Is The Gibson Les Paul Tribute A REAL Les Paul?

#lespaul #gibson #guitar @gibsonguitar
Signal Chain - GUITAR - Korg PitchBlack Pro Tuner - Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer - Dunlop KH95 Kirk Hammett Signature Crybaby Wah - MXR Smart Gate - Friedman Runt 50 - Mesa Boogie Rectifier Oversized 4x12 Slant Cabinet - Neumann TLM 107 Microphone - Vintech Audio VA573 Microphone Preamp - API Lunchbox 8 Chassis - Universal Audio Apollo 16b Audio Interface - MacBook Pro 16 M2 Pro - Universal Audio Luna
Guitars Used:
Gibson Les Paul Tribute
Gibson Les Paul Studio
Gibson Les Paul Classic
Gibson Les Paul Standard 50s
Gibson Les Paul Standard 60s
Gibson Les Paul Custom Showcase
Chapters
00:00 Intro
00:48 "The Scenario"
01:50 What The "Pros" Play
03:08 Les Paul Spec Comparison
13:11 YES, It is a REAL Les Paul
14:10 The "Epiphone Argument"
15:12 "REAL VS TRUE"
17:55 Les Paul Bridge Comparison (DIFFERENT PICKUPS)
19:20 Les Paul Neck Comparison (DIFFERENT PICKUPS)

[@TheCommonSenseProfessor]

I found a 2022 Tribute earlier this year that was in mint condition that I was able to pick up for $800. It is the best $800 I have ever spent. I love my tribute.

[@timtime9167]

You got a deal. I paid upper 900's about a year ago, or I got screwed. Either way, I really like it, and im definitely keeping it.

[@rhoff7272]

Just got one off reverb for 850, a great deal!

[@TheCommonSenseProfessor]

I definitely got a deal, especially since it was almost brand new.@@timtime9167

[@TheCommonSenseProfessor]

Congrats. I really love mine.@@rhoff7272

[@robertwillett4122]

My Tribute has a serial number and made in the USA stamped into the wood on the back of the headstock. On the front of the headstock screen printed is Gibson Les Paul. Why would anybody argue that. Oh, it even sounds like a Gibson Les Paul. Anyone who says differently is appearantly not to brite. In my humble opinion.

[@chrishenderson9130]

The corksniffers are sharpening their pitchforks... love my tribute and studio...

[@ehsanhaq155]

It's a great practical video man. The touch of history is on point. It says Les Paul by the brand Gibson. Yes it's a real Les Paul.

[@fastandfunky]

Ryan you're Video's are always on point as is your guitar skills, why you don't have more subscribers is beyond belief, take care brother Randy in Florida

[@Todd_Manus]

I know nothing about guitars... but I love this video and this channel. The fact that this guy realizes that there are idiots in this world is enough for me.

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

Do I get extra points for knowing I’m an idiot at times, too? Haha! Cheers -Ryan

[@Todd_Manus]

@@Crypticmaskguitar We both do :-).

[@guyprovost]

Rule number 1... Dont base your liking on others... That is a wise advice in every parts of life!

[@secretguitarlab]

Great vid! I have a Gibson LPJ, it gets the tones and I am smiling when I pick it up...and it doesn't even say Les Paul on the headstock. You hit on some very relevant points. If you worry about what other people think it's hard to stay happy.

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

I just missed out on an LPJ. They usually pop up for $500-600 used in the local music stores here. Every time I see one I say that I don’t need another Les Paul… then I go back the next day to buy it and it’s gone. EVERY DAMN TIME! One day I’ll get one haha! Cheers -Ryan

[@secretguitarlab]

Ha that's great! When i was searching for a Les Paul I was always thinking back to the first Les Paul I had tried as a kid that had a very chunky neck, so the LPJs are at that reasonable price range with the 50s style neck. Just recently picked up a 2013 Gibson SG Special...similar style neck...I am a happy camper. PS cheers to more Canadian content. @@Crypticmaskguitar

[@secretguitarlab]

Excellent channel intro vid as well...good comedic timing.

[@hankevans7890]

I have a 2012 les Paul signature T vintage sunburst. Best Gibson I’ve ever played or heard. I bought it new in 2012 and it’s the only Gibson I ever kept. I plan on leaving it to my son one day.

[@tenebroruncr4374]

I have the Tobbaco S model and also a Classic. I can only say that I find the Tribute more comfortable. It is a great guitar and last year I bought it for just over €1000.

[@phswildcatsfan]

I own a 2020 Les Paul Tribute. I absolutely love this guitar. I have played more expensive Les Paul's but, the Tribute with the satin neck is by fare my favorite. I am in a band and the Tribute has been my #1 guitar since I purchased it in 2021. It is a real dependable workhorse. Best value in the Gibson lineup.

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

It’s a real shame that they discontinued it in favour of a Satin Modern Studio. I would love to see a Non-Weight Relieved Tribute show up again in their line up! Cheers -Ryan

[@ericbitzer5247]

A friend of mine has a tribute and I know damn well it's a real Les Paul. It felt and sounded great and I just might get one myself.

[@DB-rr9og]

Of course it is. It's just as much a Les Paul as a Studio, Classic, Traditional, Standard, Modern, or any other model. It's just a different variation.

[@rshock]

Love my tribute, I swapped out pickups for a pair of pearly gates it is perfect for me. Who cares what anyone else thinks……that would be very un- rock and roll.

[@TexanUSMC8089]

It's all in the hands. Jack Pearson plays Squier bullets on stage sometimes. There aren't many that play better than Jack. LP Tribute is a real LP, and a lot of people prefer it because of the lighter weight and slick neck.

[@pridemizzle1565]

Anyone who says it isn’t a real Les Paul is a clown

[@ericbitzer5247]

Shhh, let them keep talking so I can easily buy one cheap.

[@darkestfugue]

nice video thank you for sharing, and quite a les paul collection, for me i would say, if its overpriced and overrated its a real les paul lol, having said that im a proud owner of a 1980 les paul deluxe.

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

Nice! I have a 30th anniversary Les Paul Deluxe… love it! Cheers -Ryan

[@7000ironman]

Ok, let’s see, Gibson says it’s a Les Paul, it has Les Paul on the headstock, there are many different kinds of Gibson Les Pauls, so , what do you know? It’s a LES PAUL!

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

Exactly my point! Cheers -Ryan

[@brianruyack7632]

Love my 2013 50's Tribute! Satin Red finish, P90s - do the pickups mean it's not a real LP?

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

Les Pauls started with P90s. 1952 had the Trapeze Tailpiece with Wraparound bridge... and P90s. Bucket List guitar for me! I have 4 Les Pauls with P90s... LOVE THEM! Cheers -Ryan

[@stevegardiner8473]

Yes, its a real Les Paul. I have a 2018 Tribute, and while it's a great value guitar, it's not up there with the Standards or Classics I've owned. But you can't expect it to be, at the price point it occupies. I mainly have one because it's lighter than the other LP's I've owned, just by being slightly less chunky. Sounds and plays nice, and I'm not going to mind too much if it gets the odd little ding. I was always worried taking my more expensive LP's out to gig!

[@stevecraig7643]

I got one before it was discontinued.

[@cigdamagelungs]

Me to

[@ericbitzer5247]

Oh no, these are discontinued? I was thinking about getting one.

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

You can still find them dirt cheap on the used market. It's unlikely that they will really shoot up in price as the Faded/Tribute series were around for years. Cheers -Ryan

[@ericbitzer5247]

@@Crypticmaskguitar Cool, thanks Ryan!

[@derekclacton]

I have an Epiphone Les Paul and it’s a good guitar but it’s not a ‘real’ Les Paul. It’s a copy and not an entirely accurate one - headstock aside, the horn is shaped differently for a reason I can’t fathom. Although the veneer is really nice, that’s what it is.

[@JikoMuskato]

You could say the only "true Les Paul" is the one Les Paul played. And that's mainly the Les Paul Recording, which is very different fromt the typical Humbucker ones. Gibson doesn't even offer a Les Paul Recording at the moment as far as I know. But whatever: I'd love to have any of those. My favourite is the red Classic model. The Tribute is looking nice anyway. Personally I play a modded 50's Tribute SG. :) (And something totally different: A Framus Diablo Pro)

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

Les used many other Les Paul’s before and after the Recording, though. I say ‘52-‘54 would be “True”… but even I don’t care about that haha! Les Paul invention vs Les Paul models are different as well. It’s nice when the recording guitars come up used , though! They usually sell for cheap because people don’t see a traditional Les Paul. I regret not picking one up when there were two locally for $900 each! Cheers -Ryan

[@zorglubmagnus455]

You could tape skinny cream masking tape around the edge of the body. And whiteout along the fretboard.

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

That would add looks AND a weird feeling haha! Cheers -Ryan

[@zorglubmagnus455]

@@Crypticmaskguitar : )

[@shanewilfon6860]

I like the natural binding much more than vinyl binding like prs does the natural looks so rich

[@michaelcolthart4006]

I have a LP Standard and it is 100% the only real LP……..that I own.

[@crucifixgym]

I just can’t decide what finish to get it in, tobacco or honey

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

I thought the same until I played them… I tried 4 different tributes and wasn’t a fan of the feel of the lighter coloured maple necks. I went with the Satin Iced Tea because of the way that the neck felt. Cheers -Ryan

[@Ammo_HD]

I was looking at picking up a tribute in Tobacco burst, but a good buddy of mine who has ALOT of money invested in guitars is steering me away ONLY due to the value of the guitar years down the road. The Tribute may or may not be worth what you paid for it 10+ years down the road, but a standard for example will be still worth a good amount. Other than that, there really is no difference in my opinion. Id much rather spend $1000 on a Tribute than $1800 + on a standard LOL

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

That has certainly always been the case! Tributes and Studios rarely hold on to their value. They are great guitars, but they aren't what the average player is looking for on the used market... unless they are heavily discounted. It's not uncommon for Tributes to pop up around $500-600 on the used market. Cheers -Ryan

[@Billy-rn5ku]

Well it almost seems to me that it has more in common with the custom than it does the classic lol

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

In what way? and which Custom? '57, '68, or the Modern Custom? Cheers -Ryan

[@Billy-rn5ku]

@Crypticmaskguitar the classic and the standard have push-pull pots. Some of the customs have pretty much the same pickups as the tribute. The 490s are super nice if you know how to use all of your settings. They are PAF type pickups, and they're maybe not wound as well as the original PAFs, but theyre very similar. It has a maple neck also, which usually is only used on the custom. That alone makes it a superior guitar in structural integrity over either the standard or classic. It's solid mahogany with a carved maple top, no veneer. It is a nicely built guitar and plays better than anything I've owned so far and I've had a few different types and brands. I traded two Mexican stratocasters for mine akd don't regret it one bit.

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

If you are looking from 2019 onwards... the Standards do not have push-pulls (Prior they did and the Classics didn't). The Tributes are not solid, they have Ultra-Modern Weight Relief. The Classic has 9 Hole Weight Relief, which is the same as what comes in the Modern Series Les Paul Custom. The Modern Series Custom (Which doesn't use Hide Glue, doesn't have the Bridge Drilled into the body, doesn't have an ABR-1 and doesn't have VOS finish) Has 498T/490R Pickups. The Tribute has 490T/490R. There aren't any Les Paul Customs with Maple Necks right now... that was basically a 70s thing (Some 80s and limited runs) where Gibson started using Maple Necks. So when the Customs had Maple Necks... the Standards had them too. The 54, 57, and 68 Customs are Entirely different beasts as they are part of the Historic Collection. 54/57 are solid Mahogany (No Maple Top) and Mahogany Necks, the 68 has a Maple Top and Mahogany Neck. Those 3 have Drilled into the wood ABR-1, Bumblebee/Black Beauty Capacitors, VOS Finish, Hide Glue Fit (Fuses all of the wood together and dissipates... so it makes everything one piece and has the most ridiculous clarity), Kluson Waffleback Tuners (Vintage Sizing), Custom Bucker Alnico III (PAF Pickups), etc... So if you were to compare specs on the Les Paul Custom that has the 498T/490R and the Classic and then the same with the Tribute... you would find that the Classic has more of the same specs as the Custom than the Tribute. They are all great guitars, but you can see why it was a bit confusing saying that the Tribute has more in common with the custom than the Classic. Cheers -Ryan

[@Billy-rn5ku]

@Crypticmaskguitar that's awesome, really good info and I appreciate it. I used to be an ibamez guy, tried a couple strats afterwards because as I've gotten older and the ibanez hurts my hands. Ended up trading both of my Mexican strats for this tribute and I immediately loved the shorter scale and the way the strings bend more easily. I had never played a les paul until I got this one and now I'm hooked. It suits the type of music I play also. I'm reading as much as I can about them now and expect I will have a standard in the near future in cherry burst, paf style pickups and white plastic. Like the one Eric Clapton played when he was hanging out with the Beatles. Thats my dream guitar right now. I think the Standard 60s would probably be the closest to it,but there are some trad pros that get pretty close also. This Tribute is going to end up with hand wired hardware and new PAF clones. The only way I'll buy a different guitar is if in the future i start playing Metal again. May add an ibanez prestige to my collection later. But I'm all about the les paul now. This tribute is a great guitar, and not just a great guitar for the price. There a reason Gibson stopped making them. They realized they were underpriced, these could have pribably been sold at alot higher price point and people would still have bought them. I like the look of these over the studio.

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

I believe Clapton used a '59. So a Medium C Neck. The Standard 60s has a 60s Slim Taper which is a little thinner. The Standard 50s has the Baseball sized Neck (Which to me is extremely comfortable). I'd recommend trying a Standard 50s first before trying the 60s. The Pickups on it are a little more balanced, whereas the 60s Burstbuckers run a little hotter. Of course you could try a 1959 Les Paul VOS... $6,700 US ($9,000 Canadian for me). The only problem with trying one out is it might change you forever. It used Hide Glue which dissipates and fuses the wood together. It makes the entire guitar ring! I bought a 1958 Les Paul VOS and it makes my Gibson USAs feel like plastic. It forced me to get a 1957 Les Paul VOS 5 days later. It's insanity... but the price is ridiculous! But I would recommend a Standard 50s fover the Standard 60s for the Pickups ,but it all comes down to your preference on the neck. Cheers -Ryan

[@debreczenybalint]

The first one sounded a BIT better is the standard. Untill that its just doesnt worth it, even the standard doesnt have that much of a difference, soundwise.

[@RavenMadd9]

Any guitar you make music on is a guitar ....if you dig it ....let the cork sniffers kiss it off

[@skullheadwater9839]

I only play 1959 bursts, I got a dozen of em' screw all y'all.

[@tompope6522]

This is not the greatest Les paul in the woooorld. No! This is just a Tribute

[@Billy-rn5ku]

A mere tribute with a hell of alot stronger neck and headstock than most other les pauls. I have one amd love tha maple neck. Mine is in tobacco burst and it looks really nice, like a proper musical instrument. If I wanted to upgrade the pickups it would probably sound just as good as any other. Also the feel of the satin finish on the neck can't be beat. My hands stick to anything with alot of gloss, so it suits me. Not everybody's cup of tea but it has plenty of tone, playability and sustain to keep up with anything on the Market with the right pickups. Why even other with push pull pots? If you don't want humbucker sound, don't buy a guitar with humbuckers. I'll have a strat for the other.

[@donharrold1375]

I own several Les Pauls including a Tribute. The Tribute has some compromises. The guitar doesn’t feel as nice as a Les Paul Standard. Neck binding, finishing and weight do make a difference to the way a guitar feels. The sound of the Standard is also bigger and fatter. All of that said, my Tribute is a good guitar. It sounds great, its intonation is perfect and it consistently stays in tune. I love playing it and the 490s have fantastic clarity and bite. It does have a thick tone but it’s brighter than a Standard. Which guitar sounds better? Well that’s a matter of opinion and taste really.

[@scottbrower9052]

Now gone...to be replaced by the Modern series.

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

Is it gone, though? I thought it was just the Special Tribute that was removed and replaced. I know the rumour was Tribute, Studio, and Classic were going to be phased out. But I thought they were all still available and only the Special Tribute was gone. Shame if it is. Cheers -Ryan

[@deejay7339]

I just got one yesterday

[@Crypticmaskguitar]

You bought "Remaining Stock". It is true that the Studio (Gloss Nitro) and Tributes were discontinued and replaced with the Studio Modern series. So once the remaining stock has been sold... they're gone. It's a shame. Cheers -Ryan