BETTER Than GIBSON?? - 10 *Fantastic* Les Paul Alternatives!

[@DarrellBraunGuitar]

Want a great guitar without giving your hard earned money to big G? Check out these guitars instead! Guitar links: D'Angelico - imp.i114863.net/Vy7YNE Schecter - imp.i114863.net/Xx7nNg PRS - imp.i114863.net/zaYb46 Gretsch - imp.i114863.net/Ea7eeK Duesenberg - www.duesenberg.de/en/guitars/starplayer-tv/ Eastman - www.eastmanguitars.com/electric_solid_body SIRE L7 - imp.i114863.net/b3YNNk Godin - imp.i114863.net/3PEq1k Heritage - imp.i114863.net/Yg7nnj ESP/LTD - imp.i114863.net/DV7eAq Epiphone - imp.i114863.net/Ke7XX9 Enjoy :)

[@ChrisTopherBunnell]

Isn't KZbin paying you for this content? THEN DO YOUR JOB AND MAKE IT A SAFE PLACE FOR YOUR FOLLOWERS.

[@elgeetunacao5220]

you forgot the vintage vietnam 🤣

[@wattmoreno5685]

I just go a message saying I won a Gibson Flying V Is this true and if so . Thank you

[@wattmoreno5685]

And how am I going to receive it

[@ChrisTopherBunnell]

@@wattmoreno5685 read my comment above yours. This guy's page is full of scammers and he is doing nothing about it.

[@chrisnedbalek2866]

0:47 #1 D'Angelico Atlantic 1:45 #2 Schecter Solo II Custom 2:47 #3 PRS SE 245 3:55 #4 Gretsch DuoJet 5:23 #5 Dusenburg 6:48 #6 Eastman SB 59 7:58 #7 Sire L7 9:26 #8 Godin Summit 10:34 #9 Heritage H-150 11:41/ 12:12 #10 Epiphone Japanese-made Elite 11:49 Shoutout to ESP LTD 1000

[@arno-luyendijk4798]

Too bad no sound demos are included....and the Hagström Ultra Swede/Ultra Max/ Swede/ Super Swede are not included. And their coilsplit possibility is something I don't see Gibson or mentioned alternatives do in the naar future. Not only give the Hagström versions beautiful tone, but also the Gibson tuning problems are not present...much better tuning keys. Get that, Gibson.

[@graysonmichael8335]

thanks, i didnt watch past the first guitar because this guy refused to show us what it looks like. now i can take your list and look for photos myself

[@plecogod]

The LTD EC-1000 should absolutely be on this list. For the price they are hard to beat. I would love to see you do a review/demo of one,

[@BeamMonsterZeus]

2nd that, due to owning one. I was so on the fence between it and a Les Paul, and what drew me was the pickup options. Get the deluxe for the Black Beauty look.

[@jf_valdivieso]

How do you find the emg pickups?

[@kellykloss4653]

I had two EC-1000s, one Seymour, one EMG. Those, after decades on a 78 tobacco sunburst custom. My back and shoulder love the lighter load, my hand loves the fast fretboard, and my ears love both git-tars. At $850 a pop, I’ve got some money left to check out an Eastman.

[@lennygosheesh]

@@kellykloss4653 you prefer the seymour or the emg? also, what do you think of the fishman fluence option?

[@kellykloss4653]

@@lennygosheesh I had both, the Seymour version, and the EMG. I bought one of each. I gave them away to two young guitar students. Not because they weren’t great. Because they were. I’m currently running an LTD EH-250N, while I’m waiting for a custom build from Mill City Luthiers in Minneapolis, MN. That builder’s got some serious chops. I miss my old Les Paul, except for the shoulder crushing weight. I’m hoping that my new axe will help me get over her/it. You have a good day, wherever you are.

[@paradiswest4395]

Darrell, I appreciate the fact that you are only including guitars that you have first hand experience with and this video wasn't just an infomercial for all single cutaway style guitars. That's integrity!

[@TJK_Audio]

I recently got an LTD EC1000 Deluxe with Duncans, and it's the best single cut I've played so far. It's a very modern take, but they did a great job taking the basic concept of the LP and adding modern sensibilities in comfort and speed. I've only actually owned one Gibson LP (it was a '15 studio, probably not the best example) and while it sounded right and the nitro finish was good, I didn't bond with it like I had expected and I traded it away. The EC is a fantastic alternative if you want a modern LP.

[@1979bobhd]

@TJK_Audio • I agree 1000% I have owned 2 EC1000's and I believe they blow Gibson away not only on price but quality and playability my first one I found in a Goodwill store for $400.00 can you believe it I don't know who owned it but it was in as new condition.

[@daveladd5614]

Agreed. I recently purchased an EC-1000 - I got the Piezo version. Head and shoulders above the Gibson Les Paul Custom and Studio I used to own. SS frets, locking tuners, Seymour Duncan PUPs, and coil splits. Plays better, sounds better, looks better and costs way less than a Gibson.

[@schmoemi3386]

3 years ago I swapped my "vintage" EC-1000 for the newer spec'd version. It's a bit less eye candy than the old one had, but that easy access neck joint is killer! It's an active PUs (EMGs) equipped one, though, so maybe not so much vintage-les-paul-y...

[@mattz9569]

I loved my 1000 with Duncan's. Miss that guitar. And honestly may be the one I gotta buy again.

[@kicksareforribs5156]

my ltd ec-1000 deluxe is currently my favorite guitar, they are amazingly well made

[@Draken0023]

Gibson is just a name. Take the name off the headstock and their bloated prices become hard to justify. If you’re one of the people getting ready to reply with something about “quality” or “American legacy”, don’t waste your time. There are too many brands out there now that far exceed Gibson’s quality and playability at a fraction of the cost. I won’t deny that some, very few in fact, Gibsons have justifications for their price, but it’s only because of who played them and not how good they were. Before you accuse me of being a “hater” or a “fanboy” of some other brand, ask yourself one question: if the name wasn’t on the headstock, would you pay the “Gibson tax” for one? It’s not the guitar that makes you a better player; it’s you. Stop contributing to the Gibson “legacy” and watch their market crumble into dust. Great video! Love that alternative are being shown and that it’ll steer some people away from thinking the more you spend, the better you’ll sound 👍

[@danejurus69]

Same with Fender too. They both overprice their guitars.

[@gregmullins6927]

Buy the man a beer!!! you've nailed it my friend,in Australia a LP Custom retails for approx $11,500.00 Aus dollars,this is totally ridiculous!!! for this money you could go on a nice holiday with your wife or girlfriend.

[@yestoES355]

I agree but for many studio seasons etc here in the US people expect a Gibson/Fender guitar without knowing about fear etc. as someone who’s been hired I always try to accommodate and provide anything the musician wants since I’m working for them and not for my own tone/quality pleasure. I do agree that there are amazing equal guitars for far less. I really liked the newer epiphone, and especially the heritage and Collings. I think collings annihilates Gibson but they are pricy as well

[@JM-tv9og]

On-point sir… Gibson’s only comeback is “play authentic… or else!”

[@brucehayes7251]

@@gregmullins6927 maybe right on the Gibson price but even used cars are getting a little scary, the floods and storms have fixed the oversupply of good cheap cars,my van is worth more than what I paid 5 yrs ago

[@arustydodge2111]

ALWAYS trust and appreciate your reviews, demo’s and pickS, DARRELL. I’ve bought many guitars after you have reviewed them. Admit that I am a Gibson Loyalist, the Les Paul being my number one. Been this way well over fifty years for me. The Heritage is the absolute closest in my opinion. Love their work. Never had a bad Schecter guitar. Great quality and price and always perfect straight outta the box. Unique sound, though not like a Les Paul, still love Schecter, pure fun without breaking the bank! Thank you once again, DARRELL! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@mikebri5274]

As the owner of a PRS SE 245 I can tell you that it is a great "bang for the buck" guitar. The stock neck pickup is not too bad but I replaced the bridge pickup with a Seymour Duncan JB. I'm now considering replacing the neck pickup with a Seymour Duncan '59 but not sure yet. Very happy with this guitar and would highly recommend it as a replacement for an entry level Gibson Les Paul.

[@1979bobhd]

@mikebri527 • On my 245 I purchased Dimarzio 35 anniversary humbuckers and love the old school tone. People are always asking me what kind of pickups I use because of the tone and crunch these deliver.

[@jeffbosch1697]

I have a wine red PRS SE 245. It's one of my favorites. I've been trying to find a Sire L7 but they've been sold out everywhere I've looked for at least the past two years.

[@sourav2328]

I have one in blue whale 🐳 absolutely fantastic 🤌

[@tedjohnson5210]

I have the Zach Myers, awesome guitar. Other than the tuners, which were really bad, I wouldn’t change a thing and love the tones and the flame top 👍

[@theiranxican7412]

Hell yeah good to know! I've been a Fender guy for years and still have my American and Mexican tele that I've owned since I was in my early 20s. Great memories I've made. But PRS se guitars are just making me really want to sell em both and move on with my life. I have played a few before and they just feel and play so sexy. That says alot honestly...

[@jesperbc]

I have two LTD EC1000s, and they're definitely my favorite guitars I've had. Both are '00s models with Earvana compensates nuts, which make them excellent for downtuning. Guess that reveals that I don't really go for the classic tones, but they play great regardless of genre.

[@pedraw]

I have 3 Agile AL 3010 models. back in the day they were about 325 bucks and I still play them a lot. Their only downfall was they can be heavy, My 3 range between 9 and 11.5 lbs. I also consider my PRS SE 245 to be equal to a Gibson Les Paul Studio in every way except price. I also have a PRS SE Singlecut and I think it sounds more like an SG than my SG does...........anyway, great video.

[@tjm5492]

Have to put in a word for the Hagstrom Swede. Great electronics and build quality. Tones from smooth jazz to blues to all world crunch. Very affordable.

[@Jooonzi]

The ESP LTD EC-1000 is easily the nicest guitar I've ever held and played. I don't even like singlecut guitars, but something about it just ticks every box for me

[@albery1472]

Yep, I went to the store yesterday to try the PRS Zach Myers - almost ready to buy it on the spot - it was beautiful, played really nicely, a real gem of a guitar. But, I picked up the cherry burst ESP Ltd Deluxe ec-1000... and it was sensational. A bit more expensive, so I'll save my pennies for a while longer, but what a guitar!

[@franksanantonio8775]

I have an Ltd ec 1000 with the Seymours. Outside of my majesty it gets a ton of playing time. Hands down better than a gibson.

[@himusharbash1]

⬆️🆙Dm the above 👆let talk thanks 👍 for waching.

[@b.rodclark7349]

My Les Paul alternative is my Cort LP Effector. The onboard effects died in 1985 so after loading it with various aftermarket humbuckers since '87 with some impressive tones, its current makeover's the finest it's ever been... great video!

[@user-hb2xx3gs3f]

I have an effector. It’s a cool guitar but honestly it’s a shitbox compared to a Les Paul

[@AeolianReflex]

The best playing LP style guitar I've ever owned besides a Les Paul Axcess was a lawsuit era Ibanez LP. It had the original headstock design, the neck was doweled and glued in solid and the sustain was incredible. Everything about that guitar was perfect.

[@ApakukiNayacakalou]

I just bought an 86 Greco, love it!

[@ErnestoGennariNeto]

I had a Gibson Tribute Les Paul 2018, an Epiphone Korean Limited Edition Birdseye Maple Top, a Godin Core HB and a LTD EC-401VF (which I regret selling it) through the years... Kept only the Godin and I will buy another LTD EC-401VF soon as possible. That LTD model is a no-brainer, awesome guitar. The Godin and the LTD are the best LP style guitars I've played.

[@Zoso981]

The ESP/LTD EC1000 is a great alternative. The lineup ranges from classic to modern too. I own 2 of them, and they're my go-to guitars.

[@johanherrera8376]

and you are not wrong AT ALL my friend

[@Submersed24]

I have the m1000 ht and love it. Though there’s a slight fret buzz

[@Zoso981]

@@Submersed24 It could just need a quick setup. They're worth spending a few $ on to get them dialed in just right.

[@Submersed24]

@@Zoso981 interesting, I’ll look into that thanks

[@daveladd5614]

I have a PRS Temonti SE. Its definitely worth being on this list. I cant even imagine how great a core version Tremonti would be.

[@musenw8834]

Oh yeah! Always wanted one of those 🥺 but I've yet to push my budget to $800

[@musenw8834]

But there's also the 594s / McCartys and the 245s

[@Juno58]

If someone don't care if it's a single or double cut guitar, i recommend the Ibanez AR series. I had an Epiphone LP Standard Pro but i was unhappy with the always a bit muddy sound of that Epi. So i changed to an Ibanez AR 420 VLS and i'm really happy i did. The AR 420 has a great clean and distorted tone with its famous medium output Super 58 humbuckers and the build quality is awesome as the looks. Playability is awesome, very low string action. Very nice flamed maple top, binding even around neck and headstock, abalone inlays in body binding and fretboard inlays and golden hardware. I found only one minus point, the neck heavy when on the strap. Great guitar for blues to hard rock music. I love it.

[@brandonknoll3125]

Love Gretsch, they always blow me away with how good the instruments are for the price

[@t9620]

I play the white falcon and it's just so awesome as only a Gretsch can be! Didn't cost me my soul either.

[@elamon51]

so glad to see Epiphone Elitist on the list I have a standard and since getting, both Gibson Les Paul's have left the building and I couldn't be happier. My Epiphone Elitist is my favorite Les Paul it's my forever guitar.

[@courtneyoneillviolin]

hello

[@DarttheLegend]

The new (last couple years) Epiphone Les Paul Classics are nearly indistinguishable from high-end les pauls to me, they are incredible

[@courtneyoneillviolin]

hello

[@jjohnson893]

I think the ESP LTD is hands down the best value in budget end guitars across all categories and styles. Hands down great guitar back by a Big name! Love it!

[@BigFatDad100]

I've got an LTD 256EC. Love to feel, and the tone. The coil splits aren't great (some would say unusable), but the humbuckers sound great. I use it to practice on, that's how much I love the thing.

[@gemini_man66]

Great list and I've been using ESP LTD guitars since 2009 when I was playing out with Dirty Black Halo. Love/own the older Korean and Indonesian EC-400, EC-401, and EC-500 models.

[@tacob69]

I have a LTD Eclipse that is almost 20 years old and now that I'm older I had enough money to get an ESP Eclipse and I swear I play the LTD every week still because it is such a great neck and the quality is on point.

[@paulkline3011]

I bought an LTD EC-401QM about a year ago. Absolutely love that guitar. It has EMG 81/60 pickups. It's the most comfortable guitar I've ever played and I've been playing for 31 years now.

[@megadouche]

Esp ltd all the way for me. They're good guitars at $1000, especially if you're doing metal stuff.

[@beanapalooza6614]

Me Too!! Yeeeah

[@ralex3697]

Agree

[@yeti1002]

Esp ltd 1000 EC does everything .... Metal , classic rock , blues , hard rock , alternative Rock , jazz , country .

[@maynardcrow6447]

The Ltd EC line of guitars was the second guitar I owned and have only played EC's ever since then. At first it was cuz Kirk Hammer 🤮. But even after ditching Metallica I've owned 2 other les Paul style guitars, a Cort, and a schecter S1 diamond series (kinda les paul-ish) and I never played much cuz they weren't an LTD EC.

[@jasonzarate4898]

@@maynardcrow6447what’s with the emoji after kirk’s name?

[@f.duranleau4416]

I recently bought a used 1998 Guild Bluesbird in mint condition with the original case. A great Les Paul guitar alternative and lighter at 8 Lbs. It was made at Guild's plant in Westerly, Rhode Island, USA. I paid $1,000 in Canadian dollars (which is about $700 USD).

[@JohannesLabusch]

I can highly recommend the Hagstrom Super Swede. I don't think they make them anymore, but you can find a used one for $600-800. I have the model with 3 P-90 PUs and their proprietary Bigsby alternative, called the Tremar, which is buttery soft and stays in tune beautifully. The guitar looks killer, all black and chrome, and is super resonant. It has a slightly longer scale than Gibson, so the playing feel is almost Strat-like.

[@leonardodic3po607]

Your suggestion is better than ANYTHING on his list, although it should be mentionned that that the Swede and Super Swede pickups are slightly brighter (and have a little "sizzle" at high gain) compared to a LP.

[@christophetrudel4621]

in fact they renewed the swedes and super swedes in 2023 and they made a ton of improvement over the single cut model like a volute in the back of the head for more solid headstock and a better joint of the neck and body with improved access to the higher frets, etc! i'm slowly getting the cash to buy one!

[@marlonmalave7098]

I have owned 2 ESP LTD’s Eclipses in my entire life, and I can say that they’re amazing. Have an EC-500 and a EC-1000. Haven’t used my EC-500 for over 3 years since it’s on my hometown, but I recently got an EC-1000 and it plays amazing. Glad you at least mentioned it! Hope you can get some more playing experience in the future with those :)

[@TimothyHagerTCH]

How's the intonation and tuning stability? I'm upgrading my EC-10 and looking at either an higher end EC or an Epi Les Paul Modern. Intonation is my main problem on the EC-10

[@marlonmalave7098]

@@TimothyHagerTCH Recommend changing the nut to a Graphtech one. Otherwise, intonation is spot on and tuning is great. I changed my tuners for some Sperzels since i have an ESP EXP Diamond Plate that already has Sperzels, and they work amazingly!

[@davidfmgonzalez]

Music Man Axis, for sure! Better quality construction, very similar tone range and, despite not being cheap, you can still save some bucks!

[@philipatoz]

Out of all the electric guitars ever designed, how insane is it that just 11 of them have spawned a gazillion copies and similar, influenced stylings of each make/model: LP, SG, Flying V, Explorer, ES-335, ES-5, ES-175, Tele, Strat, Jaguar, Jazzmaster!

[@WildBilly91]

Mosrite has million of copies as well apparently

[@WOHBuckeye]

Just smart, ingenious timeless designs.

[@courtneyoneillviolin]

hello

[@Rocktalk101]

I own 2 ESP EC 256 single cut guitars and they are amazing for the price point at $599 you cannot go wrong with them at all! I have also played the EC-1000 series as well and they are amazing as well! if yo ulike the schecter guitars I am pretty sure you will like the ESP single cuts as well.

[@axeman7352]

Esp/Ltd are great guitars. I have 2 EC-1000's, 2 Gibson standard's and a Heritage H-157 black beauty. The Heritage was one of the worst guitars I have ever owned but it was a 97 so a lot has changed in the Heritage factory. The Gibson's play smoother than the LTD EC-1000's I feel because of the plek but as far as sound both EC's have Seymour's in them and sound amazing. I still put the EC-1000 as a high quality guitar especially because I bought mine at the time for $900 with custom hardshell case, so they are amazing for the price.

[@terrancemattoon6869]

Picked up a Demo Sire L7 about 2 months ago.Very pleased with the quality and playability. Also pleased with the fact that it didn’t kill my wallet. Very affordable.

[@courtneyoneillviolin]

hi

[@paulcatarino2209]

Not sure if you have had one yet, but the Maybach Lester 59 should be featured on your channel and on this list. It groups in nicely with the Heritage and the Eastman as the closest in feel and sound to the original Les Paul.

[@raytorvalds3699]

I've had a Maybach Lester 59. It was better than any Gibson I've ever played. Especially those Amber pickups. I still miss that guitar. Dumb move to trade it.

[@nataliebeach6148]

I've got an Epiphone Muse Les Paul and I absolute love it! it plays like butter, it's light, and is very versatile with its stock wiring.

[@cjvideo22]

I have an ESP LTD EC-1000T and it is phenomenal! Great value, solid build, versatile instruments. Just incredible for the money!!!

[@TheDanification]

So glad to see Eastman on this list!

[@bthalko]

They're tough to find up here in Canada, but I absolutely LOVE my Reverend Contender HB. Single-cut, two-humbucker blues and rock machine. So good, I ordered another Reverend, a Double Agent. Should arrive at Steve's Music here in Ottawa in a month or two.

[@mboyer68]

I finally got to the point where I can afford my dream guitar, the Gibson Les Paul. But I really like binding on the headstock. So I have to spend like $5000 to get that. I can, financially, but I can't. I can't spend $5000 on a $1000 guitar, that you can almost guarantee will have some ugly mistake or cracked paint or something annoying. So I bought another Schecter. And a couple months after that, I got the itch again for my Gibson. So I bought a Solo II, a sick guitar for $1500. I remember Daryl saying he'd never buy another Gibson after he had bought a new one and it had cracked paint at the neck/fingerboard area. I'm with ya Daryl!! Thanks for the heads up! And not to mention the lawsuits, Gibson suing everyone. It's ridiculous.

[@swervature]

Opportunity missed -- "Les Paul-ternatives."

[@mrpotato4441]

Still love my Gibson. Nothing over the top but I always go back to it

[@Kendrix_76]

I was always partial to the Guild Bluesbird. the newer ones in Iced Tea burst are gorgeous. The older ones are great too.

[@TreadTalk247]

I don’t even play guitar and your channel makes me want to order a few LP’s!!! Man those guitars are beautiful!!!

[@aonewitheld9593]

I own, several ESP/LTD guitars, even their lower priced Les Paul style guitars (EC range) are high quality, best bang for the buck alternatives. If you get a chance. Also check out Michael Kelly Patriot line (Sam Ash music’s in-house brand). These guitars are made in South Korea and some of them contain Bare Knuckle pickups with some gorgeous finish options and coil splits in the $300 to $1000 range.

[@macgruff69]

I have a ESP/LTD EC-1000 Vintage Black and a EC1000T Snow White both when they were made in Korea. Both have ebony fingerboards. Fantastic guitars. I remember bringing the VB in for a setup years ago and the owner of the guitar shop didn’t sell them and never played one before. He raved about how good it was. He asked me if I was interested in selling but I wasn’t. All that being said I lust after that Godin Summit Classic LTD. I see that as their crown jewel. That thing is gorgeous and I know they make top shelf guitars. The workmanship of the Godins are phenomenal and the wood is extraordinary.

[@inhabitantmusic9051]

They are all nice, but after all I have seen and been through, I love my 1960 Les Paul, and my 1984 Fender Fullerton stratocaster. Frank Zappa would say "shut up and play" ☺️

[@inhabitantmusic9051]

Thank you for your kindness. Maybe someone less fortunate than myself can have a nice guitar

[@williamhiles7404]

Exactly. I love my '60 too. Only better Gibson Guitars 🎸 were made in '58 & '59. LedHed Pb 207.20 🎶 🎸 🎹

[@inhabitantmusic9051]

@@williamhiles7404 yes LedHed and Gary moore,

[@fronthorse]

Have an Eastman sb59 V with Bareknuckle Stormy Mondays.. 2250,- Euros. Quite some money but it's a keeper. Feel (violin varnish) slightly aged, ebony fingerboard etc. are on Gibson Custom shop level for at least half the price. And a wonderful tone.

[@markhill9275]

Again sport, i tell you, get an Agile, so damn cheap, upgrade the electronics, do a full set up, and you have the best LP out there. I have 3 Agiles, 2 3010 and a 3000. All 2nd hand, the 3000 def has gibson pots in it, but whatever the pups are, it sounds uncannily like Koss's! All have a full 3/4 maple cap. one has 57 and 57+ with CTS pots and full Jimmy wiring, and the last has Whole lotta Humbuckers with CTS and Emerson PIO's, it has incredible clarity and tonal range. They actually play better than my Eastman 59 Gold Top, and that's a HUGE rap! Agiles are the best value, and if a modest sum is spent are the best out there!

[@chriskozak7356]

Completely agree. Have a 3200MCC that has 57 and 57+, paid 300 for the guitar barely used and 250 for the PUs. Ebony board. 550 and sounds better than 1000+$ guitars.

[@jjulch]

Love my Heritages. Older models have varying degrees of quality, but newer stuff has fantastic quality controls. They sound and play fantastic.

[@No1HockeyDad]

I really wish Schecter had a single cut with a Sustainiac pickup. If they did a Blackjack single cut with a Floyd Rose, and Sustainer I wouldn't even hesitate. It's easier to ask for forgiveness than permission. 😊

[@paulhudson2293]

Check out Manson Guitars. Matt Bellamy loves a Sustainiac it seems!

[@marlonmalave7098]

you could just add one to your Schecter single cut ;)

[@No1HockeyDad]

Schecter has no single cuts with a Floyd Rose Trem. Very recently they now have a single cut with sustainer in green.. Getting closer. . I don't want to add a Floyd Rose to a guitar. Too many things can go wrong. Manson guitars look intriguing. I'm weary because it's essentially a Cort guitar. I'm hoping and holding out hope Schecter will one day help me out. I guess I could try their custom shop, but that's getting ridiculous at that point. Burny has one in Japan I could possibly have shipped to Canada. Again getting ridiculous at that point.

[@paulhudson2293]

@@No1HockeyDad Cort make a lot of guitars for different companies, but if they're good enough for the lead guitarist of Muse (I believe he now part owns the company), they can't be that bad. My one is also pretty well made and was very well set up when I got it.

[@SchecterGuitarTV]

@@No1HockeyDad We do make the Solo II Apocalypse Red Reign with Floyd Rose

[@slingasixstring]

I agree, all those guitars are class acts for sure. I have wanted a Les Paul for ever and I just got one, Being a lefty made it a little harder but the last few years it has gotten alot better. When I saw a lefty Epiphone Les Paul Special with 2 p90s in TV-Yellow for $449.00 I jumped on it and got on the back order list, I was looking at Nov. or Dec. then BOOM! I just got it. I already fell in love with it. All I can say is at that price point or not it's a well made guitar plays great and those p90s are little monsters on hi Vol. and sweet as a angel on low Vol. It's just a all around great guitar. Thank you as always for the great content Darrell...

[@JeyBerg]

Love my LTD EC-256. Such a great guitar for the money.

[@TexAgsArmyVet]

My LTD EC-1000 is amazing. Ebony board, EMG'S, fast neck. Simply awesome. It was a factory "2nd" from American Musical Supply for $870. Total steal! My Wylde Audio Odin Rawtop is also an amazing guitar and also my favorite and best playing guitar. 🤘🤘🤘

[@fredmuloin1545]

I had a LTD for a while. ltd deluxe ec-1000 see-thru purple. One of my biggest mistakes, get rid of this beauty. Great guitar, awesome finishing, flawless, Seymour Duncan pickup 👌 I get rid of it because I prefer the 4 knobs layout and it was i little neck heavy. But I miss it a lot.

[@schmoemi3386]

ESP makes (did make?) also single cuts with the traditional 4-knob controls layout. But they were allowed to sell them only on their domestic market (Japan), not for export, methinks.

[@Andrew_182]

Edwards and Navigator (ESP subsidiaries) do the full traditional style LPs. Like was stated they’re Japan only, but you can import them.

[@courtneyoneillviolin]

hi

[@jaminpartanen9058]

I had an esp Ltd 256 for a couple years and honestly that guitar was almost flawless. It looked amazing, felt amazing, held tune great. The neck was just really thin, especially after I bought a G&L asat special that had a chunkier neck. Ended up selling the Ltd hoping to get a Gibson Les Paul but more recently have really been thinking about the Sire L7 instead.

[@jani_koski]

Shout out to ESP LTD from here too! Would love to see you checking out the EC-1000 Violet Andromeda, that thing is beautiful 👌🏻 LTD is pretty much my go-to brand nowadays 😄 One brand that didn't make it into your list is Tokai, I had the cheaper ALC-53 model for a few years and it was an amazing guitar. Still kinda regret selling it 😶

[@guitarkickstarter]

Good call on the Epiphone Elite...............I just bought myself an Epiphone LQ which is even rarer - basically a MIJ R8. Like an Elite import but with a Gibson headstock , 1958 neck and lacquer finish. They are as good or better than anything I have played from Gibson. The Fujigen/Gotoh stock PAF pickups may be a little on the weak side for some - I am replacing them with some Suhr Doug Aldrich pickups and there's my ultimate Les Paul from anyone.

[@Nif339]

You do realise that no guitarist is going to want just one Les Paul alternative now, they're going to want all 10 😄 Great vid as always 👍

[@1972Georges]

The normal Epiphones are also worth mentioning. I own a LP Custom from them and its great.

[@univoxdeluxe]

I own 3 Agile 3200mcc guitars. I absolutely love their guitars. South Korean made. The 3200 are heavy like the Gibson Custom, but 5 piece maple-walnut neck thru. Amazing tone. Quality, Feel, and playability is just Amazing. You can get the 2000 or 2500 which is lighter, but still the same Awesome Quality.

[@user-ql1pc7pi9x]

The Yamaha SG series should've been mentioned. The "Les Paul killer". The SG2000 and SG3000 are fantastic guitars.

[@robinlawson701]

I see you have the Beato scammer on your comment. It is not Rick Beato, and of course you are correct about the Yamaha SG series, my buddy had one and sold it on, Awesome guitar.

[@user-ql1pc7pi9x]

@@robinlawson701 Yeah, I get those almost after every post. Yeah I'm on the lookout for an SG2000. The prices are definitely going up on them. SG3000 are cool too.

[@MrIgor13]

I own an Epiphone LP custom (upgraded with gibson pickups) and an LTD JH Snakebyte. Both professionally adjusted. The LP is bulky and heavy, feels heavy, sounds great and plays like butter. On the other hand, the LTD feels so much lighter, which I'm not sure I like much, yes it does not give you any neck pain, but for some reason that makes it feel cheaper.. However it sounds and plays like a beast. Insane distortion tone and crystal clear clean tone on the neck pickup. It does have a thinner neck and with the satin finish it does play super fast. I have more hours on the LP so it's naturally a bit more comfortable for me to hold, however I do play the LTD faster, I would nail the riffs on it, which I wouldn't on the LP. I couldn't pick my favorite one, love them both. But I guess if my house was on fire and I could grab just one on my way out, I'd grab the LTD.

[@prajwalvenkatesha4267]

Sire is by far the best value for money, in my opinion. So much guitar for such a modest price.

[@richrinehart1083]

I live just north of Kalamazoo now, but I lived in town for 25 years and I used to go buy the old Gibson plant once in awhile. They started working on the Gibson main building with the story that it was going to be a restaurant, hotel, museum and someone told me Casino but I think it all got shelved because I haven't heard anything about it and I believe the Heritage guys never left the building.... They did open up a wall and inside was acoustic guitar tops with all the celebs that passed thru the plant signature on one...... Can you imagine the names on that wall. My dad worked at Gibson along with a good friend of mine growing up's dad and Pete Mareno who from what I have been told played every instrument before it left the building. Pete has had a guitar clinic since Gibson closed and I try to go see him..... in fact I am overdue to stop in and see him. He loves to talk about all the crazy stuff he did with my dad back in good years as he calls them. He remembers leaving the bar and going back to my moms house and playing music for another couple hours.....Before I lost my dad to cancer after a killer 7.5 hr jam session, we almost pulled an all nighter but I gave in.... I was getting sloppy on the board and losing time to him so we bagged it at 2am..... I left him at 2:30am and he passed away sometime before 8am that's when a family friend found him......Luckily I told him I loved him and the last words to me were "Love you to babe". God I miss him, especially when I play the 12 stringer I learned which is a Korean made Lotus..... My dad played it for almost 30 years before he got a Gibson 12..... That Lotus could almost outring that Gibson..... no kidding.. Peace

[@DarrellW_UK]

I’m really surprised that you didn’t have the Tokai love rock on your list, they have the MIJ version which is superb and the MIC version which is much more affordable and is still easily as good as a PRS SE Singlecut!

[@jreagle58]

If you include Tokai then you have to include FGN, Harley Benton etc., etc. It becomes a 2 hour video

[@powerboon2k]

He probably hasn't played one? There are lots of guitars out there.

[@DarrellW_UK]

@@jreagle58 they’re not in the same league!

[@DarrellW_UK]

@@powerboon2k he’s heard of them!

[@jreagle58]

​@@DarrellW_UKyou wasted your time with that comment. I didn't say they were. My point was one can come up with a multitude of LP style guitars to compare to a Gibson, not whether Guitar Brand X is in the same league as a Gibson. FYI the conversation does not begin and end with Gibson.

[@simmonphoenix3206]

I played an esp single but last week at guitar center $700 and the neck and frets were great. I don’t like the matte black but playability was spot on.

[@robertsguitarsandgear]

I would vouch for sure for ESP LTD, even the EC-256.

[@devinsinderwitcz9134]

Epiphone have truly stepped up their game over the last 5 years. Outside of the nitro-cellulose finish on Gibbys there's not much difference except pickups and nut. Make those changes and you have yourself a Gibon LP for less than half the money including having a luthier do it for you! PRS outside of the pickups (which I'm not a fan of either) are very well built and PRS guarantees your quality by inspecting every guitar at their USA factory.

[@RubenDCollantesG]

I have two PRS SE, the Singlecut in green with Seymour Duncan JB/59 and that is a beast. The other one is the Soapbar, with its original P-90 pickups. That’s the only guitar that I have that gives me a tone very close to the Slash’s Gibson Goldtop that he played in Tokyo ‘92. Both PRS SE are made in South Korea. I played the made in Indonesia and it’s not the same quality. My advice, go for the PRS SE South Korean ones!

[@ukmanthailand]

@@RubenDCollantesG I hope you were joking when you answered that scammer.

[@RubenDCollantesG]

@@ukmanthailand sure, thanks!

[@audiophileman7047]

Ever heard of Bacchus Guitars, Darrell? They're handmade in Japan. They make a Les Paul style model called Duke. It's a sweet guitar. I discovered it by listening to the the French guitarist rocker named Laura Cox. She has Lollar Imperial High Wind humbuckers on hers. Man, that guitar sounds great! She loves it and tours with it. 🎸🎸🎸

[@anmolsingh9025]

Vintage brand has excellent les paul copies. Try vintage lemon drop. may need some setup and most can be done at home.

[@brianm1916]

The ESP LTD ec1000 is an awesome guitar. They also have a more entry ec256 if you are on a tighter budget. Both are great!

[@tristand5461]

Framus Panthera and FGN Flame are 2 other great options!

[@romeou4965]

Epiphone’s Gold Glory was my first 24.5 scale played after having strat, prs vela & CU24, tele…and I was left amazed and wanting a LP style! Sings like violin!

[@jeremyrushing41]

I would suggest the CMG Ashlee. Handmade custom to order for far less than the Les Paul.

[@lexzbuddy]

I have an ESP-Ltd EC-1000 Deluxe. It's a seriously nice guitar. I went with passive pickups and cherry Sunburst. Looks great, lots of bling. I have a Gibson LP Jr 57 re-issue and a Gibson LP 57 gold top. I've been a LP fan from day one of my playing guitar... 35+ years. So, it's different from a Gibson but it's still a Les Paul. It's light, has a cut out at the back of the body making it very comfortable and it's very modern overall. I play the ESP more than any of my other guitars as there's something about it just makes it nice to play. The Gibsons sound like Gibson but really, every guitar is unique so take it all with a pinch of salt. I'd highly recommend folks try or buy an ESP-Ltd EC-1000 Deluxe. Just a great playing guitar that's easy to live with and does pretty much anything you want it to. Frankly, compared to my Gibsons, it's just as good. It's not trying to be a Gibson, it's just trying to be a really great guitar and very much excels. I honestly can't fault it at all, in fact most guitars aren't as good as it. My Gibson LP Jr is the best guitar I've ever played let alone owned, my 57 gold top is a chameleon and the ESP is just an easy playing guitar that always feels right. So, there you go. Hope that answers your question.

[@johnquevillon8753]

Because of you, I fell in love with the Schector Solo II, purchased 18 months ago, love it! Thank You!!

[@Drwexter]

LTD is definitely my favorite guitar brand. I got into them because all my favorite guitarists used them, and I quickly understood why. They blow literally ANY other guitar out of the water for the price range. The 1000 deluxe series also destroys the cheaper series Fenders and Gibsons in EVERY aspect. I love LTD and the brand so damn much that it made me want to buy a full Japanese made ESP which is the first time I've ever wanted a pricey guitar. And it isn't even because I think it's going to be THAT much better than my 1000 deluxes, but because I like the brand so much that I want to invest into an original handmade piece made by them and cherish it for life.

[@AnimalJohn85]

Them mahogany and maple Fender carve topped tele's are a great alternative too ;) You deffinately need more time with an LTD they're lovely geetars, the 401vf or 1000t are great full thickness style and play incredibly well. The ebony boards in particular are super fast and comfy. Great vid as ever sir

[@coffeerocker1429]

This was a great video. Eastman is my choice for sure. Thanks for your fantastic review.

[@Mackie17]

Ordered an SB57 the other day! Cannot wait to give it a go!

[@lazvt8469]

my SB59GT (lefty) is rather nice...played it today after my LP Traditional wouldn't stay in tune to safe my life, even with a String Butler.

[@casey570]

Nice list. Another one you might want to consider is the Ibanez AR-420.

[@daveiscray]

I have to put one down for the EC-1000 as well. I initially was attracted to its looks as a slightly more aggressive LP. Out of 20+ owned guitars and countless more that I've played, the EC-1000 is by far hands down the best guitar I've ever come across, bar none. It's playability, tone, tuning stability, resonance, and overall quality is unmatched. It beats out my Gibson's that are 3-4x the price.

[@jtd3421]

Eastman all the way

[@place_desjardins]

Other affordable single-cut/Les Paul-ish copies are Jackson Monarkh models, Solar Guitars Type G models, and Dean Thoroughbred models.

[@fluroflash2803]

Tokai always deserves a spot

[@courtneyoneillviolin]

hello

[@sir.dave_]

I am a proud les paul 59 owner ( heritage from my granpa that was a big bands music player in the 50s) and i have a strat 77 that i got from my wife, so my son wanted a guitar and he got kinda obssesed with the kirk hammet ESP KH202(the cheap version from his signature hot)... we discussed for a long time about alternatives in the range price until i finally agreed to get the kirk one and i have to say that is one of the most well done guitar i have ever played, neck its super confy, comes with floyd rose, skull inlays and the sound its absolutely fantastic ( for the bucks) so ESPs make a great value in my experience and cmon Randy Roads, Dave Mustaine, Kirk, well there my 2 cents , whish the best and ty for this great video!

[@brandonanderson2066]

Can't beat the tone of a real Gibby but you can get close!

[@stevengarrity2989]

Would like to see a shot of the entire guitar from a bit of a distance. The close-ups are great, but an establishing shot helps get a sense for the whole instrument.

[@sumanchhetri1809]

Vintage V100 is a good guitar.

[@dustyoldtapes580]

I have an ESP LTD-400-ish (might be a 401, can't recall right offhand), and I love it. It came with Seymour Duncan JB/'59 pickups when I got it about ten years ago. If they even make the 400-level ones anymore, I think they've switched to EMG's or DiMarzios.

[@markpetten9777]

Godin guitars are amazing

[@paulhudson2293]

I would want to see the Chapman ML2 Pro on that list. I think it could stand up to all of those in build quality. It's not the same vintage sound and has the 25.5" scale length rather than that of a typical Gibson, but it's a quality instrument that delivers bang for the buck.

[@clintoncarlton2053]

I know there are a lot to list, but what about Hagstrom Ultra Swede or Ultra Max?

[@landonmontgomery2693]

I've been scanning the comments to find someone that mentions Hagstrom. I have an Ultra Swede and a Super Swede and they're fantastic instruments.

[@MarkTurner-vs7uc]

I have 1975 Ibanez les paul custom. It is a cheap copy guitar. I love it. The neck is flawless, it plays as good as anything can. I put gibson pickups in it. It sounds better than some of the Gibsons I have had. It's 48 years old, solid as a rock. It sits in my home among my Gibsons with NO inferiority complex. I have heard of Tokais and Burnys also being really good.

[@cromBumny]

But for how long will they make them? My vote is for Heritage

[@thelaststringbender445]

I own an Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard Outfit and a PRS SE Zach Myers Signature as Single cut models. I appeciate both a lot. The epiphone has all the classic tones you need and want. I do a lot of bluesy and rock stuff with it. It feels like the real deal without selling my house to get it :). The PRS is to me the most comfortable guitar in my collection. The neck is smooth, the action is low and the Humbuckers are way more powerful than the Epi, but less creamy. but they have a better clearity. I use this guitar for more Power oriented stuff. I love both....