First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000?

IndyLP · 02-07-2012, 09:35 PM

Hello..

I am expecting my tax refund here in the next few days, and I'm looking to pick up my first USA Gibson Les Paul. My limit is right around $1000..may be able to push that up another $200 or so, but that's about it. I was wondering what some of your suggestions are? I know there aren't a ton of options with that limit...but I know there are some. I am not totally opposed to a used one, but the market around me kind of sucks for nice used Les Pauls, and would rather just get a new one since it's my first.

Any help is much appreciated! Thanks in advance

cck801 · 02-07-2012, 09:42 PM

I think the Joe Bonomassa Studio is around that price range, and that is a beast of a guitar (might be a little above that range, but certainly close enough). Really any Studio would be a great investment. Play a bunch and you will find yourself hooked rather quickly. And cheers from a fellow Hoosier (although I am pretty new to Indy).

Sean French · 02-07-2012, 09:46 PM

The Studio Tributes are killer and new cost $849.
You could score a used Marshall Class 5 combo with what's left of the $1200 budget and still have enough to buy a box of strings.

IndyLP · 02-07-2012, 09:46 PM

Those Bonamassa's are hitting around $1500

Which is a shame because it is a beauty! I just can't go over $1200 for sure...

Also what seems to be the "preferred" p'up's for the "entry level" USA's? The Burstbuckers or those 498T/4??? ones?

cck801 · 02-07-2012, 09:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IndyLP

Those Bonamassa's are hitting around $1500

Which is a shame because it is a beauty! I just can't go over $1200 for sure...

Also what seems to be the "preferred" p'up's for the "entry level" USA's? The Burstbuckers or those 498T/4??? ones?

Yeah, you are probably right. Although I would probably piss off my wife and spring the extra few (and perhaps even rationalize bumping up to the Classic). I think the PUPs on new Studios are 490R/498T.

HRC · 02-07-2012, 09:54 PM

Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded (Worn Cherry) | Sweetwater.com

orrb_05 · 02-07-2012, 10:04 PM

Would you be opposed to a Epiphone Elite/Elitist LP?

These are some really awesome LPs, that IMO hold there own with a Gibson branded LP.

They were mfg'd in Japan (no longer in production) and have stellar build quality.

I've seen them on EBay in mint condition for $850 - $1200

IndyLP · 02-07-2012, 10:10 PM

Don't want to offend anyone...but I absolutely hate the headstocks on those lol...I'm sure they play great though...but the real reason I wouldn't get one is that it'd be near impossible to find on close to me, and I don't want one that I can't play first.

I'm not opposed to the Satin or Worn Studios...that'd even leave me a little cash left over, but has anyone seen the Satin Fireburst ones? They are on Gibson's site, but I can't find anyone that has them?

IndyLP · 02-07-2012, 10:17 PM

Wow...Sean, are these what you are talking about? Because I think I'm in love with this:

orrb_05 · 02-07-2012, 10:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IndyLP

Don't want to offend anyone...but I absolutely hate the headstocks on those lol...I'm sure they play great though...but the real reason I wouldn't get one is that it'd be near impossible to find on close to me, and I don't want one that I can't play first.

I'm not opposed to the Satin or Worn Studios...that'd even leave me a little cash left over, but has anyone seen the Satin Fireburst ones? They are on Gibson's site, but I can't find anyone that has them?

No worries. The heart wants what the heart wants!!

That goldtop looks fantastic, by the way!! What model is that? TradPro 1960 satin?

IndyLP · 02-07-2012, 10:26 PM

It's the Studio 50's Tribute...they have the 60's too with the P90's...but this this is hot looking, and I'm a big fan of 'buckers myself. It almost looks Slash-like haha

GibsonMarshallGuy · 02-07-2012, 10:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IndyLP

Wow...Sean, are these what you are talking about? Because I think I'm in love with this:

I'd rock that, sweet....

92Standard · 02-07-2012, 10:49 PM

I just bought a new LP Special with ebony fretboard and P90's for just over $1,000 with 15% off from Musicians Friend. They list at $1,299 I believe. Couldn't be happier with the guitar or price.

Sean French · 02-07-2012, 10:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IndyLP

Wow...Sean, are these what you are talking about? Because I think I'm in love with this:

Yep.

I've owned a bunch of Historics over the years and dig the Tribute'.
I have a 2010 50's Tibute GT w/P90' that is simply killer.

I may just have to get another with buckers.

IndyLP · 02-07-2012, 10:57 PM

Ya...that just may be the one...luckily the Sam Ash in Indianapolis is usually really good at getting the Gibson stuff...like months ahead of the GC here...calling them tomorrow.

Even at $849, I can get a nice case and strings...and I'm going to see if they have of those $*** off a purchase coupons...if I can't pickup an amp right away I guess I'll just have to play through my father in laws Voodoo Modified Marshall

nauc · 02-07-2012, 11:48 PM

x2 on the Tribute Studio for $850

and id get one of these

Jet City Amplification JCA2112RC 20W Tube Guitar Combo Amp: Shop Guitars & Other Musical Instruments | Musician's Friend

You Tube

Jet City JCA2112RC Demo - YouTube

GibsonMarshallGuy · 02-07-2012, 11:48 PM

Haggle a little bit and try to get some money off, they can afford it. Mark up on guitars is huge...

nauc · 02-07-2012, 11:57 PM

Guitar Center emails out coupons all time. might check into that

IndyLP · 02-08-2012, 12:30 AM

For an amp I really like the Jet City 20W Tube Heads. I don't need the combo unit because there is a 2x12 with Vintage 30's not being used right now that I plan on commandeering from the father in law

They have the newer 2 channel head with extra preamp tubes, and from everything I've read/heard...the thing screams

ToneasaurusRex · 02-08-2012, 09:11 AM

Indy, I'll second what others have said and point out that with a little patience and persistence, you can pay less than the usual street prices and leave everybody happy.

It depends on many micro-factors: the popularity of the model, the popularity of the color/finish, the local market. If you like the look of the fireburst, you have $1000 cash, and a few patient negotiating skills, I think the answer to your question is a gloss-finished Studio in Fireburst ($1,799 MSRP / $1,320 street).

Peace

Rex

RodS · 02-08-2012, 06:55 PM

I have played a 60's Trbute Studio Humbucker (Goldtop too) just like your picture and it is awesome. I wouldn't hesitate to buy one.

LedZeppelin · 02-08-2012, 11:25 PM

Studios are the way to go. Try them out. I bought a Faded Brown Studio and I love it.
And if you buy a Studio, you'll have some leftover $ to buy some extra things

rjwilson37 · 02-09-2012, 03:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IndyLP

For an amp I really like the Jet City 20W Tube Heads. I don't need the combo unit because there is a 2x12 with Vintage 30's not being used right now that I plan on commandeering from the father in law

They have the newer 2 channel head with extra preamp tubes, and from everything I've read/heard...the thing screams

Yep, I would do that if I were you. Make two seperate purchases from Guitar Center and get $100 off the purchase of $599 or more then $50 off $299 or more. You can get the Studio for $699 to $749 and the new 2 channel Jet City JCA22H 20W for $349 and your set for a while.

I got my 2011 Faded Studio Ebony Stain with the Satin finish for $649 and it totally rocks with the Burstbucker pro pups.

AxeBuilder · 02-09-2012, 04:21 PM

I highly recommend the Studio Tributes, 50s or 60s; plus you can take the wife/girlfriend out to dinner with the balance and score a win/win!

smcgov · 02-09-2012, 04:32 PM

$1200 is close to used Standard territory.....maybe late 90's early 00's??

Naukuga · 02-09-2012, 04:43 PM

I got my 50's Tribute for 700 flat with a 150$ off coupon. They have them all the time, but you usually have to either go into the store or call the sales reps to get them to apply the coupon to the Gibson.

tampa898 · 02-09-2012, 05:46 PM

If you want a studio, go used and you can pretty much have model you want. There are tons of them around that have never been played.

TheJrAce · 02-09-2012, 05:51 PM

Studios are awesome guitars. You'll be more than happy with one. My stepdad has an 85 lp studio and that thing is awesome to play, super easy and sounds great. Want to sneak it out of his house and toss some seth lovers in there.

smcgov · 02-09-2012, 05:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheJrAce

Studios are awesome guitars. You'll be more than happy with one. My stepdad has an 85 lp studio and that thing is awesome to play, super easy and sounds great. Want to sneak it out of his house and toss some seth lovers in there.

That thing probably has Shaws in it, my 84 does....best sounding PAF's I've ever heard....barring the real ones

lunchbox · 02-09-2012, 06:06 PM

I'd look at Ebay or the MLP classifieds before buying new. You'll get a lot more bang for your buck.

02-07-2012, 09:35 PM	#1 (permalink)
IndyLP Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Indiana Posts: 214 Thanks: 0 Thanked 2 Times in 2 Posts	First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? Hello.. I am expecting my tax refund here in the next few days, and I'm looking to pick up my first USA Gibson Les Paul. My limit is right around $1000..may be able to push that up another $200 or so, but that's about it. I was wondering what some of your suggestions are? I know there aren't a ton of options with that limit...but I know there are some. I am not totally opposed to a used one, but the market around me kind of sucks for nice used Les Pauls, and would rather just get a new one since it's my first. Any help is much appreciated! Thanks in advance __________________ "At his worst Randy was great - at his best he was Randy Rhoads" - Rudy Sarzo

02-07-2012, 09:42 PM	#2 (permalink)
cck801 Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Indianapolis, IN Posts: 950 Thanks: 15 Thanked 6 Times in 3 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? I think the Joe Bonomassa Studio is around that price range, and that is a beast of a guitar (might be a little above that range, but certainly close enough). Really any Studio would be a great investment. Play a bunch and you will find yourself hooked rather quickly. And cheers from a fellow Hoosier (although I am pretty new to Indy).

02-07-2012, 09:46 PM	#3 (permalink)
Sean French Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Texas Posts: 495 Thanks: 0 Thanked 9 Times in 3 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? The Studio Tributes are killer and new cost $849. You could score a used Marshall Class 5 combo with what's left of the $1200 budget and still have enough to buy a box of strings.

02-07-2012, 09:46 PM	#4 (permalink)
IndyLP Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Indiana Posts: 214 Thanks: 0 Thanked 2 Times in 2 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? Those Bonamassa's are hitting around $1500 Which is a shame because it is a beauty! I just can't go over $1200 for sure... Also what seems to be the "preferred" p'up's for the "entry level" USA's? The Burstbuckers or those 498T/4??? ones? __________________ "At his worst Randy was great - at his best he was Randy Rhoads" - Rudy Sarzo

02-07-2012, 09:54 PM	#6 (permalink)
HRC Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Illinois Posts: 3,750 Thanks: 278 Thanked 7 Times in 2 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded (Worn Cherry) \| Sweetwater.com __________________ If You Can't Play 'em, Relic 'em Axaholics Bluesville Junction

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02-07-2012, 10:04 PM	#7 (permalink)
orrb_05 Junior Member Join Date: Jan 2012 Posts: 25 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? Would you be opposed to a Epiphone Elite/Elitist LP? These are some really awesome LPs, that IMO hold there own with a Gibson branded LP. They were mfg'd in Japan (no longer in production) and have stellar build quality. I've seen them on EBay in mint condition for $850 - $1200 Last edited by orrb_05; 02-07-2012 at 10:06 PM. Reason: added more pics :)

02-07-2012, 10:10 PM	#8 (permalink)
IndyLP Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Indiana Posts: 214 Thanks: 0 Thanked 2 Times in 2 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? Don't want to offend anyone...but I absolutely hate the headstocks on those lol...I'm sure they play great though...but the real reason I wouldn't get one is that it'd be near impossible to find on close to me, and I don't want one that I can't play first. I'm not opposed to the Satin or Worn Studios...that'd even leave me a little cash left over, but has anyone seen the Satin Fireburst ones? They are on Gibson's site, but I can't find anyone that has them? lespaul01 likes this. __________________ "At his worst Randy was great - at his best he was Randy Rhoads" - Rudy Sarzo

02-07-2012, 10:17 PM	#9 (permalink)
IndyLP Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Indiana Posts: 214 Thanks: 0 Thanked 2 Times in 2 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? Wow...Sean, are these what you are talking about? Because I think I'm in love with this: __________________ "At his worst Randy was great - at his best he was Randy Rhoads" - Rudy Sarzo

02-07-2012, 10:26 PM	#11 (permalink)
IndyLP Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Indiana Posts: 214 Thanks: 0 Thanked 2 Times in 2 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? It's the Studio 50's Tribute...they have the 60's too with the P90's...but this this is hot looking, and I'm a big fan of 'buckers myself. It almost looks Slash-like haha

02-07-2012, 10:49 PM	#13 (permalink)
92Standard Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Huntersville North Carolina Posts: 1,447 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? I just bought a new LP Special with ebony fretboard and P90's for just over $1,000 with 15% off from Musicians Friend. They list at $1,299 I believe. Couldn't be happier with the guitar or price. __________________ 1992 Gibson Les Paul Standard (WCR Darkbursts...Bonamassa modded) 2008 Gibson SG Standard (WCR Godwood/Crossroads "American Steele") 2008 Gibson ES 339 ('57 Classics) 2011 Fender Highway One Tele 2011 Gibson Les Paul Special (P90's)

02-07-2012, 10:57 PM	#15 (permalink)
IndyLP Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Indiana Posts: 214 Thanks: 0 Thanked 2 Times in 2 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? Ya...that just may be the one...luckily the Sam Ash in Indianapolis is usually really good at getting the Gibson stuff...like months ahead of the GC here...calling them tomorrow. Even at $849, I can get a nice case and strings...and I'm going to see if they have of those $*** off a purchase coupons...if I can't pickup an amp right away I guess I'll just have to play through my father in laws Voodoo Modified Marshall

02-07-2012, 11:48 PM	#17 (permalink)
GibsonMarshallGuy Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2012 Posts: 2,440 Thanks: 18 Thanked 9 Times in 6 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? Haggle a little bit and try to get some money off, they can afford it. Mark up on guitars is huge...

02-07-2012, 11:57 PM	#18 (permalink)
nauc Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: USA Posts: 7,378 Thanks: 1 Thanked 356 Times in 151 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? Guitar Center emails out coupons all time. might check into that __________________ Gibson Les Paul Studio Peavey Classic 30

02-08-2012, 12:30 AM	#19 (permalink)
IndyLP Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Indiana Posts: 214 Thanks: 0 Thanked 2 Times in 2 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? For an amp I really like the Jet City 20W Tube Heads. I don't need the combo unit because there is a 2x12 with Vintage 30's not being used right now that I plan on commandeering from the father in law They have the newer 2 channel head with extra preamp tubes, and from everything I've read/heard...the thing screams

02-08-2012, 09:11 AM	#20 (permalink)
ToneasaurusRex Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Posts: 912 Thanks: 11 Thanked 8 Times in 2 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? Indy, I'll second what others have said and point out that with a little patience and persistence, you can pay less than the usual street prices and leave everybody happy. It depends on many micro-factors: the popularity of the model, the popularity of the color/finish, the local market. If you like the look of the fireburst, you have $1000 cash, and a few patient negotiating skills, I think the answer to your question is a gloss-finished Studio in Fireburst ($1,799 MSRP / $1,320 street). Peace Rex

02-08-2012, 06:55 PM	#21 (permalink)
RodS Member Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Western Canada Posts: 69 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? I have played a 60's Trbute Studio Humbucker (Goldtop too) just like your picture and it is awesome. I wouldn't hesitate to buy one.

02-08-2012, 11:25 PM	#22 (permalink)
LedZeppelin Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2012 Posts: 547 Thanks: 4 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? Studios are the way to go. Try them out. I bought a Faded Brown Studio and I love it. And if you buy a Studio, you'll have some leftover $ to buy some extra things

02-09-2012, 04:21 PM	#24 (permalink)
AxeBuilder Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2011 Location: Northern California Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 92 Thanked 25 Times in 11 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? I highly recommend the Studio Tributes, 50s or 60s; plus you can take the wife/girlfriend out to dinner with the balance and score a win/win! __________________ 2011 LP Custom Hot-Mod 1955 Black Beauty (BB1, BB2) 2011 LP Classic Custom Antique Natural (57 Classics) 2007 LP R9 Sunset Tea Burst Yamano (BB1, BB2) 2011 PK Custom S-Style (Duncan SSL-1s) 2010 Carvin Bolt Tremolo (Carvin AP11s) 2005 Brian Moore iGuitar i81.13 Emerald Green (iMs + RMC Piezo) 1976 Ibanez Les Paul 2351AV Antique Violin (Super 70s) 1969 Ovation Balladeer 1111-4 Natural Marshall JVM205, Class 5, JTM-1, JMP-1, JCM-1, DSL-1 Egnater Tweaker 15 - 112 cab Vox AC4TVH - V112TV cab

02-09-2012, 04:32 PM	#25 (permalink)
smcgov Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Philly Posts: 768 Thanks: 2 Thanked 4 Times in 4 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? $1200 is close to used Standard territory.....maybe late 90's early 00's?? tampa898 likes this.

02-09-2012, 04:43 PM	#26 (permalink)
Naukuga Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2011 Location: Utah Posts: 213 Thanks: 1 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? I got my 50's Tribute for 700 flat with a 150$ off coupon. They have them all the time, but you usually have to either go into the store or call the sales reps to get them to apply the coupon to the Gibson.

02-09-2012, 05:46 PM	#27 (permalink)
tampa898 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: London, Ontario, Canada Posts: 1,338 Thanks: 6 Thanked 8 Times in 5 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? If you want a studio, go used and you can pretty much have model you want. There are tons of them around that have never been played. __________________ 1973 Les Paul Deluxe Tobacco Burst 1990 Lado Classic III 1992 HHR Stratocaster MIJ 2007 Les Paul STD 2007 Fender 62 reissue 2011 Custom Telecaster Metaltronix M-1000 Head 4x12 Fender Cab Crate V50 2x12 It's Not What It's Worth, It's What You Can Get For It

02-09-2012, 05:51 PM	#28 (permalink)
TheJrAce Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: NY Posts: 2,820 Thanks: 1 Thanked 26 Times in 6 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? Studios are awesome guitars. You'll be more than happy with one. My stepdad has an 85 lp studio and that thing is awesome to play, super easy and sounds great. Want to sneak it out of his house and toss some seth lovers in there. __________________ NYC Tonemojo Agent

02-09-2012, 06:06 PM	#30 (permalink)
lunchbox Bartlett Retrospec Member Join Date: May 2011 Posts: 3,038 Thanks: 140 Thanked 67 Times in 20 Posts	Re: First USA-Best Les Paul For $1000? I'd look at Ebay or the MLP classifieds before buying new. You'll get a lot more bang for your buck. __________________

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