With its playability, sound, and low price, it's easy to consider why the Les Paul Studio is one of Gibson's most popular models.
Since 1983, the Gibson Les Paul Studio has been one of the company's best selling guitars. Though originally directed at studio players (hence the name), it has since become a favorite instrument for both recording and live use.
Features
The Les Paul studio has a carved maple top with a chambered mahogany body, contributing to its low weight. The neck is mahogany as well while the fretboard is either rosewood or ebony, depending on the finish. Stop tailpiece and tune-o-matic bridge are standard equipment, as are 490R and 498T Alnico 2 magnet humbucking pickups. Depending on the finish, you'll get either chrome or gold hardware. The familiar two volume knobs, two tone knobs and three-way switch are included, as is a Gibson hardshell case.
Performance
The first deviation from the standard Les Paul you'll detect is the lack of body and neck binding. However, the Studio model still has the essence of the classic Gibson tone.
The neck is sure enough Gibson through and through. It reminded us of a 50's LP, which in all likelihood helps the guitar grab that chunky sound Gibson is so well-known for. The pickups (490T and 490R) also help catch this classic tone.
Despite its name, the Les Paul Studio has earned an outstanding reputation as a live guitar workhorse, due in no small part to its decreased weight. The chambered mahogany body make the Studio model an excellent guitar for gigging because it has the LP sound without the LP weight.
The model we reviewed came with a classy black finish and gold hardware. Fit and finish were superior throughout. The frets were well-polished with hardly any buzzing present.
The rosewood fretboard was pure Gibson down to the instantly distinctive trapezoid inlays. From lead guitar to thick power chords, the instrument felt, played, and sounded like a much more expensive Gibson guitar.
If you're wondering what the distinctions are between a Les Paul Studio and a more traditional model, it's actually pretty easy. The Studio model lacks body and neck binding and has a chambered, lighter body.
The Bottom Line
With its playability, sound, and, of course, low price, it's easy to consider why the Les Paul Studio is one of Gibson's most popular models, and we give it our heartfelt recommendation.
Name of Gear: Gibson Les Paul Studio
List Price: $2,169.00
Manufacturer Info: Gibson Musical Instruments; gibson.com
Pros: Wonderful action; good range of sounds; excellent value
Cons: None
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