Hey there, I'm new here also, but I've been playing for awhile and looking for an LP myself, so I think I can help a little. I've had an Epi LP Custom for about 10 years but looking to upgrade. I've tried a whole bunch of LPs from upper end Epis to Gibsons. Ultimately, I'm gonna go Gibson, but I have a comment on the 1960 vs Tribute Plus.
I played one of each back-to-back a few days ago, and the 1960 won hands down. Granted, it's just one example of each, but the 1960 sounded and felt better. I like 57s a lot, but the BB1 and BB2 in the 1960 were fantastic. And I think the wood quality might have had something to do with it as well. The 1960 has an honest to goodness maple cap, not just a veneer like a lot of Epis. (I don't know what the Tribute had; didn't check). And the 1960 is a limited edition that might hold a little more value should you decide to sell or upgrade later.
In general, whatever you decide, I would go with feel over looks or tone. As your playing progresses you will be able to get the tones you want. Get a guitar with a neck you just can't put down; that's the quickest way to get better.
I played one of each back-to-back a few days ago, and the 1960 won hands down. Granted, it's just one example of each, but the 1960 sounded and felt better. I like 57s a lot, but the BB1 and BB2 in the 1960 were fantastic. And I think the wood quality might have had something to do with it as well. The 1960 has an honest to goodness maple cap, not just a veneer like a lot of Epis. (I don't know what the Tribute had; didn't check). And the 1960 is a limited edition that might hold a little more value should you decide to sell or upgrade later.
In general, whatever you decide, I would go with feel over looks or tone. As your playing progresses you will be able to get the tones you want. Get a guitar with a neck you just can't put down; that's the quickest way to get better.
