Tokai Love Rock Les Paul Standard Upgrade Part 2 - Wiring & Pickup Upgrade - Better than Gibson?

[@murrayguitarpickups9545]

Seeing that smile on your face is what its all about for me, definitely one of my brighter sets but they really suit your playing and that guitar. Thanks for the kind words Colin

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Ben, you’re welcome mate I think you really nailed it with these! 👌 When you first contacted me it quickly became obvious how passionate you were about the black art of pickup winding and were ready to back yourself so I’m very pleased I decided to give it a shot… turns out you do know your stuff after all! 😁👍👍 Looking forward to Doug and Pat’s review of your PAF’s if they ever get around to making that video! 😎🎸

[@jorge-_-reza]

Ben, I really like the PUPs you wound for Colin! As I mentioned to him, I'm really partial to single coils (especially P90's). These really tickle my fancy and are actually the first PAFs (humbuckers) that aren't Filtertrons that I would want to swap into one of my guitars. Thanks to both of you for opening my 👀, or should I say 👂 ears to these sweet sounds...

[@murrayguitarpickups9545]

@@theguitaristas Thanks mate, I'm just glad your happy, I think there may be a future in the pickup game for me!...a lot of people will find them too bright but I think the original Gibson 57 gold top is a very bright, too bright for some obviously because they changed it in 58. I think its a good problem to have though, you can always roll off the tone on the guitar or the amp. This way you get all the frequencies and its up to you to control them, definitely not a beginners pickup!

[@srfrodoxd]

Your work sir is amazing

[@jeremyduffield-harding3392]

These videos are a breath of fresh air to me! Changing poorly-made, dull unresponsive pickups for a quality set, is only half the story; I'm so glad that you changed the wiring first! I did it the other way round and could not believe the difference a good electronics made! The Murray's sound amazing! If you are used to hearing the sound of muffled, over-bass sounding (modern) Gibson pickups, the higher frequency of these will be something of a shock to the ears; just remember that original PAF's were made to copy the sound single coil pickups, just minus the hum. I also think that having a little more treble is a nice problem, you can always roll some off. Tuning a guitar's tone is all about balance; remember the Faber bridge..... the brass saddles will soften the brightness! Were they not used on original Les Paul's for that purpose?

[@ceebee491]

Both PAF's sounded great, I would go for Montys (Greenie) ones for now. Really appreciate the work that has gone into 'Pimp my Tokai!'

[@murrayguitarpickups9545]

Thanks Cee Bee, just wanted to point out the price difference between my PAFs and the Montys. Mine are 450AUD, about 250 pounds, last I checked Montys were 450 pounds. Not saying its not justified, Matt from Montys has put loads of research into his PAFs, just something to think about.

[@ceebee491]

@@murrayguitarpickups9545 Hey, both pick ups are great. I mean your pick ups are basically P.A.F's right? I would rather order something unique like yours rather than the usual Seymour Duncan's etc. Thanks for letting us know the prices mate.

[@murrayguitarpickups9545]

@@ceebee491 No worries mate, yeah they are PAF replicas, but original PAFs varied quite a lot and evolved through the years, so I've taken aspects from several variations to customise it more towards Colin's playing style, I've given them a bit more bite and treble than average, still within the parameters of a PAF though. My 59 set is a bit fuller and smoother

[@Bobby_Digital37]

Great video!!! I really loved the Murray pickups the best!

[@paulsworld2]

great video Colin its amazing the sounds of these boutique PUPS. For you next guitar review you should consider the Epiphone inspired by Gibson Firebird. I just bought one and its really amazing.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Paul, definitely going to get one of those.... 😎👍

[@scottdavidson6066]

Those new pickups are Boss (Murray’s)! They are distorting so much more nicely than the stock pups. You’re making me want to grab up a set! Edit: Damn! The Monty’s are sick as well! Although my vote is still for the Murray’s.

[@morddas]

I really liked the Monty's. Those sounded clear and articulate, even with that beautiful dirt on em. The Murray's were nice but a little hot, for my taste. The Monty's just seemed to respond a little better to subtleties in pick attack.

[@edwardsmith9801]

I thought the wiring change when playing with the tone knobs really sounded a lot better , both sets of pickups where really nice. I might actually prefer the murries, at any rate- you Sir definitely have more patience than I will ever have with wiring& it is greatly appreciated , all the work & swearing , lol is awesome & a great bit of knowledge I can definitely use to learn. Thanks Collin.

[@jeremyduffield-harding3392]

The new wiring loom wouldn't have made a huge difference because the original pickups were still in there. In my own experience, changing the original Korean wiring loom for a CTS/Switchcraft setup with Seymour Duncan '59/Pearly Gates pickups installed, was a difference of night and day! Forget using the tone controls, the difference was apparent with the tone on 10; the tonal range was much wider, it was like lifting a veil of sound deadening gloom, those pickups came alive, I was hearing them for the first time! Please, don't even think about leaving an original wiring loom on these budget Asian guitars! The two pickup sets are quite different; I wouldn't say that one is better than the other. The Murray's are dynamic, the frequency is wide, they are as you said, alive; I think they would be a little tricky to play, but well worth the effort; perhaps because they are so transparent and responsive they could push a player to be better? The Monty's sound sweeter, more balanced, more forgiving, I would think easier to play. Both sets sound amazing with your playing skills! I can't wait to watch the next episode!

[@smeyerjr22ny]

My favorite channel .. love you and your content!

[@jorge-_-reza]

So totally involving content! Your suffering gave way to total bliss... Outstanding!!! 👍❤️🦻😉

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Jorge! 🙏😊

[@davidhamilton7780]

Nice to hear you borrow a terrific line from the late, great George Best. "I'm doing this so that you don't have to." :) It wouldn't be Friday without a dose of this.guitar brilliance. Thanks mate.

[@theguitaristas]

😆 Cheers David! 👍

[@tigersteamer]

Okay man the new wiring and those Murray Pickups are the way to go sounds great

[@theguitaristas]

It had me at the first strum I think! 😆👍

[@Furtheronmusic]

My favourite was the montys definitely somehow more rounded, less brittle and harsh to my ears.

[@margaretzabinski9977]

Everything sounded great! It'll take another listen to. Maybe even another one after that. Thanks for all the hard work, you're a great teacher.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Margaret... it was a bit like a 'how not to' video though eh? 🤣👍

[@kkzooi]

my experience with LP toggleswitches is they are a lot easier to install when the wire is soldered in a 90 degree angle towards the switch tip making the total package just a bit slimmer than the wires sticking out to the side. Also i prefered the warmer more rounded sound of the monty's. I'm curious to see next weeks comparison

[@ferdberfle5069]

I do love having breakfast with Colin! ;D I have had similar struggles with rewiring/changing out pickups. Waiting to see how this turns out, I have a 2014 Epiphone LP Traditional Pro with alnico classis pros that I'm thinking about swapping out with a set of Wilkinson PAF pickups. Depending on your results, I may just put covers on the classic pros. I've never really liked the looks of the "zebra" pickups!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Ferd, I'm look forward to trying out the classic pros next week as I've always been a bit dismissive of them and its good to now be able to do a proper comparison.... I'm a zebra fan though! 😆👍

[@standingbadger]

The grittiest, saltiest episode of Guitaristas yet! But the pain was really worth it I think. I loved both sets of PAFalikes. The Murrays sounded more Page-y to my ears; especially that lovely, biting bridge p/u. The Montys sounded more, well, Green-y; beautiful flutey and chiming overtones to them. What a great episode. Thanks a million and have a great weekend!

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man , and the Murray's definitely looked more Page-y with those uncovered coils! 😎👌

[@mkilner]

Ahh those murry's were beautiful!...like scraping the tarmac off an old country lane!...want! :)

[@theguitaristas]

@@mkilner 😆👍

[@S-T-E-V-E]

Yeah there was no audible difference with the wires but the Pots were obviously giving much better Tone variance and smoother volume control!

[@murraycoope3979]

Fantastic I know we are trying to beat the Gibson, but I think this one will become its own after the mods,so far for me it’s alum stop bar, brass saddle bridge and Murray’s but let’s see how it goes next week. Muz

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, yes that's my vote too at the moment 😎👍

[@jakeerbst4073]

Collin, your constant depiction of Les Paul Goldtop’s has proven too much for me to be able to resist, and I succumbed to my lust a few weeks ago as there was a good deal on a Gibson Victoria locally. My goodness. It was well worth the nearly 20 year wait as I’ve always wanted a Goldtop LP. So thank you for featuring Goldtops so frequently and reminding me of my white (gold) whale.

[@theguitaristas]

😆👍👍

[@El-Scorcho]

I, too, succumbed to a gold top 70s deluxe 🤑7️⃣0️⃣

[@theguitaristas]

@@El-Scorcho Nice one!! 😆👍👍

[@jakeerbst4073]

@@El-Scorchoawesome!

[@jimdoner3443]

Rock on its all golden now

[@Skybluetoo]

Love your videos. Warts an all! Montys pickups are fab in my opinion. I have the DP set in a tele and they transformed it into a wonderful sounding guitar. I think the wiring made a big difference alone in your tokai.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Marc! 😎👍

[@timhallas4275]

This was a lot like watching my neighbor (the musician) trying to change the spark plugs on his Lawn mower. He worked on it for two days, then bought a new one.

[@theguitaristas]

🤣🤣👍

[@FingersOnAFretboard]

The BHC pickups from the Tokai were EXACTLY what was in my 2018 Epiphone standard les paul . same labels, k ohm readings etc. after trying other treble-enhancing wiring /pots and uncovered pickups ,I've gone back round to putting them and original pots back in , and the the fat tone returns and the middle p.u. sweetness is back. sometimes ya gotta futz it up to figure it out. it's a system -wiring AND pickups AND potentiometers. it DID originally win out over thinner sounding Lps in the shop w more 'desirable' pickups (Epiphone's pro-buckers.)

[@viperBSG]

From what I understand all Guitars made outside of the United States are Metric(yes even Epiphones are Metric being made in China). Meaning holes are smaller, bridges and tail pieces are slimmer. So measure everything multiple times before doing this kind of work. From what I can tell the new Harness doesn't sound as dark as the original. I personally suggest a solderless Harness if trying multiple types of pickups. Then when that's over put in a high grade Harness and solder everything permanently. Just a thought. Loved the Murray '57 P.A.F. clones nice sounding.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Todd, the issue here wasn't that, but the routing in switch cavity is not as substantial as Gibson and Epiphone so it needed further routing. Also the switch shaft (although the correct diameter) wasn't long enough to protrude sufficiently above cap. Both entirely unexpected! 🤷‍♂️

[@murrayguitarpickups9545]

Thanks Todd!

[@NotSoSweetBand]

Well done Colin for not throwing the guitar across the room when fitting that switch! The frustration was evident on your face. I’ve been there before and it’s no fun is it. It wascworth it in the end though. Great vid as usual and nice playing 👍🏻

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Lee... it was a close call this week! 🤣👍

[@jamesseverin]

Another GREAT! show. This is the best show on youtube related to guitars! Thanks mate awesome playing also

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks James that's appreciated! 🙏😎

[@hod8931]

Thanks for the video! had 50's loom, cts 550k pots and motor city detroiter pups put in my les paul classic. I looked at the dreadful pcb pots in my guitar and decided to let sweetwater do the work. picked it up yesterday. after 6 days work time, it was well worth the money to me.Sounds much better and no static crackle. My plexi was pushed harder by the pups and sounds amazing. I think yours sounds much better now.

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one Hod... smart man! 🤣👍

[@book3100]

Gold tops are just plain cool. The only way they get any cooler is with P90s in it ❤️

[@RavenMadd9]

Never saw this .....nice

[@johnnyx9892]

I agree you can take any number of these budget guitars and make them nice. Perhaps even better sounding than a stock Gibson some will say. The difference is in 10 years or so the bone stock Gibson will still have it's provenance, still hold good value. This will still be a modded cheap guitar (and there is nothing wrong with that).

[@touchthesun2448]

Happy Flannel Friday! Cracking job... not yeah, but HELL YEAH! Those pups ROCK, both sets. The pots are essential, I think I prefer the Montey's. The BAD thing is now I want a Marshall... I can't wait till next week's episode of "Colin in Wonderland" TOP WRAP for me now and Brass saddles the switch is LOUD

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Bob, have a great weekend mate searching for a used Marshall on Craig’s list! 🤣👍👍

[@touchthesun2448]

@@theguitaristas that's the easy part.... searching for the $$$$, that's the real issue here. There's a reason I play cheap guitars, it's called disability... they sure sound good, maybe I will build one.

[@theguitaristas]

Your valve drive pedal looked pretty good Bob... yes your next project should maybe build a valve amp!

[@bryancollins6796]

The hardest work for me is to stay away from the guitar shop. I might walk home with something I really want but should've stayed away from. Moding up a guitar is kind of going on vacation.

[@theguitaristas]

I know that one Bryan... stay offline and don't go into shops! 🤣 yes it's great that Modding is there to keep us sane between those purchases 😆👍

[@mr.astrophysics9115]

I'm traditional when it comes to Les Paul's and Sgs I buy the real deals Epiphone and Gibson same If I want a fender stratocaster I'll MIA and MIM Fenders

[@ces69]

Not everyone can afford real Gibson’s and Fenders and for the money there are some better options than Epiphone and Squire! I’ve been fortunate enough to own a few Gibson’s and Fenders and have found some Far Eastern models such as Burny and Tokai to compare very favourable to them at much more attractive prices!

[@paultraynorbsc627]

Excellent Colin thanks for sharing 🎶🎶🎸🎵👍👍

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Paul! 😎👍

[@bretttoddable]

Thanks for taking one for the team with all that wiring! Superb watch as usual (even if some of it was sadistic pleasure 😅👍) I didn't hear any difference with the wiring swap, the Murrys sound really really nice and angry.

[@hankreus7196]

Really appreciate all the work and efforts you generously share here. Wonderful info and insights to work helps tone how & why. Curious what casual guitarists who might not be tone snobs like me, think about all this tinkering about 😊

[@che2335]

You need the recessed Switchcraft nut Gibson uses.the nut has a collar that slides into the hole and engages the threads inside the hole so it sits in the body and threads never reach the surface. And import toggle holes need to be reamed a bit.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks that's exactly what I needed and it just didn't occur to me in the heat of the moment 🤷‍♂️🤬... I may still be able to salvage that wonky switch without removing it again!

[@gioacme7321]

Great episode. Astonishing pleasure hear you play with this fantastic upgraded instrument and with a Gibson too. Thanks, but i must say that at last the Tokai sound very very Greeny.

[@twowaymuir]

Thought that you gave a poor demo of the stock pickups due to less gain on the amp. Murry's ok but a bit bright , but one can roll back the tone. Did not find the Monty's much different from the stock pickups.

[@theguitaristas]

I played the stock pickups in part two with exact same gain settings.

[@markpell8979]

I agree the Tokai after wiring/pot swap and either Murray's or Monty's PAFs is indeed 'taking it to' the Gibson. I love it when myths are undressed, if not in fact shattered. If this was my Tokai or maybe Epi and I'm performing alone or 'quietly' I like Murray's pups in this comparison. If I'm playing loud rock with a band I like Morty's- they cut through well but have a growling LP undertone that lays down that bottom and sets well against my mate's Strat. You know what I mean.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Ed, yes they would sit really nicely in a mix with a Strat 👍 I may end up having to put one of these sets in the Epiphone... 🤔🎸🎸

[@imannonymous7707]

I feel your pain and frustration. You have ventured much further than i could have...you are a trooper

[@S-T-E-V-E]

Oh the Monty PAF's sound right! Nice! Smooth and nice breakup!

[@anthonyobrien9914]

Hey there Colin, two great videos on the Love Rock upgrade. Your modifications are very similar to what I did with my Love Rock Traditional two years back . I fitted CTS pots with orange drop capacitors , Switchcraft toggle switch and output jack socket , Gibson bridge and tailpiece , Grover machine heads . I changed the BHC pickups after trying them with covers on and covers removed, then I changed to Dimarzio PAF pros with the covers removed , and finally a set of Zebra PAF types from BYO Guitar parts. It's been an interesting experiment, I actually like all the pickups , they all suited the guitar and sounded great , I'd find it difficult to pick a favourite set , but removing the cover's off the BHC and Dimarzio pickups definitely improved the tone . I use a Peavey Delta Blues with a 15 inch speaker and the Love Rock is as good as any Gibson Les Paul that I've owned and I've had plenty over the years . The Love Rock impressed me so much I ended up buying a Tokai ES78 traditional (335 type) and then a Tokai traditional SG type which I modified both in a similar fashion and I'm more than happy with the results . Having been a Gibson fanatic for decades now , I'm sold on the Tokai traditional range of guitars . I'm really looking forward to your next videos Colin, keep up the great work

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Anthony, did you have any problems with the switch? 🤣 I agree these are great guitars... it feels right so providing I don't break it in the process I will end up with a great Les Paul 😎👍

[@anthonyobrien9914]

Hi Colin, from your videoing looks like the pre made wiring harness to the switch is quite bulky for the cavity it has to fit in . I wired my switch and potentiometers etc from scratch so I didn't have any problems . The switch cavity is a little bit tight but with careful soldering , wiring it yourself gives you the best chance to make all the cables fit snugly. The original switches that are fitted to the Tokai are very much the same as the old Japanese copies from the 70s and aren't the best so it's a good thing to change them as well as those small potentiometers. Those Tokais are great for upgrades , they're really good as they come stock but fitting some higher quality parts does make them feel and perform as good as any American guitar I've owned . I PLAY AUTHENTIC ( COPIES )

[@Sean_Plays_Guitar]

I love that you show all the cursing that happens when we ALL do things like this. It’s not a project if you didn’t curse 😂😂🤘🏻 great work!!

[@chickenlickin3820]

Graham that switch is pissed as a newt! lol

[@theguitaristas]

😆👍

[@billdehey1300]

The Tokai is definitely taking it to the Gibson. I like the uncovered PAF's. Good show. I did think you were gonna lose it with the switch 😆

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Bill... I cut out the bit where I lost it with the switch! 🤣👍

[@birdman316]

great swap video! im not sure which pair of humbuckers they were but the zebra neck and black bridge just spun me out! nothing like a naked humbucker...so sexxy haha! i got my douglas double humbucker tele all strung up and ready to test out...crazy thing is the switch decided it didnt wanna play nice lol! guess it was knackered and gave up on me...but i did test her out unplugged...i have a nice new switch with a cream tip in my goodybox lookin for a new home anyway!

[@Libra1059]

Excellent job! I really liked the Murray pickups. I really don't understand top wrapping. Personally I have found I get the best results by standard wrapping and adjusting the stud heights to get the desired tension on the strings. This is the beauty of guitar set up and mods you can get what works best for yourself! Nobody is right and nobody is wrong. I really enjoy all of this! Have a great weekend!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man and you have a good one! 😎👍👍

[@pharmerdavid1432]

Agreed, the stud tailpiece is designed to be adjustable for a reason. But does the guitar sound better with the stud tailpiece decked, rather than raised? I seriously doubt any audible difference can be discerned, and if you rest your hand on the tailpiece smooth metal feels better than top-wrapped strings. But THEY (your heroes) did it that way you say? "Do whatcha like, that's what I say - do whatcha like - do it all day!".

[@richardlynch5632]

Monty's pups have more "useable" tones to my liking. Bluesier😎👍 Murray's are...BRIGHTER. However...when would that brightest settings ever be used by me...? Never😂 That said...brass saddles may do the trick...?👍🤞 The nuances of a fifties wiring is a cool tool if you use the blending features. Don't need a treble bleed set up. EXCELLENT series😃😎👍 Looking forward to future videos.😎👍 Ya know...pick selection makes a HUGE change to tone and dynamics. And except for Blue Chip picks, a less expensive upgrade😉😎👍 Cool riffage on outro @59:12 brother 😉😃😎👍 😎👍❤🖖 Love Brother

[@goingwildagain]

Colin why dont you take the Burstbuckers out of the gib and try them in the Toc. That would be intresting. I love the sound oc the tocs and your blues style is very pleasing on the ears . Thanx

[@Furtheronmusic]

My thoughts..... Never buy ready soldered pots and switch just get components and do it myself I think....

[@TheFastrider76]

Sir, let me tell you something. Found your channel after buying my first guitar ever, 2 months ago, an Epiphone Les Paul Classic... I can't play guitar whatsoever, but you have become sort of like an uncle I look up to. You are the epitome of patience and you're incredibly therapeutic to watch or (listen to) during my long commutes here in California. Although I have to say, today you got me real good with the sirens sound!!! 🚨... I was looking around while driving to see where the ambulance or police were coming from 😂😂😂😂 and second of all, I realize you're probably the only person that gets away wearing cross and play like a real badass! Thank you so much for being who you are... hopefully one day I get at least 1% of your talent and play my guitar like you do!! Cheers!

[@TheFastrider76]

*autocorect: I meant "crocs" 👞

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man thanks for all the kind words and support it’s appreciated! 😁🙏 the secret to my playing skills is all in the crocs! 🤣

[@drzainnas]

God bless the trier and we salute you. It might help to go through the neck pickup routing hole and try with the right tools very carefully and patiently trying to copy the Gibson measurements as close as possible. Other option is using the original switch which the guitar came with. Don't worry it's normal to get upset we all still keep learning new things even after decades in our professions, the main thing is your smile, determination and your efforts are worth our respect appreciation for the great work on your channel and we are all salute you because every second is priceless and please keep the good work. Best regards from 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🤘🔥🔥

[@williamkyle6275]

Monty’s for sure. Are the Monty’s potted or unpotted? What about the bridge and stop bar and what about the Nut?? I prefer the Greenie Moore test bed when checking out the sound and tones. Just sayin. Cheers!

[@nicholaswoolfenden5254]

The switch and wiring to the control cavity ... It's not worth the trouble I don't think. Secondly it makes far more sense to have one multicore shielded wire from the switch, the three tropical Gibson style braided cables are a pain in the neck. It did not make any difference to my mod in terms of sound. How can it?!

[@srfrodoxd]

Oooh the creaminess on those murray pickups!! I love them, definitely changing the pickups is crucial in order to shape your tone the way you want

[@manahaas]

Those Murrays were incredible.

[@thecaveofthedead]

Hardware and wiring changes - pretty much no difference. PAFs go in - instantly sounds like a '50s Les Paul. The Murrays in particular were really pukka. They have what I call "PAFsqueak" - that intense attack (something the burstbuckers really don't have). They really reminded me of late '60s Fleetwood Mac recordings when Peter Green and Danny Kirwan were both using 'bursts. I'd say if you're going to spend all that on parts, it's probably worth grabbing a used MIJ Tokai Les Paul - because the feel in your hand is much more premium feeling. They're all built to a large extent very much like '50s Les Pauls.

[@murrayguitarpickups9545]

Thanks thecaveofthedead

[@davepark1827]

I have a Korean made Tokai gold top with p-90's and it's a good guitar, but not even close to the Gibson Standard I own with VI pot's, PIO caps and Monty's PAF's.

[@S-T-E-V-E]

Who'd have thought the switch would be such a nightmare!

[@theguitaristas]

Not me that's for sure! 🤣👍

[@MrSongwriter2]

If you’d had a Japanese or Tokai with the upgraded pickups you’d have a better guitar than the Gibson. The Japanese Tokai and Fernandes especially from 80’s are astounding guitars

[@jefftucker201]

Bloody Hell Colin, that was a job and half mate! lol felt for you all the way through that. Great vid mate. All the best and have a great weekend sir! EDIT: PUPs, Has to be the Montys for me.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Jeff, have a great weekend mate! 😎👍

[@murrayguitarpickups9545]

Can I buy your vote?....haha.... with a massive price difference

[@marcozarattini1854]

As Always good job Colin...waiting for the next step and to see where you Will take us🤣🤣🤣...Cheers👍👍👍

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Marco! 😎👍

[@MrSongwriter2]

You’d have been much better off with a hosco switch, Japanese quality designed to work with Tokai and Fernandes/Burny and just solder the wires yourself

[@jacob_miller]

100% needed the brass saddles & better bridge for the comparison, the stock pickups were too dark but that’s not uncommon. I guess you have to stick with the stock one for now. Nickel plated brass is period correct for a burst, and standard fitment on new high end Gibson’s. The wiring is a wonderful thing, for many guitars it can make as much difference if not more than a pickup swap. “50’s” wiring in particular gives such a high level of tonal variation & that sweet top end remains when you roll back. Very tasteful playing I must say, the amp helped bring something out in you which was evident in your dynamics. I bet you were having some fun 🤩 Loving this project and looking forward to the next one! 🙏😊

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, yes I will pop it back in a later episode 👍 I had a lot of fun making this and playing for it…. and there was a some pain! 😆👍

[@jacob_miller]

@@theguitaristas I really appreciate a content creator leaving in raw parts like that 🙏, we all felt your pain! Hahaha. No pain no gain! For anyone interested I can say from experience, a straight carving 8-10mm #8 profile chisel makes extremely short work of the cavity modifications, and you can easily recess the switch further with the right size reamer or drill bit (with the drill in reverse!) to get the chip on. You can apply this method if you must use short shaft pots (which only fit vintage and True Historic/Custom Shop Les Paul’s to my knowledge).

[@Saul_HUDSON]

This smile at 39'40 is a perfect summary of this long and very interesting video...

[@bdogjr7779]

Awesome G《☆》Wow So many combinations👍✔I've had my Epiphone LesPaul standard Top wrapped ever since I installed Gibson Burstbucker Pro 1 & 2 in 15 years ago. Maybe I'll go back to regular wrap next time I re string. I like the Murray uncovered bridge sound & the Covered Neck sound🖖🤓🏈

[@theguitaristas]

😎👍👍

[@egnbigdave]

Epis are usually Probucker 2 and 3.

[@theguitaristas]

Found out today its 1 & 2!

[@egnbigdave]

@@theguitaristas Thats a suprising turn of events! I don't think I've actually seen a ProBucker 1! I've had a couple with 2 and 3's in them, and one of the Trad Pro 2's that had a 3 in the bridge and Alnico Classic in the neck.

[@theguitaristas]

@@egnbigdave That's assuming I read it right! 😆 check out this Friday's show and let me know I will photograph the back.

[@egnbigdave]

​@@theguitaristas just looked them up - the PB 1/2 set does exist....! Not as hot as the 2/3 set. Blimey.. you learn something every day

[@PlatinumBlack90038]

The Epiphone Les Paul Standard 1950s has Epiphone ProBuckers 2 and 3.

[@QXZJX]

All pickups sounded good. Think I liked the covered Greeny output ones best ❤

[@Edward1312]

Another great video Colin. I've never tried a Japanese made Tokai LP but they have a v good reputation, I have a Chinese made Tokai LP and I can report its an excellent guitar! They make a fantastic modding platform as your video proves. I prefer normal not top wrap.

[@theguitaristas]

😎👍

[@bencarpenter3785]

Great stuff 👍👍🍻🇦🇺🎸🏄

[@briandevitt6903]

Only getting around to watching this now Colin. Great video. I think the Montys sounded more to my taste.

[@bbqbeers]

The monty's sounded way better to my ear I feel that the custom ones were way too hot for me too bright and sharp. The monties sound like something you would hear in a studio.

[@KennethMoyer-t3y]

Loved the smile on your face when you tried the Murray pickups.

[@virgilmaralit7817]

“Whack it on 10 & OFF you go!!” The greatest statement ever made! 49:00

[@mortonwilson795]

My Saturday lunchtimes just get better and better! The Monty's sound great but not ruling out the Murray's - they have a bit more sunshine over in Oz and it shows in the top end, I think. Both great. "I did warn you there might be some swearing." Well, fuck, yeah - rather you than me and thank you for going where I would never dare to go - I learn a lot from your stuff and this certainly helps me appreciate the work guitar tech people do . . . you demystify things for civilians like me - thank you! While we're on the subject, I caved and bought the Epi / Gibson hybrid 59 and love it. My 68 LP Custom is with Nameless Guitars here in HK right now getting a new jack plug put in (keeping all the original pick-ups and vol/tone rig) and really looking forward to comparing them when it comes back. Cheers from the mystic East!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Morton, hopefully things getting a easier for you over there now? Let me know how the 68 Custom stacks up against the fraction of cost imposter! I sold my reissue 68 Custom earlier this year… it was great but just didn’t get used in the face of such reasonably priced competition! 😎👍

[@diegozamorano3467]

Just with the 50,s wiring it sounds amazing. Most important the wiring than the pups

[@feloniousmonk321]

OK, I'll bite and will probably get corrected. My understanding is that Tokai produced quality cheap knockoffs in the 80s at a time when Fender's quality control had got pretty bad. However, now their MIJ guitars are at a similar price point to the actual Fenders and Gibsons, it seems to me a bit like Lidl or Audi putting their prices up to the point where you may as well shop in Waitrose. OK, maybe that's not a good analogy, as Tokai probably do produce quality guitars, but for £1.5K I'd expect something amazing. I mean, for a brand that was once known for affordable guitars, but now - not really (excepting the Chinese range, which tbh doesn't really punch beyond its price point.

[@texasbootlegger3752]

I must say Colin - The most entertaining video you have shared to date! Well worth my subscription to your paid channel! Not a project for rookies!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man... it's what I call 'reality modifications'! 🤣👍 watch out for some outtakes on the subscription channel!

[@texasbootlegger3752]

@@theguitaristas you do a great job!

[@coffeerocker1429]

Loved this episode. You got your sweat on mate. Those Murray's were sensational. Grunty. The Montys all class, a little subtle when compared. I think both challenging the Gibson pick ups. Keep 'em coming. Great job. 👍

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers mate, thanks for the support it's really appreciated! 🙏 I'm a big P90 fan and I think those Murray's got close to what I imagine Seth Lover was aiming at in '57 😎👍👍

[@bciecko1]

Groupthink is real. If anyone doesn't agree that it's been taken to Gibson is just in denial. It's a reality.

[@gerryloughran1676]

Wow feel the pain … but no pain no gain ! … the pay off was the Monty’s pots the tone control was stunning …and the Murray’s pups … well those pickups are on another level with a lot of Flyod vibes effortlessly ringing through with a wonderful abundance of sound trail which the Gibson has a little and unfortunately Monty’s got none… be great to see the Murray’s dialed in… hope Matt see this and gets at new switch sorted !

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Gerry, great quote for Murray’s there! 😎👍

[@martinclayton7260]

You play right handed, but you use the soldering iron left handed? I took the burstbuckers out of my Les Paul, and the 490R, 498T out of my other Les Paul, they both have Bare Knuckle pickups in them now. One has a set of Mule's in it, the other a set of PG blues. I liked the Murray's best, they sounded bright, but sweet!

[@theguitaristas]

Yes I’m left handed! 😎👍👍

[@jimihendrix1575]

Just discovered your EXCELLENT channel. Recently purchased my first TOKAI Love Rock in Lemon Burst (made in China). Began modifying her immediately. Swapped out the pups with 2 DiMarzio Super Distortions, Gotoh locking 'Tulip' tuners, complete wiring harness with CTS 500k pots with Orange drop caps, Switchcraft 3-way toggle switch, Switchcraft input jack, and just for a sorta vintage look, volume and tone 'pointers'. Absolutely LOVE this guitar.

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one Jimi!… did you have much fun installing the switch? 😆👍

[@jimihendrix1575]

@@theguitaristas Man, that switch was the toughest part!

[@timmccormick240]

Outstanding transformation! Your channel is the best in class, Structure,and information on KZbin by far! From my ear I believe the Murray's Sounded the best. Bright ,clean ,crisp, Articulate and no fuzz. Have been an electrician for 29 plus years, With wiring patience is always the key. I've learned a lot by watching you perform your craft. (Great job.)

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Tim! I wouldn’t trust me with a distribution board though!... 😆👍

[@pleasantlindsey33]

I’m late seeing this. I really enjoyed that Murray pickup set.

[@MrYatesj1]

Cheers mate, that was a labor of love or down right pain in the azz, but I love the work you do the points you are making are not falling of deaf ears. It is not necessary to break to bank to have a competitive sounding guitar (tone vs tone) for a fraction of the cost. You did not really talk about the cash you spent (or I missed it) but its seems to me you are 1/3 or possibly 1/4 to cost of a Gibson LP. By the way I looked at Monty's web page and love the humbucker shaped P90's, I am ordering those bad boys today.

[@theguitaristas]

Mmm humbucker sized P90's nice!! 😋 I have some SD Phat Cats I should really try them in this but am saving them for my Gretsch Streamliner project. So assuming about £250 on pickups the total cost of upgrades would be around £900 inc the guitar so maybe a bit more than 1/3 but the Tokai is a great base to start from so could be worth it? Lets see! 😎👍

[@oqsy]

Maybe I am missing something but I am not sure I understand why you were unhappy with the final result with the switch. It looks ok to me on my phone screen 😂 I assume something is wonky that I can’t detect 🤷🏻‍♂️ Thanks for the video as always!

[@theguitaristas]

Yes it’s still a bit wonky… I may live with it now though! 🤣👍

[@dennisflock3958]

Good morning from Chicago!

[@theguitaristas]

Good morning Chicago... have a great day! 😎👍

[@Robert_Bubba_Baker]

Another interesting show. The pursuit of tone is definitely greatly influenced by the electronics and the quality of the metal in the materials used and not the tone woods. Not too mention the most important part of it is the feel of the player in knowing on how to get the best out of their guitar. They say beware of the gunslinger who only has one gun. Sorry I stole that one. Thank you again Colin. Be well .

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, I like that quote... I am now imagining how good I would be if I only had one guitar!! 🤣👍

[@graypackham1315]

Nice work. I've been diving deep into your channel of late and am really enjoying the videos (and you). A great "down home" style of presenting. No BS!! I preferred the Monty's in the end - the Murray pups were too bright for my liking, although I'm sure they could be softened somewhat depending on amps and other gear. Keen to hear if swapping out the saddle will make any difference. Keep up the good work mate and try not to go broke in the process! Cheers!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man thanks for supporting! 😎👍

[@murrayguitarpickups9545]

Hey Gary I just want to mention my regular PAF is a bit warmer smoother and fuller, less bright than these but after discussions with Colin we decided to go for a bit more bite and treble than average. I custom wind every set to suit the player so I could definitely make something more suitable for you.

[@DaddyWarbucksunlimited]

Gibson are magical and never equalled. So are fender my fave USA teles.

[@billdehey1300]

I thinking about setting up my Les Paul Standard with a wrap around. What style/brand did you use. Thanks

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Bill, I use Ernie Ball Reg Slinky 10 - 46 but I think pretty much works with anything. Worth giving it a try see how you like it! 😎👍

[@mayousimon1]

You need to change the machine heads or tuners as look not too good on the strings try various different types of tuners

[@Fluffytoebeans]

I am trying to watch this @ 2x speed but you make it so dam hard because every time you have your guitar playing in the back ground I have to play at normal speed because I enjoy your playing soooooo much! I love these videos and am so glad I found your channel! Thank you!

[@theguitaristas]

😆👍

[@arthurwalls9091]

Hi COLLIN ... Love your Channel , By Far the best & most informative Channel / Show on KZbin or anywhere else to look .... Your patience to detail is to be commended & compared to that of " JOB " from Biblical times ...( From what I was taught there were even times where JOB lost it from time to time but didn't let that derail him away from righteousness which in Guitar Land YOU Surely Are One of the Righteous ....!!!!!!!.....Brilliant , Actually .....!!!!!!! Now that said , all acclaim & applause to you , a couple small things I'd like to add if you wouldn't mind .....1.) I'm a simple guy with simple solutions for simple problems whereas most will continue to suffer little issues time after time again & again instead of using just a little time to think for Aaf a Mo & solve it once & for all.... Lol , I have to laugh at myself & the solution coz it's just Way Too Simple .... With the level of aggravation of routing & re - routing the wire loom bits & pieces , ( we all know just how aggravating that can be also causing the losing of identity tags along the way ) ... Why don't you simply Tie / Tape a piece of Kite String to each Bits of Loom you're getting ready to pull out so you can just attach it to the new loom bits & straightaway easily pull them thru to the pots for wiring ..... I Know , LOLOLOL... But , it is worthy of doing , even if it doesn't save you much time I believe it should save a little bit on the aggravation meter ...👍............ 2.) I've been watching you for a while now & applaud the great attention to detail of best scenarios of competition of parts & problems vrs / solutions , and that's why it boggles my mind why you haven't thrown one of the possibly best solutions to a couple of problems , issues , & improvements into the mix just for comparison sake .... I know they're an expensive addition just for one comparison video , BUT Not necessarily , not if you only use them to do comparing for the video's sake and remove & keep them to include on each subsequent comparison guitar parts , bits / pieces sound , sustain , and playability comparisons.... And that would be including a set of Schaller Roller Bridge , Tailpiece , & Posts .... For one reason , For those breaking strings at or near their bridge it's spossed to cut way down on that breakage with no further need to overlap, unless you just wanted to over wrap for sake of reducing string tension even more for playability's sake & make bends easier/smoother...And for possibly more sustain .....By adding this combo into all subsequent comparison videos I believe you'd be able to either verify or dispel all hardware questions & myths that do still exist .... COLLIN , Yessss , You Are The MAN ..... I Absolutely Love & Admire Your Work .....Sorry this was so long winded , but , you are such a man of DETAIL I didn't want to leave anything out ...Cheers ... Thanks for listening .... From : Art , New Castle , Delaware , USA ....... Musicians , even old used to be musicians like me appreciate you ALL AROUND the WORLD .... 🎸🎸👌👌👍👍👋👋👋

[@theguitaristas]

🙏😊

[@fongy200]

Those school boy errors stick it in and break it off eh? At least your 300 rpm Guitar didn't paralyze you on take off from the Drill stand, now that would have been a bummer.

[@theguitaristas]

😆👍

[@John-hi2yi]

A great video Colin, I do appreciate you putting yourself through those testing moments. Those PAFalikes where beautiful . Great fun and thank you.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers John! 😎👍

[@jeremy_p]

Hello from across the pond! After the wiring, I feel the sound was much warmer before using the tone/volume controls. As far as pickups I feel the Murray;s broke up quicker as they sounded hotter, perhaps due to no covers. I bet they would sound the best out of the bunch with a lot of drive!!! The Monty's did not sound as hot, but IMO closer to the Gibson. How about throwing Gibson burstbusters into the Tokia? I don't think the EPI's are using the Gibson busters. Thoughts!

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Jeremy, yes I'm feeling that too... the Monty's sounded quite close to the BB's with less bite and I am in fact going to steal the BB's from the Gibson and out them in the Tokai to try next week 😆👍

[@alanst.4417]

@@theguitaristas that's gonna be glorious! 😁

[@GwareddJ]

I was after a Les Paul Gibson black beauty 3 humbuckers etc. Always liked them and the sound. I saved and scrapped up enough cash to buy one. Drove 3 hours to get to a guitar shop that had one instock. Left the shop with a Japanse Tokai ULS136F in cherry burst and BOY am I not sorry I did. I connected with the Tokai instantly, the feel the sound.. I was stunned.. it was like touching a ladys B**bs for the first time.. I nearly cried.

[@theguitaristas]

Great story thanks for sharing man! Just goes to show the best guitar is the one that connects with you emotionally for whatever reason that may be! 😎👍😁