Gibson Annoys Me: Guitar Craft & Other Stuff Podcast 3

[@andrefludd]

I KNOW the volume isn't perfect here. I've removed ads so that hopefully it's a better listening experience. All of the other podcasts are fixed.

[@American-Dragon]

Get the gibson for what it is. Your other guitars can do everything you want except make you play like a gibson.

[@jimmypenrose1401]

The one thing you have to be REALLY careful about with the SG is that they often will have a "trick headstock". The "trick" being that the headstock will snap off for no apparent reason. Happened to a friend's SG back in the early 80s: one minute it was sitting on a guitar stand, then there was a kobong sound, when we turned to look the guitar was still sitting on the stand, but the headstock was lying on the floor with the strings and tailpiece still attached. That was enough to turn me off to Gibsons for life.

[@andrefludd]

Gzzz. This is what i mean! There's always something crazy going on with these instrument! Thanks for the warning brother.

[@sorinsega]

Hey. 400 dollar Epiphone has a super nice scarf on the headstock, which makes it stronger. It's really funny :))))

[@joeking433]

Never heard of that before so I would say it's extremely rare!

[@PrisonerD]

@@joeking433 I’ve had Gibsons for 28 years. The guitar must have been damaged somehow, and then the headstock broke fully off later while sitting on the stand. - yes, if you drop them on their back, they’ll break but I wouldn’t recommend doing that to any instrument.

[@PrisonerD]

@@joeking433 Thought so on the stress fracture. Totally agree on the Gibson sound & playability providing you find a good one. I have many of my students come in with various guitars & tell me how much better their HH guitar is than a Gibson and that Gibsons aren’t worth the money. I whip out my Les Paul and let them have a play and they tend to go a bit quiet after that.

[@_rafael_b]

Gibson has made more modern guitars before. I was working in music retail in the 2000s. Gibson had a few lines of ultra modern models with a few of things you ask for. NOBODY bought them. In fact they were ridiculed. People who wanted Gibsons didn't want any of that. Gibson lost a lot of money on these lines and is a reason why they have doubled down on the more vintagy (is that a word?) stuff.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for that info. I remember exactly what you are talking about and imo it’s time for a second attempt. A lot changes in 10-15 years and their last attempt at ultra modern wasn’t particularly good. But that’s to be expected when you experiment. Sometimes you’ll get some duds and that’s okay! Fender isn’t perfect, but they seem to experiment a lot more and as a result they get a few great ideas.

[@_rafael_b]

@@andrefludd I think also that Fender might have more room for experimentation because their fans/audience/clientele/whatever are bit more accepting of that from them. People who want Gibsons tend to want specific things that force Gibson in a box in some ways. Which is ironic because Les Paul himself was an inventor and a relentless tinkerer always tricking out his guitar, equipment, and anything else he could get his hands on. Even in his old age he played a totally tricked out guitar that was nothing like the guitars that were on the website. True story; By the 1970s Les Paul himself would advise people not to buy Gibson Les Pauls because they were too expensive. Also, he never like the bridges on the Gibsons. Gibson didn't go with his design.

[@spunkytheozinho]

@@andrefludd try to find some nighthawk, so cool

[@joetowers4804]

@@spunkytheozinho I know you are talking about the Gibson model, but I just wanted to add that I own an Epiphone Nighthawk and it's great. The pickups are fine, but I'd expect most would want to swap them or improve the pots.

[@milenakorovljev4209]

@@andrefludd It looks that you are heading in one direction: you will either learn how to make your own guitar that would have all the features you like, or, play as many guitars you can, and make a list of what would you change to make them perfect for you . With that list in your hands, find a respectable luthier ( there are many around ) , hand him a list, sit back and enjoy the process! You will get what you ordered and would not mind paying more for it . The "secret" of a good guitar is in the feel and a decent set--up , what kind of neck you like, what kind of frets, how it sits on your lap and how it feels strapped on, the size, the shape and so on...In my case, after years of being a "Gipson" man, I've settled on "Telecaster" . I then purchased a Custom Shop "Telecaster" and liked it lot only, I wanted humbucker in the bridge....so, I got me a peace of swamp ash, copied dimensions and look of my C. S. " Telecaster", put on a thicker curly maple neck on it with a rose wood fret--board (the sound is I believe in the neck and it's joint -- the thicker the neck, the more of the sound you get) and then, installed two good quality but quiet single coils and humbucker in the bridge, connecting them all to 5--way switch, 500 pots, and a push--push switch to tone controls that allowed me to get into "Strat" sounds, as well as into "Telecaster" mode. As I've said, I have a collection of good and some not so good guitars, but always ending up playing my own design. It took me a long time to sort out what I like and don't like , but when I did, I never looked back. Problem solved . I only wish I'm younger...Take care! P.S. I even put on a "Fender Telecaster" decal on it, and when people questioned it, I told them that I don't have a right to call it anything different. If it looks like a "Telie" and walks like a " Telie" it IS a " Telie". That shut them up.

[@user-rf3ye3op2o]

i always wanted a 335 type guitar i said man i'll never have one. then dangelico came into existence.

[@christopherguindon]

Great podcast !! You just need to crank up the gain on that SM7b !

[@andrefludd]

Thank you for the feedback! Yes, after I recorded it I realized that I could def increase the gain and also decrease the bass a bit. My mixer/interface has a ton more clean gain to add so that is at least good.

[@christopherguindon]

@@andrefludd I found your channel yesterday and was recommended this podcast today, really happy I discovered your content. For the mic, you probably know this, but the sm7b is notorious for needing up to 70-75 dB of gain in spoken word application. Most interfaces and mixers don’t even have that much, which is why people so often get a mic booster with it.

[@andrefludd]

@@christopherguindon I’m glad to have you! I just got the new rodecaster pro 2 and it’s amazing. You don’t even need a cloudlifter or similar booster with the sm7b. I recommend it if you are ever in the market.

[@martianmurray]

Yes more volume please, the commercials were so loud they scared me lol

[@andrefludd]

@@martianmurray It's already fixed

[@archeryandstuffwithstevela3423]

Hello again. The thing with the Les Trem, is that you need a guitar with a bridge and a tailpiece. The wraparound bridge on the special, won’t accommodate the tremolo. The other cheap Les Paul, the studio or the tribute, would work. As for the string butler, it’s not going to do anything that a well filed nut won’t do. The strings won’t hang up in the nut if the slots are wide enough and lubricated. As for locking tuners, all they do, is remove surplus turns of string from the tuner post. The same can be achieved, with vintage tuners, if you install the strings, with what’s known as a luthiers knot. Very simple to do, won’t slip, and minimal winds. There are videos on KZbin that demonstrate how to do it. So really, all you need, is the guitar and the aftermarket trem. Hope this is helpful. Cheers

[@andrefludd]

Very helpful thank you!

[@wilddoug]

The "String Butler" doesn't need new holes drilled into the headstock, thankfully. You do need to undo two tuning machines to mount it, though. So no permanent changes are required -- except maybe a little nut filing, now that the strings have a different angle...

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for the input!

[@whssy]

In case you didn't spot it - the Duesenberg Les Trem wouldn't even fit on the Tribute, as it has a wraparound bridge, not tuneomatic with tailpiece - so the holes in the body would be wrong too. Not everyone's cup of tea, but if you DO want a stable vibrato bridge for a wraparound or TOM bridge, look into the Stetsbar wrapover models. I have a Stetsbar "strat type" vibrato on my "Marauder" and it feels great and keeps tune (at least to my standards) - even without locking tuners. [img]i.imgur.com/0AzkK7B.jpg[/img]. This guitar cost me about a quarter to a third of the price of a Fender custom shop, even with ebony fretboard, stainless frets and custom cut wooden plates - but I did fit all the hardware myself, French polished the scratchplates with shellac and did the wiring too. Closeup of the stetsbar [img]i.imgur.com/QFUHRgL.jpg[/img] I don't agree about the necessity of locking tuners for tuning stability though - just GOOD, stable tuners. I don't see any difference with the Fender locking and Schaller vintage type tuners I've had on guitars - locking just saves time fitting strings. But completely agree about stainless frets at this price point, at least as an option. I think Gibson has just figured out who its customers are and it's players who don't push the boundaries like you do. That said, Phil Manzanera's red and PJ Harvey's sunburst 3-pickup Firebirds are probably my favourite looking guitars of all time.

[@andrefludd]

Super helpful thanks for sharing. I might have to go SG when I try another Gibson.

[@stevenpipes1555]

I agree with all of this but would go a bit further on the locking tuners. Ive never even had a problem keeping cheap trems and tuners in tune. The key for tuners is simply clean string install. Its always blown me away how many players I've met, that have beautiful guitars, and the strings at the tuners look like a tangled fishing pole! Or there's the guy who only puts two or three wraps on the capstan! If you wrap enough string and you do it neatly, no overlaps, then it will stay in tune.

[@DrMurdercock]

3:21 when I was a kid, I got ALL the free music catalogues. From any company willing to send my 12 year old butt a book. I used to sit and circle stuff for hours man. Musicians Friend is something I've not thought about for a long time. It also made me remember Throroughbred

[@jamesh6535]

The problem with your request is that they're selling as many guitars as they can make without doing your absolutely reasonable spec choices. 1959 Les Pauls didn't have Floyd Rose trems. They are not in the least bit thinking about their own future and drawing younger players to their brand outside of offering cheaper import versions of their regular line (just to cut off import competition.) I agree with your assessment that they could sell a ton of guitars, and bring in a new group of customers. The specs you want are on the LTD EC-1000FR, which clearly isn't a Gibson because it's an LTD, but is the first thing I could find that was similar. Alternatively, you could have ESP make you a custom guitar, but you're back to Gibson prices.

[@andrefludd]

Great points, James!

[@JayKughan]

Point noted & I completely agree with your logic. But FYI. You don't need to drill holes in the headstock to install the string butler.

[@andrefludd]

You don't need to, but the instructors do say you should. Point taken!

[@JayKughan]

@@andrefludd Is that so? Riiight... well, I hope you do try it out. Based on the butler's construction, it should work perfectly fine without any additional drilling. Much appreciated if you gave it a go & updated us accordingly. Thanks heaps for your content, hope you try the string butler & looking forward your next video. 🍻

[@r0bophonic]

Andre trying out Gibsons: “I could love you but first you’ll need to change everything about you.” Gibson buyers are retro jazz, blues and classic rockers. They have no need for the features you desire. Curious to see where this journey leads you though!

[@andrefludd]

That's hilarious! But really, I swear, if you could give me a Gibson SG with the old-school vibrato bridge BUT just make it stay in tune, I'd be happy! That's all I want haha.

[@r0bophonic]

@@andrefluddhaha sure but you’ll trade it in as soon as those frets get nicked… ;)

[@daw162]

@@andrefludd from a builder's perspective, it wouldn't be that hard to do -especially with a slightly fatter neck at the heel and minor changes to the peghead. But people don't want either of those and they'd rather have a guitar that changes tune if you literally turn to look at someone else and have your hand on the neck and that has a peghead that you have to keep lubed. I like to make guitars in gibson patterns, but I don't copy their peghead. I think the peghead looks great, but it doesn't work great. Like the dangelico approximations, especially the NYSD9 and EX-SD. Too, I consider the company that owns the name now just a buyer of gibson. The company was gibson until the mid 70s or so, maybe a few years later than that. There's nothing of note from them in the last 30 years, and I've had more than 10 of their guitars. Well, maybe the nighthawk, but the last NH I had (anniversary model), I had for a couple of years and it was dead as a doornail on the upper frets within a couple of years leaving me with a few hours of work to do just to make it saleable, and then I felt obligated to disclose that I'd done significant fretwork leveling as any smart buyer would see that it was done. I sold it, at a slight loss, with a lot of time involved by me.

[@everlast13]

@@andrefludd just something to consider: even with locking tuners you might have an issue with tuning stability, because of the steep break angle of the headstock. Also, locking tuners often add a bit of weight. On an SG that means even more of a headstock dive

[@everlast13]

@@andrefludd love these podcasts btw!

[@otherGuise]

For the string butler you don't have to drill holes into the head stock to affix it. It has washers and you can use the tuners to lock it down. However, once you install it you need to buy a new nut, because Gibson's nut is carved at preposterous angles. The new nut needs to be carved straight through and will significantly reduce / eliminate binding in the nut. The 999$ Les Paul also has the 490 pickups and not the Burst Buckers more expensive versions have. Probably want to replace the 490 because they're low output and kind of shitty. I did a similar mod you're working through of for a customer. We peaked over a grand on his final build in after market parts. That was not including my labor.

[@andrefludd]

Your story kind of proves the point haha. All of this work just to make a guitar Gibson should already be making IMO. Thanks for the info!

[@zoomzoom3950]

@@andrefludd Gibson does make one, LP Custom Axcess, but it will cost you $5500 new. 😁

[@t3hgir]

Gibson and innovation... it's no longer the 1950s. But you can thank Alex Lifeson for the Floyd equipped Les Paul Axcess, pretty sure he requested the sculpted heel joint as well!

[@andrefludd]

He’s the man!

[@kcb5150]

The problem is every time they have ever gotten adventurous they have been absolutely raked over the coals by their core buyers. Too many blues lawyers want the legacy stuff. As far as a floating trem with tuning stability, I would say find an 80s les Paul with a factory Kahler. The Kahler dings the value a lot for most.

[@initialssg4379]

Just a thought - if you are retro-ing one of these with a floating tailpiece, you still have to contend with the TOM-style bridge. If the bridge is fixed, any movement at all on the trem will cause the strings to hang up on it and your tuning is shot. So... in addition to the tailpiece, locking tuners and the headstock thingy add a roller bridge. Which is not a good design. I don't think Gibson wants to sell guitars to or for working players, and from my days working in a guitar shop and recording studios, so many have build issues - even the most expensive ones can be lemons. I think the situation of an older session player that I used to record sums it up best - his dream guitar is an SG (generational thing I guess), but back in reality his work guitars aren't Gibsons and he can't justify one either.

[@andrefludd]

Don't forget to check out the free mailing list: andrefludd.substack.com/ and subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts! It also helps a ton if you give it a like and review on apple :).

[@danieltilleru3528]

I remember the old musicians friends catalog you could use to buy a Mexican strat for under 400 or a Gibson studio for under a 1000

[@andrefludd]

Good times :)!

[@corneliuscrewe677]

I was just thinking about that the other day. I remember for the longest time MIM Strats went for just over $350, and I noticed Squier Classic Vibes Are now north of $400.

[@joeking433]

I have a 1989 Sam Ash catalog where the American Standard Strat was $499!

[@DrMurdercock]

I'm not a calm and collected type person, so watching these is like me hanging out with my Honors Class buddy Seth back in HS. Just how you talk and present things, he was the same way. He just loved teaching things when it when something he really knew about. I knew cars and guitars and he knew amps and electronics. So we would exchange wisdom and what we knew every day in Study Hall

[@nachobizness1231]

i will never again buy a guitar without a straight string pull through, won’t do it ever, unless i magically come into a ton of money and i want a vintage lp as an art piece to hang on my wall.

[@andrefludd]

Fair point!

[@richardreyes9604]

Duesenberg makes a tremolo for about $150.00. It will fit a SG perfectly and it's known to work with zero mod. Phillip McKnight has a video.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you! I think you are talking about the les trem?

[@onlywhenprovoked]

The String Butler doesnt require any modifications to the guitar. It just sits wedged between the low E and high E posts. It's just a piece of plastic and 6 metal posts. Someone with a 3d printer could bang one out very easy. Or cut one from plexiglass. The Floyd FRX wont require much modification if installed on an SG. Only the locking nut. On arch topped les pauls however, youd need to route a circle under it. This I would not do, because if you decide to take the FRX off, the guitar would need the spot filled and a total refinish. I would love a gibson with a trem but I too have gone down this rabbit hole and it's pretty discouraging. I would be all about that Joe Perry model if it wasn't priced like a signature series. They should do a model like that, single pickup, no relic, without his name on it,

[@andrefludd]

The string butler may not require any modifications but if you read their provided instructions they do instruct you to drill two holes in the headstock to secure it.

[@AlmostGrewMyHair]

@@andrefludd I see the holes but I haven't seen anyone put screws thought them in photos or video so it installs without modifications. Wish I knew about it when I still owned a Les Paul.

[@onlywhenprovoked]

@@andrefludd i didnt realize that. That sucks, imo. Thanks for letting me know. I was gonna get one for my les paul but its a rare 1 of 200 so i dont want any mods

[@andrefludd]

@@onlywhenprovoked it’s my understanding that it can still be installed without the holes, which most people do. I just don’t know how that impacts it’s effectiveness.

[@LesPeterGuitarJam]

I bought a Gibson Les Paul from new in 2018. it came with cryogenically treated frets (and was plek'd from the factory) and they holding up way beyond what i expected. Can only recommend cryogenic-treated frets and get your guitars plek'd if you have the option... ***Sorry for grammer, English is my 2nd language

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for the idea!

[@RajTamil]

It's a good point that there isn't really any versatility in Gibson's inventory...but searching around for Gibson's that fit a modern style approach is kind of a waste of time. They are consistent in what they offer so that you can trust and rely on to safely invest your money in because you know that it will hold it's value and construction over the test of time. The Les Paul is also designed around being a staple of the classic rock era, while Fender fills in the gap when it comes to that classic rock/surfer trem sound. I don't see there being a need to put a trem on a Les Paul, and if you do want one, then there are other companies that are filling in that gap.

[@andrefludd]

That’s a very fair point! It doesn’t have to be on a LP though. I’d take it on a SG as well. And if Gibson was doing the Gibson thing perfectly, I’d totally agree with you, but their QC on even their legacy models is embarrassing. Many companies do Gibson better than Gibson. So if they aren’t going to do a traditional thing great, or innovate, what is it they do? How will they stay relevant?

[@RajTamil]

@@andrefludd That was a question that Gibson wrestled with in the 80s when they started to find themselves in this strange niche of trying to fit in with heavy metal guitarists and they started creating all kinds of strange designs, none of which were terribly good. What brought them back was reissuing their original classic guitars. I would have to say that in terms of their quality, there have been some bad years/eras, but currently their attention to detail is probably the best it has been in a long time.

[@RabidPrimeape]

I agree with your logic and perspective on Gibson. With that being said, there is just something about Gibson that pulls me. If efficiency and perfection is what you are looking for, Gibson is probably not the choice. Sometimes the heart is betraying...

[@andrefludd]

I totally get it! Gibson has a special vibe for sure

[@zoomzoom3950]

Well, you did find a LP guitar to customize; that will still cost significantly less than an LP Custom Axcess. For a hardtail, traditional, vintage style dual humbucker guitar, the Ibanez PS120 is now my favorite guitar, and I'm not modifying it. My main players with trems are my Jackson Warriors and Rhoads. I recall you don't like strange body shapes, but I highly recommend a Jackson Warrior; JS32 series are bolt on necks, amaranth fretboards, and satin/raw maple neck; WRX is a neck through with a wide flat neck profile, maple fretboard and painted neck. Both have low end FR that you can easily upgrade. Sitting you can use standard and classical positions.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for comment! I’m going to continue this gibson journey eventually. Probably around feb or march 2023

[@zoomzoom3950]

@@andrefludd Will be interesting, hope it works out well for you. Gibson's target market isn't modern guitars; it's like converting a '50s car to run on unleaded gas or electric. 😁

[@pierrerime1131]

Gibson made a lot of guitars with trems and locking tuners/nuts in the 80s especially at the beginning of the Henry J era (les Pauls, Vs, Super Strats). They didn't sell very well. Some are really cool, some are seriously flawed (especially the ones with the Steinberger trem). Nowadays, you can get almost anything through their M2M program, but the prices are stratospheric. Regarding your comment about the Kirk Douglas SGs, it's not just a special colour : the electronics are quite special (3 splittable PUs with any combination between the 3 PUs). As to his age, I'll leave the comment to you ;-). With you requirements about upper fret access, the V and the Firebird are really fun options. BTW you can find Firebirds with Steinberger locking gearless tuners that are great. And it's a neck through design. Keep on the great work with you channel.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for that!

[@_rafael_b]

Don't bother man. If normal Gibsons don't do it for you, you WILL be disappointed with the budget Gibson. Unless a KZbin video is worth it, save your money and get another Parker that does what you want it to do. Gibsons have great tone but they're like Harley Davidson. It's an image, a look, a history. But don't ask them to accelerate or corner like the Kawasaki or the Yamaha. It's not what they do. Also, the misconception about locking tuners is that they exist for tuning stability. They don't. They exist for making string changes easier. They still can't compensate for an unlocked bridge or nut so they actually will go out of tune as often as conventional ones.

[@andrefludd]

Fair point, you are correct, I’d be doing it as a test for KZbin haha. Just a fun idea, not trying to replace my Parkers.

[@markpell8979]

They just don't get it. How many sales do they lose this way? So we're driven to other brands that are probably cheaper anyway, for great guitars too. ESP, Ibanez, Schecter, etc. All of which have what you want as options or on standard models, Andre.

[@andrefludd]

You are 100% right. We try to throw them our money and they won’t let us haha. It’s very strange.

[@markpell8979]

@@andrefludd no doubt, that's a good way to put it. I want a Gibson too but they're just not making near what I want that costs right. I do have several Epis and they are good to great and worth the money, or I've been unusually lucky. For what you like I have a midprice Schecter that gets it done.

[@Shiznitt_]

Your vision of the perfect guitar is quite interesting. I'm surprised you don't play or are more interested in PRS. As far as perfect guitars go its hard to beat them. I can see you liking a DGT since they sound similar to a Les Paul/335 and have a really good trem. Sure nice guitars are expensive but Ide rather spend more on a perfect guitar I would never want to get rid of, than have something I'm going to have to heavily modify or sell and possibly loose money on in a year or 2. Some of these Gibsons aren't worth the premium they are charging unless you are a collector or you connect with the one your buying. Its hard for me to justify buying an aged custom shop reissue when I can get a pristine PRS that consistently stays in tune better, looks better, and is more comfortable to play for the same price. Not hating on Gibson though, I love the 2 I play :P

[@andrefludd]

I am def interested in some more PRS guitars for 2023. I just haven't ever had a chance to spend a lot of time with them.

[@Augrills]

I have a Fender with regular tuners and a floating bridge and a regular nut… it stays in tune fine. Maybe cause it’s in line? Idk, but it does well. What eats me up is selling these 4K guitar and advertising Grover tuners on it when a 700 Schecter is going to have Grover tuners

[@andrefludd]

For 4k we need some freaking features! Something to set it apart.

[@sorinsega]

You don't need a string butler if you have a well cut graphtech nut... Also, some users say that the Les trem stays in tune pretty good without locking tuners. But the point of this podcast is Gibson frustration, I get it. I like the SG, so I bought an Epiphone. I'm not willing to pay double or triple just for a name on the headstock. There are great Harley Benton guitars for 350 dollars... Nice channel, man. Cheers!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you!

[@jasonbrumley5453]

I am about the same age as you- I also remember lusting over Gibson's in the Musicians Friend cataloge and could never afford them. About 15 years later, after years of hard work and saving I still can't afford a Gibson so I bought a Chinese copy from ebay, lol

[@everlast13]

You basically want a modern Gibson, but Gibson and their core buyers do not seem to be interested in that. Gibson is very much a heritage brand. And people who want a more modern Gibson style guitar or at least a vintagey guitar that stays in tune and doesn't have Gibson's issues also don't really go to Gibson, but other brands like ESP, Knaggs or PRS. Gibson also doesn't seem to need to modernise as they are selling guitars like crazy and Gibsons seem to have the best resale value of any electric guitar (Phillip McKnight often mentions the resale value aspect). To me Gibson is a bit like Harley Davidson in particular when it comes to pricing. Expecting competitively priced Gibsons (or Harley Davidsons) will definitely lead to frustration. But despite the high prices Gibson doesn't have problems moving product. Very interesting and thought provoking podcasts! Keep doing what you are doing!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you!

[@andrewwyatt5147]

Locking tuners, better cut, more modern pickups (Fishman), still doesn't have SS frets or tremolo would be the Epiphone Les Paul Prophecy. Much cheaper but checks most the boxes and I think it gets you at about 1k new

[@IlayShesh]

you're becoming my favourite guitar youtuber really quickly to be honest

[@andrefludd]

I’ll gladly hold that title :) thank you!

[@RealLucasVieira]

I know this is not the point but, you can find a les paul with the specifications you want on a Fernandes Robert Fripp/Steve Hacket model or a sawtooth.

[@andrefludd]

Yea that’s also true. Thanks!

[@DareBear2099]

I think the stainless steel frets are a bit hype man. I was told to use pure nickel strings and those strings wont wear down your typical frets nearly as much. I have two SG’s from the 90’s that I still gig with and never had to do a refret or recrown. I overall totally empathize with your experience with Gibson growing up. I didn’t have affluent parents and I was active duty military at a super young age. I got my hands on my first Gibson as a literal fluke, I won a raffle for a 2002 Gibson SG special (the one with an ebony fretboard and crescent moon inlays). I literally had no other means to afford it without that random chance thing. I played it so much, through drops, neck cracks, repairs, on open mic nights, in local bands, in churches. I became kind of used to that style of neck, not having a trem. I didn’t care how it looked, I was and still am a player, so I identified with your Fender story. I owned a number fenders both American and Mexican and always ended up selling them or trading them. I guess it all comes down with the style of guitar you bonded with first. My first was a Yamaha, which I didn’t like, the first guitar I bonded with was a SG copy a friend of mine let me borrow.

[@andrefludd]

I haven’t been playing guitar since the 90s like you, but I’ve already worn many nickel fret guitars down. They aren’t unplayable, but I’m a bit obsessive with the feel of my guitars. I like them to feel the same all the time. And with resale, stainless keeps value much longer.

[@gregmock6808]

I'm surprised you aren't looking at the Firebird for your needs...session guitarist Tom Bukovac has almost every guitar he buys refretted with his fret preference...I'm sure you could have any Gibson refitted with stainless frets. What you are looking for would be something Gibson's custom shop would handle...I"d skip the SG's as neck stability is an issue with them and a floating trem would probably cause problems...single cuts have more neck stability.

[@andrefludd]

Hmmm firebird is a good idea but I’m not sure of how comfortable the body would be for me. I understand their custom shop could do it, but I’m saying that this idea is an common model that almost every brand has…besides the biggest brand in the world. Just kind of strange is all.

[@gregmock6808]

@@andrefludd I agree....Gibson has been the reason I've played Ibanez or even Epiphone models all my life...they price working class musicians out of their market in my view.....I'm not a trem user so that's not an issue I'd ever have. I think what you want you could get in a PRS single cutaway or a Schecter guitar...they are innovative and have trems that I hear stay in tune...as to frets I'm thinking of a Yamaha Revstar with stainless frets and a chambered body...those are great sounding stable guitars in my view.

[@whssy]

A Firebird is the only Gibson I feel I "have to own one day".

[@patrickkem689]

Andre, I believe Floyd Rose makes a locking bridge that does not require any modifications. May be worth checking out. Just saying!. Those guitars are beautiful to behold. But not so much for the trem systems,,, Andre have you checked out Harley Benton they carry a beautiful SG series and those come not all but some do Think it’s the modern editions but those come standard with S.S frets. That’s a great thing. And the money that could be saved . Hope it helps out . Enjoying g your video.

[@TheZooropaBaby]

Gibson pricing so weird to me..... I always wanted LP Studio because I never liked fancy top and sunburst, on top of the fact that LP Studio was used by tons of 80s-90s alt rock/punk guys like Ian from Don Caballero/Battles. and for a while, those guitars were at least semi-affordable, around 1000 dollar so there was a time I almost bought it. but now, it's like, 1600 dollar now (I just looked up on Sweetwater). that's ridiculous, it is kind of going against the premise of Studio models being "affordable"

[@andrefludd]

It's total madness and honestly a bit offensive.

[@TheZooropaBaby]

@@andrefludd im somewhat ok with regular Les Paul being 2-3000 dollar guitar, im used to them being not affordable. but Studio and Tribute line of guitars that used to exist should be affordable because that's the point; Gibson literally made Studio line of guitars to compete with Japanese copies back in the 80s (or so I heard). now the only affordable Gibson are like Juniors or really bad ones that they released 5-6 years ago that everyone collectively hated

[@micemr76]

Turn up the volume! Please and ty. Ss frets should be standard on all electric guitars imo. If a sub $400 Chinese eart can do it, and a zero fret I personally like, Gibson's can.

[@andrefludd]

I will in the future!

[@lydo379]

As someone who has played almost exclusively Gibson SGs for 10 years now let me give you this advice if you want one. First locking tuners on a Gibson are a gamble, as 1,000,000 people have already said the D and G strings on more than a few will go out of tune very easily. I've owned 6 Gibsons and roughly half had this problem, but it is an easy fix if you DON'T have locking tuners. You just have the wind the guitar string UP the tuning peg and not down, however locking tuners are often too low for this method to work reliably. Next, if you get an SG with a tremolo and you plan to use it heavily, all 6 strings WILL go sharp it is just the way it is... they are shit for anything other than a slight "shimmer".

[@andrefludd]

Thank you!

[@jimmygrant3151]

Hi Andre, great podcast. Long and detailed. You might want to shorten your podcasts a little bit though. maybe keep them at 30 minutes or so. My wife told me that, so I'm passing it to you. She's always right so you better listen to her. haha, anyhow, on to Gibson. I stopped buying Gibson products years ago. I've owned about 6 Gibson Les Paul's and ended up selling every one of them. Only one I regret. I also bought one in 2011, a Les Paul Standard plus top. Which was my last one I purchased. Since then...Now my point. I now own four Les Pauls. three of them are from a ghost builder, same body specs as a Gibson standard, including a thick flame maple top and excellent grain mahogany, one piece neck and body. I only paid $260 for each body and neck, bare and without any hardware. It cost about another $800 for parts. I did all the work myself, inlcuding gluing, hardware instal and staining and finishing. I don't play my Gibson, it's tucked away in a box in the closet. My other three, the ghost builds, all get played regularly. Because I was able to build them myself, they all play far better than my Gibson. Although the Gibson is a great guitar, It just doesn't have that sound that the other ones do. maybe because the pickups I used, or maybe because I just have a boner over my self build guitars...who knows...the point of all this is that Gibson guitars are extremely over priced for what you get. I only paid $2,000 for the plus, but now it's worth over $3,000 to buy a similar. That's far crazy for a guitar that like you said, has many problems. I'm also a luthier, you can google Abu Dhabi Guitar Repair. I have had a few newer Gibson Les Paul's come through the shop with a lot of probems...mainly, the fret markers popping out and the wood shrinking from the binding...major issues. No way a Gibson Les Paul Standard is worth more than $1700, but the problem is, people have a boner over the Gibson name...so Gibson can retail thier guitars for a premium, just based on name, but those in the know, know that Gibsons are junk and not even close worth the price. I have so many other guitars that didn't cost more than $1,500 that blows any Gibson guitar out of the water...hands down no contest. Gibson is just a name that cannot compete with the level of Ormsby, Schector, Abasi, and your favorite, kiesel. These brands and others are way better choices for high end guitars at half of what Gibson sells for thier junk. Case closed. These was a period in gibson factory (1990- 1998) where Gibson's were great guitars, but now, junk. Even the moderns, which on the surface seems like a great guitar, but still has all the problems accociated with the Gibson Les paul, as you have indicated. Siply put, you can get better for far cheaper. But if you have to have the name, by all means, get a Gibson, but that's about all your going to get, other than your pocket book raped.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for your comment and the advice :)

[@joeking433]

I disagree. Totally. Gibson is the best guitar you can buy.

[@jimmygrant3151]

@@joeking433 but you didn't see the new Solar Dime guitars? Check out Ola's KZbin. Then tell me how great Gibson is.

[@joeking433]

@@jimmygrant3151 Gibson is great! Much better than these typical Solar guitars made in the Indonesian factories that pump out all the cheaper guitars in the world. Gibson is made in America! And I hate metal music which is what this brand caters to.

[@xenospeed7981]

Ever tried a Solar guitar? Maybe Ola can send you one for a review. (There are alot with Floyds and SS frets)

[@andrefludd]

I'd love to try one. I've seen a couple models I planned to try in 2023.

[@nelsgordon6246]

Gibson Les Paul Axcess Floyd Rose Locking nut, so no String Butler, no out of tune. Seems like best choice for LP Custom Shop, so best tone woods and best neck wood so neck stay straight Ebony fingerboard. You may have said you like synthetic fingerboards, those are all trying to be ebony Awesome upgrade parts for Floyd Rose at FUtone. Guitar World just did a video on upgrading with FUtone parts. Coil splitting humbuckers that sound like P90s when split

[@andrefludd]

Sounds like a great axe! But I Doubt it’s reasonably priced

[@Pyriander]

@@andrefludd very true, they are quite expensive. Epiphone though has a nice Lifeson Signature with Floyd and Piezo

[@nigeldaddyo]

Maybe somebody already pointed it out, but you're sadly mistaken if you think locking tuners and a two-point vibrato will keep a Gibson in tune. The fatal flaw is the headstock: 1) too steep of a headstock angle. 2) the way the strings break over the nut towards the tuner. Both of these cause binding issues even with a fixed bridge, let alone with a vibrato moving the strings back and forth over that nut. designed to fail. to be fair it's the same headstock design from back in the 50's when no one had to think about vibrato bars too much just yet. nonetheless, friends don't let friends buy Gibson. They've been phoning it in for years.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for the info! I was doing my best to give them the best benefit of the doubt.

[@nigeldaddyo]

@@andrefludd i figured you were just trying to be nice. I don’t have to be. They’re too bound by “tradition” to make any real changes, probably out of fear of losing their “base”. Remember the robo-tuners? LOL Gibson-folk expect certain things from Gibson, so perhaps it isn’t all Gibson’s fault. Analogy: how many Harley Davidson enthusiasts would embrace an electric Fatboy?

[@jasonmizuno6117]

The string butler is really not needed. Phill McKnight (a KZbin guitar tech)talks about it not being very effective and have little to no affect on the tuning. He also says that top mounted trem system is really good and works well. He has a video on his KZbin channel. I would do the locking tuners as well and your would have a great guitar.

[@andrefludd]

That’s for this! I’ll check it out.

[@stevelowery4764]

I don’t know if you noticed, but aside from substandard parts (nickel frets, trem, construction etc) you aren’t given a very good wood selection. The top on the highest spec’ed modern was a poorly matching 2A maple top. On the more expensive models they don’t even TELL you the grade of wood. Go to any of the guitar companies out there with custom builders on their site. The base models usually start at a 3A grade of wood. Let alone the fact that you can customize the guitars to varying degrees. You get the hardware you want, with better quality control for a similar price point.

[@andrefludd]

More things to add to the list haha.

[@joeking433]

Yeah, I agree. My Gibson SG made me understand how Gibson guitars made my guitar heroes who played them play a certain way and write certain style of songs! Fenders are ubiquitous, 90% of the guitars out there are just Strat and Tele clones. They're alright, but I put Gibson guitars far ahead of Fender.

[@natashanyxx9486]

Have a Kiesel built for you, and you’ll get everything that you want- plus the finish of your choice.

[@andrefludd]

I've had several kiesels now. They are great!

[@PersianRockstar21]

The volume on this video is really low.. the ads were louder

[@andrefludd]

yes, it's fixed in future podcasts.

[@edesbalazs]

At this point go to Gibson/Fender if you are looking for nostalgy, and go to a modern builder if you are looking for a guitar that plays well. I really like the appearance of the LP, but the bridge, the headstock, the frets, the weight, all are features that are not great for the player. This is probably as much of the fault of the customers as it is Gibson's though, if people didn't buy what they are selling, they wouldn't make it.

[@andrefludd]

100%

[@michaelaiello9525]

I really dig this segment. Everyone has had an issue with Gibson about one thing or another, mostly coming back to exorbitant cost. But I don't think you could convince Gibson that your ideal specs would sell out in a heartbeat. I'm not sure you could even convince me of that,... even though I pretty much agree with everything you address here. Gibson failed miserably trying to modernize. Gibson doesn't make a player's modern guitar now, but that's by and large not what most people are looking for in a Gibson. I mean I can make a vegan Italian dinner at home on a budget, but going to a traditional Italian restaurant and getting frustrated that the majority of dishes still have cheese in them is totally understandable .. and also a bit naive. The public, by and large, is thrilled that Gibson has gone back to their traditional roots... even if we all hate the price tag. If you keep a Gibson original, it is instantaneously a collectible. If you appreciate Gibson for what they do and their vibe.. they are deserving in charging what they do for what they do. All that said. I think your recent experience with the Novo offers a perspective that maybe can find footing eventually at Gibson. A retro feel plank guitar (like the SG, LP Junior/Special..DC, hell even the Theodore body style) that has a successful, retro looking, floating trem with locking tuners and a sculpted heel joint for under 3K. I'd love to see that! You are of course right; it would be great if they had just one option with these considerations. But I'm not sure that when I can finally buy a Gibson .. that those modern specs would be the model I would choose. Yeah I'm a different player than you. But if I want a Gibson in the line up it'll be to embrace that which Gibson does so well and add that to my palette. But I wish you all the luck in the world. The 'Dr. Andre Theodore' has a nice ring to it!

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for your comment!

[@ideashop4981]

Thanks for the great podcast Dr fludd!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you!

[@vote4chapman]

i love your content. you deserve soooooo many for subs. I hope u can keep doing what you're doing b/c you're honestly my favorite guitar-youtuber. Thanks for the video!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you! I really appreciate it :). I’m going to be around and honest for many years to come god willing

[@sgtdimples6909]

I saw a post on reddit about some of the things you're asking for in a Guitar, and that it costs extra in the custom shop for Gibson to install them. I'll say the same thing to you that I said to them. If you want a modern guitar, buy a modern brand. It's like what you were saying about the vintage spec'ed SGs being compared to vintage cars, the thing is that ALL of Gibson is just that. When Gibson went bankrupt, it was because they were trying to do some funky modern things with their guitars. IE: see 2019 les paul standards with 4 push pull pots, dipswitches, etc etc Remember G force electronic tuning system? wow what a disaster Gibson had trying to make their guitars 'modern'. They weren't catering to their consumer. Fast forward a few years. They're doing fine, because they're catering to the player that wants what their guitar means and represents from a construction, sound, collector, and aesthetic value. It's ok to not be that consumer. I own a few gibsons, but they're not the guitars i would use for everything I want to play. I own an EBMM Cutlass, a BC Rich Warlock, a mix of nylon classicals/steele string acoustics, and some partscasters. I am not that consumer all the time. I just like guitars and what makes them unique in their sound, look, and feel. These things don't annoy me because I don't go to taco bell looking for miso soup.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for your comment!

[@terryrollins1137]

Underrated channel! Subbed now!

[@andrefludd]

Thanks, Terry!

[@martianmurray]

If you want a guitar with a trem and stays in tune, I really don’t think you want a Gibson lol. I really think they are content selling to the traditionalists, old-heads, and collectors. I’d say try a PRS, they have McCarty working for them so they have some Gibson influence. I have a McCarty Thinline, it’s a hard tail but it’s my easiest playing guitar: low action, no buzz, stays in tune.

[@andrefludd]

Maybe I don't need a gibson lol

[@joeking433]

You need to know that all stainless steel is not the same! There are grades of stainless steel that are very soft, softer than nickel frets. That's how the Chinese guitars with stainless steel frets can have those nice rounded ends, they use a very soft and malleable grade of stainless steel. There is also hardened stainless steel that good guitar companies use on their guitars such as Parker or Kiesel. I learned this because I leveled the SS frets on a harley benton guitar and they leveled FASTER than nickel frets, which shocked me!

[@andrefludd]

Yes I’m aware!

[@9th_note]

well if you purchase a Les Paul special and you dump 300 or more dollars into it then you may as well just take that Rick Beato Les Paul special and modify that instead since you already have it in your possession. And it's modifications if nondestructive can be undone after the fact then you could still sell that guitar or return it. Thus saving you some time, effort and money. You will get your Gibson fix and you won't have to spend additional dollars to do so.

[@9th_note]

Sidenote, the less palm modern that I own isn't that modern LOL. The neck profile is different but is pretty much the same as the Stevie Ray Vaughan signature series fender so that's not really a modern feature either. It has standard Gibson pick ups and some coil splitting options but that's really about it. It does come with locking tuners but that doesn't really do you a lot of good without a floating bridge other than quick string changes. The heel joint is better than an original Gibson heel joint but still not that comfortable and upper front access for me anyways is nonexistent.

[@andrefludd]

I’m not keeping thE Beato!

[@andrefludd]

That’s an option but I’m not keeping it

[@danieltilleru3528]

You might like the Epiphone prophecy series guitars

[@andrefludd]

I'll check'em out! Thanks.

[@gregmock6808]

I would never put a string butler on the headstock....slap on some locking tuners and I'd say you're going to be good to go....if you're going to go through all that, just buy a Steinberger my friend...those are all about the hardware stability. The Les Paul Tribute also has a chambered body I believe so be careful drilling the body...Gibson unfortunately spends most of it's profits suing small guitar companies for patent infringement. I went the Epiphone route myself....last Gibson I had I traded for a Strat in the 80s..e

[@andrefludd]

I'll give it a try in the future, Greg.

[@ZL1LoVeR]

I also wish they offered longer scale instruments. 24.75” is waaay too short for me

[@andrefludd]

I like the scale honestly. I find it fun, but I get why someone else wouldn’t

[@xenospeed7981]

There's the Gibson Nighthawk with 25.5 scale (currently not produced, but used half the price of a LP Standard)

[@MiguelMakesMusic]

fellow millennial here, I am sensing a new found love for Gibson here. Same thing happened to me, I used to largely ignore the brand but now I just get "it". Logically it makes no sense but their guitars are amazing.

[@andrefludd]

I think for me it was more a new found love for vintage guitars! I have a Novo review coming tomorrow, and a podcast on vintage guitars coming over the weekend. Hope you stick around the check it out, Miguel. And I’m happy you like your gibsons! Inspiration is hard to come by!

[@MiguelMakesMusic]

@@andrefludd that's how it starts, I see you spent over an hour on the Gibson website. You'll be back and before you know it you'll have ordered a '60s Standard. It's how they get you! all in good fun, cheers.

[@andrefludd]

@@MiguelMakesMusic haha that was just an hour on camera....it was 2 hours off camera so maybe you are right.

[@DrMurdercock]

If someone gave me a high end Vintage Gibson or say I won a 59 some how, I'd sell that shit so fast. Then buy 10 High end guitars from all different makers with the money I made.

[@sprinkles-hour9719]

Can I give you a suggestion? The volume of all your videos is very low. It's hard to listen to your (awesome) content when I put you in the background while doing stuff, even at max yt volume

[@andrefludd]

It is just this one and maybe a couple of the other early ones. I've since fixed the issue . Thanks for the heads up.

[@basiltiffani8850]

Audio is too low, in my opinion. Looking forward to more content!

[@andrefludd]

Will do better in the future thanks!

[@vlj1133]

"I do not like crazy bodies, like a Gibson Explorer or the BC Rich guitars." - Proud Owner of Multiple Crazy-Body Parker Guitars :-) :-) :-) Anyway, since you're looking for specific Gibson things, I'll try to help you out. First thing, stay away from any vintage-style Gibson floating tremolo. Bigsby, Maestro, or any other, it doesn't matter. None of them stay in tune. If you want a Gibson with a floating bridge that stays in tune, you'll want a Les Paul Axcess or Neal Schon-signature Les Paul, which feature a full-on Floyd Rose floating bridge with a locking nut. No locking tuners, but with the locking nut you don't need locking tuners. With the dramatic contouring of the neck heel, these models have much better upper fret access (UFA) than a standard Les Paul...but they still won't give you the UFA you have with the Beato sig model, never mind your Parkers or most "shredder" guitars. The UFA on the Axcess and Neal Schon models is great for a Les Paul, but it's not in the same league as the guitars with which you're most familiar and comfortable. Next, I noticed in your Beato video that you were using an adjustable brace to hold the guitar in your lap. Well, the Gibson with the best UFA is the SG, and it suffers from the most severe neck droop of any guitar I've ever owned or played. Adding heavier locking tuners to that headstock will only exacerbate the neck droop. The Explorer and Flying V have similar UFA as the SG, but you don't like their body shapes. Knowing all this now, I have two recommendations for you. One, understand that it's a Gibson, not a modern shredder, and allow yourself to appreciate it for what it is. Do not try to turn it into something it was never designed to be. It will always fall short in that regard, and you will inevitably be disappointed. Instead, just let it be a good Gibson. You already own multiple modern guitars with floating trems and killer UFA. You have that requirement covered. You don't need a floating bridge on all your guitars. It's perfectly okay, if not downright desirable, to have at least one guitar with a traditional fixed bridge. They, too, have their advantages. I'd rather play a fixed bridge than a floating bridge, and I own both. Point being, let the Gibson fill a different yet equally valid niche in your arsenal. The other recommendation I would have for you has to do with UFA. I love good UFA, and I have small hands. My Les Paul Standard '50s is my favorite guitar, tonally, and I love how it plays...to a point. Above the 15th fret, it becomes increasingly difficult to play, until it's nearly unplayable for me in the top two or three frets when I'm standing instead of sitting. That being the case, and this dovetails with what I mentioned about simply letting your Gibson be a good Gibson that fills a unique niche in your arsenal, the model I would recommend for you is the ES-335. Tonally, the semihollow 335 is the quintessential Gibson. It offers vastly superior UFA to the very similar-sounding Les Paul, while sounding much better than an SG, with none of the SG's neck droop. Its lower horn will bother you in the same way that the lower horn on the Beato bothers you, but that's more than a fair trade-off for the superior tones, increased dynamics, and lack of neck droop. Moreover, there is something uniquely cool about rolling up with a 335. Open that case, and everyone immediately assumes you're a badass. Very few hacks play real Gibson 335's, you know? For a player of your technical level and quality, the ES-335 is the likely choice among Gibsons. It checks off all the best Gibson boxes, while outright eliminating or at least minimizing many of the usual Gibson foibles. Throw a properly-cut bone nut on it, apply Nut Sauce with every string change, add the Kluson locking tuners with traditional tulip buttons (I have them on my LP, and they work brilliantly, without altering the traditional look of the stock, vintage-style, non-locking Klusons), and you're all set. I wish you the best of luck in your search.

[@vlj1133]

Oh, regarding the other thing you mentioned. To the best of my knowledge, no Gibson comes with SS frets. You have to do a re-fret if you want SS frets, which also gives you the option of choosing whichever fret size you prefer. You can do it right from the jump, or wait until the nickel frets need replacing. If you can afford it, yep, you may as well do it right from the start.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for your thorough comment. This is going to be very helpful to me! And for body shapes, by crazy I mean Flying V, firebird, explorer. A Parker guitars shape isn’t crazy at all…it’s just a strat shape with a different shaped horn.

[@vlj1133]

@@andrefludd Two wildly different horns, and a bizarre headstock. It all works functionally, but to many eyes the Parker looks a lot crazier than an Explorer or Flying V. Almost insect-like. Looks are entirely subjective, though, so that's your call. One way the 335 will never be described, however, is "crazy looking," so you're safe there. Along with the Strat, Tele, and LP, the 335 is the fourth of the Four Major Food Groups of electric guitars. It's as "normal" looking as a guitar gets.

[@andrefludd]

@@vlj1133 well actually the headstock and both horns are all exactly the same. But my only point in the fly V and other body shapes is that i 1) I don’t know how they feel while playing seated and 2) many require an extra larger gig bag. I should have been more clear and that’s my mistake. I don’t have a problem with funky body types but I’m trying to make sure I can play comfortable seated and easily take the guitar on my commutes.

[@vlj1133]

@@andrefludd Hmmm, okay, comfort while playing seated, and gig-bag size... I think you already mentioned it, but the SG feels really strange, ergos-wise. The location of the strap button on the back of the neck heel (instead of on the upper horn, where it ought to be) combines with the very shallow set-neck depth into the body to make for a guitar that sits decidedly to the left of your body, compared to where most guitars sit. This is great for playing things very high up on the neck, as the upper-most register is directly at your body's centerline, rather than slightly to the right. The flipside is that open chords and anything down by the nut feel like they're a mile away. It's a disconcerting feeling, but, of course, long-time SG users get used to it and probably don't even think about it. The neck droop is really bad for some people, and not as bad for others. I assume Tony Iommi and Angus Young consider it much ado about nothing. It bothers the crap out of me, though, and many others. Your fretting hand being forced to split duties between fretting and simply holding up the neck is no bueno. In terms of that left-to-right thing, the LP sits perfectly in your lap and against your body. It sits like a Strat, although a Strat has better overall balance. You can leave a Strat alone, no hands, and it doesn't go anywhere. The LP has such a heavy body that, left unattended, it wants to flop backwards. It's not a problem. Most people generally don't sit there with no hands on the guitar for any extended period. Zero neck droop with the LP. The 335 sits more like the SG. Again, that left-to-right-thing. The nut feels a mile away. The upper register is directly beneath your stomach. No neck droop, however, so that's good. Gig bags? The ES-335 is an oversized guitar, so it won't fit in a standard gig bag. Its smaller baby brothers, the laminated ES-339, and the carved-top ES-336, fit just fine. The LP and SG fit in a standard gig bag that can fit a Strat or Tele, no problem.

[@genghisghost]

bro have you ever thought of ESP?? basically all these gibson shapes and tonewppds with modern specs and comfort stuff you’re looking for. If you have custom shop money you’re better off. They have the gary holt model already which is a les paul with a floyd and an even better heal joint on LTD’s than that 5100 dollar Gibson. oh, and all LTD’s have ss frets standard. But if you go with custom ESP im sure u can get ss frets too

[@andrefludd]

Would love to try ESP in the future

[@ryanbaptiste249]

I've loved Gibsons above all other brands for 50 years but this is a great video and a real eye-opener!

[@andrefludd]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks, Ryan.

[@Asshat237]

NO!!! NO DRILLING!!! There is a much cheaper version of the string butler called TruGlide, but important to note is neither of those require anything to be drilled in.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for your comment!

[@bethjustice1509]

If you want everything on your list, first get away from Standards, look at Customs or custom shop will do anything you want but not for $2000.00

[@andrefludd]

I understand a custom shop will do it! My point is it shouldn’t take a custom shop to do that in 2022.

[@Asshat237]

Les Paul Specials and Jrs are known for having p90s so i would have gone with that.

[@andrefludd]

I like P90s but I also love humbuckers so it isn't a huge deal for me

[@stevenpipes1555]

Excellent and fair as always Andre, oh and also dead correct in my estimation! I'm day dreaming of the day i finally get my hands on a Gibson, however, it will only ever happen if i find it in some flea market or yardsale somewhere and will certainly be something that will need considerable TLC! I will love it and sing its praises im sure, but i will NEVER support them as a company today! When you consider everything you just went through, added to all the law suits against anyone that helps the "little guy" get something in that style, then its clear that Gibson isn't about people, Gibson isn't about Music, Gibson is clearly no longer even about Guitars. Gibson has become cheap replica of a once great instrument maker!

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for the confused support, Steven!

[@Jerry-OSBB]

Great break down of the truth with Gibson. I think they are failing. Their board of directors are way out of tune with reality. And then you have the customer issue where the fanboys just throw hissy fits when someone brings up the bad quality and playabillity along with the issues you addressed here... They scream loud in defense of Gibson... well.. my reply to them is "the empty can rattles the most".

[@andrefludd]

They do have fanatical fans. I do think there are a few great qualities about Gibson, but nothing truly remarkable in 2022.

[@lomoholga]

“Looking for a Gibson with SS frets, locking tuners, and a decent floating bridge” Oh boy…..

[@andrefludd]

Yep. I'm a fool.

[@lomoholga]

@@andrefludd not a fool- you are doing basic ‘empirical’ research with minimal judgement and really showing what Gibson is as a guitar company- they make retro guitars. People really need to see this It’s amazing to see, as I was always the opinion that Fender was also a fuddy duddy company as well, but compared to Gibson, Fender is at the bleeding edge of innovation lol

[@andrefludd]

@@lomoholga I have noticed fender takes far more risks.

[@franciscanlady6491]

Just buy a Fender Strat. That's why they were invented in the first place.

[@charlesyoung8600]

Better be careful, Gibson might sue you for slander!!!!!! Lol

[@andrefludd]

I know you are joking but actually, My significant other is a lawyer and she’s helped me prep for a long time before I make these videos lol. (I have actually had her walk me through slander laws I kid you not!)

[@slodog7577]

Love your videos, but you are wrong. Gibson is not a modern company, they embrace their heritage and history. Those who buy a Gibson, for the most are not looking for a modern guitar, they are looking for a classic vintage feeling guitar. However, I do agree that their prices are off the charts for what you get. But they will never be known as a “modern” guitar company or builder.

[@andrefludd]

I don't think I said they are a modern guitar company. If I did, that was a mistake! I just think the biggest guitar company in the world should at least offer a couple modern things OR they should make sure their traditional thing is perfect! OR they should make newer models that look traditional without the traditional flaws. This podcast may need a part 2 haha. Thanks for the support!

[@joeking433]

Gibson is the Mother Ship.

[@georged9615]

An SG is way more comfortable than a Les Paul

[@andrefludd]

I think SG is next

[@nelsgordon6246]

I recently bought the Les Paul Axcess Floyd Black Beauty and I'm just in love with it. I bought it from Sweetwater, it had been returned, probably because of QC issues. It has a slight ledge where the binding meats the finish on the neck from hand scraping (look up Gibson binding scraping) which does not effect playability, but people don't like this flaw on such an expensive guitar. Some Gibson's get returned for this issue and can be had at a good discount. I was able to negotiate mine down 1200.00, and I'm very happy with it.I've seen others on Gibsons Demo Shop on Reverb direct from Gibson, with the same large discount. I consider this a player guitar not a museum piece. These guitars are not just normal Les Paul's, they were designed with Neil Schon and Alex Lifeson,who also have signature Models. They have less of a top contour, and less neck and head angle to accommodate the Floyd Rose. I had also considered the PRS custom 24 Floyd, which is around the same price and most likely has better QC, but I knew in my heart I wouldn't love it as much as the Gibson. Gibson Custom Shop gets the best wood. One piece mahogany body, one piece neck with long tenon joint. It was also important to me that the people making my guitar had a job they could be proud of. One up would be a custom builder. Another note the locking nut is a Floyd Rose import because they don't make a German made for 12" radius

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for sharing your experience! That sounds like a beautiful guitar.

[@nelsgordon6246]

@@andrefludd For me personally it's the best guitar in the world. An incredible musical instrument that I had to save for two years to get. I like the idea of owning one great guitar. The Floyd is a good choice on the Les Paul because of the locking nut and is completely rebuildable and upgradable.

[@andrefludd]

@@nelsgordon6246 Certainly nothing wrong with that my friend! Thanks for sharing.

[@kmatax9237]

SG stands for shi**y guitar

[@andrefludd]

😂

[@chrishill9707]

I think you need more gain on your mic. Can't hear the audio on your video. I have to turn it all the way up to barely hear what you're saying and then when the ads come in it blows my Bluetooth speaker through the room. LOL good luck thanks for the videos

[@andrefludd]

Yea the newer podcasts are better!

[@innocentoctave]

The real problem here is that Gibson for many years has been a heritage company that makes its money by reproducing its classic models of the 50s and 60s with small variations in spec, woods and decoration, and charging high prices for them because they use old-fashioned, labour-intensive production methods and American labour. Gibson make no product that resembles your spec. They did, briefly, try to produce a modern 'superstrat'-style guitar. The best of these, by general consent, were the M-III and M-IV. There were several models with different pickup configuations and other detail changes: the Standard, the Deluxe, the All-American and so on. They first appeared in 1991 and did not survive the '90s. They were reissued briefly in 2013. The All-American may have been the best Gibson superstrat ever. It even has a Steinberger vibrato bridge and Steinberger high ratio gearless tuners (the others had Floyd Rose bridge and locking nut). It has full fret access on a 24-fret neck. It does not have stainless steel frets. You can see one here: www.axebition.com/electric-guitar/gibson-m-iii-all-american It sold poorly, and was discontinued. Why? Because Gibson buyers want traditional, and because the market for superstrats was already pretty well saturated by the companies that had invented the formula. Also: if you wanted the Gibson playing experience, you probably wanted a Les Paul, SG, Firebird, Explorer or Flying V with a typical Gibson neck. You wanted the classic wood combinations. You even wanted the designed-in flaws like the easily detachable headstocks, because they were 'traditional'. You didn't want a 25.5" 'Fender' scale. You didn't want a fully-floating locking trem. So the M-III was simply 'not a Gibson' to Gibson buyers. You can find M-IIIs second-hand, but I'm not sure why you would buy one. The industry has moved on a long way, and many manufacturers make the type of guitar you seek. Gibson isn't one of them, and probably never will be.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you for your comment! My only thing is, I just don't see why putting locking tuners and a bridge that stays in tune on an SG makes it no longer a Gibson. They have SGs with bridges that don't stay in tune. But a Les Trem on an SG is somehow out of the question? It even still maintains the vintage aesthetic. I'm going to try and find one of those guitars you just linked. Looks really strange and fun to try.

[@innocentoctave]

@@andrefludd The SG has a built-in problem with neck dive. Adding locking tuners exaggerates that. Adding mass to the headstock makes a neck break more likely. As for the trem: I suspect that Gibson thought of them as gimmicky, and didn't design the guitars with a trem in mind. So they were always add-ons. They couldn't use Fender trems, for obvious reasons, so they used the Bigsby, which has its own problems. I think all these things can be made to work, but they all involve additions or modifications that make the guitar 'less of a Gibson'. The upper fret access problem in inherent in some of the designs. The failure to use stainless steel frets - which are harder on tools - is clearly a company decision. I think Gibson suffer from a 'we didn't invent it, so we don't use it' attitude.