Choosing the Right Gibson Les Paul For You | Tribute, Studio, Standard

[@kar7795]

Just played all three, including the 50’s and 60’s standard at a guitar shop. Walked out with tribute, not because of price. But the feel wasn’t close for me. Love it!!

[@doughnut3639]

I just picked up a tribute myself. I absolutely love it. Just feels right

[@johnb3194]

me too bud

[@craiger2399]

Same here. Walked in thinking I would get a 50s Les Paul. Walked out with a Tribute.

[@benallmark9671]

Ya I agree. The tribute feels ten times better in the hands then the standards. That’s how I truly feel too.

[@benallmark9671]

@@craiger2399 the nice slim tapered satin necks help make it an easy decision.

[@conorfurlong]

Interesting. On a side note, I like that Cooper plays the same thing on each guitar he demos - it’s the only way to be able to really compare guitars: by keeping all other things equal.

[@PeterDad60]

I just received my own Gibson Les Paul Tribute in Satin Honey burst. I really like her and have been playing upon her every day and night since October 6th, 2021 and today is October 14th., 2021. She plays very easy and sounds good acoustically and amplified. What can I say? She's a very likable guitar and I'm glad I made the purchase. My requirement is that my guitar is small and comfortable ( light weight helps) and is playable plugged in and unplugged and this Gibson fulfills my requirements. So I play my Les Paul Tribute all day long through my amps and then bring her into my bedroom and play her unplugged many times during the night. I enjoy the unplugged tone and resonance. So now after about 20 guitars I am satisfied. Thanks Gibson! - Peter age 71

[@licccio2133]

like "it". You like it.

[@automatoncollectives7237]

The Tribute is a Gibson LP in name alone. Maple neck and Rosewood fretboard? It’s a poor man’s Gibson and the specs show it.

[@jasonprice9823]

@@automatoncollectives7237 fuck off. People can enjoy what they want. You do you let other be happy with what they have.

[@automatoncollectives7237]

@@jasonprice9823 What an immature, triggered, response. The Tribute is a Gibson in name alone. No one of any status evens plays that garbage.

[@justinlandin5048]

@@automatoncollectives7237 you're a very smug person who's clearly unhappy in life.

[@dimitrisaivaliotis5616]

Hello there 😊 let's hear them next to next Tribute Rpc 5:17 Both pc's 5:35 Tpc 6:12 Studio. Rpc 11:15 Bpc's 12:12 Tpc 12:32 Studio split R 11:40 split B 11:50 split T 12:02 Standard Rpc 16:44 Bpc's 17:09 Tpc 17:39

[@dd52161]

and if nobody wants to waste their time they can skip straight to 24:21 :-] thank you!

[@desmondmyers]

Wow thank you so much for these time stamps! I’m surprised at how well the tribute stacks up to the standard here

[@Peter-by3ox]

Tribute sounds a thinner than the standard not as fulsome I wonder if this is because of the pups or the Tribute has the maple neck?

[@miketripodo2879]

I have a Tribute and I love it.. Yes the burstbuckers in the Standard are more articulate/have more clarity, but the 490s really nail the classic rock PAF sound.. Nice demo.

[@aguy1945]

Kudos..Very well done. You showed people what these guitars are really going to sound like when they get them home. Too many reviewers run the guitars thru $10,000 dollars worth of pedals and amps completely disguising the guitar sound. Your playing was awesome as well.

[@TonyAguirreJazz]

I go back and forth between my Tele and Tribute and it's all I need. Very happy

[@pb5531]

Can I just say, as I look around the KZbin videos before I purchase a Gibson it was so refreshing to come across this video. Unlike the other American ones who for some reason seem to shout instead of talk, you give an informative and balanced video with a nice soft delivery 👍🏻

[@robertsimmons7814]

I have watched every video including this one before I made my choice. I decided on the Gibson LP Classic. Just a little cheaper than the Standard but that didn't really have much to do with my choice. I just liked the Smoke House Burst look and the feel and the sound of the Classic was really close to the Standard. Same pickups. Push pull knows. And I decided that if Gibson didn't care enough about a LP to give it a hard case than I didn't either. I have always wanted to own a Les Paul and I took my time and did the best research I could and that's where I landed. I own several quality guitars and I didn't want to buy a cheaper model and regret my decision so the Gibson LP Cassic was the right choice for me. Love it!!!

[@dowaliby1]

Appreciate your honesty and your talent, Cooper. It's amazing how much bang for the buck the Tribute offers.

[@oca8813]

For me it's the tribute I've just got one the neck feels perfect for me the sound ,the weight ,the satin look perfect 👌

[@johnb3194]

I went to a guitar center, pulled a standard and a tribute off the wall, both in a honey burst. I have to say when I played the standard I was appalled at how it could have ever left the Gibson shop. The frets were supremely scratchy during bends, the fret-ends were bitey and I've just never been a big fan of glossy nitro neck feel. When I picked up the Tribute I was like ok. This thing is about a thousand dollars cheaper and it's just a wonder to play. The silky nitro finish is just viscerally pleasing, every time I pick it up I smile. Also very few factory defects and fret issues. I went home with the tribute and I'm happy to say I made 100% the right decision. (I will say that there are certainly standards that feel amazing too, but Gibson these days is a roll of the dice, regardless of model).

[@ominosersudlander14888]

Doubt the standard was a custom shop model

[@johnb3194]

@@ominosersudlander14888 It wasn't, but I imagine there are plenty of custom shop models that get a lot of attention and play wonderfully

[@justaguy2365]

Just got studio and the frets were dull and had some small scratches. I put some time into polishing them and oiling the fretboard.

[@dlloyd4896]

Your attitude playing the Standard completely changed....Truly a great sound

[@jerrymckenzie1858]

Hey Cooper - I always enjoy your playing, guitar knowledge and dry humor. Great review!

[@pttrent123]

Great comparison, thanks! I bought a tribute a few weeks ago and it's been a pleasure to play.

[@sixslinger9951]

just got mine today...favorite guitar I've ever owned.

[@janrandles8683]

If I could play as well as you do I might go with the standard if I had the money! Sounds wonderful. I am looking at the Studios but liked the Tribute tone better. Thanks for comparison!!

[@Paratus1179]

I have a 60s Les Paul standard and love it so much I bought a 61 SG standard which has the same pickups in it. The SG is about 700 bucks cheaper but sounds pretty dang good!

[@Ottophil]

I have 3 gibson SG’s and had a V, i still grabbed an LP studio too. Sounds the same, but i love the difference in feel

[@leemp337]

good man for giving his honest opinion and not be afraid to say the lower cost Tribute was his favorite. there is no shame in that lower cost gibson. i like it when people guitar shame other people. It shows me the type person they are and i won't be hanging around with them.

[@nateg652]

The video was very helpful, I really appreciate your assessment of the difference between the axes. I also agree with you, the tribute sounded cleaner and closer to the standard. I was ready to get the studio but I feel I might not have been as happy with it's sound. I like what you decided to play as a demo, it helped make my decision. Much appreciated, you saved me bucks I would've unnecessarily spent. Thanks.

[@johntruman6571]

I have a 2011 60s Tribute that I bought from new and still absolutely love it. It's done many gigs and the thin nitro Heritage Cherry is worn to the point where I'm about to have it refinished as a Gold Top. It came with P90s, which I never quite enjoyed and so I had it routed for HBs. So for most of its life it's been fitted with coil split Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates. They sound so good and are not for changing. Recommended.

[@CurieBohr]

I picked up the 50s in (Limited edition) honeyburst. It’s so nice. I have a Classic ebony as well. Don’t sleep on the classics. Two LPs isn’t enough. I don’t think you can own enough

[@joshs3905]

I've owned all 3 of them in the past, and currently own a 60s standard. The tribute is a really nice foot into the door with owning a Les Paul. I had mine for close to 10 years. The biggest jump in difference of sound was going from the tribute to studio. The mahogany neck has a warmer and dirtier clean whilst the maple neck on the tribute sounds brighter, cleaner, and snappier. None are better than the other it's all preference. Really it comes down to your budget and which one feels best in your hands. Pick the one that isn't way out of your budget so that you can enjoy and play the guitar and not worry about the wear and tear.

[@patrickkelly9721]

I bought my 2013 studio from a pawn shop for $800. Suits me just fine as I only play at home for personal enjoyment. I have no need for flash or to impress others. But the shiny ones are sure purty.

[@mboyer68]

I was shopping for an older Studio because they have ebony fretboards and trapezoid inlays. I got super lucky and found a 2002 Studio Premium Plus. The premium plus option is a seriously flamed maple top, not a thin little piece either. It was the original owner and he had never cleaned it so it was really dirty but after I got it cleaned up, it's almost perfect in terms of scratches, almost flawless. With a brown Gibson USA hard case for $800. The bridge volume pot is broken off and the knob is cracked but it works and I have a new pot to install at some point. Great video and absolutely incredible playing! Thank you:)

[@goobiecaro8135]

They style of play and the sound is perfect. You zoned in on the guitar voice in my head. Nice job.

[@Arestiluca93]

The standard is the best but, in my opinion the tribute, wow, has nothing to envy .. Thanks for comparison 👌🏻

[@carlosroman7638]

Tengo una Tribute 60's y realmente estoy fascinado con ella, le coloqué los humbuckers '57 Classic de Gibson y tienen un gran sonido!! Excelente video. Saludos.

[@mathiasnilo6855]

I stripped the edges of my beloved tribute! Took some hours to make it perfect but worth it all day long! Looks super with the maple top binding now! An amazing guitar for the money!

[@davidblanche7961]

I went back and listen to both back to back. My ears hear the tribute sounding more crisp.

[@jonathansmith2581]

Cooper always give the best advise. Liked the Tribute & the 60’s Standard. for the money I’d have to with the Tribute.

[@mauriziobiagini2825]

I agree with you standard is amazing but if i have to choose between tribute and studio i prefer tribute!

[@georgescannelli3814]

I Love the tribute compared to the other 2. I added to simple cosmetic changes. I added the poker chip on the toggle switch, and changed the dials to the vintage 1970’s ones, with the words volume & tone showing. Big difference to me.

[@georgescannelli3814]

Also changed the jack plate to a metal one. Very minor.

[@crankshaft383]

I love your hate. I think nobody puts as much time, effort and research into guitar reviews, as you do. Thanks for that. Totally honest and informative...

[@OscarGuitare]

I recently purchased a Les Paul Tribute. This the best guitar I've owned so far. It's light, stays in tune unlike any other. Sound is great even with no amp. Tones are VERY warm and perfect for jazz, blues. You need a good amp or effects if you wanna go hard rock or metal, or you might wanna go for the P90 version for that (I will probably get myself one of those P90s version).

[@tomrosa4248]

Yes, I agree this Tribute plays great. I know in the past Gibson made these with P90's, I am waiting for Gibson to make those again I will definitely get one.

[@crypticreality8484]

@@tomrosa4248 I think they make a Les Paul Special Tribute with P-90's. Of course, then there's no carved maple top but, it's such a kickass workhorse Gibson!

[@automatoncollectives7237]

The Tributes are basically what poor stooges buy when they can’t afford higher quality gear.

[@crypticreality8484]

@@automatoncollectives7237 the only stooge is someone lame enough to troll other people's guitar choices. Get lost. Lol

[@automatoncollectives7237]

@@crypticreality8484 I’m merely pointing out not all Gibsons are alike. Just because it says Gibson on the headstock doesn’t mean it’s a great guitar. I think your confirmation bias precludes you from understanding that. No legendary player would be caught dead playing that abomination.

[@williambarabanitz3858]

I’m off point with this, but would enjoy feedback. I initially bought a Studio and modded with an OBSIDIANwire Mark II - all sounds from Standard 50s & 60s era. Then a Tribute was bought and Gibson mini-humbuckers were installed - Deluxe sounds delivered. Lastly, an Epiphone LP Junior was bought and a Kent Armstrong tapped P-90 was placed with upgraded 500k pots (one push/pull), a Mylar .047 cap and better Switchcraft components - Junior and Firebird tones realized. I went with these rather than the $3k Modern because I’ll always have a back-up guitar, and avoid a possible glitch in the Modern controls. The downside: 3 guitars take more time to maintain than one Modern. Would Appreciate Alamo staff comparing some dedicated sound Gibson LPs to a Swiss Army knife Modern in a future episode. Also, would an Epiphone Special with Fralin Firebird pickups be a budget friendly, more comfortable, valid alternative to the poorly designed, expensive Gibson Firebird?

[@truthof7382]

I played a tribute recently, and I find it’s not as dark as the standard. That was always my problem with the standard. Maybe that makes it perfect for heavy sounds, but not for cleans.

[@theshallowsea]

Yes,all the tribute series have a maple neck ( with rosewood fingerboard ) instead of mahogany neck and it gives the guitar a much clearer and bright sound . it is a matter taste but I dig these guitar .

[@davidohara6515]

Bought a les Paul traditional 2016 model 5 years ago , it has a fabulous top , 57 classic pups and imo is exactly what a les Paul should be. Standards since 2008 have had an elliptical neck profile, and burstbuckers ( same pups as standard lp since 2002 ) . Can't say there's much of a difference, yeh, I had one of the 2002 models! Point ? Don't go spending wads of cash , when you can get a fab sounding and playing guitar for half the price.

[@clarissaanaferreirasieiro2127]

I'm now working extra hours to afford to buy a Gibson Les Paul Standard Hp but the Tribute really have a beautiful look in satin . I was to buy a Gibson Les Paul Standard hp months ago but an Ibanez AR725 just come up and after play it i couldn't let it go , such a beautiful instrument and amazing sounding guitar , and the prices in second hand guitar are more than a reazon to not pass by as the quality is easily comparable to a Gibson Les Paul custom , and only thwy were produced for one year

[@stevebrusseau3301]

I couldnt decide tribute or studio...Cooper says tribute so tribute is going to be my next guitar purchase. Thanks for deciding for me Cooper! Now i have to figure out what color. Love your demos.

[@texhaines9957]

I'm mostly an acoustic player but that Standard 60's is something else. What about neck shape on the 3? Any have a neck like those TAYLOR 814ce LTD ?Thanks Cooper.

[@kevinmurtagh4996]

If what you want is a traditional Gibson Les Paul (non-chambered/weight-relieved, mahogany neck, rosewood board, maple cap, standard wiring, etc.), but don’t want to pay more than $1,000, there is no better option imo than a used 1990’s to mid-2000’s Les Paul Studio. If you absolutely must have a brand new guitar, or you really want all the newer non-traditional features, then that’s one thing. But if you don’t need those things, these Studios are absolutely the best. Given how expensive new guitars are, when they aren’t objectively better than ones from the 90’s and 2000’s, I just can’t personally imagine buying a brand new Les Paul- unless of course money is not an issue and you love the guitar you’re buying! But if money is an issue, it makes the most sense to get an old Studio from the so-called “good wood era”. Of course every line of models will always have duds. But I’ve experienced an unmatched level of consistency from the aforementioned era of Gibson Les Pauls. I’ve also used a couple Standards from the late-90’s, and they were absolutely the best Gibson Les Pauls I’ve personally ever played. Just my two cents.

[@armybass223]

I am a recent Les Paul convert and I must agree with my limited knowledge that is. I have two Original Series (a 60’s Standard and a 70’s Deluxe) as well as a Tribute Goldtop P90 model. The Tribute punches way above its weight.

[@maxverstappen2713]

I went with the Les Paul Standard High Performance and it is incredible.

[@MusicTherapyLaz]

Thanks for a great run down... now I'm even more sure of my purchsse today of a used 2019 Tribute in satin Cherry Sunburst... feels, plays and sounds Fantastic. I immediately noticed it must be weight relieved but no loss in tone or sustain... very balanced guitar! BTW... I think the not so slim maple neck adds that snap and clarity to the tone... unlike the other two guitars. GREAT VALUE! I've been looking for a Les Paul for a couple few years... this one fit every need to a T!!!

[@ipuya]

I'm waiting and hoping that Gibson will bring back a tribute or Studio with P90s. Ideally in natural finish. I'll be the first to put my name down for that! Come to think of it, I'd even be willing to pay for a standard in a natural finish. Right now the only arch top P90s available are the gold tops.

[@wilfredreedman5683]

You can replace pickups…

[@ipuya]

@@wilfredreedman5683 not when you want to replace humbuckers with P90s. They are a different size so you'd have to rout out the body which i would never want to do 😬

[@jimkurowski6207]

@@ipuya many manufactures make humbucker sized P90’s. Just put some in a PRS!!

[@PipeLawyer]

Love "Cactus Flower". Sounds great on any of the Les Pauls.

[@joshuaburklund4206]

It's not just a warmer tone it's the ageable finish and the full weighted wood but is it worth the 1800 price difference?

[@edwardwood6127]

no, its hypebeast

[@mark240862]

I bought a Classic model a few years ago and haven't regretted it for a minute. It's every thing I could ever want from a Les Paul.

[@Det_Fan]

I also bought a Classic in the Honey rust and have zero regrets. Beautiful guitar and the tones are just phenomenal.

[@mikebingham7189]

I have a 2012 Traditional and yes it’s heavy. This is one thing I don’t like and the neck pickup was “dark” and it had modern wiring. Instead of selling it I made it a project. First, I gutted the wiring and re-wired it 50’s style and installed the “best” 500k POTS I could find. Both of these were big improvements. Then I installed different PAF pickups (Wolfetone). Capacitors didn’t seem to matter much except the value, .015neck and .022bridge. Then I carefully sanded the neck to improve playability. Finally, the last thing I want to do is have a “pro” review the instrument and make any additional improvements. The guitar is gorgeous and plays beautifully. But I think it’s the amp that determines its sound.

[@denisejacobs8886]

PSA. I recently made entry into the Gibson Les Paul family. I bought a used 2020 model Les Paul Tribute. Excellent condition. Appeared spotless. The zipper pulls still had the plastic on them. Was absolutely over the roof excited. After a week,I noticed some roughness at the lower neck from the heel up to the fretboard around the 12th fret. The Nitro cellulose satin finish was peeling. After contacting every luthier in my area, GC, even Gibson. We deducted it was from sitting on a cheap guitar stand. The pseudo rubber reacts with the varnish. Further investigation into the Gibson blogs gave me deeper insight into this known issue. I even noticed on a Snark tuner box a big ole warning not to leave the tuner attached to your Gibson headstock. I ended up returning it and buying a brand new one.

[@blindboygrunt7711]

What would your advice be?

[@denisejacobs8886]

@@blindboygrunt7711 I am covering the crappy pseudo rubber with velvet until I get a “fancy” stand

[@blindboygrunt7711]

@@denisejacobs8886 i’m gonna buy one of these this week. What should and should’t i do? :)

[@jordanpratt3821]

@@denisejacobs8886 man I would get a case. If I'm not playing mine it's in its case.Putting a Gibson guitar on a stand is just asking for it. If,and when it falls it is going to break.

[@chrisgmurray3622]

The only Les Paul I've owned was an early seventies Deluxe ( mini humbuckers, which I prefer to P90's) and it was black. It sounded really good, but I often hankered after a dark red deluxe, although I never fiund one.As far as the new LP's go, I would choose the Tribute, despite lacking binding, it has nice touches like the cream plastic tulip tuners which I think looks more casual but luxurious despite lack of binding.I also like the maple neck, which I'm sssuming will give a bit more snap to the sound and have a lightness that is about as Fenderish as you can get on an LP. I live in NZ where Gibsons are prohibitively expensive, yet indonesian made guitars under various brands such as Artist Guitars (Australia) and the various Corts and PRS SE's are making brilliant sounding guitars fir aslittle as ( probably US$299 or something similar. The finish and pickups on some of these guitars are so good that unless you're buying a namebadge, in which case you'll get the Tribute, you'll probably do better to get three different cheap, well made guitars for the price of even the (cheap) Tribute. Thanks for sharing your insights into the details of these products-- it makes things easier for us to follow the machinations of the name brands.

[@KRAZEEIZATION]

Awesome demo. Great playing.

[@theloniouscoltrane3778]

Just bought the Standard...worth every penny! Real Heavy Gibson! Saved!

[@smollande]

I think that the maple neck on the tribute might have added some clarity acoustically but Im not sure if the difference in clarity could be heard in the signal. I tried the studio and the weight relief added a really woody hollow tone kinda like a semi hollow. But it wasnt captured by the amp. These acoustic sounds do add to the playing experience and both cater to different preferences. The studios lack of clarity could be ideal for someone who enjoys playing slide for example.

[@toddbonsang5802]

I have a 2023 Gibson Les paul studio plus and i have also owned the classic and standard. I also have the Gibson SG Derek Trucks with the 57 pups and a 91 Heritage H150. The sound difference from the studio to the BB in the standard isn't that far apart. Do the BB sound a little better? Yes but not worth spending 250-300 bucks. My SG with tne 57 classic honestly is my best guitar. Theres not a les paul out there that sounds better and ive played dozens. My studio is a great guitar and the Tribute is just ok IMHO. If for some reason you decide to upgrade from a Tribute to a standard or another model you will feel the blow when you go to sell that tribute. The studio holds far more value over the tribute and it deserves to. The satin finish damages if you sneeze on it, its paper thin. The studio has a nice gloss finish and better woods. For what its worth if you put a set of Dimarzio 59 paf in any les paul its the best money you ever spent for a classic rock or blues tone.

[@roberthealy1814]

I bought a Tribute, but it was not Gibson , it is an Epiphone, Love it. I plan to get a Gibson later, probably a tribute.

[@festushaggen2563]

The Studio is a good option if you're on a budget. Especially the older models. I have a 92’ LP Studio and the only real difference between it and the higher end models is the lack of binding. It sounds and feels every bit a Les Paul as any and for a fraction of the price.

[@benallmark9671]

What’s the difference between the tribute and the studio ?

[@jgenoese]

@@benallmark9671 the biggest differences are the bridge pickup, the finish, and the neck material. You get the gloss finish and a mahogany neck on the studio. Satin and maple on the tribute.

[@antoonhermans8953]

i think that the maple neck on the modern day tributes is a winner , it's more sturdy ( less headstockbreak worries ) and it's gives the mostly dark sounding les paul some snap ( brightness ) , the pu's are also fine , all in all the new tributes are killer guitars if you get the right one ( i have played some that where not good ) and to be honest there is no need to spend more money on a studio , classic or standard or even custom shop . If you want you can always upgrade the wiring and pu's and you will still save a lot off money . My advice : I would not buy one unseen/unplayed through the net though , like i said i have played a few in my local guitarstores wich where awful ( bad set up ect , ) but besides that if you get the right one then you're done as far as single cut guitars goes .

[@RawadAMassih]

Hi man. Did u manage to weigh the guitar? Many thanks

[@antoonhermans8953]

@@RawadAMassih yep i did , mine weighs 3,2 kg , these tributes are nice to play because off there weight relief wich for me is another big advantage and they sound like any other lp without the weight relief .

[@RawadAMassih]

@@antoonhermans8953 many thanks man. 3.2kg is a very good weight. Im happy it is like that. Thanks again.

[@antoonhermans8953]

@@RawadAMassih you're welcome , and i like that weight too , it's not to heavy but still does feel like an "real " les paul like the guy from the vid say's , all things considered these tributes are a no brainer if you want the gibson brand on you're headstock but don't want to pay a fortune , i would go for the 2020 models though , they have that maple rounded neck wich is better then the necks on the older trubutes .

[@RawadAMassih]

@@antoonhermans8953 i prefer thinner necks. Shall i go 2020s or before?

[@stevecraig7643]

I do own a 50’s slandered but it is a case Queen. I need a studio for an every day les paul.

[@GaveMeGrace1]

Thank you-less $ than I thought. Although honestly, I’ve got my heart leaning toward the Alex Lifeson Signature-Ephipone version.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

I bought a Tribute and love everything about the guitar, except the pickups. Not wanting to give up on the Tribute, I put an order in with Missing Link Audio for a set of pickups and the Geranium Peacock Overdrive.

[@stratolestele7611]

It's great if you dig the tones of the Tributes and Studios, especially if it's what your wallet allows. But don't kid yourself, you're not getting the classic Les Paul tone out of a Studio or a Tribute. Hey, I just set down my Les Paul Special DC Tribute (or something like that) and I love its upper-fret access, its simplicity (two p90s, and a volume and tone) and the fact that I can toss it in a gig bag and not worry about banging it around. It just makes me want to wail on it. But, for the complete and more complex tones, the Standard wins by a long shot. There's simply no comparison - as it should be. I'm holding my '61 SG RI right now. Can't get enough of the Burstbuckers. What I tell my young friends, or young to guitar - "hold out for the real deal if at all possible, but whatever you do, do NOT buy an Epiphone!"

[@Faisalhossain-s5h]

Im with you but 490 nd 498T in studio produce real les paul sound. Even les paul custom uses same pickup. Im really confused should i get the Studio or Classic. Studio will save big money! Not gonna buy an Epiphone lolz

[@rdsaplala]

Thanks for this comparison, I'm looking to get my first Gibson so this was very helpful. Just a noob question, doesn't the weight relief lessen the sustain of the guitar?

[@smelltheglove2038]

No. It’s because you’re looking at it. You don’t need to look at it to hear the sustain. They’re known for their sustain. You can hear it now. It even has the old tagger still on it.

[@rdsaplala]

@@smelltheglove2038 thanks, actually all 3 of them have good sustain, but the standard, at least to my ear, has significantly more sustain than the studio and tribute... however, I'm not sure if that is mainly due to the standard's higher end PUs and electronics, or if the solid body also contributes to its better sustain... hence back to the question: won't the weight relief lessen the sustain?

[@ezrvs]

I have a Studio and am very happy with it. My next LP will be a step up to the Standard, I suppose.

[@BillZad]

I like the tone and sound of the Tribute the best, a nice balance, the Standard is very nice , a little brighter

[@magarnaglest]

I like and own the tangerine burst. It reminds me of Ryu's red fireball from Street Fighter

[@terrytosh7678]

My own two cents as an inexperienced player: I brought home a Tribute but wound up taking it back. The humbuckers made a constant hum that I didn’t expect, and I could not keep it in tune. Traded up to a different brand and am very happy. Hey, where was Chris in this video? Did you lock him out?

[@rob_in_stowmarket_uk]

Humbuckers, by definition, shouldn’t hum - may have been a one-off fault. Every mass producer of anything will get the odd ‘dog’ slipping through QC. Don’t forget, as well, that new strings need stretching for tuning to stabilise. I have an original ‘Tribute’ 2010(/11?) Goldtop P90’d LP and a 2020, humbuckered ‘Tribute’ versión as well. Both fine guitars, having all the necessary constituents of the ‘LP sound’- lack of binding and ‘shine’ doesn’t alter the great inherent tone of these reasonable (previously great!) value guitars.

[@terrytosh7678]

@@rob_in_stowmarket_uk yes, I definitely got a one-off. The hum persisted no matter what I did and on different amps and different cables. And I did even change the strings and made sure to stretch them, but I was constantly having to retune when playing. It had previously been returned to the store, so I guess with good reason. I did the same. The discount wasn’t worth the trouble. I’m much happier with a PRS with quiet humbuckers.

[@terrytosh7678]

CraftYourMusic, I got the PRS CE24 semi-hollow body and am very happy with it. But check out the SE line, too. Great value.

[@claudiahammann3732]

Great comparison! Personally I own and absolutely love the Studio. I even prefer it to the standard - partly because of the weight. Just like a lot of other guys here I'd love to know which song this is by Tangerine Dream. I would be extremely grateful for a tip. Thanks! It sounds great!!! Very well played! And as others have pointed out: it's perfect to hear the same on all 3 guitars!

[@codydorminey53]

i just ordered one myself, it seems more versatile

[@ArielCardona]

Also, I don't if it's my Studio (which is also a Tangerine Burst) in particular; but it has an amazing tuning stability, more than my other LP, which is a Special with P90s.

[@rudolphpyatt4833]

I have a 2016 60s Tribute with P90s in that same Honeyburst. Really, the Tributes are what the original Studios were, the no nonsense, minimal bling essential Les Paul. They have taken the Studio upmarket but not necessarily for the better.

[@ktm3602]

Your 2016 Tribute is better than the current Tributes, 2016 has a Mohogany neck current have maple, and who doesn't like the P90'S. But I still prefer the Studio for value.

[@63north]

Plain, fair & honest review...very useful - thanks!

[@23kyd49]

I really liked the Studio and it’s diversity.

[@burakunlu150]

Great review but mostly watched for playing. Amazing!

[@MrBaltazar1234]

I'm a proud owner of an Ebony LS Studio bought over 30 years ago from Guitar Center. It's still in excellent shape. 🫵🤘🤙

[@rodrigodenis6312]

I have owned the tribute, standard and studio. And I have tried the classic, the deluxe and several custom shop les pauls and I must say I prefer the Classic, tribute and deluxe a lot better than the standard, studio and custom shop

[@vvcv__00]

About the Standard pickups. My guess is that you find the BUrstbucker sound to be warmer than what's in the Tribute. Burstbuckers are loser to a PAF sound (warmer, darker, etc_), which I'm sure you know. I've found that Les Paul players, who want a bit less of that warmth, really like the low output DiMarzio Master PAF pickups. They have far less output, and to me anyway (though i don't use them), sound much closer to a very nice single coil, in addition to retaining great humbucker body without too much single coil glass. Just not enough warmth for my jazzy playing, but they do sound great in a Les PAul.

[@justwinclassic]

Came very close to buying a studio smokehouse burst, ended up with an S2 Mccarty 594 instead. Just worked for me more

[@thadlogan51]

I have a Gibson Les Paul studio in smokehouse burst. I am also a huge PRS fan. I own a PRS core 24, had a ce 24, PRS Chris Robertson, had 245. I think they both sound stellar... similar but different. Tough choices for sure. 594 is a killer guitar. I think the Gibson is more focused and biting and the PRS 594 more open and fatter sounding...

[@adampeacock7992]

I love my tribute but neck pickup is a bit muddy. I want a standard badly and may opt for a 60s although don’t like the reflector knobs much. I also love the 1959 custom VOS

[@unrequitedmusic8004]

If money is not an issue, go with a standard. But, I think the studios are the best value.

[@benallmark9671]

I disagree, for me choosing the tribute has nothing to do with the money , it’s the playability.

[@ktm3602]

I agree, if you look at other high-end brands you get way more bang for your buck with the Studio. the 2018 and 2019 studios have neck binding and came with a hard case. The tribute satin finish is very thin, and the maple neck is not Gibson Standard. All that being said all three are better than other brands in the same price point.

[@leegeddyfan]

you should do a Les Paul Classic, Traditional and Standard shootout

[@brianwalker6849]

I couldn’t agree with you more about the tribute&Classic my tribute has been on order for about three week’s now ordering from the states to the U.K. takes about five weeks PMT tells me so it will arrive when it arrives ?? Great playing and vid by-the way Thanks B.

[@ipasha1437]

Thank you for your effort to make this video! It did help me to make a choice. And I gotta admit, no BS talk, quite straight-forward. I subscribed to see some videos of yours!

[@saltydog8243]

Hope to own a Gibson one day...Great video! I used to think Gibson was to expensive, But really, its not their fault I can't afford it...

[@MehdiS-music]

I had one (SG), sold it after only 6 months of ownership... Its just a brand on a headstock, there are much better guitars out there for much less money and way better quality.

[@oncaaxe8225]

the standard and the tribute outshines the studio in tone immensely

[@ArielCardona]

How?

[@kirbyjakescarborough4515]

Awesome vid, mate. Thanks much for well-presented clarity.

[@clydebrown9982]

A Tribute is the very best bang for your bucks! Mine professionally set-up with 57 Classics installed. Sounds way,way better then my 74 gold top Delux ( I Hate P90's)

[@kellornmap4457]

I would like to know what your thoughts are on the classic? I think it's also mostly based on a '60s standard.

[@jordanpratt3821]

The classic is weight relieved, the standard is not.Standard is handwired, classic has a PCB board because each knob is a push/pull.

[@matsandersson8857]

Great video and great playing! I liked all but i like a Les Paul in a traditional style so i’m not much for these extra push pull extras.

[@jmw510]

Would have liked to see the differences in the neck radius and thickness and how Cooper perceives how they feel to play.

[@AlamoMusic]

Hey Jeff-- all of these guitars have a 12" fret radius, and the neck profiles are Slim Taper (for the Standard and Studio) and "Rounded" for the Tribute. I didn't feel too drastic of a difference between all of them, but I do enjoy the satin finish on the Tribute neck. Between these, the biggest difference to me is the pickups, all of the necks/fingerboards were pretty similar and solid to me. Let me know if you have any other questions! Thanks again for watchin.

[@flurkin]

Well....i love them all, so i got the 50s 60s and 70s deluxe. The 50s is my favorite

[@rob_in_stowmarket_uk]

My original series 2010/11 P90 Goldtop Tribute has traditional wiring with ‘Bumblebee ‘ caps. My 2020 Humbuckered Honeyburst Tribute has the cheaper(?), easy assemble printed circuit wiring harness and ‘quick-connect’ pups - I had planned to swap this out for a wired harness, with ‘Bumblebees’. But, truth be told, it doesn’t need it as it sounds great as it is. Also, the P90’d is non-relieved and, as stated here, the current Humbucker version is ‘Modern’ relieved, but there is only about 3 ounces difference between their weights. 🤔

[@Spiralbythesea]

couldn't decide, so I got one of each.

[@dompidenolf8751]

Normally the Studio also has the 490 pick ups, so it was better to check the Tribute with the Studio with that same pu's, still a cool review, more depth in the standard versus Studio, but it's a choice, the Studio is tighter, better for funk, or heavy, stuff with power. I checked the Tribute and it felt to primitive, sloppy. Then went for a 2016 Studio radiant red, but i can also say there's differences in a studio from the 90s versus later on. This 2016 version blew me away, split coil, Gibson brown hardcase from the standard or custom's, crazy

[@django-unchained]

I tried a 58' and a 59' in London, they were both "shit" to play on for me. Tried one of the 25 Custom Rebuilds, also "shit". Then I found a 2019 Standard Les Paul in the wrong color that was just amazing from the first touch. My #1 guitar which has something really magical about it. The color has no meaning anymore because it's just amazing. Love it and it sounds like out of this world. (Yes changed the pups as Gibson stock are all trash). The wrong color I even had to pay an extra 100€ for, because it was a special color that year :( But I got one of the best Les Paul's in the world :) Never listen to others. Just try a lot of guitars and go with your gut feeling.

[@claudialuciano3033]

Hi! I'm Paolo from Italy. I think your videos are great! Both simply and exaustive. Very useful for one like me who is trying to study english (io parlo italiano/ je parle francais). I love the new Gibson Supreme 2024... but is true that it's only a modern with some precious decorations and a custom price? What making a video to explain their differences? Forgive my english and thank you so much for your videos!

[@MRTHUDTV]

Lucky for me, I preferred the sound of the Tribute :) I have the 50's Tribute Gold Top.

[@thejovialpanda]

Great video. The other video I'd like to see is a Studio vs Modern, since both have the ultra-modern weight relief and are in the Modern range of Les Pauls. Maybe even something like this, but with the Studio, the Classic, and the Modern. Thanks!

[@AngelMartinez-qs3cf]

Hey you raised a very interesting point. I have the same Gibson Les Paul Studio. I felt that you get more bang for your buck with the Studio, but I found there was no difference in sound once the coils are split, no dramatic difference anyway. 85% of the time I'm always on the bridge pickup. I am torn between the Tribute and the 60's Standard. But I have a question, I have a Gibson SG '61 Reissue. Aren't the pickups on the Les Paul '60s Standard the same as in the SG '61 Issue? I have never tried the '60s Standard. Is there a difference in sound? Sorry for the many questions. If the two guitars sound the same, I'll go with the Tribute. Thank you for posting this, being honest, keeping it real.

[@Blackdiamondprod.]

11:04 it’s not a mystery. The tribute has a maple neck and the studio has a mahogany neck. The studio also has thicker lacquer than the tribute does. That all influences tone.

[@PhotoDaveJax]

Nice review/comparison. Well done.

[@rhoff7272]

Excellent playing as always, but i think Cooper Greenberg and Robert Baker need to have a coolest hair competition

[@shelbyowens4763]

MY Les Paul Standard 60's is my favorite also