Gibson Les Paul Standard

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The Gibson Les Paul Standard is what it’s name implies: a rock n’ roll Standard.Imagine some freaky alternate reality in which the Standard didn’t exist – “Whole Lotta Love” played on a Strat? Whoa… no bueno.

Origins of the LP Standard

1958 was a big year for Gibson.  They released the Flying V & Explorer, and were on the cusp of getting the patent for the humbucker.

In ’58 they also changed the top of the Les Paul from the “Gold top” that had been used since 1952 to a “sunburst” finish. This marked the birth of the Standard.

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The 2008 Standard

For the 2008 Model, Gibson made some small but important upgrades to the LP Standard: first, it comes with straplocks (a must have!),

Another cool feature is the Asymetrical neck, which is a little fatter on top and a little thinner on the bottom. This makes playing this axe feel a little more natural.

The set neck is also carved out in a pattern that makes for a tighter, sustain-increasing fit.

Tuners? How about locking Grovers. Gotta love it.

All of these upgrades help this Classic “catch up” without compromising what made it such a bad-a$$ axe in the first place.

The ’08 is also lighter than previous models, something you’ll certainly appreciate if you play live for any extended period of time.

The first thing I notice when I play this Paul is that you can really get a lot of diversity by messing with the tone and volume knobs. On most guitars I just leave all 4 knobs cranked to the max, but this axe gives you a bit more of a tonal palate.

The neck is gorgeous. The asymetrical cut on the 2008 really makes for a natural feel, Gibson really scored here. I also love that this guitar feels so solid and resonant, but is still lighter than a normal Paul… ah.

Don’t be turned off by an older LP Standard though: remember that this is an original masterpiece.

The Burstbucker Pro pickups produce a bit more modern sound (a little hotter & brighter with more presence) than previous LPs. This is a welcome sound, based off of the immortal PAF pickups.

Changing something like the LP is like tinkering with perfection, so Gibson was wise to make very small adjustments in the ’08 Standard. But whether you go with an older model or a newer one, you really can’t go wrong.

This guitar really is an icon, and if you’re in the market for a sick axe give this one a few looks!