GIBSON vs PRS | 594 vs Les Paul Murphy Lab comparison

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Time stamps! PRS CLEAN - Neck: 2:27 - Middle: 2:44 - Bridge: 3:02 GIBSON CLEAN - Neck: 3:10 - Middle: 3:27 - Bridge: 3:45 LIGHT GAIN (middle) - PRS: 4:57 - GIBSON: 5:16 MEDIUM GAIN (bridge) - PRS: 6:07 - GIBSON: 6:19 HIGH GAIN (bridge) - PRS: 9:13 - GIBSON: 9:26 BALLAD TRACK LEAD (all 3 positions) - PRS: 10:25 - GIBSON: 11:21 AB SHOOTOUT - Rock: 13:34 - Ballad: 13:55

[@pCeLobster]

This channel has the best tone on KZbin.

[@brighteyedsmiles]

Yumm Lobster! Agreed.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! That means a lot to me!

[@dasczwo]

i would SOO love to hear just the guitars JUST with the amp. no fx whatsoever. no reverb. nothing. then throw all the porn on. prettiest looking and sounding channel on yt.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@dasczwo Thank you! Appreciate the suggestion. I will try that out!

[@saleenX02]

Fact.

[@Shivris]

That violin carve that PRS uses on their core models and up is a thing of beauty. That alone was the deciding factor for me when choosing between a 594 and Les Paul.

[@brighteyedsmiles]

Adds to the beauty, so gorgeous! Love that belly!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

It gets me every time since the first time I saw Santana playing them in my youth!

[@zaccarter3801]

Personally I feel the same about Les Paul carves. I think PRS custom 22/24s look amazing in solid colors. I have a 1994 gold top custom 22, looks great. But I think Les Pauls looks better with figured tops. It could just be how most PRS guitars look with their tops, typically very tight grain. This particular 594 is probably one of the best PRS guitars I’ve seen. The private stock guitars at my local shop just have way too tight of grain. But I know people are a fan of that look.

[@PepperoniBiscuit]

Great playing, great content, great gear, great videography, great production and beer! Not sure why you don't have at least 250k subs at this point. Keep at it brother, thanks for these vids.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure and thank you for the kind words, Jason!!! Someday maybe! But I'll for sure keep at it out of pure passion and enjoyment!

[@89digits59]

Tonally I like the Les Paul here - it's the brighter sounds guitar off the two - visually the PRS is stunning, both are keepers.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Agreed - room for them both for sure!

[@ScottsGuitar]

I have a PRS and ML R9 and played many other PRS guitars, they all seem to trend darker in comparison. Both of those guitars are desert island #1s tho. PRS is easier to play, LP tone is hard to beat.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@ScottsGuitar I noticed that too about my 594. I almost never roll back the tone controls because it gets too dark/muddy quickly.

[@marcopanza1011]

@@RatherBeRiffingi have the prs core 594 too…it is not the guitar but those 58/15 LT pickups that are dull and lifeless…i personally hate them…change them with a Seymour Duncan alnico II pro and you’ll see…open rich very dynamic tone, a lot of bite and pick response…personally i love prs (i have 2) but I really don’t like their pickups…they sound good but they are quite noisy…in my experience…and it is not the guitar or wiring cause I have shielded both the guitars…

[@cooljp1531]

Plug in a $200 Harley Benton with Humbuckers then do a blind test with all three guitars. See who can pick out which is which? Tone you have here is great, but 90% of it comes from stuff other than the guitar ( amp / speaker / cab ). I picked the most extreme cheap example, and if you up the price a little I'm pretty sure nobody would be able to consistently pick what's what.

[@michaelleonard2215]

Definitely the Les Paul for me. Sounded like it cut slightly better although outside the mix the PRS did have more depth to the sound

[@CanuckQuest]

It sounded like I wanted to hear more every time it was the Les Paul. I am not particularly biased, owning only one Epiphone version...

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I hear that too!

[@american_psycho1147]

That Les Paul is absolutely GORGEOUS! One of the prettiest looking LPs I've ever seen

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks! The wild, imperfect figuring drew me in and I’m a fan of the look and feel of the ML finish/aging (other than ultra heavy aged)

[@brighteyedsmiles]

Thanks! Enjoyed this video so much!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you!!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@NINEWALKING]

Another great video full of great tone. I will just echo my own comment from the other 594 vs the Anniversary LP. Despite all tone similarity they are completely different guitars that deserve their spot doing things they do best. For me it is my 594 Wood Library and Murphy Lab R7. They are both staying. They both do their thing. LP will never be a PRS and PRS will never be LP. PRS when playing is like perfect fit. Nothing hurts to irritates. It just plays with no effort. LP is not like that. It forces you to work around its limitations but rewords you with that perfect LP tone because it is the LP. Finding good PRS is easier though. Finding great LP is a hunt.

[@BowlChad]

Amazing tones as always, love your videos! Would love to see a PRS DGT vs Murphy Lab Les Paul comparison in the future!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@BowlChad thank you! I’ll have to borrow my dad’s DGT again!

[@kq_sam]

Great video and tone again 🍺 Great Murphy Lab : )

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you for the support - very much appreciated! I'm liking the ML stuff so far. Cheers!

[@kupaam74]

I like your videos man. The way you play, talk and show the guitars: it's all done in a way that is done in a pace of calmness. Great job! Looking forward to what else you will be showing us. Soso Lobi!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you - I appreciate you taking the time to let me know!

[@tracymichael4950]

Both sounded great

[@brianhensien]

Again, SUCH tasty licks. Really great comparison. You are concise, coherent, cover everything I'd like your opinion on and nothing more. And, again- I am distracted by your playing to even remember what I am listening for. It's that good. I would really love to see you in a band setting. I agree with your statement on the PRS being like a modern sports car; I compare my PRS to a racecar that is touchy yet versatile. And I compare my '77 Les Paul to cornering like a boat but totally nailing the vintage vibe (smells like a bowling alley so you know it's got that "mojo", lol!). Thanks for another great video!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure and thank you for the thoughtful comments as always! I love your analogy and spit my drink out laughing when you said it "smells like a bowling alley... hahaha! (which then prompted some Big Lebowski quotes).

[@thedonal]

Lovely video and playing! Nice to hear these side by side. The PRS sounds a touch more compressed and polite to me and the Les Paul sounds a bit deeper and with a bit more air. Amazing tones throughout!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Many thanks! Great point about the compression on the PRS. I think that may be due to the lower action I have setup on that one. It's so slinky and would probably have more headroom if I raised it up a bit.

[@thedonal]

@@RatherBeRiffing I have an SE Custom 24 and note that it is a bit more compressed and has a bit less air than my other guitars. I'd put it on the scale length, but my Epi Black Beauty has a bit more bite. It's not a bad thing -just a characteristic of the guitar. Love my SE!

[@Sam_Sparks144]

I have both a core 594 and a custom shop 59 and honestly I go back and forth on both. I love them both

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I can relate!

[@JS-nf1sn]

Both great. PRS is a better guitar. My experience has been similar; PRS is like a modern sports car, Les Paul is like a classic car or truck.

[@Jesus-hp1ho]

Both guitars sound great I have a PRS and Gibson es335 Perhaps PRS sounds more defined Thanks for the test and cheers from Barcelona

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure and cheers!

[@garyslash7552]

Two great guitars in the hands of an awesome player who knows good sound!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words as always, Gary!!

[@davegrice3423]

Very topical comparison, really enjoyed this one. I haven’t done a direct side-by-side between my CS R8 and Core 594, but my sense is similar to what you conclude here. I’d say I marginally prefer the playing experience of the 594, but marginally prefer the tone of the Les Paul. They’re both winners for me, and I’m keeping each of them.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Glad you enjoyed and thanks for the reflections, Dave! I like how you described that and totally relate - both winners an will always have one of each in the collection (though may upgrade the ML to a nicer top some day)!

[@carlossalazar4508]

Cheers, dig the videos always the chefs kiss of KZbin!!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! Cheers!!

[@Squall6575]

I did find myself preferring the bridge tone of the les paul, but the middle pickup and overall balance in tone of the 594. But like you said, in gain settings, the differences are subtle and it feels like splitting hair. Both sounded great and 95% similar in context!

[@CanuckQuest]

There's a middle pickup? 😁

[@gtrzrus]

Hi! I discovered your channel today and just wanted to say that its really great. I like everything about it. I love the look of the studio, your approach, the way you communicate and connect with the viewers and of course your playing is fabulous. Seriously as good as anyone here on the KZbin. And who doesn't appreciate fabulous gear? A PRS and a Two Rock, can I get an Amen! I've already shared your channel with several friends and will be anxiously diving into the archives. Bravo sir and thank you for what you're doing. Please keep going! 🎸

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Awesome! Thank you for the kind words, sharing and support - much appreciated! I hope you enjoy the archives and look forward to any thoughts!

[@The_Beautiful_People]

Love that PRS. It’s the best PRS I have ever heard. You can tell you love it by the way you play each note. The LP’s sound is so classic and iconic, I find myself drawn to it over the PRS. Fantastic playing, sound and video production! Earning them subs everyday 😎

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! Indeed I love ‘em both for those reasons. Still searching for the perfect Lester for me (tone, look, feel, and color, but I’m satisfied with this 594 example 😁).

[@norseman61]

I’m always going to pick that STUNNING 594 over an LP, but I’ve got to admit, that particular LP had some REALLY nice tones. In fact, I think I liked it as least as much as the PRS. I tend to lean towards the raunch over refinement, but I am in love with that 594, and love doesn’t have to make sense. Speaking of love; your channel is the crème de la crème of KZbin. Nice work, my friend!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks as always! I appreciate your way with words! We have similar taste in 594s! (this one was love at first sight!)

[@aletins10]

Nice comparison! The PRS are more beauty, the gibson neck pickup sound is amazing.

[@drewbarries]

Great job Jonathan, this video was great and speaks for itself. I go along with your thoughts almost entirely but In listening to the slower higher gain I heard the Les Paul as being not so subtly different , especially on that beautiful slow bend that reminded me of the late Manny Charlton’s tone with Nazareth with that thick, sweet, richer and just fuller tone. As an owner of a PRS private stock 594 I wholeheartedly agree with the playability and its importance on inspiration. It’s hard to beat the more modern playability of the 594. As far as the choice of A3s in the ML, I do think that those are a great choice for optimal neck to bridge output balance but are a bit of a compromise on the high end tone. You may want to throw a set of Series 1 pups in your Murphy lab, I found a killer deal on a used set and between my R9 with the A3s vs my Murphy with either the stock A5s or the series 1 A4s, the difference is pretty notable, I would say much more inspiring. Looking forward to your LP shootout and more of your excellent content and beautiful playing.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks as always, Drew! I always look forward to reading your comments when I see them. I appreciate the second set of ears and your perspective on this stuff! Sometimes one can easily lose perspective, especially after a marathon of writing, filming, and editing. Thanks for the recommendation. You've got me paying more attention to pickups and magnet types - I am intrigued to experiment! I'll have to look out for a set of the series 1. I remember you have a Brazilian ML and now I'm getting the itch for one of those. I love the feel of the lacquer and rolled neck on the ML along with what I perceive as more ring/sustain vs. VOS finish. I do buy into the BRW lore as many of my boutique guitars have it.

[@drewbarries]

@@RatherBeRiffing those series 1s are a bit of a novelty with their ridiculously high cost, I was fortunate to find a set in excellent condition for $700 but honestly prefer the stock A5s for their higher output and what they do to the front end of my 3rd Power Dirty Sink. The Series 1 are subtly less but I hear the difference but I’ve left them in because they’re slightly more balanced with the lower wind on the neck. I am tempted to revert back to the stock A5s though. If you’re pontificating a MLB, those come with the A5s.

[@bradleyshuppert3393]

Truth….. I have a real 1959 LP and play my PRS DGT SE…… YES….. SE….with “S” type pickups for 9/10ths of my playing. They both sounds pretty identical and with the tremolo bar , my cheap, PRS DGT SE keeps up and does things my LP cannot. That may piss a few people off that are these LP purists…. But I assure you with my circle of friends and players, they are just as blown away as I am when it comes purely to the sound versus sound aspect. I could sell the LP and buy 300 DGT SEs…. But as my dad said, you can only play one guitar at a time…. So ….

[@picksalot1]

Interesting comparison, and similar sounding. The PRS sounded like it was more in its element for the music style you were playing. It did sound a little more refined, clearer.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks! I thought the same.

[@hotblackdesiato3451]

Tasty playing on tasty guitars - subscribed! Really interested to hear your thoughts on the Murphy Lab against the non-ML as I have a 2019 Standard 50s and I'm thinking of adding a ML 60s LP to the collection.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words and sub! I have a 2019 non-ML that I will compare in an upcoming video. In the meantime, I’d say the rolled finger boards and lacquer formula give the guitar a different feel and playing experience.

[@FastBend]

Awesome video with 2 beautiful guitars...As always the Les Paul rules! 🤘

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you - much appreciated! The Les Paul will always be king.

[@anthonylevas4123]

Remarkable, as usual. Beautiful guitars, tone and such soulful playing 👏👏👏. Thank you for including a description of your sound chain and pictures of effects with their corresponding setting - fantastic tone🙏🏼. I have a vintage 1952 Goldtop Conversion with “real” Vintage PAF pickups - curious how it would compare. Thanks!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure and thanks as always, Anthony! I bet that conversion sounds great!

[@Henry77680]

Prs fan but the Murphy lab sounded really good here. Still the prs is more nuanced and gives more to your fingers. The lester sounds like a Lester… amazing one .

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said - I feel the same!

[@mortonwilson795]

Thanks for the comparison! I tend to 'judge' on cleaner tones, once OD gets wound in things get a bit blurry in most comparisons, and while they are both clearly lovely guitars the Les Paul stood out for me . . . had a slight 'edge' in the upper mids that sounded like how a guitar 'should' to me. That said, I'm a long time 1968 LP Custom player and the only other guitar in that style I have come across that I would also like to own is an Eastman SB59/v, which also has a distinct personality. Talking about the nuances of guitar sounds really is a bit like 'dancing about architecture' isn't it 😅

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure and thank you! I hear that distinct upper mid characteristic too. Tough to beat a Les Paul for that. Much truth in that analogy!!!

[@colorofsound]

Those guitars are unreal man ! 🤙

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! A lot of fun to play too!

[@Edwardneff]

For me, PRS'S lack a certain character...a certain individual personality. But hey, it's all subjective. That PRS is gorgeous.

[@kbesner]

Awesome playing. Could you please share what pickups are in the gibson?? Thanks!!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Pickups are stock Gibson Custom Buckers with A3 magnets. I think they sound great in this guitar.

[@kirkhochburger8247]

Great playing! I'm drawn to the sound of the LP, probably because of its familiar tone, as it was used it so many hit songs. But I preferred the PRS. I feel that I heard more intricacies in chords and double stops, and it sounded a little smoother than the LP.

[@adrianguggisberg3656]

So I bought a PRS Hollowbody Piezzo from a mate who wanted to get rid of it because he didn't like its sound. I loved it at first, but I started noticing that I played it a lot, more than any other of my guitars, because I loved playing it DESPITE not being particularly fond of its sound. The more I played it, the more I disliked it. So I started measuring a bit and bought a third party Les Paul wiring loom and a set of new, unpotted Gibson Custombuckers. I then removed the pickups, wiring, the complete piezzo preamp and battery compartment complete with the output jacks and output jack plate. I got rid of the piezzo wire to the bridge as well, but retained the bridge itself, because it's a fully intonated wraparound bridge that I rather like. I made a new, aluminium output jack plate with a single output jack and using the same six screw holes and screws. I drilled an extra hole into the carved top to acommodate the new 3-way switch in a similar place as it would be in an ES 335 relative to the f-hole and used the original hole for the switch for the fourth pot instead. Yeah, I know, sacrilege. Mr Smith probably curses me for it, but it's an absolute dream guitar now. Sounds Gibson, plays PRS, no one else has one. I whish I could loose the birds, but other than that I swear this has to be one of the greatest guitars known to man.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Man that is cool! I’ve always wanted to try a high quality 59 loom and some boutique PAF’s in a 594. Funny enough that was my original plan for this guitar but I ended up embracing its sound.

[@adrianguggisberg3656]

@ The 594 loom should be perfectly fine. It's likely wired in 50's Gibson style, like most after market looms and like your ML. Gibson Custombuckers are great sounding PAF clones, I dont think more expensive boutique pickups hold much extra value tone wise. However, Custombuckers in your PRS would make the ML somewhat redundant, as there would be no noticable tonal difference left between the two. Keep the original pickups if you decide to swap them, in case you want to sell the guitar at some point.

[@devinmansanarez3260]

Beautiful playing. I had a wood library 594 for a year and I did enjoy it. Aesthetically, it was incredible and the feel was buttery but the tone was a little too bright for me and I never meshed with it the way I wanted. A few weeks ago I traded it for a Les Paul Custom and I adore the thing. There’s just something about Les Paul’s.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Very true - glad you found what works best for you!

[@lorenzo-agnes]

Such great sound in this vid! The longer I play guitar - and the more I experience different guitars - the more convinced I’ve become that the sounds differences are very small and subtle. And of course each and very guitar is unique - even two Les Paul’s for example. I have a 58 VOS and 60th Anniversary 59, and because I have Tine Specific pups in the 58, it sounds noticeably different. But, with a lot of gain, who can really tell in a live situation! All that said, I just picked up a 2013 PRS Custom 22 and man is this a killer guitar. Open, ringing tones. Sound wise, I’d use it over both Les Paul’s. However .. is there a more beautiful guitar than the LP? Not for me :) So ultimately, for me it comes down to a word you used a few times .. experience. Tones are similar but how a guitar inspires you and makes you smile .. that’s something you can’t put a number on. Yes, my PRS Custom 22 sounds better, is lighter, easier to play and has a stunning top. But I too will always choose a Les Paul coz they’re just so dang beautiful and provide a fantastic experience.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks as always, Lorenzo! Man I can relate to so much of this. I especially resonate with the how a guitar inspires and makes you smile - beautifully articulated! When zoomed-in, the difference are there. But picture, how much does it matter? It's fun for me as long as it doesn't become the main focus and get in the way of creative expression, writing, music, etc. I've been curious about Tone Specific Pickups. What's your take? Finally, the Les Paul is the ultimate for me as well. I haven't found my lifetime keeper example yet. My bar is high based on my boutique guitars (especially Yaron, Gustavsson, and Bartlett). I've played killer replicas, but hope to find a Gibson made example from the ML that ticks all the boxes for me in feel, look, tone, and playability. It's out there!

[@lorenzo-agnes]

@@RatherBeRiffing Thanks man :) I appreciate your reply and comments 👍 The Tone Specifics are very interesting .. I’d say their main strength is the clarity of the individual notes. I’ve always changed out the pups on any Les Paul I bought coz they just seemed to sound muddy on the low end. Typically, I’d swap in OX4 pickups, which are just fantastic. I was intrigued by the TS after watching Jay Leonard Jay demonstrate various sets and I must say I really like them. However, the pickups in my 60th Anniversary 59 LP are even better, so finally I have great pickups in a Gibson. But .. there are some humbuckers that supersede anything else I’ve owned - Lindy Fralin Unbuckers in my Fano SP 6 custom order. Wowza what amazing pickups! Depth, clarity, evenness .. it’s all there. And they’re coil splitting too. I have 3 Fano guitars and they’re all marvelous - just short of my Novo Serus J, but the unbuckers are phenomenal.

[@omfg4545]

This was a truly magnificent and beautiful video.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you for the kind words - much appreciated!

[@chrispygingerpie]

Love the videos, having recently played some standard Gibson’s, I don’t particularly like the burstbucker pros and prefer even the import 58/15s lts in the PRS SE/2 guitars. Both of these however are excellent and a joy to listen to.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! Love the 58/15s (and agree he imports are great too!). This Lester has custombuckers, which I like better than the Burstbuckers I've had in previous R9's I've owned.

[@dancarpenter4360]

I would give the prs a slight edge over all but loved both basically personal choice

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Very much a personal choice thing. There were moments where they even started to sound the same for me.

[@markust2898]

I preferred the Les Paul slightly more… but they were both great sounding and great looking guitars. And lovely playing too, thanks for the vid. 👍

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure and thank you! Happy to have ‘em both for those reasons.

[@tinkercitymusic]

Both are lovely instruments. The LP definitely has more of presence in it's voice. The PRS probably cuts out most of the work of EQ in a post production environment.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

That's a cool way to look at it!

[@silvel2edge]

Now that you have had 594's a bit and the DGT, do you have a preference between those two? I would also be highly interested in a video in demoing both the 594 and DGT with regards to the various tone shaping by mixing the humbuckers and the various tone/volume knob settings.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Currently I only own a 594 as I slightly prefer it due mostly to the shorter scale length. There is a lot of tones to explore with the volume/tones on both guitars. I'll put it on my video list and have to borrow a DGT again.

[@bluesrock4696]

Great playing, as always! I would hazard a guess that both of the difference in the sound between these two guitars is in the pickups. The pups in the LP sound hotter than the ones in the 594, but both sound great. You are not starved for great tone in either of these fine instruments!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks as always and well said! I think you're right. The Lester is more mid-forward to my ear, which is at least partly from the pickups I'm guessing.

[@BeastMadeReviews]

oh yeah! Beers are back! 🍻 Love the amber color on these! That's the tone secret. 😁

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I was wondering if you'd comment on the beer and here it is to my great satisfaction! Amazing IPA's - highly recommended if you haven't tried / get the chance! (ssshhh about my secret!)

[@simoneborsari6721]

Lovely playing and review!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you!!

[@JacobGorban]

Great tone is this video. What's the string gauge that you use? Last week I got a PRS 594 Semi-hollow (2018) and it's a great guitar. But it came with 11s and I went down to 10s, like they arrive originally. The action is higher than I'd like a bit and the high E string would die a little too quick, especially on a bend. But I'm not sure about raising the bridge further (I don't think changing truss rod would help on the 19th fret. I also know that people used to play 9s or lower on LPs, too. And I wonder what will change if I go to 9.5 or even 9. My other guitars are mostly 9ths now.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! I use Daddario 10's. I like 9.5's on some guitars. Worth a try!

[@JamTracks247]

That’s a great comparison! The PRS suits me, overall it has more clarity and touch. Such nice instruments. Great tone and playing too!! 🎸

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words! I love the clarity and touch of the PRS.

[@petezamora3522]

Thank you my friend Beautiful work

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you and my pleasure!

[@michaelschneider7590]

I liked the performances of course, but also the way you summed up the differences. Like, which is better, a great Pinot Noir or a great Shiraz??

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks! Both lovely and depends on the situation - great analogy!

[@Hallalo]

A burst just has more of that vintage vibe that I wanna feel from Led Zeppelin or ZZTop. I’m more torn to the vintage sound and look, that’s why a burst would inspire me way more than a PRS. Great that musicians have so many choices nowadays! Greetings from Germany!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Greetings! I agree - we are blessed with choices these days!

[@deddiev1718]

Just as long as it’s not SE vs Epiphone. I prefer really great guitars. Of course there are diamonds in the rough

[@arnolddealiii4259]

I preferred the PRS almost in every instance. I thought your playing sounded more 80’s rock with the PRS, while the Les Paul seemed like you paused more to showcase the sustain which makes me think of 60’s rock.

[@thieveryguitars6206]

I’m really looking forward to the Murphy Lab Les Paul vs the Regular Lesson Paul break down. Love the tones and playing. To my ears the LP sounds fuller with a slight mid boost.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks as always! ML and vs. VOS in progress! I hear the LP that way to, especially the mid boost.

[@scotthowes1869]

I have owned Three Les Pauls and the on the ML LP was great. However, I liked the PRS better with these two songs. Great riffs, Great sound. One for the PRS column.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words and reflections - much appreciated Scott!

[@Mark-fs5fq]

Hard to choose! Awesome guitars, great playing, l’ve always been a Gibson fan over the years would love to have a prs with a trem bridge to complement the Les Paul they are very similar in tone beautiful finish on both 👍🏻

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks! There are a few private stock 594’s out there with trems. I would love to try one!

[@JerrodSchumacher-fc1wr]

My vote is the PRS

[@Allann882]

I would have liked to hear everything without reverb delays... the raw sound, but I still prefer PRS

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I'll mix some dry sounds in next time. Thanks!

[@jeremydahm2124]

The hotter bite of the LP sounds rougher and more rockin all around. I've got a 594. Always thought of it as a softer, nice guy Les Paul. Yours sure is purdy...A 594 doesn't really scratch the LP itch if you have it but it's awesome in it's own right.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I feel the same way. Love having them both!

[@devinmansanarez3260]

This ^

[@staggs5034]

Have you played a Japanese Tokai Premium Models? I would love to see what you think of them against your high end guitars. The Tokai’s are amazing instruments. I usually put an RS wiring Kit and some pickups in mine. Sound and play amazing. Great playing and like your lighting.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! I haven't, but would love to. Harness and pickups can really make a difference especially when the husk is good.

[@staggs5034]

Check em out. I was mostly a high end boutique guitar guy until I was looking for a Gibson alternative. I own 4 of em now. Build quality is right up there with PRS. I think the fret wire and fretwork is better than a PRS. They are killer guitars man and the most value for money of any guitar on the market that I’ve played.

[@diegovasquez6460]

Both has just a gorgeous top, but I prefer the LP 🔥

[@Worlds_Worst_Guitarist]

Beautiful Guitars! Both Guitars are each more expensive than my car.................................................. Maybe the 594 would sound closer to the LP as the SC Version?

[@erikhartley2494]

When you’re running the Halo with both amps or post the Suhr reactive load? Also is there chorus on your first clean tones in G# minor?

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I'm running the Halo with both amps in stereo. There is indeed a touch of stereo modulation.

[@Nightjar726]

Are you using two mics? I’m hearing some phasing for some reason. Great vid btw and no offense. The Les Paul cuts better in the mix. I like its attack more as well.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! I am using two amps in stereo with a touch of modulation at times.

[@timmussmann5143]

Pickup height really matters also good to adjust to the best tone you can get

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Agreed!

[@lbarmusic89]

i would take the 594 over the les paul, but the les paul sounded amazing. Not an easy choice

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Agreed - would be a tough choice, but I'd take the 594 too!

[@damienalvarez2957]

Gorgeous guitars, but I’d take the PRS. Better tuning stability with the straighter string pull, and in my experience, PRS necks have “agreed” with my playing more.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Same experience and preference for me! That said, I always keep a LP in the collection (but always chasing the “perfect” one).

[@61jojo61]

Les Paul for me❤

[@Murphy_R9]

Murphy Lab R9 for me!!!💪🤘

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Really impressed with the ML so far!

[@EJ51507]

@@RatherBeRiffing Yeah i love mine but do agree with others that say Gibson charges too much for them. No guitar should cost $10K! I did not pay full amount for my heavy aged R9 but if someone does they are $9K!!😱

[@colinpadley1897]

both sounded great, shame you didn't do the standard 594 as a comparison.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I could do so

[@chocolatecookie8571]

I didn't know that PRS had shorter scale lengts. I thought they all were 25 inches long except for some 7 string models. I don't understand why they would build shorter necks than a Les Paul. The 24.75 is short already. It surprises me that this PRS sound snappier than the Les Paul which normally goes for longer scale necks. Tonewise the Les Paul has more mass due to more wood and heavier weight. It sounds fatter and has more sustain than the PRS. But what I don't like are the penetrating highs on the treble strings of the Les Paul. It is so typical LP. The PRS is more balanced across all strings. Thinner treble strings on the Les Paul can solve this issue or lowering the pickup on the treble side.

[@kq_sam]

Liked this video before it aired due to Murphy Lab haha 😁

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Nice! I’m impressed with Murphy Lab so far!

[@VaibhavMittalIndia]

I own both 594 and R9. My heart and fingers always enjoy the playing experience of a Les Paul with 24.75 inches. Somehow I can’t really get along with a 24.594 scale length. YMMV but I love love Les Paul’s ❤

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Glad you found what you connect with - that's what it's all about!

[@torstenbangert4026]

The neck position of the Les Paul sounds rounder and fatter. This is not the case with the PRS. This is also why I prefer my 59 Reissues over my PRS Custom 24. with 57/08. Also I find the PU Selector Switch position on the Customs not ergonomic as you have to grab over the trem bar to change pickup position. Position on Strats is far more handy here.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I never bonded with the Custom 22 or 24 for that reason.

[@CanuckQuest]

9:27 I think I prefer everything about the Les Paul here. You seem to be able to better express yourself imo. 9:38 especially

[@Thatdadthang]

I can’t explain the differences in what I am hearing well, but to me the LP crushes the PRS. Richer, more resonant, better balance across the strings. The PRS was more articulate but not nearly as pleasing.

[@dimihamuzu]

I think the PRS looks prettier but the Gibson sings better .. great video!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you!

[@DouglasRosser]

Some Pete Thorn level video.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the high praise - love Pete’s content!

[@diegooliveirabenjamin]

PRS AAAAAALLLLLLL DAY!

[@melweeks2416]

Not sure a person could ask for better playing and sounding guitars. Is this the same PRS for sale at Brian's Guitars?

[@RatherBeRiffing]

This PRS doesn’t have any association with Brian’s though he always has some stunners. This one was spec’d by Willcutt guitars and I found it used on Reverb.

[@melweeks2416]

@@RatherBeRiffing What pick ups does the PRS have? Not sure I heard that information in your video. I'm curious your thoughts on the 58/15 LT or LT+.

[@willbryan8890]

I’ll use a sports analogy: The PRS is more like a world class surfer, or volleyball player. The Les Paul is more like a heavyweight MMA fighter. Of course the MMA fighter has refined technique, but the dude is huge, and powerful, and brother, he isn’ shy about letting you know.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I dig it! Great analogy!

[@hofaichung4572]

Could you launch some of your riffs to us ?

[@candydormizzi2500]

Can we get Knaggs in the mix too

[@Jabbaerwocky]

These ears are too habituated to the Gibson Les Paul. The PRS 594 sounded good but when you played the Les Paul my ears felt a sense of relief that came from recognising the familiar tones of an old friend. The pretty figure of the flamed maple on your PRS 594 would not look right on a Gibson Les Paul. Aside: the nominal scale length of the Les Paul is 24.75" but the effective scale length is about 24.6". This is due the rounding off errors of the Rule of 18 for calculating fret positions. This is how PRS came up with 24.594" scale length for the 594. PRS was playing with a bit of specsmanship. However, the Gibson Les Paul and the PRS 594 have essentially the same effective scale length.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Interesting - thanks for sharing that info!

[@lebethonii6683]

Les Paul

[@ludlow555]

I never connected with any PRS I’ve ever played. They just seem too sterile to me. The Les Paul just had more personality.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I had similar experiences with their older stuff, but finally connect with the 594 (and DGT to an extent). That said, the Les Paul has its own undeniable personality.

[@bflo5210]

Murphy lab wins hands down.... don't get me wrong PRS is a beautiful & probably the most precise guitar you can buy, but that's also the problem... the small imperfections is what gives a guitar it's personality, it's soul, it's feel...it's why we like live bands and not digitally produced "perfect" music... you don't have to be the best player or singer, God knows I'm not, but I get on stage with my band do my best & have fun.... and now I'm booked solid for the rest of this year & the 1st half of next year & still booking more! So embrace your imperfections and go have some fun!

[@brighteyedsmiles]

Agreed and I would like to apply this to myself as well. My imperfections are what make me me. And I need to stop trying to be perfect… a-little philosophy on a Sunday.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said - those are some of the reasons why I like having both of them! Congrats on the bookings - I agree, it's all about the joy of it at the end of the day!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Love the philosophy - I imagine we could all benefit a little here!

[@bflo5210]

@@RatherBeRiffing also a solid telecaster beats both of those🤣🤣🤣 just trying to ruffle some feathers!

[@shakarocks]

Hands down? Nonsense. Both are great guitars with slightly different voices. The mojo/soul argument is steeped in confirmation bias.

[@NokMetaL555]

Les Paul 😘

[@eugecornel6573]

💥👍👍👍💥

[@timmussmann5143]

Ok best of both worlds would be the PRS with Gibson pickups

[@RatherBeRiffing]

That would be cool to test out! (If only the PRS didn’t have all the extra coil splitting soldering)

[@timmussmann5143]

Yes but there has to be someone somewhere who has done it!!! Are those burstbucker 3’s? I wonder what the Paul has in it?

[@ZenoIV]

You have to hunt down a good LP whereas PRS are incredibly consistent.

[@AdamMiller-m2h]

I don't think you can beat a gibson

[@RatherBeRiffing]

It’s earned its iconic status for sure!

[@davidbaron8330]

The LP sounds fatter and has bigger balls. You either want that or you don't.

[@giovannifabozzi1180]

Prs

[@Anway-NeverGiveUp]

Gibson is much more composed, innovative and charismatic.

[@johnbach2380]

Lucky you got both. 🤣

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Truth! 😁