[diceman]

I love them - then again, I'm just one person. The overall consensus around here though is that the Elitists are absolutely top notch. I've yet to hear ONE person say that they played an Elitist and weren't blown away by how nice they are. The only "naysayers" around here are guys who have never even touched one!! The only somewhat neutral (although mostly positive) comment that I've read came from BCRGreg, who is a pretty big name (repair master of sorts, vintage expert, etc) - he said that they are very nice guitars, and the only cons he mentioned were the price, and that he thinks that the poly finish is too thick.

There is nothing "wrong" with the Gibson models - but the Elitist offers a whole lot more for the price. And, they "feel right" to me. The chambered Pauls feel like toys in my hands. I went in to buy a Gibson and walked out with an Elitist about a year ago - and acquired a second one recently. I've been waiting for the right Gibson to come along - have played probably 30 or so in the past year, and have yet to find one that I liked, much less loved. I sure do miss my old Gibson Studio - but I wouldn't trade either of my Elitists to get it back.