PRS vs GIBSON | Les Paul vs 594 Doublecut sound comparison

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Hi all! Beware of spammers. If you see any replies/comments posing as me by utilizing my channel logo, asking you to click on an external link, claiming I have a prize or package for you, etc, this is not me. Please ignore and report. Thanks!

[@CocoKoi321]

Gibson is trash, I like a brand without inflated ego and that isn't so up it's own arse about interviewing only rich gibson collectors, also remember everyone! Play authentic!

[@atta1798]

That is it man I will subscribe to your channel. You are responsible and care about your audience. I saw that already and you are the only one that cares to let us know 👍

[@IndyRockStar]

@@CocoKoi321 The only people who say things like this are people who will never and/or could never pay $7K for a quality guitar.

[@msaintpc]

@@CocoKoi321 You write and sound very stupid.

[@martymaker]

I appreciate. You're the first person who actually warned against it. I've seen it happened many times 👍

[@geezberry8889]

the right Gibson is magical . PRS is more about consistency. You can buy a PRS sight unseen and expect a great instrument. Can't say the same about Gibson

[@RatherBeRiffing]

So true!

[@charles3200]

Gibson stopped caring about what they sell. Theyre crap guitars.

[@popeye089]

@@charles3200 I guess that’s why they sell more than ever lol The new owns 2018 and later are really good man. Don’t be so hateful homie.

[@geezberry8889]

@@charles3200 i have two '22 Standards they are much better than years past

[@adrianhjordan1981]

Absolutely true!! Plus the ergonomics of the PRS won me over as well. Though I swapped out the electronics in my PRS to vintage spec PAF with Gibson style wiring. (Mine's an S2 though I'm soon to upgrade the pickups again, to a set of PRS 58/15LT)

[@jackwalsh7341]

I’d keep the double cut PRS and the Paul. I’ve always found PRS to be superior in playability but wow, when Gibson gets the Paul right with pickups like yours it’s magic.

[@chrisdunnam4490]

Both guitars are world class. I really like LP tones in this shootout, and you're so right; the middle position of the LP is extra special :)

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said, Chris! Indeed, the middle position on this Lester is the benchmark. It beats all my boutique guitars in the middle.

[@trippwhitney9197]

The PRS sounds great focused, but the Les Paul was much more full of character. It might be easier to get your specific personality of the PRS. But the Les Paul is better, it sings

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@trippwhitney9197 I love this insight, Tripp! When I play the PRS, I have zero musical associations with it and it feels more like an open canvas creatively.

[@lorenzo-agnes]

Fantastic playing as always. The PRS has greater clarity whilst the LP has that classic warmth. Man .. tough one for sure. I'd go with the PRS coz I think it offers both traditional and more "modern" sounds. It's tough to beat the LP sound if that's what one particularly wants, but the PRS gets close enough.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the thoughtful reflections as always, Lorenzo! I really think you summed it up nicely here! I think the Les Paul is a tool I’ll always want in the toolbox, but man this PRS can hang, yet has its own vibe too.

[@BAMozzy69]

I agree - although I would say that the LP has that classic 'muddy warmth we have come to expect and define as the 'LP' tone. The 594's clarity is perhaps down to the slightly less muddy, yet 'full' Humbucker. Both sound superb and its just a matter of preference. For me, I went with the 594 DC because it was a lighter guitar, much cheaper than an R9 Custom Shop, felt more comfortable to play, especially at the dusty end, and had a few more 'modern' features that I prefer too. Can't really go wrong with either and both will give you that 'sound'. Your audience wouldn't know which you used - especially in a mix and most 'hear' with their eyes anyway...

[@markw9512]

As a PRS Custom 22 owner, I’m gonna give the nod to the LP in this one. LP to me just seemed fuller and warmer. But both sounded great, just that little extra from the LP in this comparison. Great tones and playing, thanks for a great video!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Mark - my pleasure!

[@jasonpatrickdeleon4701]

But the clarity of PRS is good

[@filthyblanket]

I picked up a 58/15 7 years ago and it’s solid! I’ve yet to ever own a LP and still on the hunt, For sure my unicorn. I love my PRS but there is something about the LP that I MUST HAVE!

[@geraldhills41]

I owed a prs 22 and a gibson sg . I still own the sg .

[@markw9512]

@@geraldhills41 the Dragon bridge pick up in the custom 22 was ridiculously hot. I ended up replacing mine at the recommendation of folks at Seymour Duncan with a George Lynch, Screamin Demon, pick up; the name makes it sound as though it’s a metalhead pick up, but it’s actually just a somewhat hotter version of a PAF (even has an alnico magnet). I believe it has 10K resistance or so vs much closer to 20K for the Dragon. Much nicer tone out of that. Dragon was ridiculous, though I kept to give to new owner if I ever sell it. Strange thing is that the Dragon neck pickup is nowhere near as hot.

[@michaelroy9470]

they both sound great! to me the LP just has the deeper warmer sound that I prefer. Great Playing and thanks for the video!

[@michaelheath76901]

I think the Les Paul has a fuller sound with some bottom end that the PRS seems to lack. I'm not sure if that sound difference is the pickups, or something else. I own a Les Paul and a PRS, and I love how easy it is to play the PRS. But, it's entirely up to you. 😊

[@mirage809]

This has to be one of the nicest comparisons I have ever seen on KZbin. The exact same riffs, through the same signal chain back to back. No interruptions between the A-B helps a lot with hearing the actual difference. The little commentary between each segment is also really nice. It's a tough call to make. Both are excellent sounding instruments that are probably excellent choices regardless of what you want to do with them. I personally gravitate towards the PRS because of the double cut body. Allows slightly easier access to the upper frets. How much do they weigh? As that would be another factor in choosing what guitar I'd pick.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Wow - thank you for the kind words and feedback! That really means a lot especially considering the endless sea of guitar comparisons on YT. The Lester is a nice weight (mid 8lbs if I recall correctly), but the PRS does have it beat on upper fret access.

[@tydavis7299]

Whether it’s this lovely musical composition, the signal chain or your insanely beautiful Les Paul, I could listen all night long. Great playing and feel. For me it’s the Gibson, hands down. Reminds me why we love music.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Wow - many thanks for the kind words, Ty! Glad you enjoyed!

[@itsalwayssomething7490]

I think the "hands down" is peculiar, when people are comparing these guitars. What makes the LP preferred in many cases is the emotional attachment people have to the brand, and the music these guitars have produced over the years. People hear that LP and think, "man, that right there, that is the sound of my teenage years. It's home." Take the emotional context out of it, and I don't see how anyone of these guitars can hands down win anything. They both sound just as good as each other with some variations here and there. I wish some of the guitar content creators would do these tests blindly, because most of the time people are hearing these comparisons with their eyes. I remember seeing the Silver Sky comparison to the Fender Standard and the test was blind, and people ended up preferring the PRS. I'm not saying you are particularly doing that. You are very well entitled to your opinion, and I respect that. You can't be wrong. The LP has a beautiful sound, but the "hands down" suggests these guitars are very far apart, and they aren't.

[@anthonydavella8350]

@@itsalwayssomething7490 I was actually shocked, the Les just sounded better IMO. Now it almost seemed he dug in more to the Les Paul, played it with more confidence. Usually people choose the louder as better, human nature even for pros

[@isaacbdennis]

I’ve been a huge PRS fanboy for at least 20 years, but that Gibson Les Paul is absolutely phenomenal! I might be looking for a Gibson now… 😂

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I think there’s room for both in your collection!

[@SDH2023]

Two different beasts. Love ‘em both. Two stunning works of art, covering a wide range of sublime tones between them. If I was forced to choose… it’s the Les Paul for me. Great vid.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

So well said!

[@claypack5943]

Tones are great. Playing is perfect. When it comes to the guitars it's like picking between steak and lobster. Both are absolutely pristine.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you and well said!

[@tkalbfeld1]

Both are amazing guitars. I like the tones from the Les Paul best, this is why I play Les Pauls, and well there's Ace Frehley too.

[@thieveryguitars6206]

Clearly you’ve got a special Les Paul. I feel like when Gibson gets it right, they really get it right. I’d keep the double cut PRS personally. If the LP has a tele vibe then to me the PRS has a Strat meets LP sound.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Indeed - LP’s are killer when everything lines up like this one. I continue to be impressed with this DC. It covers the LP thing well, but I think surpasses it in other ways.

[@ampgent]

I agree that the PRS can be quite Strat-like at times

[@holmes1978]

First May I say your channel is Great your playing is excellence, Gorgeous Guitars but for me That Gibson Les Paul Standard sounds amazing!!! ❤❤❤❤

[@fender7695]

Very true. Very few les Paul’s are great but the ones that are are 9.5/10. it’s almost all in the pickup. But 10/10 prs are 9.5/10. so it’s not even close in comparison. A prs with Gibson humbuckers that come stock would bankrupt Gibson lol

[@randomguitarnote8887]

I was lucky enough to own both at one point, the PRS was surprisingly good, the intonation was spot on, sounded great and everything, only reason i sold it was because i couldn’t vibe with the asymmetrical neck shape.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

All things you can rely on PRS for. Bummer the neck shape wasn’t your cup of tea, but best to move it on when that’s the case.

[@Suddsy.]

I must say that Gibson has some special sound that usually I don't see. No matter what you do with the PRS guitars never give that Gibson away

[@Mssrmikeone]

Well done test. Grew up in 70s and favor Tele-like sound and feel. LP has edge given that background, but PRS has a smoothness that sounds great and can’t be denied - and it’s (relatively speaking) indestructible. Your LP is a keeper regardless of which way you go on the PRS.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! Well said. Appreciate your observations!

[@dennisokle7675]

They both sound amazing. The Gibson has a clean and sharp cut through sound I personally like the best! You can't go wrong either way! To me the Gibson wins.

[@sundroppunk1280]

Groovy contrast/comparison! Looking forward to the two single cut contrast/comparison vid - I’ll refrain from my opinion until after that vid. Keep up the good work JZ! 🤙

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! Looking forward to hear your thoughts after the SC comparison.

[@robert_starling]

Either choice is a winner between these two. Either can sound like the other with minimal EQ adjustment. I have a real vintage gold top LP and a new 2022 McCarty 594. Right now I'm digging the 594 a ton. Also, my LP is 10.1lbs and the 594 is about 7 lbs, plus it is a blue 10 Top so she's my #1 these days.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Nice! I like the 594 in that it is so closely related to a LP, but offers it's own playing experience (and lighter than the average LP, like yours!). I agree that with a touch of eq, these guitars would be indistinguishable.

[@kenphillips3282]

Both sound sensational. The LP has a really special and unique sound which is actually rare in Gibsons so that is a definite keeper, the PRS sounded great but different. I own a couple of LP’s and a couple of PRS’s and they are all my go to instruments. However, I gig with the PRS Custom and Silver Sky because I love playing them and live they are killers.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Ken! I got lucky with this Lester as I bought it online from Wildwood and relied on their staff to try a bunch and provide sound reports, which they are good at! Btw, nice fleet you have there - you can cover a lot of ground with those options!

[@ccaputa]

I have both as well. I preferred the Les Paul in your comparison. IMO, they are different guitars with their own strengths. Great video and playing!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Right on and thank you!

[@DistrictSoundLab]

This video sums up how I feel about PRS guitars. They’re more consistent and more refined but my ears are tuned to the gorgeous imperfections and nuances of gibsons and fenders.

[@williamgrissom1995]

They are both great sounding guitars, but the Gibson was my favorite. I loved the way it sounded and in several places it sounded better to me and equally good the other times.

[@c.j.robert5350]

As a owner of a Prs Customer 24 (2018), and a Les Paul Studio (2002), i find that both gives different playing experiences, which greatly affect the way we play/sound. Both are amazing!! Prs are way more consistent in quality. But that being said, when you stumble on an amazing Les Paul, the romance never fades. You have two killer guitars right there sir. New sub from Waterloo, Quebec.

[@robertlutczyk7996]

Man, I love to nerd out and A/B test gear way too much. Equally love to listen to these type of comparisons. Well executed as always. And end of the day, tone is all in the fingers. All your guitars sound slightly different but all are amazingly good simply because you are a great player. Will be fun to see which one you pick!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you for the kind words, Robert! It’s a lot of fun needing out and trying out stuff. Even these recent comparisons have deepened my understanding of some of these guitars I’ve had for a while.

[@emiliop1428]

Really good comparison of the two guitars. Excellent playing. Would like to hear your thoughts on each guitars playability, access to the upper frets, and so on.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you and great suggestion! I’ll definitely plan to incorporate more about playability in future vids.

[@joshuaschecter]

Beautiful guitars and amps. Listening to you list them was like a checklist for my dream rig. Thanks for the video.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure!

[@FrankNitty-007]

They are both fabulous, but the Gibson is simply magical. What a pleasure hearing you test drive them.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Frank - appreciate the kind words and perspective!

[@thomasrodabaugh2992]

The PRS is just a touch more defined in the upper registers, but lacks the fullness/aggression of the LP. I have owned both and both are absolutely awesome, but that is a special LP. Absolutely awesome playing and presentation!! Keep up the great work

[@thomaschambers33]

They both sounded fantastic but two different animals. You are blessed to own both. I think the PRS had more harmonix and more mids on cleans. Pick either one, you won't go wrong.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Thomas - agree! I do find that these two guitars compliment each other in my daily musical endeavors.

[@aviator_bryan]

Man... I just stumbled on this video. What awesome tones, playing and camera work! Well done! Subscribing.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Wow - thanks, Bryan! Appreciate the sub!

[@alexandrefalardeau9976]

Couldn’t resist the sub either ! This video got me hooked

[@FireskullIndustries]

Near on 2 years after the upload, and I still come back to the intro to hear the magic of that LP. I've always loved the tone of a good LP, but never really loved they way they felt in my hands. Ended up getting a standard Core 594 double cut earlier this year and it was perfect. It's no Les Paul, but not only is that not fair because there is no substitute for the real deal, but I also didn't buy it wanting it to "be" a Les Paul. There is a tool for every job; the trick is to know which tool the job requires.

[@paisteplayer1040]

I find the Core PRS McCarty 594 to be PRS's crowing achievement. The feel, tone, tuning stability PRS incredible fit and finish is just hard to beat.. Now there are 3 versions of the 58/15's, the 58/15lt are definitely lower output than the 58/15tm or the regular 58/15's that have tons more attack.. The lt versions are designed to simulate a lower out 59 PAF, and they do.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said - I think so too. The 594 is my favorite model after playing PRS guitars for 25 years.

[@adamdoyle3990]

They all sound phenomenal. I guess it really comes down to how they feel in your hands. I guitar that feels good just makes me play better, builds confidence and inspires better play.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Great point, Adam - well said! Same experience here (and they all feel great in the hands too 😂).

[@gabrielfiedler5550]

Great Playing and Presentation. The Les Paul sounded stronger to me, the tone has more oomph to it. The PRS sounded thinner and not as musical to my ears. I love the quality of the PRS and yet the Gibson LP has the tones that move me!!!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Gabriel! Folks are loving this LP in the comments and I know first hand why!

[@Kim-yl7yg]

@@RatherBeRiffing Why ?

[@rainshadowband3161]

Until the high gain section, both sounded close enough together that I would be happy with my PRS. It's essentially the same guitar sound, but comes down to which neck you feel comfortable playing and which color is your fave. Great playing

[@deanallen927]

This may be a weird thing to say, but the double cut sounded kind of mechanical and had a jagged edge compared to the L.P.

[@IgorRaykin-h4p]

This is a very well-done comparison. These sound very similar. Given the inconsistent build quality of Gibson relative to the excellent consistency of PRS, I went with the PRS.

[@claytonmurrayguitar]

I do love the middle position on the Les Paul, but I think I prefer the PRS in the case! No wrong choice though, that Lester is a smoke show

[@glennfeit8294]

Thanks for doing the shoot out. It confirms at least for me what I’ve been experiencing. I have bought three PRS guitars and returned two of them because I felt my Les Paul sounded better. The PRS I did keep was the custom 22 soap bar 3 P-90s. It’s my super Strat. Love all the PRS builds but feel the PRS humbucker pickups are lacking without the help of pedals. Personal taste but even thru my phone I hear the difference.

[@bobsykes]

Great playing! The Les Paul wins hands-down in maybe 80% of those excellent comparisons for me. The PRS sounds like it's missing something in the mid-range in comparison, but the big thing for me is the Paul sounds open, alive, and more like human singing in the way it is voiced. For blues leaning music that you seem to like, that open, singing sound works so well, while in comparison, the PRS sometimes sounded veiled. I like guitars that sing, and your Les Paul is a beautiful one in that regard.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Bob - appreciate the thoughtful observations! I love the analogy to human singing and this LP really sings. I love the playability of the PRS and it draws different stuff out of me creatively, but it’s not really a substitute for the Lester in my experience.

[@jasong546]

Once you added the backing track it was like yes! That’s the best no matter which you played.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Ha! Great point 😁. It’s fun to obsess about this stuff, but writing/performing is the most satisfying part for me.

[@larrydavis1420]

Based solely on sound: The two were so close on some of the tests, but overall, to me the PRS sounded a little thinner, making the Les Paul my number one choice.

[@BGP_yt]

Really? I thought les Paul sounded way thinner

[@larrydavis1420]

@@BGP_yt different ears hear different things. My ears are admittedly old and starting to fail (too many years of playing on stage), but yes, to me the PRS sounded a little thinner.

[@pjmtry7]

Awesome comparison, thanks for this! Just bought the McCarty Smokeburst Singlecut and loving it!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank yo, Peter! And congrats on a killer acquisition - enjoy it man!

[@felipebarria8653]

Just discovered your channel, and man, your tones are so good and your playing pleasing. Keep it up!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, man - it means a lot to me!

[@josephbenda6763]

Both are awesome guitars. The LP is my pick on this one but I would complain if I owned the PRS. Those tops are amazing.

[@glennhynes5263]

The, often, unspoken difficulty with the AB comparison is that the test usually occurs in a few specific settings. Those guitars can sound identical if you tweak them just alittle.

[@daneclarkcollins]

I didn't expect to have such a strong preference for the LP...I preferred it in almost every comparison except one of the early clean ones.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for sharing. The PRS neck pickup clean was a strong preference for me too.

[@msspi764]

I own a double cut 594. Love it. But my guitar isn’t up for consideration. I think your Les Paul is a really special instrument. That’s based on just the tone I can hear coming through my signal chain. There’s a lot more to how a guitar fits a player than just tone. The guitar I always turn to is an S2 Custom 24. I don’t know why, but I don’t have to.

[@davidjoel111]

Great playing! I’ve been debating selling my 2002 Les Paul standard to fund a PRS DGT, love how my Les Paul sounds but I’ve been struggling with tuning stability issues forever and I’ve always hated how Les Pauls sit on the lap when sitting, it’s not a guitar that I play for hours.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, David! I used to have a DGT that I regret selling (luckily I kept in the family so can still borrow it). It will definitely solve both of those problems for you!

[@christiancalderonduarte1905]

The 594 sounds great, I actually wanted that one to sound "better" in this comparison, but the truth is that Gibson is still the king.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I hear you. That LP thing is iconic for a reason. I’ll always keep a Gibson LP in the stable for that reason. That said, the PRS takes me places creatively that the LP doesn’t so gotta have both lol!

[@youKnowWho3311]

Great vid! PRS seemed more defined to my ear/speaker setup, but almost too close to call for most ears. Perhaps feel/weight/ergos would be a major consideration. I am a died in the wool PRS guy since 1999 ish...... BUT..... I do love my 1998 gold top R6 w/P90's. They both do a thing. When all else fails, keep all the guitars!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks! That's usually my motto, unless trading up for something special. I think the 594 and LP coexist nicely together. As you say, they both do a thing and have different ergos. Rock on!

[@steveiliev8912]

I was so grateful when PRS came out in Europe late 80’s! The prices were all arms and legs! People were selling their LP’s everywhere ,so I was finally able to buy one dirt cheap for myself! So was my drummer ! He literally scored large set of Ludwig classic with all hardware and cymbals ,cause the guy who owned them went for Simmons when they came out for first time! These were the greatest times to buy instruments 🎸 🥁 😃 🍻

[@gentlewolf1279]

I am fortunate enough to own guitars from both companies. Both are great, but I find the PRS build quality better, but like the Gibson pickups better.

[@moonloop6]

Both guitars are absolutely beautiful and the sound coming out is stellar. I am not a Gibson fan but there is something in that Les Paul but I can't put my finger on it. Luckily I don't get along with the short scale and body shape so I don't have to spend thousands of euros!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks, Joel! That says a lot about this LP. Ha! ... I hear you on scale length. I like both short and long scale, but I tend to stick to one or the other for long stretches of time as it can mess with my bending intonation.

[@rowegardner9673]

After owning 2 LPs that I ultimately sold because of tuning issues that would never go away despite setups, I’m the happy owner of a PRS McCarty 594 Hollowbody II. The thing plays like a dream. No regrets. Not saying I won’t buy a Gibson again one day, but the playability and craftsmanship of a PRS is pretty unmatched amongst the main big brands. Plus you don’t have to search for a year to find a good one haha (speaking from experience).

[@hkguitar1984]

WOW, your first comparison clip with the PRS (4:13), such a difference in the pickup's clarity as compared to the low-wind Custombuckers. As much as I really like the Custombuckers I'd be really interested to hear those PRS pickups in that R9! Please don't swap them, I'm just saying, the 2022 PRS pickups are really pretty impressive. Both PRS and Gibson have fantastic designs, that said, I'd keep that R9 as a really good example can be difficult to acquire, where as I feel most all of the higher end PRS are fantastically consistent and easier to find. Great playing, thanks for taking the time to do this comparison, count me as a new subscriber.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed and appreciate the sub. Man, I can relate to everything you’ve said here. The clarity of those PRS pickups are astounding. Ironically my plan was to put in an extra set of Stephens Design Vintage Lab PAF replicas in the PRS, but once I heard the 5815 LT TCI pickups, I decided there was no reason at to mess with them!

[@hkguitar1984]

@@RatherBeRiffing Agreed. Current PRS pickups are of such quality I'd consider purchasing/playing a new PRS just because of those pickups. When I look at what Paul Reed Smith has done it becomes clear we are so very fortunate to be players during this time. I most certainly place Paul Smith with the 'likes of Leo Fender, Ted McCarty, Seth Lover and (of course) Les Paul. Very exciting offerings from all makers these days, however the PRS really stand out in the best of ways. I gitta say, I don't even own a PRS, your back to back comparison really has my gears turning. Thank You

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@hkguitar1984 Agree - Paul is a living legend. Huge respect for his lifelong dedication to improving his craft. I just found out that PRS released a limited supply of 58/15 LT TCI pickup sets for the holidays so you don’t have to buy a guitar to get them! 😁. Several listings on Reverb (500 USD). I may go for a pair myself!

[@hkguitar1984]

@@RatherBeRiffing Yeah, Les Paul has always intrigued me. That is great news about those pickups being available. TBH, given how few o them there are that $500 seems totally reasonable. LOL, that statement is coming from a guy who is willing to pay $500 for a Fender CS RSD Tele bridge! Looking at the specs of those 58/15 LT TCI, I see they are AlNiCo 2 with DC Resistance in the 7.1K/7.2K range. I really love the AlNiCo II, and the low wind DC Resistance is right in what I consider the sweet range. I'm going to check into those PRS 58/15s and the instruments they are offered in. 👍

[@dragan4658]

Both amazing examples of guitar artistry! It was hard to pick but I would choose the LP slightly over the PRS because of the Gibson sound, it just has that growl even at lower volumes. Amazing playing as usual and thanks for sharing!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the comments and observations. Really well said! It boils down to growl vs clarity - both useful and inspiring in their own right!

[@paisteplayer1040]

The gibson growl is mostly the pickups, not the guitar..

[@applehead252]

Sound definitely matters but I make my purchases based on feel . If it feels like it was made for me it generally comes home with me! Around 42 in my collection. I definitely have an addiction but I love them all! 😊

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I agree! Congrats on a killer collection. A healthy addiction I say!

[@elevenAD]

lol, i dont feel so bad now having 32! Rock on Apple!

[@stevenrocky4718]

Damn can you give me one? lol.

[@Michael-so2mh]

What a tough comparison to make a decision on but truth be told, I don't think I could put one in front of the other. They are both so unique in their own ways you have to appreciate on all levels. The LP has the voice to be expected from a LP. The PRS with its voice is something to desire as well. The one thing that always seems to catch me when at a live performance, if a guitarist switches from just about any other make/model guitar to a PRS, you know that a PRS is on stage. Admittedly I favor a PRS because it is my choice of guitars.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I totally agree regarding the uniqueness of each. That's a good caveat when making these comparisons... "better" is seldom a black and white or binary choices I find.

[@ruminantmelanoid5444]

I'm a Fender single coil guy myself, but I noticed the LP was chunkier sounding. It had more umph, even though the PRS had more clarity/was more articulate. I'd use the Les in the studio and take the PRS on the road.

[@Utube-s8m]

That PRS has a beautiful top. It sounds great. It actually has the exact same top as another boutique brand. I’d keep the double cut myself.

[@SlickCat]

Both sound killer. Im in love with that Les Paul though. If I were you I would pick the one you feel most comfortable with neck-wise. It took me 6 different Les Pauls before I settled on the ONE. That perfect tone and neck.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Glad you found the ONE! Took me 7, so a similar long journey, but worth it!

[@becknader2337]

both sound beautiful but at times the Les Paul sends shivers down your spine it sounds so beautiful

[@dirtboxsam5687]

Great demo... grew up playing a Les Paul.... been playing PRS for a long time now... They both sounded great I find the PRS more versatile live

[@sgt.grinch3299]

The intro playing on that magnificent LP was beautiful. Well done Sir. I prefer the LP every day all day. If I was playing live I would choose the PRS for one reason, I wouldn’t want to take a chance of damaging the LP.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you kindly Sir!

[@jackjamz]

Great video! Instant subscribe… I NEED MORE VIDEOS LIKE THIS IN MY LIFE!! Lol, gorgeous tones throughout and very beautifully shot. The PRS somehow takes the traits of THE quintessential classic electric guitar and carves its own taste into an established spectrum. The tones from each are perfect, so as far as which one wins, I vote for the better feeling one in hand or the one that conjures more inspired playing.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Wow - thanks for the kind and articulate words! Great motivation for me to keep going! Agree, feel is sooo important as is inspiration. I always keep the guitar around that inspire no matter the price point being high or low. Thanks for the comments!

[@jeremymiller6933]

FWIW, the EQ on the LP on the clean tones was the most noticeable in this shoot-out. A little more low end and just a smoothness throughout the range. In the light OD tones, they were really, really hard to tell apart. The LP was just a little smoother again with a touch more on the high end in the higher gain section. Both are excellent sounding backed up by some great playing as well!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Jeremy! Appreciate the observations! The LP has a touch more bite for sure.

[@sampilsbury9415]

Dude that clean tone and playing was perfection

[@TheOldYellers]

I wouldn’t get rid of the Gibson as it sounds special. And the playing on it is smooth. PRS’s are great. I have a 30th anniversary and it’s great. The Gibson has was more vibe in this video. But the prs is nice.

[@JBurtonTenor]

I mean, wow. Both wonderful and worthy. I think feel would decide this for me, But, based on sound alone, if you're looking for input: if I could only keep one of those it would be the Les Paul. Its just...something primal, and familiar.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the comment and input, Jonathan! I think primal and familiar is quite a fitting description of the Lester!

[@norseman61]

Great playing and beautiful tones from both of these gorgeous guitars. As stated before, I guess it’ll come down to which PRS will provide another flavor to your collection without “duplicating” the Les Paul too much. Ahhh, what a wonderful conundrum!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you and wonderful conundrum indeed!

[@redryderaus]

It's really hard to say, I shifted from LP to PRS and back again a lot. I think it would depend on the rest of the band and also the vocals/lyrics. Guitars in a band help to tell the story that the lyrics/vocals are telling. The tone of the guitars add so much to that.

[@Stratman6969]

Excellent demo, incredible playing, thank you.

[@brianchurilla7060]

Both sounded great in different ways. Well done video. I am a PRS guy would sold my LP's. The big issue for me is playability! You're great and I am sure you could make anything work. For me, the PRS makes me a better player. I am solidly better on a PRS as it is so much easier to play especially higher up the neck.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Brian! I think you nailed it with this insight. I agree that whatever makes you a better player (i.e., inspire to play more, be more expressive, creative, etc.), is the right choice. That guitar for my right now is actually a Gil Yaron Bone 59, which I'll cover later on. Hence why I'm trying to thin the herd a little. But it's never easy is it?

[@resolversoftware5088]

Both are outstanding.Your playing is also super great!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you!

[@IndyRockStar]

That Les Paul sounds amazing. I'm definitely buying an R9 in the near future. I have an LP Standard 60's now that I've put a Bare Knuckle Riff Raff in the Bridge and a BK Mule in the neck. I also have 550K custom pots and oil/paper caps. My LP sings, but I'm in love with the tone of yours.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Go for it! But man, I bet your Lester slays with those killer mods!

[@mikeriley305]

Both guitars were phenomenal! But I think the tones coming from the 59 Les Paul were more pleasing to my ears.

[@IndyRockStar]

Ok. Watching you videos convinced me. I already have the McCarty 594. Today, I got a Gibson Custom LP 1959 M2M 70th Anniversary and a TC Electronic SCF Gold. I had to have your tone. My McCarty 594 has a 58/15 LT pickups .

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Killer gear - enjoy!

[@niteriderband4713]

Kudos to PRS for finally approaching the LP tone. With the separate tone and volume controls on the PRS humbuckers, I was surprised you couldnt dial in the tone to match the LP? I still like the classic kick ass look of the LP but it is a coin toss. I would keep the LP over the PRS if I had to make that choice.

[@johngee4306]

It’s that classic Gibson les paul tone we instantly know it and love it. It just sounds right every time we hear it. Nothing looks or sounds like a Les Paul.

[@alexeipahlevi]

I think it's rather necessary to have both, I'm having a dilemma too now. Will probably get the PRS first before the LP because it's just a lot easier to find a good secondhand LP compared to the PRS, at least where i live. Cheers for the video!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Agree - I like having both!

[@chuckutley9230]

the clarity on both was awesome but personally i like the fullness of the LP but that being said i can hear where the PRS would be perfect in some applications

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for your observations, Chuck! Indeed - can be quite situational sometimes.

[@waitaminute7257]

Great beautiful sounding instruments! Thanks for showcasing them! 👍

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you and my pleasure!

[@mrbizi5652]

I have to say, I wanted to like the PRS more… but your Les Paul based on what I’m hearing has a richer warmer tone that is fantastic!!!

[@marks8437]

The Gibson sounded brighter to me, the PRS felt like the edges were rounded off ever so slightly. This is a very good combo giving you a good tonal pallette range I would say. There were places were each guitar gave you a great subtle intangible that just sounded perfect to my year.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said and agree! I noticed the rounder edges on the PRS as well and like that it contrasts nicely with the edgier LP voicing.

[@Viper_75th_RR]

Great playing. It’s a tough decision, but there’s just something special about the LP.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! Agree - it does a thing for sure!

[@riverstone5994]

this vid did help me, it made me realise that they both just sound really great and I should play my LP instead of buying another guitar. Thanks man

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Glad it helped, River. I too was struck by how similar they come across in a recording context.

[@deluxairhead]

The Paul would be the go to for most vibes for me, the PRS is pretty spanky a tad brighter also, both guitars sound great as well as your skills dude, nice work glad I checked in here to listen !!

[@stepedit]

Some guitars give me a guide on what to play with this instrument with just one stroke. 59 is something like that. Some guitars are like white paper. There's no guide. no rules. Just needs imagination. That's how I felt when I first got McCarty SC594. I'm a 24.5-inch holic, and I make love to these two instruments every day. Tradition and imagination are two essential things for musicians. So these two guitars inspire me every day. Precious dudes.

[@gregoryrekitt9375]

I'd like to start off by saying I really liked your intro music and thought your styling sounds alot like Keith Urban who I really dig! I hope you don't take that comment the wrong way because I really liked the video. Both the LP and the PRS are great instruments I thought the LP had a more broad sound and I was able to hear the notes as individual notes together instead of being washed together especially when used with the pedals you chose. I have been thinking of adding another guitar myself and I'm leaning towards a Les Paul. They definitely have a special tone sweetness! Thank you.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you, Gregory - man, I consider that high praise! Keith Urban has a killer chips and a heck of a live performer. I highly recommend adding a Lester to your collection. They do a unique thing for sure!

[@clayknowles7382]

I prefer the sound of the Les Paul, a tad sweeter and bigger sounding, although not by much. They both sound great and If I had to pick, I would go with the one that felt better in my hands. I think feel and playability is so important when choosing a guitar.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Couldn't agree more about playability!

[@robertturner1550]

Great lighting on your video! Thanks for sharing.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for noticing, Robert! It’s my favorite aspect of shooting.

[@tgmotz]

Other than a reduction in the sound of your fingers sliding on the strings on the Gibson compared to the PRS, I couldn't really tell the difference. What I'd like to know from you is how is the playability difference in the 3 major portions of the next for each guitar? How's string buzzing (if there is any)? How's the action when playing? Are you putting in more effort to play the Gibson than the PRS or vise versa? Did the Gibson go out of tune at all while playing and string bending due to the rake on the headstock? Or is that all a myth? This is all stuff we can't hear but is extremely valuable.

[@jamieb7799]

I just found the Gibson had more vintage sound while the PRS was more modern. I just related to the Gibson a lot more. But boy does that PRS look killer. Thanks for the comparison 👍

[@athathoththegreat3901]

They both sounded great.

[@MJsap13]

You’ve become my new favorite KZbin channel. Love your playing, content, and taste in guitars. Guessing by the beers you feature (which are some of my favorites as well) you must be in New England somewhere.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Wow - thanks, Mike! That means a lot that you are enjoying the channel so much. Cheers to those New England brews!

[@claudialuciano3033]

Hi! I'm Paolo from Italy. Gees... It's so hard comparing these guitars.... It's like comparing two gorgeous top models! (forgive my english... io parlo italiano/je parle francais) thanks for your recensions