gibson Les Paul Studio is made from mahogany with a weight-relieved maple top. This combination of woods gives the guitar a warm, resonant sound with plenty of sustain. The weight-relieved maple top helps to reduce the overall weight of the guitar, making it more comfortable to play for long periods of time.
- Facet 1: Tone
The mahogany body gives the guitar a warm, resonant sound with plenty of sustain. The maple top adds brightness and clarity to the sound, making it ideal for a wide range of musical genres.
- Facet 2: Weight
The weight-relieved maple top helps to reduce the overall weight of the guitar, making it more comfortable to play for long periods of time. This is especially important for players who perform live or who have to stand while playing.
- Facet 3: Appearance
The maple top gives the guitar a beautiful, classic appearance. The natural grain of the maple is visible through the nitrocellulose lacquer finish, giving each guitar a unique look.
- Facet 4: Value
The Gibson Les Paul Studio is a great value for the price. It offers the same classic sound and feel of a Les Paul Standard, but at a more affordable price.
Overall, the body of the Gibson Les Paul Studio is a major factor in its sound, weight, appearance, and value. The combination of mahogany and maple gives the guitar a warm, resonant sound with plenty of sustain. The weight-relieved maple top helps to reduce the overall weight of the guitar, making it more comfortable to play for long periods of time. The beautiful, classic appearance of the maple top makes the guitar a joy to own and play.
2. Neck
The neck of the Gibson Les Paul Studio is made from mahogany with a rosewood fretboard. This combination of woods gives the guitar a warm, rich sound with plenty of sustain. The mahogany neck is also very strong and durable, making it ideal for heavy playing styles.
- Facet 1: Tone
The mahogany neck gives the guitar a warm, rich sound with plenty of sustain. The rosewood fretboard adds brightness and clarity to the sound, making it ideal for a wide range of musical genres.
- Facet 2: Playability
The mahogany neck is very strong and durable, making it ideal for heavy playing styles. The rosewood fretboard is also very smooth and easy to play on, making it ideal for fast and technical playing.
- Facet 3: Appearance
The mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard give the guitar a beautiful, classic appearance. The natural grain of the mahogany is visible through the nitrocellulose lacquer finish, giving each guitar a unique look.
- Facet 4: Value
The Gibson Les Paul Studio is a great value for the price. It offers the same classic sound and feel of a Les Paul Standard, but at a more affordable price.
Overall, the neck of the Gibson Les Paul Studio is a major factor in its sound, playability, appearance, and value. The combination of mahogany and rosewood gives the guitar a warm, rich sound with plenty of sustain. The mahogany neck is also very strong and durable, making it ideal for heavy playing styles. The rosewood fretboard is also very smooth and easy to play on, making it ideal for fast and technical playing. The beautiful, classic appearance of the mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard makes the guitar a joy to own and play.
3. Pickups
The Gibson Les Paul Studio is equipped with two humbuckers, which are a type of pickup that is known for its warm, fat sound. Humbuckers are also very good at canceling out noise, which makes them ideal for use in high-gain situations. The combination of two humbuckers gives the Les Paul Studio a very versatile sound that can be used for a wide range of musical genres.
The pickups are one of the most important components of an electric guitar, and they have a major impact on the sound of the instrument. The two humbuckers in the Les Paul Studio give it a classic, warm sound that is perfect for blues, rock, and jazz. The humbuckers are also very versatile, and they can be used to create a wide range of tones, from clean and clear to thick and distorted.
The Les Paul Studio is a great choice for players who want a guitar with a classic sound and feel. The two humbuckers give the guitar a warm, fat sound that is perfect for a wide range of musical genres. The Les Paul Studio is also a very versatile guitar, and it can be used to create a wide range of tones, from clean and clear to thick and distorted.
| Pickup Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Humbucker | A type of pickup that is known for its warm, fat sound. Humbuckers are also very good at canceling out noise. |
| Bridge Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Tune-o-matic with stopbar tailpiece | A type of bridge that is known for its stability and sustain. It is a popular choice for guitars that are used for rock and blues music. |
5. Hardware
The Gibson Les Paul Studio is equipped with chrome hardware, which includes the bridge, tailpiece, tuning machines, and control knobs. Chrome hardware is a popular choice for guitars because it is durable and corrosion-resistant, and it gives the guitar a classic, professional look.
- Durability: Chrome hardware is very durable and can withstand the rigors of regular use. It is not easily scratched or dented, and it will not rust or corrode over time.
- Corrosion resistance: Chrome hardware is also very resistant to corrosion, which makes it a good choice for guitars that are played in humid environments. Chrome hardware will not tarnish or discolor over time, and it will always look its best.
- Appearance: Chrome hardware has a classic, professional look that is suitable for any style of guitar. It is a popular choice for both electric and acoustic guitars, and it can complement any finish.
- Value: Chrome hardware is a great value for the price. It is durable, corrosion-resistant, and it looks great. Chrome hardware is a good investment for any guitarist who wants to upgrade the look and feel of their guitar.
Overall, the chrome hardware on the Gibson Les Paul Studio is a major factor in its durability, appearance, and value. Chrome hardware is a popular choice for guitars because it is durable, corrosion-resistant, and it gives the guitar a classic, professional look.
6. Finish
The Gibson Les Paul Studio is finished with a nitrocellulose lacquer. Nitrocellulose lacquer is a type of finish that is made from cellulose nitrate, a compound that is derived from cotton. Nitrocellulose lacquer is known for its durability, gloss, and resonance. It is also relatively easy to repair, which makes it a good choice for guitars that are likely to be played hard.
- Durability: Nitrocellulose lacquer is a very durable finish. It is resistant to scratches and dings, and it will not yellow or fade over time.
- Gloss: Nitrocellulose lacquer has a high gloss finish that gives guitars a beautiful, classic look.
- Resonance: Nitrocellulose lacquer is a resonant finish. This means that it allows the guitar’s body to vibrate freely, which results in a richer, more full-bodied sound.
- Repairability: Nitrocellulose lacquer is relatively easy to repair. This is important for guitars that are likely to be played hard and may need to be repaired at some point.
Overall, the nitrocellulose lacquer finish on the Gibson Les Paul Studio is a major factor in its durability, appearance, and sound. Nitrocellulose lacquer is a durable, high-gloss finish that gives guitars a classic look and feel. It is also a resonant finish that allows the guitar’s body to vibrate freely, which results in a richer, more full-bodied sound.
7. Weight
The Gibson Les Paul Studio weighs between 8 and 9 pounds, which is lighter than a traditional Les Paul Standard. This is due to the weight-relieved maple top, which helps to reduce the overall weight of the guitar. The lighter weight makes the Les Paul Studio more comfortable to play for long periods of time, especially when standing up.
The weight of a guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing an instrument. A heavier guitar can be more difficult to play for long periods of time, and it can also be more tiring to carry around. The lighter weight of the Les Paul Studio makes it a good choice for players who want a guitar that is comfortable to play and easy to transport.
In addition to being more comfortable to play, the lighter weight of the Les Paul Studio also affects the sound of the guitar. A heavier guitar will typically have a warmer, more resonant sound, while a lighter guitar will have a brighter, more articulate sound. The lighter weight of the Les Paul Studio gives it a brighter, more articulate sound that is well-suited for a variety of musical genres.
Overall, the weight of the Gibson Les Paul Studio is an important factor to consider when choosing an instrument. The lighter weight makes the Les Paul Studio more comfortable to play for long periods of time and easier to transport. It also gives the guitar a brighter, more articulate sound that is well-suited for a variety of musical genres.
| Weight | Effect on Sound |
|---|---|
| Heavier | Warmer, more resonant sound |
| Lighter | Brighter, more articulate sound |
8. Price
The Gibson Les Paul Studio is priced between $1,500 and $2,000, which is a relatively affordable price for a guitar of this quality. This price range makes the Les Paul Studio a good option for players who want a high-quality guitar but do not want to spend a lot of money.
- Affordability: The Les Paul Studio is one of the most affordable Les Paul models on the market, making it a good option for players on a budget.
- Value for money: The Les Paul Studio offers a lot of value for the price. It is a well-made guitar with a classic sound and feel.
- Investment: The Les Paul Studio is a good investment for players who are looking for a guitar that will hold its value over time.
- Comparison to other guitars: The Les Paul Studio is priced similarly to other guitars in its class, such as the Fender Stratocaster and the PRS SE Custom 24.
Overall, the price of the Gibson Les Paul Studio is a major factor to consider when choosing an instrument. The Les Paul Studio is a relatively affordable guitar that offers a lot of value for the price. It is a good option for players who want a high-quality guitar but do not want to spend a lot of money.
Gibson Les Paul Studio Electric Guitar Review FAQs
This section addresses common questions and misconceptions about the Gibson Les Paul Studio electric guitar, providing concise and informative answers.
Question 1: How does the Gibson Les Paul Studio compare to the Les Paul Standard?
The Les Paul Studio is a more affordable version of the Les Paul Standard, with a few key differences. The Studio has a weight-relieved maple top, a mahogany neck with a rosewood fretboard, and two humbuckers. The Standard has a solid maple top, a mahogany neck with a rosewood fretboard, and two humbuckers.
Question 2: What are the tonal characteristics of the Gibson Les Paul Studio?
The Les Paul Studio has a warm, rich tone with plenty of sustain. The mahogany body and neck contribute to the warmth, while the maple top adds brightness and clarity. The humbuckers deliver a fat, full sound that is perfect for blues, rock, and jazz.
Question 3: Is the Gibson Les Paul Studio a good choice for beginners?
The Les Paul Studio is a great choice for beginners who are looking for a high-quality guitar with a classic sound. It is relatively easy to play, and it produces a wide range of tones that are suitable for a variety of musical genres.
Question 4: How does the weight of the Gibson Les Paul Studio compare to other guitars?
The Les Paul Studio weighs between 8 and 9 pounds, which is lighter than a traditional Les Paul Standard. This is due to the weight-relieved maple top, which helps to reduce the overall weight of the guitar.
Question 5: What is the price range of the Gibson Les Paul Studio?
The Gibson Les Paul Studio is priced between $1,500 and $2,000. This is a relatively affordable price for a guitar of this quality, making it a good option for players who are on a budget.
Question 6: Is the Gibson Les Paul Studio a good investment?
The Les Paul Studio is a good investment for players who are looking for a guitar that will hold its value over time. Gibson guitars are known for their quality and craftsmanship, and the Les Paul Studio is no exception. It is a well-made guitar that is built to last.
In summary, the Gibson Les Paul Studio is a versatile and high-quality electric guitar that is suitable for a wide range of players. It has a classic sound and feel, and it is relatively affordable, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
Transition to the next article section:
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Gibson Les Paul Studio Electric Guitar
The Gibson Les Paul Studio is a versatile and powerful electric guitar that can be used for a wide range of musical genres. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your Les Paul Studio:
Tip 1: Experiment with different pickup combinations.The Les Paul Studio has two humbuckers, which can be combined in a variety of ways to create a wide range of tones. Experiment with different pickup combinations to find the sound that you like best.Tip 2: Use the tone knobs to shape your sound.The Les Paul Studio has two tone knobs, which can be used to shape the sound of the guitar. The neck tone knob controls the tone of the neck pickup, and the bridge tone knob controls the tone of the bridge pickup. Experiment with different tone knob settings to find the sound that you like best.Tip 3: Use the volume knob to control the output of the guitar.The Les Paul Studio has a volume knob, which can be used to control the output of the guitar. This can be useful for controlling the volume of the guitar when playing with other instruments or when recording.Tip 4: Use the pickup selector switch to change the sound of the guitar.The Les Paul Studio has a pickup selector switch, which can be used to change the sound of the guitar. The pickup selector switch has three positions: neck, bridge, and both. The neck position gives the guitar a warm, mellow sound, the bridge position gives the guitar a bright, twangy sound, and the both position gives the guitar a combination of the neck and bridge sounds.Tip 5: Use the truss rod to adjust the neck relief.The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar. It can be used to adjust the neck relief, which is the amount of curvature in the neck. The neck relief should be adjusted so that the strings are not too high or too low.Tip 6: Use the bridge to adjust the intonation of the guitar.The bridge is the part of the guitar that holds the strings in place. It can be used to adjust the intonation of the guitar, which is the accuracy of the guitar’s tuning. The intonation should be adjusted so that the strings are in tune at all frets.Tip 7: Use a guitar strap to support the guitar.A guitar strap is a strap that is used to support the guitar while playing. This can help to prevent the guitar from falling and getting damaged.Tip 8: Store the guitar in a case when not in use.A guitar case is a case that is used to store the guitar when not in use. This can help to protect the guitar from dust, dirt, and moisture.Summary of key takeaways or benefits:By following these tips, you can get the most out of your Gibson Les Paul Studio electric guitar. The Les Paul Studio is a versatile and powerful guitar that can be used for a wide range of musical genres. Experiment with different pickup combinations, tone knob settings, and pickup selector switch positions to find the sound that you like best.Transition to the article’s conclusion:The Gibson Les Paul Studio is a classic electric guitar that has been used by countless musicians over the years. It is a versatile and powerful guitar that can be used for a wide range of musical genres. By following these tips, you can get the most out of your Les Paul Studio and create amazing music.
Conclusion of Gibson Les Paul Studio Electric Guitar Review
The Gibson Les Paul Studio is a versatile and powerful electric guitar that is perfect for a wide range of musical genres. It has a classic sound and feel, and it is relatively affordable, making it a great choice for players of all levels.
In this review, we have explored the features, sound, and playability of the Gibson Les Paul Studio. We have also provided some tips to help you get the most out of your guitar. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, the Gibson Les Paul Studio is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a high-quality electric guitar.
