I PLEK'd My New 2019 Les Paul Standard

[@RhettShull]

My first video course, The Tone Course, is available now. Check it out below! flatfiv.co/collections/rhett-shull/products/the-tone-course

[@donnyhall2535]

Hi Rhett, well by my understanding Gibson supposedly pleks all their guitars at the factory. Atleast that's what Cory the manager at Moore Guitars in Evansville Indiana tried to tell me. I think it was to get a sale. It didn't work. I would think Ben would know for sure. He definitely knows his stuff with guitars, Gibson's in particular. But I went to a friend of mine instead at GC to buy my junior, and got a killer deal.

[@Sig721Tau]

Why does everyone play a new guitar would tons of distortion? Why not play it with some clean channel tones? That's really where the guitar stands out.

[@AuntAlnico4]

My 2019 Gibson les Paul special double cut t model is pleked and so was rhets so why plek it again ?

[@seanieg7673]

@@Sig721Tau times have changed Ted, times have changed.

[@drivenmad7676]

I'm always paranoid that the person holding the guitar, hits the headstock on something.

[@innocentoctave]

Giving Rhett a guitar may seem generous, and it is, but it was also money well spent by Gibson. This is the kind of publicity for the new guitars that they need - solid player opinion, unbiased dealer assessment and scientific proof of improved quality control, not expensive ads. Perhaps the new management team has a clue.

[@Check-it-out]

Who is paying for those giveaways ? WE ! DUH

[@Xaion6]

They totally do! James Curleigh is the younger blood they needed while never forgetting the passion and heritage of Gibson. Good on them, they will be getting my money soon

[@mrblank-zh1xy]

Contrary to apparent understanding, we actually play the guitars we buy.

[@j_freed]

1:00 they gave you a Gibson with no strings attached? ... were they at least in the case?

[@wombleofwimbledon5442]

6 strings attached?

[@NotDingse]

dad joke alert

[@TheActiveAssault]

Do they just let anyone comment now?

[@jotice9]

I knew somebody was going to make a pun of that. I started to do it, but I said to myself Naw, give the guy a break.

[@Bulletguy07]

@j freed yeah i thought same as you when he said that but my overriding thought was, "guy uploads a vid critiquing Gibson guitar....Gibson invite him to HQ....tours the factory and comes away with a FREE Les Paul". I imagine others having a go at that!!

[@RicTic66]

I got my free Gibson LP last Saturday night plus a whole heap of other goodies free and gratis. Only downside is I'm up in court next month 😩

[@terrypussypower]

RicTic66 Ha! I got away with mine! A 3 pickup job too. In black. It was 1988 and the shop is long gone so I think I’m ok.

[@henriquemontalvao8492]

@@terrypussypower Well, admitting your crimes do give you less jail time in some places

[@brentparks3669]

Statute of limitations!

[@AuntAlnico4]

Statutes of litigation ?

[@Ndlanding]

@@henriquemontalvao8492 "admitting ... do" = crime against the English language!

[@NasserSharaf]

Those PLEK machines are awesome. If the guitar tech knows what he or she is doing the results can be consistently excellent. I think the way you presented this video with full disclosure about how you got the guitar, then taking it for analysis and a full PLEK while trying to be as objective as possible is very cool and gives you a lot of credibilty. Nice job.

[@Knifeguy6]

this has literally got to be one of the best guitar shops in the U.S. they seem very knowledgeable and know exactly what their doing and do it right. you can tell they genuinely care about the instrument they are working on. damn, i wish i was rich, i would get on a plane today with a couple of my guitars and go there and have them plek'd. so cool!

[@JamesWalshBristolKids]

You can always find a Plek'd machine in a local music shop. It's more common now, ya.

[@joshtorresfdu6621]

@@JamesWalshBristolKidsonly one in the whole state of Oklahoma. One in Edmond, Oklahoma so I wouldn’t say too common

[@TheLy0n5]

That was a surprise to see Ben. Years ago, he was a district DM for a large chain who shall remain unnamed. He signed off my paperwork as an A-level certified salesperson. I think he ran a location is Marietta, GA for a minute, too. Nice to see he’s still in the biz, but has left the soulless juggernaut for a place with more of a proper music shop vibe. Good on ya, Ben!

[@arthowardmusic3209]

A Plek session at Righteous Guitars, when I visited about a year and a half ago, was $250. This is a VERY high end guitar shop. Prices start at $3,000 and go up. Not even a lot of Fender and Gibson, mostly boutique makers who do handmade, very small runs. The acoustics are crazy! They all have amazing grain and finishes, like furniture you'd be afraid to touch.

[@largelysubatomic]

This guitar shop is insane. Never seen anything like it.

[@RhettShull]

Yes Gibson USA does PLEK the guitars at the factory, but they're PLEK'd before the guitars are finished. The purpose of this was to take a close look at the factory fit and finish from the new Gibson USA.

[@ryanspencerlauderdale687]

I feel like it would make sense for Gibson to PLEK their guitars at the end of the process, considering what their customers are paying for their guitars, but that's just me.

[@CNCTEMATIC]

When a manufacturer like Gibson says "we PLEK our guitars", consumers are going to understand the machine is used to ensure the final product has all the benefits of a set up that a PLEK machine achieves (as with Duesenberg and other brands whp say that). To advertise that, and then only use a PLEK machine "before the guitars are finished" (or in any other half-baked way) is highly misleading. Especially given their price point.

[@brndgtl]

CNCTEMATIC yes! This is so true

[@DavidMorisset]

Ryan Lauderdale the PLEK at the process where errors can be corrected at the end, it’s just too late. It easy to adjust a but to a player’s taste by filing it down but if it’s too low the only option is a new nut. Final setup should be at the time of purchase.

[@CNCTEMATIC]

@@DavidMorisset No. A correctly cut nut is the responsibility of the manufacturer. It's far from "easy to adjust", like a truss rod or intonation screws. Its a destructive process that requires significant skill and experience to get right. Zero manufacturers would describe nut cutting as part of fine tuning set up to suit the player, responsibility of the retailer. And its not too late to PLEK a guitar at the end. Duesenberg do it, Friedman does it. If players want to alter the factory set up, e.g by raising the action, that is done adjusting neck relief and bridge height.

[@ChristianCziurlock]

Ben of Righteous Guitars is one of the most trustworthy and talented people in the entire guitar industry. The inventory is top notch .

[@frederickthompson8686]

Highly professional. A huge improvement over all the "click-bait" crap you find in the guitar teach/review/purchase category. Keep up the good work! I'm now a subscriber...

[@blkjakk]

Man that’s so cool. I know they’ve been PLEK’ing them at the factory for years but it’s awesome to watch the process. Thanks for sharing! I have not had any issues with my Gibsons..they’re 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2019 model Les Pauls & SGs. I’m never content with any factory setup as far as string height so I always set my guitars up when I get them, as should everyone.

[@RobertBakerGuitar]

Love the videos man found out about you from RJ. YOur content is amazing!

[@RhettShull]

Thanks man!! Same to you

[@kipwilliamson5737]

Hey it’s Robert Baker!

[@segital9205]

@@kipwilliamson5737 no it's bobert raker smh smh

[@stevensassano1357]

Gibson has changed a lot from 25 years ago. I was a Gibson Dealer in CT and everything came in with problems, the pricing policy was a mess and the finishes were not completely dry. I am glad to see them doing much better. I was the only Gibson dealer that worked out of my home in the beginning. The Gibson Rep knew he was going to lose his job so he helped me out. My store was called Guitars Unlimited. We had 5000 sq feet. That other company that started with an F made growth impossible. I went back to selling more used and Vintage and things got a whole lot better. Thanks to that Rep for helping me out. Steve

[@Josh-iw2kw]

Damn that dude knows his shit, I need to get my next guitar from him

[@AlmostGrewMyHair]

Josh And he was very nice and open about the process. Not defensive at all, like some music shops.

[@georgeprice4700]

@@AlmostGrewMyHair They're in my neighborhood. Yes they are great in all ways, I highly recommend them. I bought a Reverse Flying V there, wish I could afford to do business with them often. But you know, I'm just a musician.

[@IETCHX69]

Josh ...I say take it to AREA 51 See how it plays on Mars , or pulling 7 *G* 's .

[@meatrocket1]

I agree

[@edwhite7475]

@@georgeprice4700 so YOU'RE the ONE with the REVERSE Flying 'V' ? ;-)

[@KyleKingGuitar]

Picked up a 60's standard a few days ago and it kills, honestly one of the best les pauls I've ever played which is a fantastic surprise. For the moment at least it looks like they're back!

[@blackie75]

Yeah I was looking at one, but at the price of a decent used car, I opted for used which I didn't want to do. With the exchange rate here in Australia, I believe it was like $6500 or something near that.

[@DJogdog]

@@blackie75 Brand new they are $5000 AUD dude.

[@elliotserrano7333]

I got my $699 Jackson Soloist Plekd 3 years ago and it is the most stable and playable guitar I own. Going through all 4 seasons and hanging on a basement wall she is always in tune. Something that gets overlooked aside from the amazing playability is the confidence that comes from knowing you can attack the guitar with no worries. You know that feeling "oh there's a high fret let me stay away from that part of the neck". No more of that, just pure awesomeness. $699 guitar $225 Plek Plays like a million bucks 😉

[@shanebiggs1888]

That's the point of a guitar plays the way you want and need

[@donniekellerman5833]

You know....EVERYTHING is subjective. It's a very, very nice guitar! Thanks for posting the 'PLEK', I've never got to see that done before. Thank you!

[@larryadams1873]

I just bought this exact guitar. Overall the quality and playability are awesome. The fretwork is great. I’ve done repairs for over 20 years and this new Les Paul is one of the best I’ve personally played in a very long time except for the high dollar Custom Shop beasts. I did a mild polish of the frets and clean and oil the fretboard. I slightly lowered the action to my taste. The tone is fantastic. I love the pickups and the new pots/caps actually affect the tone with small changes. Gibson seems to be on the right path again. I’ve wanted a Les Paul for a long time but this is the first one I could sort of afford (credit card lol) that was worth my investment. I never understood the previous Standards with all the crazy options. I’m a traditional guy I guess.

[@davidstriderlindsley2712]

My new 2019 Gibson Les Paul standard was plek'd at the factory. It is truly an awesome guitar.

[@JB19504]

I just bought a Les Paul Tribute from the Factory Store in July 2019. Do I need to have it looked at? Can I assume it it s OK? I am just an amateur player, just playing for my own enjoyment. The guitar seems fine to me but what do I know.

[@smackgod27]

I bought a 2021 Les Paul standard.50’s and it was Plek’d by Gibson. It’s a standard feature. So, if you buy a Les Paul, you don’t need to get it Plek’d. It’s already been done before it left the factory.

[@luisrovira2872]

Except note that the factory Plek is done before the guitar ever gets strings. I do not believe they are Plek'd again after final assembly. It's not quite the same as in this video. Still, points to Gibson for doing it.

[@ChrisEck13]

I was going to say the same thing. Every new Gibson is Plek'd, even the cheapest $999 guitar.

[@billzaferatos2256]

No Gibson should need re-plekd period. Especially at this price point.

[@smackgod27]

@@billzaferatos2256 They don’t need to be re- Plek’d. Anyone who says that is a Moron, or just some lazy asshole that is trying to get $300 from you, for literally doing nothing.

[@blastofo]

I have a 2021 classic that's factory PLEK'd. It plays better than any guitar ive ever played. Low action across the board, no buzzing, no bum notes. I dont use it as my main guitar, because I want to preserve its playability. My main guitar is a squier jazzmaster.

[@wearashirt]

holy crap all your youtube vidoes just paid off a ton. Big congrats for the new les paul.

[@thenut1212]

Just a little FYI, the number (30 in your case) is what day of the year it was made, hence why it’s 3 digits. So your guitar was built on January 30th. For another example, if your serial number was 13659044, it was built on December 31st 2019, 44th guitar of that days batch. It’s an old way of numbering guitars that they started using again when the new ownership took over in 2019.

[@VonBluesman]

Rhett, congratulations on your KZbin channel, I have been following you since you first moved into the basement, long time ago my friend. I am really impressed with the content you have posted, you have put a lot of effort and research into your videos and it shows. I currently own 8 Gibson guitars, my pride and joy is a 1957 Les Paul Junior that looks brand new, it is the most clean new looking 50’s model of any guitar I have ever seen. I have always loved Gibson and Fender. One day I love a Strat more, then months later I love a Les Paul or a 335 more. With guitars I am kind of like that one religion, why have one wife when you can have more, I feel that way about guitars. LOL 😂 👍🎸✌️😎

[@bradcarter5403]

A lot of 'experts' say Gibson make a poor guitar.. however these same people sell used Gibson guitars from the 2000s for ridiculous amounts. You would think a poor guitar wouldnt hold its value, but to the same people claiming they are poor guitars are retaining their value when selling. I think it is bs. I have never played a Gibson I wouldnt take home

[@stephendre2902]

I worked at GC. Everything that was sold was right out of the box. Never setup unless you went to a GC with a tech in which they charge to set it up. Lol

[@larryburwell8550]

yeah musicians friend the same

[@adampitcher7075]

But GC's prices will be lower than a full-service shop like Righteous. Also, since most people buy their guitars off the wall or out of the box without a setup included, it is very important to know how a guitar comes setup from the factory. Furthermore, I know that if a guitar has a major issue, generally GC will repair it before they sell it.

[@chricarl]

Adam J. Pitcher s

[@stevennemeth6256]

@@larryburwell8550 Musicians Friend, Guitar Center and Music and Arts is all the same company.

[@stevennemeth6256]

@@adampitcher7075 Because they have no choice...or you wouldn't buy it.

[@wolftracks9010]

I purchased an Epiphone Custom Les Paul (w/ the gold hardware) from Sweetwater not long ago. Had the Nut changed over to Bone. Afterwards I had it Plek'd, prior to shipping. The final result is overwhelming - It plays like butter. It feels so comfortable that you could play it all day, w/o getting tired or having any sores. If you are a serious player, then I highly recommend getting your guitar plek'd. It is a little more money ($100-250.), but well worth it in the long run. P.s...... So glad Gibson went the extra mile with the set up with Quality control. I only hope that they stay the course and lower their prices to where all their stock is way more affordable than it is now. Thanks for the post! Looks like you have a great guitar from 2019, enjoy.

[@mikelawrence6887]

Thanks to you Rhett I discovered Righteous. Met Ben, purchased a guitar from Scott. This is hands down the best store in my area for a great experience.

[@wyldbill100]

Just bought a 2019 LP Standard 60's and it arrived at the house a few days ago. YEAH!! My VERY first Les Paul! FINALLY!

[@warmonger9100]

You are not just buying a guitar but the skill of the guitar shop. I am glad you made this video because I didn't know that.

[@JohnRoberts-yh3ep]

The bridge on these 2019 guitars is an ABR-1, with 'ABR-1' cast on the underside. It's not 'like' an ABR-1. It IS an ABR-1. I compared the one on my '60s spec 2019 with a genuine aftermarket Kluson no-wire ABR-1 and they are identical. I would even say that they were from the same manufacturer. The studs are different though. Gibson have used a modified version of the Nashville adjusting stud with a thinner diameter post so the ABR-1 sits on the Nashville-style body inserts. You have been able to buy these 'adapter' studs from Philadelphia Luthier for years to allow you to fit an ABR-1 to a guitar that came with a Nashville bridge. I think it's actually a really good idea because the vintage-style posts are a bit crude. Gibson probably chose this method because it didn't involve any changes to the body, which is exactly the same as the outgoing Traditional. Great way of responding quickly to customer requests without any retooling. Just order a load of ABR-1 bridges and adapter posts. For what it's worth, the quality of the frets on my 2019 is in a different league from any stock guitar I've ever played. It is amazing.

[@jimmyfrombrooklyn8550]

Never heard of “PLEKING” a guitar- just plucking a guitar. Boy, the things we learn from Rhett. Thanks

[@jasonkerr931]

Ok, kind of getting addicted to your channel! Great videos with great variety! Keep it up!

[@MattAD-ww7zy]

Love your Les Paul. Glad Gibson was smart enough to give one of their guitars to such an amazing player.

[@Starch1b2c3d4a]

Matt AD2008 😂

[@andysfishingandflytyingcha2310]

I've recently acquired a 50's Les Paul Gold Top. The finishing, build quality and overall quality control was fantastic. Sounds and plays beautifully. Looks like Gibson have really upped their game.

[@michaelmitchell5909]

To bad all shops don't do that much detail in their setups... Great video man, and a smokin guitar!.... Wow

[@tonymarinelli7304]

When I spend over a thousand dollars I EXPECT a fucking set up

[@j_freed]

Harry. B. Renner. jr. - * hanged 😎

[@gassman55]

Agree. Just purchased a Fender American Professional Tele. (San Rafael Calif. ) The action is high and when I asked if they do a set up I was told No. The specs are factory and that’s it. $100 and we will do it. Doubt I’ll be back.

[@JohnBarrow1961]

@@gassman55 Do it yourself. It's easy.

[@MP422ownz]

@@JohnBarrow1961 I agree, its the only way to get it exactly how you like it.

[@soulsocietygaming1503]

Mines coming Tuesday!! Opted for the gold top!!

[@justingarcia7722]

My 2019 50s gold top with p90s is absolutely killing, congrats Rhett!

[@justingarcia7722]

t j I’ve always loved that look, also something about single coils with the solid mahogany body is such a great sound

[@justingarcia7722]

@Drunk Drywaller I have not played a 2000 reissue but I'd say just try to play one, either, to know if you bond with the guitar. I picked this one up new and fell in love, right tone/weight/feel...I have a small video on my channel displaying some tones. Cheers and good luck !

[@bluesman285a]

I just got a 50's gold top in and I cant be happier. I am going to visit the nut slot cuts though and check out the setup a little closer but out of the box it was a great playing guitar

[@chrisr530]

I worked at Guitar Center...sorry to break it to you everyone - not this goes through “set up”. We open the box, plug her in and check the pickups, then it’s off to the floor to get her sold. Whether it’s $100 no name guitar or a $10k PRS - same process.

[@joethibodeau364]

Why is that a problem? Setup is a personalized thing. You can't predict what the buyer will want for a setup. That's why you get your guitar setup (if it actually needs it) after the purchase.

[@rkgaustin]

I knew this guy back in the day who bought a factory second body and neck. He put them together and badly routed out the rear pick up cavity to fit an old Gibson PAF pickup he potted himself with candle wax in a coffee can. he didn't know anything about electronics so he wired a very simple circuit with one volume knob. He painted it with Schwinn bicycle paint and used tape to make lines on it. He put truck reflectors on the back. He got a pretty good sound out if it that I think he called "brown" or something.

[@ml414skidoo]

Sold out stadiums without a PLEK job. :)

[@eduardoprisbrey9157]

YO THIS IS LIKE A CAR DYNO FOR GUITARS!!!

[@michaelmarshall1713]

Yes it is .

[@IETCHX69]

Sorry for not knowing A LOT of this stuff . You have to excuse me . I have only been playing about 40 years .

[@allstopblue5717]

Exactly

[@michaelmarshall1713]

@@allstopblue5717 Yes it is and those who bag it either don't know or make crap guitars . I have a close friend who owns one in his business . Martin & other guitar companies have Pleks in their factories and it has changed the way the guitar quality is measured .

[@mrjackbilbo]

IETCHX69 when you say play how do you mean?

[@edoardo_birdix82]

I have bought a Les Paul 60's model in Unburst finish. I love it. Great instrument.

[@c.j.robert5350]

Rhett, that last bit you played softly sounded amazing!! Gotta learn to play like that!!

[@CT-mw7yu]

As a fellow georgian and resident of Alpharetta, I love rightgeous guitars, great service and awesome people.

[@GetawaysandGuitars]

I went into a local guitar store yesterday to buy some strings..... and walked out with a Les Paul Standard LOl. Unfortunately I had to pay for it!

[@Maxlo158]

legend xD

[@j_freed]

As long as the strings were not attached.

[@julesmcdonald9037]

That's where they get you..making strings that wear out...so you hafta go to the guitar store

[@terrypussypower]

Getaways and Guitars I walked into my local guitar shop in 1988 with an empty guitar case, and ran out with a black Gibson 3 pickup Les Paul Custom! I didn’t have a pot to piss in back then and needed a decent guitar, so needs must! A BEAUTIFUL instrument, made even more special by getting it for free! Wish I still had it.

[@golgothaassassin5035]

I've got the 2019 traditional, and its great! even the G string tuning issue that all Gibson's have is gone. I was really pleased with the quality of the 2019's.

[@prowlman]

I'm very impressed by Gibson after this. I did have to shutter thinking about what my necks (I build custom CBGs) would look like. I do a heck of a job but since it isn't CNC work I don't know if I even want to have one checked for fun. I do want to go get one of these Gibsons now though!

[@billhannum4117]

Bought a 2019 les paul classic plays and sounds like les Paul should very pleased with it . Now i have les pauls from the henery j era as well that are very good .....after some tweeking

[@michaelmitchell5909]

That's freaking awesome they give that to you!

[@indiekiduk]

so cool Ive never seen a PLEK machine before and was great he showed the before and after graphs

[@whysmansadofficial7552]

I‘ve purchased exactly the same Vintage 50‘s HCS 3 weeks ago and it feels and plays perfect - definite a Gibson as it should be. Thx for this video - good job 😊👍🏻

[@johngilley3518]

Thanks for sharing the details of the set up. I've never bought a Gibson because price was to high or everyone complaining about quality. Might pick one up and try it next time.

[@afterstars]

I was starting to think you were putting that guitar in a time machine to send back to 1959 for a true comparison. That’s wild.

[@robfrasier9412]

I bought a 2022 60's Standard. I love it. Flawless build.

[@darrellrickles4365]

@1:10 "No strings attached by the manufacturer." I beg to differ! :p

[@jrcustomcabinetry2572]

Well of course the strings are attached!

[@graysonadams2485]

Hahahahaha

[@goldtopgrandeur6935]

There were precisely 7 strings attached - the 6 on the guitar and the one around the soul that you sold when you lost your innocence and objectivity to corporate 'Merika. I probably wouldn't have even turned down a free pick - but, then again, I'm not making money through talking about product. If you toe the company line, you can probably swing "this year's model" out of them for at least a few years...or until your YT subscriptions dip below what Nielsen ratings show is acceptable for free finished wood products. Just saying. We've all been THERE before right? 😳 + 🙄 = 🌽

[@wildersparks9161]

@@goldtopgrandeur6935 Are you talking about the authenticity string?

[@jdh3121]

@@goldtopgrandeur6935 didn't he just plek the thing and share the results? your a drama queen

[@jeffbaker634]

Sweet guitar. I've never seen a Plek machine and what it does so that was a nice experience to actually know what it does and I'll watch your other video to learn more about it. Thank you. And to Gibson, good job!

[@livefromstudioa8245]

Great video, as always, but my favorite part was definitely Louis Grammatico’s sweet, sweet crooning in the background at Righteous Guitars.

[@aprilkurtz1589]

Thanks for the videos on the PLEK machine. I had a gig last weekend, and I brought my bass and my guitar, because I play guitar on some songs. After we did our soundcheck, I faced some BS from musicians in the other bands because my guitar is a Gibson SG, and why was I playing Gibson, and why didn't I tape over the logo on the head stock? I wanted to tell them to take their PRSs' and shove them, body end first. Not a knock against PRS, because I have a PRS bari guitar that I just love, and they make quality instruments. I told them that this guitar was made at least 10 years before Mark Agnesi was born(it's a '67), it was given to me by a deceased and much loved friend, that I had paid a fair amount of money to have a new headstock put on, as it had been thrown out of a second story window, and none of that money went to Gibson, and if I taped over the Gibson logo, the rest of the inlay would come off with the tape. They failed to notice that I had taped over the logo of my Guild Pilot bass, and wrote Gibson on it. I guess they didn't do sarcasm. Arseholes.

[@devanhansonmusic]

I got a 50s heritage cherry as well and I love it so much. It is my first Gibson!

[@jamesallen5591]

I just bought one (online) yesterday. My first ever new Les Paul Standard. I can't freaking wait for it to get here!

[@devanhansonmusic]

@@jamesallen5591 worth every penny man!

[@jamesallen5591]

@@devanhansonmusic Sweet! Good to hear it. I like what Gibson is doing now; I didn't think I'd ever see a new Les Paul Standard for less that $3+ k.

[@jaybrecker]

Nicely done, Rhett. Great to see insight into much-talked-about topics that rarely get definitively uncovered -- good or bad -- in such an honest way. I was a very harsh Gibson critic for a long time, but always loved their old guitars. Had an '84 335 Dot reissue I played regularly back in NYC until it was stolen during load-out from a gig in Greenwich Village. I never bought another Gibson (USA, non-custom shop) 335 until last year and have been immensely happy with it. No issues whatsoever. Of course, Wildwood Guitars did their own check-up and set-up before shipping it to me. I'm now considering a Les Paul Deluxe with mini-humbuckers; something I've always wanted to adopt but never did before. Again, well-done video. And I hope Righteous sees some action from this, too. Good, knowledgeable, proficient dealers are relatively rare, so those that raise the bar deserve the attention.

[@gordontubbs]

Glad to see Gibson back in force. This has been a rough decade for them.

[@jerrymcgeorge4117]

I have three bought brand new Gibsons and a lightly used Fender that got the PLEK process. All four eventually went to my local ace luthier for a crown & polish. The Fender’s frets had been cut so much it needed a complete refret. Two of the Custom Shop models needed nut replacements, and the third needed the bridge post holes filled and re-drilled at the correct 90 degree angle.

[@airozo59]

Glad I subscribed , solid player with solid info about guitars and the biz. Thanks Rhett. P.S. Awesome guitar!!

[@thromboid]

Always nice to see people doing it right. Kudos to Gibson and to Righteous. :)

[@kbadr]

So this 2019 50's style neck is more like a 90's 60's neck. Got it.

[@eejjkk]

I think he said that this 2019 50's neck was alot like an 80's 50's from the 90's. There... I'm glad I could clear that up for you and everyone else. lol Seriously though, that was the exact moment in this video that I realized I know very little about LP guitars... and perhaps guitar heritage in general.

[@YouTubeHandlesAreMoronic]

A year later...I've auditioned four 50's models and three 60's models. The necks vary in thickness, quite a bit. None of the 60's necks were as thin as what you would typically find on a 2000s Studio, and none of the 50's were as fat as the Custom Shop 50s (or an Epiphone 50s). I wear XL gloves and primarily play Fenders; I much prefer the 60s profile.

[@JorgeVasquez-Accep]

It was about time. The new Standard is an awesome guitar.

[@NicholasStein]

I like the John Bonham style drum intro in the background. I expecting the guitar to come in with When The Levee Breaks.

[@gtr1487]

Just bought one yesterday. Les Paul Standard and it's a beauty.

[@TheOdditee]

Last marketing hype I read said Gibsons were "plek'd" at the factory?! Not so?!

[@guitarworks2546]

that's what I thought too..???

[@hanfordreach6849]

@@guitarworks2546 I think you are right about the PLEK'ing

[@hanfordreach6849]

I think you are right about the PLEK'ing

[@anthonystark5412]

At around 3:51, "Didn't hide... the maple cap... that's nice." I know, right? Flaws on a $2000 guitar are much, MUCH nicer when they're obvious to the naked eye. THIS is why Harley Benton is viewed in such a positive light.

[@josephrichetti4783]

And I want to add with the ridiculous price tags Gibson have you shouldn't have to fix anything

[@oldasmoney]

Its really hard to part with your money so just buy a POC Asian guitar and you'll feel better.

[@jimiguitar6324]

@@oldasmoney the thing is today the overseas guitars are crafted just as well even better than USA Made Guitars...no such thing anymore as guitar crafting competition anymore...guitar making Technology is on all 4 corners of the world and you can get a professional quality guitar at a much much less price

[@user-mt9tn1ni4g]

@@oldasmoney ELECTRA !!!!!

[@wildersparks9161]

@@oldasmoney just buy a fender

[@Hobinator17]

@@jimiguitar6324 so then don't buy one. That simple.

[@dlachioma]

Great to see the quality and tones and looks! I just picked up the same guitar, #55.

[@Bigjoedo66]

Great Video!! As others have said, the guitar over $2000 should be pleked just before leaving Gibson

[@jeremiedion7850]

They are... Just check the Gibson TV channel on KZbin... They get you over the whole process they build their guitars and they do pleck them!

[@gianniciccolone3477]

@@jeremiedion7850 the quality control isn't all that great. I bought the 2019 60's standard. I had to bring it to my luthier for a setup right away. The fret work was just laughable.

[@Whydoyoureadme]

People keep forgetting they are wooden instruments sometimes in dubious storage at dealers for months.

[@gianniciccolone3477]

@@Whydoyoureadme mine wasn't.

[@jeremiedion7850]

@@gianniciccolone3477 I bought a 2018 LP tribute back in January 2019 and haven't had to adjust anything on it since... It plays really great... I've changed strings a couple of times and haven't had to adjust action or truss rod yet...

[@alexoftheway8169]

Lovely guitar dude. That machine in the guitar shop is awesome too! I can't imagine that I'll see one of those anywhere soon.

[@alexcastro7339]

A young Eddie Van Halen just slaps a guitar together from random parts in his garage and it becomes one of the most famous guitars in rock history... Go figure

[@brown22sugar25]

Alex Castro or Brian May

[@Wolf_K]

Talent Not Equipment!

[@markmcmullan3351]

He search around for ages for the right parts trying many different combinations , not just that simple . He's was like a human PLEK machine in those days .

[@youngandrew66]

Or jimi who kept his at the Pawn Broker's when he wasn't using it!

[@alexcastro7339]

@@youngandrew66 Jimi didn't really have a number 1. He basically used whatever anyone gave him or what he could borrow in the early days.

[@danneyboy1000]

I bought a blond top anniversary special in 1976 and it still amazes me how well it was made. We nicknamed her the plank cuz she is heavy. I had heard from and played newer pauls and like many were disappointed with the loss of quality. It's good to know they have improved. My favorite guitar though is my stratocaster as it doesn't cause back pain while standing up and playing and Fender always put out the best quality and sound in guitars and my favorite amp Fender Deluxe Reverb.

[@lucaserikadams]

Me: watches a video Me: now I need that My bank/wife: Ha.

[@MattAD-ww7zy]

I can relate!

[@colebowman2833]

I bought a 2019 Traditional which kind of just turned into the guitar Rhett has now. I love it. It's the best guitar I've owned and I guess it's one of the last Traditionals made. I knew that Gibson was changing things but Gibson wasn't talking about it yet at the time I bought mine in the beginning of April. I got a deal on it and really love it. No buzz. They Plek them and mine is done really well. It looks great, feels great and I'm happy with it. I know it's not the one of the new ones that you're interested in but they were made back to back time wise so I imagine it is built pretty much the same. You may be able to find good deals on 2019 models built just before the new ones dropped. And the Traditional that I'm talking about is pretty much the same as the 50's Standard.

[@rickdixontn]

Me: I want that Wife: Walks in my office last month while I'm holding my new 2018 Les Paul Standard, "Did you get a new guitar?" Me: "Yes" Wife: "Oh." Walks out of my office.

[@malcolmadams2105]

Do it!”

[@JohnsDough1918]

You're married to your bank? /s

[@McDagger90]

I own that exact same guitar. Literally no complaints. I adjusted the bridge pickup height to suit my preference and the "ABR-1" bridge was upside down though... dealer fixed that for me, so no more buzz on the g string. Regardless, it feels and plays like a dream. Worth every penny as far as I'm concerned. Hope you're enjoying yours Mr. Shull!

[@Gixer750pilot]

Gibson gave a popular KZbinr a guitar . I suspect this wasn’t a random off the shelf guitar but a selected item to get good praise

[@goldtopgrandeur6935]

Now Gixer - that certainly is a jaded way of looking at things! 😉 You mean YOU haven't received a free/brained nube Lince Poll yet? Shit, everybody else has...Gibson sent me mine 2 months ago. So, as you can see, it's a VERY common occurrence. (For those of you paying attention, it's almost worth starting a KZbin Channel, dinging Gibson a bit, and then getting a $3,500 guitar!) And Hey Gixer - I just called Gibson and said "Where the hell is Gixer's goddamned freebie? Like with Spiderman - 'Everybody gets one'...so, chop chop madude." He said it was shipped last week...tracking says a notice was left on your door but, they don't always do what the say. I'll have MarvMarv at Gibbo give you a call tonight say around 2:30 a.m. Does that work? He'll give you the tracking info.

[@tonym2513]

Congrats on not being stupid.

[@Daveymallon]

I bought two of those 2019 LP’s. they are really really great. They sound great and feel great but neither stayed in tune beyond one big bend on the G. Now I know why. They don’t cut the nut slots well or to spec. My tech said the nuts were cut atrociously on mine. Anyway, I got both nuts replaced with bone, pardon the pun, and now both guitars are absolutely glorious. Gibson ARE back but not all the way back. They can’t cut a nut or slot it to save a life but if you replace the nut with a bone nut by a pro who knows what he’s doing and has done it hundreds of times, seriously, you’re getting the best Les Paul there has been in 20 or more years.

[@akasgsvirgil9503]

Lol @ "Guitar Center setup" That won the internet for the year!

[@andrewgarcia3136]

Anyone who thinks guitar center is doing setups on their entire inventory (or any of their inventory) clearly never shops at guitar center

[@stevetanner9409]

I bought a new Trad in 2016, absolutely love it. The only thing it needed after I got it was little filing on the nut for the B and High E. Not a big deal. So yeah, now I want a new P90 Lester. Money being saved as we speak

[@wolverine3344]

Love Gibson, live in Kennesaw, haven’t been to Righteous yet, but will for sure. Thanks Rhett.

[@walshy2116]

I have loved Gibson since i was old enough to know about them and never faltered. It’s always great to hear they did this or did that but I never stopped liking them. Same with Fender and PRS. I basically love something about any and all guitars. It’s cool you keep a sharp eye out and make informative videos too. Thanks.

[@alexswanson1247]

That intro drum scared me for the first 3 beats 😂😂😂

[@andrewstaward6878]

Hi rhett..bought a straight of the shelf Gibson 50s standard identical as yours 2 month's ago from a local retailer near me...spent 4 year's saving for it..and man. It's awesome straight out the case..love it...great video thanks really interesting....lots of love from over the pond in great Britain 🇬🇧 😀 👍

[@orbitaljellyfish808]

9:54 Gibson may figure many people will replace 10s with 9s (or thinner) and those will sit lower in the same nut groove

[@averydeadhorse]

Orbital Jellyfish Exactly.

[@JohnShalamskas]

Excellent point. And they will have to touch up the truss rod to get the proper relief, since thinner strings will have less tension on the neck.

[@andytraverse]

No not really

[@absofjelly]

The bottom is the bottom.

[@Rogijimbex]

Impressive stuff. I checked this out because I had to send my new Gibson '61 SG Maestro Vibrola guitar back to Sweetwater to be looked at. It's a sensational instrument but the G string had a ring I could not adjust for no matter what I tried. They got back to me telling me a slight twist in the neck existed and that they'd Plek it, set it up and send it back playing like a "dream." Yee hah! A dream - can't wait. My Gibson Les Paul Standard has always played well but I wonder how it would check out if assessed by this machine. Thanks for both Plek videos - great info as always!

[@georgescarlett2320]

at 9:52--I "add back" quite often, using Bone Dust, and C/A glue, then re-cutting slot. Just sayin'

[@christschin3708]

george scarlett Good for you. 👍🏼

[@nuthinbutlove]

I remember seeing my first Plek and being a bit nervous to try it. Now that I know it's as much about the person who's operating it and their ability to make adjustments correctly I'm glad I hesitated. That same guy who tried to talk me into it did a minor repair for me that day and I made the mistake of flying straight to the gig without checking it...lack of time. Needless to say when I got back home I called him and let him know about his crappy work and never went back. Great machine, but also depends on a knowledgeable person to make the adjustments. If I lived near there I'd consider giving that place a try.

[@MikeSheasheaDtree]

I was a little nervous for Gibson in the beginning, but looks (sounds) like a happy ending.

[@inflameslp311]

4 years after its release, this video is really making me regret not following my passion into music as a profession. I’m not a gifted performer, but I do very much enjoy the behind-the-scenes aspects of music. Maybe it’s because of the high I’m riding from having successfully re-wound a humbucker for the first time, or perhaps because of the whiskey I’m drinking, but I truly feel like I am witnessing someone (Ben) who gets to do what he loves for a living, and it is especially enjoyable. I considered continuing music into college after playing euphonium from junior high through high school, but I kept telling myself that music was something I’d rather run TO than FROM, meaning that I’d rather have it as a hobby than a job, thinking I’d get sick of it and want to escape it. 20 years later I now realize that I was simply afraid of failing. I love music and always have, and had I chosen to go into music as a profession, whether as a sound engineer or a luthier (two very different but equally intriguing paths), I believe I’d have had a more fulfilling professional life. I do enjoy dabbling as a hobby, but constantly finding out how little I know makes me wish I had the time to invest in the education and experience to get to a position like Ben’s, where every day you go to work and get to do what you love. I never realized how fulfilling it could possibly be to be in music as a non-performer, and I only wish I had realized that when I had the chance to begin shaping my future. If you read all of this, I hope it helps or inspires you. And if it doesn’t, grab a drink and toast me in solidarity.

[@dnottis]

Most Dealers dont do setups... Guitar Center certainly doesnt. I've played very expensive guitars that were setup like complete crap. From the box to the wall hanger.. you want a setup.. thats another $50+

[@josephtravers777]

I broke a cardinal rule last year and bought a vintage Gibson online from a Guitar Center store in Cali. I called the rep to make sure it was setup properly and had to take it to a luthier immediately after I got it. Rep was full of s***!!!

[@magicrising]

Yeah, $100 pro set up and they do jack shit to it usually

[@bestplans9051]

Not a Gibson story but I did get a Gretsch G7593T-BD White Falcon from Street Sounds in Brooklyn, NY who promised a pro-setup from their store, no charge. Went over it with a fine tooth comb and sure enough, intonation, string height, frets, neck ...... everything done to spec! Not a knock to GC but they don't setup anything except by request which in all honesty I don't mind paying for. The difference for the money spent versus the end result IMO is worth overy penny. Also had my Epi LP setup done and made a huge difference as well.

[@stillllllife]

Learn what you need to do it your self, or pay some guy to turn your truss a bit

[@kolchak357]

Very interesting video. Would love to see an Epiphone Les Paul in that machine for comparison. That Gibson did sound great in the little bit of playing at the end. Congrats man.

[@trevorclarey3336]

A 2019 Gibson would already have been Plek'd wouldn't it ?

[@blakebowles6625]

Yeap. Already plekd from the factory. Every model after 2017-2019 I believe. Both my Gibsons came with perfect leveled and dressed frets :p

[@Uzi_does_it76]

I picked up a ‘50s Standard in cherry and a LP Special this year, and i couldn’t be happier. Before this I hadn’t purchased a Gibson product in better than 20 years. It’s nice to be able to get a real Les Paul again. They both play and sound great.

[@MrTimThunder]

Yeah, I’m considering at Standard Gold top 50’s HH

[@Jamison_IO]

flipping through videos looking for 2021 SG reviews and see this one. Realize about 4 minutes in that I've seen it. Have ZERO thoughts of not finishing. So cool.