Is a new Les Paul Classic worth $2K?

[ledvedder]

Hi guys, I'm looking to get myself a Les Paul. I currently have more superstrat like guitars (Peavey Wolfgang and Charvel So Cal). I want a guitar to get a more versatile, classic sound. I'm looking at the Les Paul Tribute, which is considerably less expensive, but it's missing all the asthetics of a true LP. I'm also looking at the new 59 Epiphone, which has all of the great component upgrades. But, I'm wondering of the LP Classic is almost $1K better? Looking for some recommendations.

 

[theycallmegio]

buy used and get a standard or a non-weight relieved traditional

use the savings to buy a bitchin’ strap

 

[ledvedder]

I definitely want weight relieved. I had a 2016 Traditional that was just too darn heavy. Plus, I want the 60s slim taper neck.

 

[rockstar232007]

Not if you adjust for inflation?

I paid just over $1,200 for my '01 Classic, used about 10 years ago, and they were just over $2K new.

IMHO, even if the Claasics were more than a new Standard, they're definitly worth it.

I've played hundreds (not kidding) of Classics since their launch, and am yet to play a bad one. Can't say the same about most other LPs.

 

[ledvedder]

Not if you adjust for inflation?

I paid just over $1,200 for my '01 Classic, used about 10 years ago, and they were just over $2K new.

IMHO, even if the Claasics were more than a new Standard, they're definitly worth it.

I've played hundreds (not kidding) of Classics since their launch, and am yet to play a bad one. Can't say the same about most other LPs.

What do you like better about the Classic over the Standard?

 

[jstarr823]

Bought at the right price, Classics are killer LPs. All day, everyday, over a new Epi 59. Not even close.

 

[cybermgk]

When I bought my 2017 Classic T (Traditional), it was imho, the best bang for buck LP from Gibson then. It wasn't much more than the Studios, 57 classic/classic+ pups, locking grovers, all the binfing inlay etc. I;ve had Tributes, still have one, faded Studios. The one thing I didn't like about them, compared to the classic, were the finishes. In fact, I went and had a place put a full nitro gloss coat on my 60s Tribute, I like that full, nitro gloss finish

As to between the Classic and Epiphone? Apples and Oranges. Me I won't by MIC anymore, new. But that's me

 

[budg]

I definitely want weight relieved. I had a 2016 Traditional that was just too darn heavy. Plus, I want the 60s slim taper neck.

Double check the weight on the Classic. Mine was weight relieved and still weighed over 10 lbs. Must have been made of water logged mahogany.

 

[pillbug]

You should be able to get a classic for $1500 tops... all day long.

 

[Demon Dave]

I have a 2019 Classic, an all I can say is Yes it worth it, you‘ll agree, the best Lester I’ve ever had

 

[cybermgk]

Double check the weight on the Classic. Mine was weight relieved and still weighed over 10 lbs. Must have been made of water logged mahogany.

Mine is just a shade over 8 lbs

 

[rockstar232007]

What do you like better about the Classic over the Standard?

They're just all-around great guitars. I'm also partial to the slim-taper necks. The pickups (usually 498r/500t) might not be suitible for most peoples' tastes, but I don't really mind them. As long as you know how to make some adjustments, they're actually really versitile.

I will say, the ONLY real issue I have with some of them, are the yellow ("aged") inlays, but I swapped mine out for MOP (now CN) as soon as I bought it.

 

[ledvedder]

The new Classics have '61 Burstbucker pickups.

 

[Christosterone]

I’m biased....classics are my favorite...
bought all of them new...best $1900 u can spend

I’m playing my 18 right now...well, I just sat it down...
here she is from Christmas 2019 just after I opened her...and added a bigsby
that was a good Christmas because I got the stratosphere tribute sg from my wife...I had a heckuva time finding the right plastics for it since the maestro handle tied my hands color wise

-Chris

 

[rjwilson37]

Definitely get the Classic, you will love it! The new Epiphone Custom's are really good, not sure about the new 59, since I have not played one and I am not to sure about the Indian Laurel Fingerboard. The Epi does have a medium C neck, which is my new favorite the past couple of years. I like it better than the 60's slim taper that I use to love.

 

[moreles]

The Gibson/Epi contrast is no contest. The Epis are excellent value for money, and the Gibsos are just plain excellent. I'm not a fan of Tributes. They're one of the few guitars that strike me as a cheesy wannabe version of a better instrument. I wish they had made them even more different from the "real thing."

 

[JMP]

It sounds like the Classic has all the features you’r looking for. It’s absolutely a great Les Paul. If you like it, it’s a good value at $2k. The cherry red is my favorite color.

 

[musicmaniac]

I wouldn't pay $2000 but if you find one cheaper go for it!

 

[cherrysunburst00]

I’m biased....classics are my favorite...
bought all of them new...best $1900 u can spend

I’m playing my 18 right now...well, I just sat it down...
here she is from Christmas 2019 just after I opened her...and added a bigsby
that was a good Christmas because I got the stratosphere tribute sg from my wife...I had a heckuva time finding the right plastics for it since the maestro handle tied my hands color wise

View attachment 497319

-Chris

EIGHTEEN???????????????

BAD ASS

 

[cherrysunburst00]

I’m biased....classics are my favorite...
bought all of them new...best $1900 u can spend

I’m playing my 18 right now...well, I just sat it down...
here she is from Christmas 2019 just after I opened her...and added a bigsby
that was a good Christmas because I got the stratosphere tribute sg from my wife...I had a heckuva time finding the right plastics for it since the maestro handle tied my hands color wise

View attachment 497319

-Chris

As one of our Resident Classic experts, and certainly the Blingiest of the Blingsters, how do you feel that the new Classics compare to the first batches?