Why the LES PAUL can't be BEAT | Gibson vs Gustavsson

[@MikeShope1]

I find this topic very interesting. I really enjoy that your R9 Les Paul keeps coming back to the comparison videos, it looks and sounds beautiful. I can’t make one sound that good. I agree that there is some definite nostalgia, and other psychological factors at play here. As you mentioned, it’s the original, the benchmark. I have a couple Gibsons, and several PRS guitars, and I gig regularly. The playing experience on the PRS guitars is my preference. But some of my friends and other musicians have told me they prefer when I play the Gibson guitars. And I’ve even experienced event photographers taking a disproportionate amount of pictures of me playing the Gibson guitar, that I would only play for a small portion of the set. Preference is a funny thing. And when it comes to electric guitars, we are spoiled for choice.

[@89digits59]

It's the symmetry of shape - the Les Paul is over all a very well-shaped guitar add to that the cosmetics take it up a notch, especially with the Flame Maple tops.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Agree - it’s a thing of beauty!

[@ShamanicSavant]

It's the symmetry and shape of a female body :)

[@ShamanicSavant]

You forgot one other psy-factor, the most influential one. All LP copies have one thing in common... they're copies of an original design. Subconsciously, copy = fake and fake = not as good as the original. It doesn't matter how well it's made, or how unobtainable the materials are, it's still a copy. Subconsciously it says the maker didn't have enough creativity to do something original, and musicians (good ones anyway) put a high value on creativity. Collings LP copy is a great example. It's flawlessly made from arguably better materials and components, and people buy one thinking they're getting a better LP. Then at some point they realize that it doesn't scratch the itch because it's not a real LP, it's just an even more expensive copy. Not to mention a scratch or ding on a Collings brings a flood of tears and cuts the resale value in half, where on an R9 it just becomes part of the relic job. Gotta hand it to Gibson's marketing team on the relic thing, PRS probably lays awake at night wishing he could top that one :)

[@dennyclosser8456]

First off I always love the riffs you put together. Beautiful touch. As a Les Paul owner myself and also quite a few other double guitars. I totally understand we are coming from. I just got an Eastman I can’t find myself putting it down simply because ease of playability, feeling the guitar even before it’s plugged in resonating through your body is a wonderful experience. That said there’s still gonna be some parts where I need that less Paul grind and crunch that I’m only gonna get from my Les Paul. truly appreciate the video. Thanks so much.

[@dennyclosser8456]

Double humbucker Guitars that was supposed to say

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure and thank is for the kind words and reflections as always! The Eastmans I’ve tried had wonderfully thin finishes and were resonate guitars. That’s what I always look for.

[@richlife06]

I just acquired an Eastman 59 Custom equivalent with matte black finish and loaded with Lollar Imperials. Really blew me away.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Great guitars and pickups!

[@dragan4658]

In my opinion there are psychological influences on our ideas that push our bias towards a certain item. Play what inspires you the most, and that can be multiple guitars, and this varies depending on our person skill level so an inexpensive guitar can influence and inspire us more than a more expensive guitar. At least that is my personal experience. I find myself drawn to both of the guitars you have showcased. Thank you for the video and your thoughts John!

[@Squall6575]

The gibson definitely has that bite in the bridge we associate with les pauls. I think the bluemaster 59 is amazing in its own right. I hear plenty of chime and overtones I associate with vintage bursts. I think looks definitely play a part and people always tend to lean towards gibson because of familiarity. It also helps when the les paul looks as good as yours does!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said! The Gibby has that classic snarl and growl, but the BM has its own thing too! The beauty is that all those burst had slightly different voices so just one more reason why we need more than one guitar!

[@drewbarries]

Hey Jonathan, you always grab me with great thought provoking content and killer playing. I am also the owner of a great 2020 Wildwood Spec ‘59 and have recently acquired a 2023 Murphy Lab Brazilian, which has caused me to rethink a lot of what I had previously thought of Les Pauls and raised the bar in terms of feel and tone. The wildwood spec CBs were Alnico 3, which were not typically used in ‘59 and are warmer and between the neck and bridge more balanced than actual Bursts, which were a mix of A2, A4 and A5s. The limited run MLBs use Alnico 5 and are just in another ballpark in terms of tone. Also the MLB comes in at around 8.4 lbs while my WW is closer to 9 lbs. There’s a strong possibility that the Johan Gustavsson Throbaks are Alnico 2, which would be closer to A5 than A3 tone wise. The ABR-1 bridge is another significant contributor to tone, which imho lends itself to a certain type filtering that I believe contributed to some major tonal differences. Overall I think the JG sounded brighter and more focused whereas the LP had more warmth with a bit of additional harmonic content that contributes to a less focused tone or almost like a kind of fizzy overtones. As far as perception vs. objectivity is concerned, I always think of Warren Haynes when I think of the epic LP tone and that aligns to what I hear in yours, which is to say a fatter, warmer tone with big powerful mids. This is what I heard throughout your demo, that is until the end when for some reason the JG oddly sounded warmer and less focused, which confused me and so not sure what happened there. I think that any great duo humbucker guitar with similar woods and weights can cover any ground and had my influencers been able to access more modern designs like the JG or PRS 594s I think they would have used and recorded with them and so there is this sort of limiting common ground that they have, which does affect what we perceive as it is closer to the tone in our heads.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the kind words and insightful builds as always, Drew! I enjoy hearing about your thoughts on experiences on this subject. I'm glad you mentioned the ending. I had the same thought. I doubled checked my edits to make sure I didn't flip flop the audio, but it was correct. I suspect what happened is that the tone was rolled back on the JG bridge pickup. I didn't do it on purpose, but that is the only explanation that makes sense to me as to why that was the only example of the JG being warmer than the Les Paul. I played a Brazilian Murphy Lab at the Gibson Garage earlier this year and was impressed. I do think the Brazilian boards and non-plasticized lacquer matter. Agree on the hypothetical - I think the greats would have made great music on any of the amazing modern equivalents!

[@martinmartin8871]

"LP had more warmth with a bit of additional harmonic content that contributes to a less focused tone or almost like a kind of fizzy overtones." The low mids of the LP is undeniable. Muddy to some but to me - a beast!

[@cmonsterz]

This was totally tough, Jon! I will say that in listening with eyes closed, the tones are similar enough to both be beautiful! I’ve played Les Paul’s for decades and as “homey” as they are for me, I’m automatically curious about derivatives and the Gustavsson certainly drew me in!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Man I can relate! I love them both for different reasons. I'll ways keep a Gibson Les Paul in the stable, but I can't live without some fine derivatives as well!

[@michaelschneider7590]

Apart from legacy associations and brand equity, some people may simply respond to the exact Les Paul sound they know, just like they do for strats vs s-type guitars - rather than what’s “better” in some other way like resonance or dynamics. A blinded comparison could be interesting, to strip out some of those factors!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Great point, Michael! Thanks for the suggestion and will consider some blind tests in future videos.

[@michaelschneider7590]

@@RatherBeRiffing I was not familiar with Gustavsson guitars till this video, and went straight to his website to learn more. I’m curious what he brings to the S and T, but mainly want to hear you play his Bluesmaster semi-hollow!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@michaelschneider7590I’ve wanted to try the semi-hollow for a long time now. Someday hopefully!

[@kj053910]

Why the modulation? It’s impossible to get a true feel for what a guitar sounds like when everything is soaked in modulation.

[@flapjack413]

I like the wood, and the finish on the Gustavsson better, it's more in line with what I would expect to see on an original burst. If I could combine that wood, and that checking of the finish, with the shape of a Les Paul, with a bit more of a teaburst finish, THAT would be the one I'd pick. Tough call. They're both really nice in their own ways.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

That would be cool!

[@lodden90]

Gil Yaron used to make a good 59 replica and put his own name and headstock shape on it that set it apart from being a straight replica. I still would love a Gustavsson though, I think the shape of the bluesmaster is great. The thing I don't like about modern gibson is that the top carve is still not right IMO.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I’ve played a couple and they live up to the hype. My Yaron Bone 59 is my #1. I wonder if the only way to get the top carve right is to use the original carving methods rather than CNC. I’ve played one original 59 burst and as much as Gibson has improved in recent years, there is still something about the originals that probably can’t be replicated without a time machine.

[@brianhensien]

Your playing is so tasty that it distracts from the comparison, lol! I mean that as a compliment, ofcourse! I really enjoy the sounds and quality lines you consistently create. I could vibe out on that all day. You got any guitar albums out? Close comparison- my ears prefer the Gustavsson but you can’t beat the classic, tried and true Gibson vibe. Thanks again, Jon!!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

haha! Thanks for the kind words as always, Brian! Agree - I'll always reserve a spot for a good Les Paul, but the rest of the spots are for my favorite boutique derivatives. I'm going to release a 5 song instrumental here on KZbin soon.

[@paternuin]

I agree. I like the sound of the Gustavsson better, more chime, cleaner, but aesthetically has nothing to do against the Les Paul. The shape and composition of the LP is so brilliant. And not only because of tradition. Is the weight and balance of the lines, is the way the symetry is broken... It has perfect classic proportions

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said! I always come back to the aesthetic of the LP. Unfortunately, to get the same specs as the JG from Gibson, it's almost 2x the cost (e.g. the Brazillian Murphy Lab run).

[@dragan4658]

The G LP does have a psychological advantage as you say because of its worldwide popularity, acceptance and recognition. Amazing guitars and stellar playing as usual! Personally for me without be able to play both I am not able to choose a favorite between these two guitars, the vibe you get from playing a guitar is a significant factor for preference for me. Thanks for sharing Jon.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My pleasure and thanks as always! I totally hear you. The playing experience is ultimately where the magic happens.

[@michaelheller8841]

I'm probably the wrong guy to ask which one is better or what I prefer without playing them both. I've been a Gibson Les Paul player for over 35 years lol. In your demo, I liked how Gustavsson was hitting the harmonics. On all pickup positions. The Gibson however once you put a little crunch into it the lead PUP was more forward sounding and I liked it better. Don't get me wrong it is still just a tad. That is why Gibson's are different. It hits us with the familiarity aspect. Up, there it is. I like that Gustavsson resembles a marriage between Les Paul/Tele. It's a beautiful guitar as well. My Les Paul is a Wildwood R8 and it's my #1. Although my Gibson ES-345 argues with it all the time lol. Great demo and what matters is what you prefer. No one can take that away from us. A good Gibson is tough to beat in my experience. It's how we get inspired while playing.

[@hkguitar1984]

Easy......... Myself, like many Players wanted a Gibson Les Paul and a Marshall half-stack. Lots of guitars match or exceed the Les Paul's looks, sound and feel, same can be said for Marshall style amplifiers. It's all about dreams and desires, when I open the door to my practice area I want to see a Marshall half-stack and sunburst Les Paul on a stand. Once I acquired my Les Paul and Marshall combination I was literally open to any Les Paul style guitar and amplifier. On this journey I think most players have a combination they dream of and want to try, it allows you to connect with and rate yourself to the great Artists who have used those same guitars and amplifiers. Not gonna lie, many current guitars and amplifiers out there are much that better the classics that were used in the 1960s and 1970s. But for those who want to recreate and connect with past Artists, only the originals will suffice. Great Content, Thank You

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the thoughtful insight and kind words as always! Great point. I tried a Yaron LP 59 replica and man I felt even closer to Jimmy Page wailing on Since I've Been Loving You than I have on any other guitar (one of my biggest idols/influences growing up). I've yet to try a real burst (saw a '60 up close once). I tried a '57 gold top that was cool. Maybe someday!

[@ksharpe10]

@@RatherBeRiffing I played a 3 pickup Red top 60 les paul in the 70's was not over the top blown away, and then played my then fairly new 76 les paul standard tabacco sunburst, actually I prefered my Norlin guitar, the 60 was not to heavy though, maybe if I would have had it for like a week, i might have bonded with it, but 1st impressions not so much. Gil Yaron is a very Skilled Craftsman, he used to light up the Tdpri forum back in the 2009 time period.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@ksharpe10 They say not all vintage guitars are great and there are great examples from all eras, which reflects your experience. I’ve read Gil’s ~400 page thread on Tdpri - epic!

[@nickh1933]

The next singlecut I am trying is the Knaggs TS Eric Steckel model. Willcutt has a few I am drooling over. I had a Wildwood R8 And a gold top 57 historic. Loved the tones, but the necks were Way to huge. That seems to be the only thing that is a constant hindrance for me with high-end single cut guitars. I'm pretty sure the knaggs Also has a big neck. At some point, I'm gonna have to get a Yarron custom built with a neck that doesn't feel like a big 2 x 4.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I've been wanting to try a Steckel model for a while now (I had the Doug Rappaport model for a bit). My #1 is a Yaron Bone. His guitars live up to all of the hype. It is a "Goldie lox" guitar for me: perfect tone in all 3 positions, perfect neck, perfect vintage aesthetic, and perfect playability. If you go that route, I'm sure Gil will make you a guitar you'll be happy with!

[@nickh1933]

Great to know. Exceptional tone by the way in this demo, What was your signal chain like? Pedals, amps, etc.

[@jospoortman9915]

I was just thinking 'but we listen with our eyes too', and then you just said that. Beautiful playing man. I'm very sensitive to the 'looks' part and would pick the LP over the LP/tele cross because of exactly what you said. Thanks to its legacy, I'm perceiving the LP as a 'perfect' guitar. But that Gustavsson sounds absolutely fantastic, very lively. I'm hearing slightly more bottom end and highs on the Gibson, while the Gustavsson seems to have a bit more mids, especially in the higher gain part of the comparison. and hell yeah time (and timing) made that Gibson Iconic, if the Gustavsson would've come out of the 'gibson' factory back then instead of the Les Paul, it would totally have been the iconic guitar nowadays.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you and well said - I relate to all of this.

[@andyhayes7828]

Maybe the bridge difference imparted this, but, I definately hear a bit more definition in the front of the notes/pick attack with the Les Paul. That Les Paul also seemed to have a touch more 'chunk' as well, the Swede guitar was a bit smoother/kinder. Great playing and tones, thanks for the vid 👍

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Good point! I’ve never seen a BM with a two bridge, but he had used them on his SG type build.

[@matthewanderson7599]

Can you do a video of a Collings I35 Deluxe vs the Les Paul?

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I would love to if I can get access to an I-35

[@Dezenaamisnietbeschikbaar]

I feel like the Gustavsson has more harmonic content, it has a broader tonal range. But the Les Paul is a bit more aggressive and maybe has a bit more high-mid, which makes it a bit clearer to my ear. No idea if I still agree with this if I would listen to the same video in a couple weeks haha. And I might not even be able to tell which is which if I don't have video. Overall I 100% agree with you, a Gibson is such an icon. When I went to get my first 'high-end' humbucker guitar I wanted it to be a Gibson, even when another brand might have sounded better. I just wanted that iconic tone and look.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Good way to describe the differences!

[@BrunoB2Soares]

I'm a big fan of Gibson Les Paul, I have two of them. I've never considered having other guitar but listening to the sound of your Boutique guitar really surprised me, what a pleasant sound. What is the ThroBak pickup model you have on it?

[@RatherBeRiffing]

SLE 101+

[@davidrees1840]

I'm a Les Paul guy, but I love the look of the Gustafson(sp?) too, although the LP flame and dye is maybe the most dramatic I've seen. They sound pretty much the same as far as I can tell, so it might come down to other things, like cost, resale, etc., but for me, a big thing is neck heel design -if I ever buy another LP, it will be an Axxess, or at least a CS with that neck heel. Would like your opinion of the Gustafson vs other modern neck heels. Good vid, thank you!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

The Gustavsson neck heal has a slight angle carved in. Very subtle and tasteful, but makes a difference!

[@davidrees1840]

@@RatherBeRiffing good to know, thanks!

[@ksharpe10]

Very nice Guitars, and Great to see a Owner that can play them Well. I shudder to think how many holy Grails are out there in the hands of Owners who can afford them but cannot hardly play them that's the shame in vintage and expensive guitar collecting.

[@paoloelicano]

How does your 594 compare with the Les Paul? Awesome playing as always!!!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Similar but different enough to have both. My most viewed video is a comparison between them: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e4W6kJWVea1pntUsi=mTCQCiAC38wrCSs5

[@BeastMadeReviews]

Love this! I think your Les Paul is easily one of the best I've heard. With that said, the sound of both is very close! I have to concentrate pretty hard to hear the subtle difference. I haven't had the pleasure to try a Gustavsson, but I bet it is a huge improvement with play-ability. I am on the hunt for a good Les Paul (ish) guitar, and these days I value the guitars that place ergonomics as a priority in their construction.

[@boddumblues]

Let me say I got my first LP from Andertons a little over a year ago, so it was a 2022 model 50's std. I was a little unsure of how good it would be given all the talk about Gibson QC. The frets needed a little love, but, the sound was there in spades so that was a relief. I've done a few mods including EVO gold 57/110 frets as they make a big difference to me. So to me My first Gibson LP was a success story, I'm 60 this year and thought the time was right. The price? all considered Ok, I wish there would be better detailing in the electronics (very little shielding) but I can do that myself, and the nitro feels a little funny because of the plasticizers. I dig the Burstbuckers and they are staying (and I'm a pickup snob). The 50's neck profile is very nice. I hope you will try some of the newer Gibsons as well as older ones. FWIW

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks! Curious if you’ve narrowed down your search / what you’re considering?

[@joeschlicht]

It's interesting that you found the Gustavsson to be brighter and have more character. I found the exact opposite after listening twice with a very good pair of headphones on. The Gibson sounds so good and is not equaled by the other guitar (in my opinion).

[@eugenechek7288]

Amazing playing, amazing sound, as always.💯👍

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for listening as always!

[@benklepacki]

What style would you call these riffs? I'm trying to track down something to listen to, I feel this channels both blues and melodic metal and haven't had success tracking down anyone playing this music.

[@davidschaub3423]

The original Les Paul is just drop dead gorgeous. Plus the sound is there too. I do understand what you’re saying about the feel in your hands. Thanks for the entertainment. I always enjoy your videos.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Agree - thanks, David!

[@wademarona4591]

Both sound fantastic! It’s the Johan for me though! I’m the proud owner of a Nik Huber dolphin 59 with Kloppman 59 pickups in it that are simply superb! I would love to hear you do a comparison with a dolphin 59!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks! I happen to be filming a demo of a Dolphin 59 right now. Should be my next upload.

[@wademarona4591]

@@RatherBeRiffing❤❤

[@impala666]

The Throwback Neck Pickup sounds amazing.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Agree - it's my favorite sound on that guitar!

[@nova848]

only 335 can beat les paul

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I’ll have to compare them in a video soon!

[@Dezenaamisnietbeschikbaar]

@@RatherBeRiffing that would be very interesting!

[@zaldum386]

Gustavsson sounds sublime

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks! I love it.

[@GazMoz78]

Great playing and tones! The Les Paul just looks amazing. It is and will forever be THAT guitar, Clapton, Page, Billy...... I'd say in this video though I think the Gustavsson totally holds it's own. I preferred the neck and in-between sounds on the Gustavsson. The Les edged it on the bridge with more drive though. Great watch 🙂

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! Yeah, the bridge tone on this Lester is hard to beat. Glad you enjoyed the JG BM.

[@yoyorella799]

Somewhere in between les, clapton, frampton and ace...we are drawn to that grit, edge of your seat/breakup the lp brings us. A subliminal message says, "you're home". That, has not yet been replicated. The comparison guitar?...refined, beautiful, masterpiece. I like my dopamine w a little adrenaline. Unfortunately you have to replace a nut and overlook overspray and fret roulette to get there. LP lifer.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said! A good LP does spike the adrenaline. Hadn’t thought of it that way until you mentioned it, but I can relate!

[@michaeljoyce3286]

I have this thing I do if I ever have to compare a guitar to the original guitar I always go with the original but in this case with Les Paul personally I’ve had so many challenges with them as much as I want to say 59and with its competitor to 59 Paul, I think has to take the cake here

[@svgitana2499]

Well, lucky for you, you own both of these beauties!!! Your playing is exquisite! I don’t think that you can have too many guitars 😂 You are lucky you can pick up both guitars and play them until you get tired!! Both sound fantastic and look stunning! I’m a Heritage guy with a sprinkle of Gibson here and there! lol Both are winners to me, they are equally beautiful and while they sound excellent, I think each has a their strengths not overall……both are equally impressive to me 🙌🏻🫶🏻

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said and thank you! I still need to try a Heritage. Their stuff looks so nice.

[@saveroalim4869]

Cool comparison! What is the amp used in this video?

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I'm using a Two Rock Bloomfiled Drive and Blankenship Twinplex in stereo, set clean, with pedal for gain.

[@joserobles180]

I notice you haven't talk about an sg guitar yet would like to know if is in your likes you got great taste love your tone

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! I don’t have a lot of experience with them but would like to change that! I have my eye out for a good deal on a used SG Murphy Lab so hope to feature on the channel someday soon! What do you think of SG’s?

[@warmtonecustomguitars]

glorious tone on all your videos! would love to know you recording set up

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! I’ll have to do a dedicated video on that eventually.

[@ludlow555]

Funny, I thought the LP was brighter and more balanced. I generally preferred it over the other, except when overdriven. The other guitar sounds more focused.

[@CBGypsy03]

You slay the guitar. Great demo 😊 Have you ever tried a knaggs ?? Would be a cool video.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you! I have access to a Kenai Doug Rappaport model. Great guitar!

[@matt-fn9gr]

I think for rock the Les Paul for blues to blues rock the T type thing, both were great though

[@thehashslingingslasher8554]

What color is that Gibson painted in

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Cherry sunburst painted by Tom Murphy.

[@JohnPriceJNPMusic]

Judging by the tone of both guitars, the Les Paul sounds nicer. It seems to offer a stronger low-end frequency, giving the notes a punchier and deeper tone. There's a certain character that comes with a Les Paul, and yours has it. The other guitar sounds great, but it almost sounds like a hollow-body guitar to me.

[@void870]

Sonically, they sound identical. Though, what I think people gravitate to is the shape of the original. Gibson really hit it out of the park when they teamed up with Les and developed that shape. In my humble opinion, there isn't a more perfect shape to a guitar that's as pleasing to the eye. A close second would be the Fender strat.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Agree - it’s a thing of beauty!

[@adamvellone7861]

Is that gustavsson chambered? I know he has done that on a few models. Gives it a more open woody tone

[@RatherBeRiffing]

It isn't. I don't he chambers the LTD version. It's slightly on the heavier side. I have a regular BM that is slightly on the lighter side and have wondered if it's chambered, but don't know.

[@rockhead69]

Unbeatable...simple as that !

[@dasczwo]

an negative v flame top always sound better optoacoustically.. turn that modulation off. doesnt help judging tones. makes everything sounds nice. no wonder we judge by eye who they sound.

[@LfunkeyA]

i like the deeper tone of the les paul better

[@steved1099]

This clip set me thinking... why do I love the LP so much? Then i realised all my formative orignal heroes all played them and just had the most monsterous or sweetest tones of all time. Clapton (Beano), Kossof, Billy Gibbons, Peter Green, Knopfler (money for nothing era), Gilmour, Gary Moore, Duane Allman, Beck, Page and so on... nothing really can capture those sounds but the LP. Been playing PRSs for a while and might have to go pick up my LP now 😂😂

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Indeed! I love that you included Gilmour. I love his 50’s Goldtop P-90 tones. I think he recorded Another Brick in the Wall pt II solo with it.

[@steved1099]

@RatherBeRiffing Gilmour features heavily in my playing, and he did indeed use an LP for brick in the wall. Every time I play it, I use an LP 👍

[@ml2054]

Beautiful playing

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you very much!

[@ronmax6220]

We are hearing the sound of the overdrive and effects.

[@adhaskym.a9536]

I totally agree with your statement, "If you find a good Les Paul". Most Gibson Les Paul these days are crappy, at least what's available in my country.

[@nicksmith_82]

Absolute killer tones!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you!

[@SRVaughan1003]

the gustavsson sounds great, but to my ear that les paul is godly

[@Joe-mz6dc]

Les Pauls are absolutely beautiful instruments. It's great that people copy them or make their own version but at the end of the day somehow someway Gibson came up with that design and it has stood the test of time. Aside from all of the argumentation about the corporate issues and so on, the instrument itself when made to its highest standard is a beautiful thing and every single guitar player out there needs to at least try one, if not own a good one.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Agree - well said!

[@TCMx3]

to me both sound great and both are copies, not the "real deal" if we're being totally honest. but I think a lot of people believe that a modern Gibson is somehow a truer expression of the burst thing and they'll never be able to get over that hump. for me, I dunno between the two of these I would take the bluesmaster because I don't like the finish or top on your les paul (I don't think it's ugly it's just a vanilla vs chocolate thing). six of one half a dozen of the other

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Agree - while I haven't played a real burst, my impression is that they are a different animal from the modern ones due to differences in materials that are just not available at scale today (old growth woods, metal formulas of the hardware, pickup wire, pots, etc.). I've played some replicas that use some of those materials and they are quite different from the reissues as well. I think the JG falls into that category. Funny enough, I'd love to find a LP that sounds as good/better, but with a different look. I liked the sound of this one, but prefer a faded burst and more wavy/mismatched figure.

[@NINEWALKING]

It's unfair comparation because people mostly think about what guitar is more Les Paul-ish. In that comparation, good Les.Paul always win. If people can separate their bias and think what's better guitar, we'll that then is a good competition. That's directly reason to have more guitars. Why not have a Gibson Les Paul for those needed sounds and looks and own something different for different sounds and looks? Same logic I use for owning my R7 Murphy Lab and my 594 Wood Library Ten top. Sure, my 594 is sound is in the similar realm, but it's beast of its own. Les Paul sound is mire raw and less refined, but that is so intended. While my PRS sound has more details and is more refined and sounds a bit more modern at the gain.

[@galijanach]

To me, the Les Paul sounded brighter than the Gustavsson which is most likely to do with the underwound custombuckers. Both sounded killers. It would be interesting to compare the 2 guitars to a Gil Yaron 59 replica or one of his modern Bone models.

[@billgreen3629]

I preferred the Les Paul in the intro and low gain and the Gustavsson in the higher gain tests. The warmth and power of the Les Paul with low gain turned into wooly/mushy at the end. I have often preferred the Les Paul in your videos, which is a tough pill to swallow. Not everyone likes Gibson.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thanks for the observations! I preferred one over the other in different contexts as well. I'll have to keep them both :-)

[@Murphy_R9]

My 2023 Murphy lab heavy aged R9 laughs when I play my other guitars! Easily the best guitar I've owned!🤘

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I'm lusting for a Murphy Lab LP!

[@Murphy_R9]

@@RatherBeRiffing If you do get one be sure to hand pick it. They all feel different. all great but different.👍

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@Murphy_R9yes. Maybe worth a trip somewhere where they have a bunch to choose from!

[@Joe-mz6dc]

Murphy guitars are gold.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

@@Joe-mz6dc I want a ML LP, SG, and 335 😂

[@stamppedals7114]

Killer playing

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you!

[@boddumblues]

Funny things is I'm new to a real LP. I've had mine a little over a year and I find it's dictating my playing, if I play too busy it doesn't works as well. I can can play way busier on all my Strat styles, but this guitar kind of demands me to play simpler stuff and sounding better at the same time. Go figure...

[@fredrikburstrom-cw1ho]

Gibson guy all my life... So pretty easy for me... But still amazing work of Gustafsson... keep Sweden on Luthiermap

[@davidriggs8196]

For me it is the Gustavsson. There is a precision of sound. Perhaps because I play an Eggle Macon and am not drawn in to the gravity of brand name.

[@Katira-KR7]

The Gibson has little more bite and depth to it. Both sound really good and since I don’t like what Gibson has done to so many small companies I would rather take any other guitar which almost sounds like Gibson and probably most of them are only half of the price of a Gibson.

[@solonasdeimezis1004]

....it's psychological. Our guitar heroes had Les'pauls and strats. Now it "feels" strange to play a Hendrix song on a Tom Anderson strat or a Jimmy Page song on a PRS. ...Coming from a guy who has played in cover bands for the last 20 years. It is the iconic thing that follows these guitars.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said! Those examples really put it into perspective - so jarring to reimagine it that way!

[@Turboy65]

Everybody that makes guitars tries to make a better guitar than a Les Paul. At best they get really close.

[@npr-ws9nq]

if I never played a gustavsson I'd pick the Les Paul over that every day. but I have, and I know how great they play.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I hear you. The JG is on another level when it comes to the experience of playing the guitar.

[@cooljp1531]

Do a blind comparison and nobody will be able to tell the difference. A $750 Revstar Standard will sound just as good as any Les Paul or Les Paul copy at any price. This is because Revstar actually is as good as those, but what influences the sound the most, you gotta work backwards. Speaker Cab is number 1, then your amp, then your guitar comes last.. So if you play them through the same amp/cab combo, any decent guitar with decent humbuckers will sound almost the same, in the mix nobody could tell, and most would be clueless even with guitar only, as long as they can't see the guitar.

[@Iohannes-Z]

I'm sure the Gustavsson can provide a better playing experience, but it's not just the looks and the brand that make the Gibson a better guitar. In certain instances of your playing, the Paul was making a better defined sound (and more classic tone) than the grittier Gustavsson. It's difficult to beat a classic even if there are tons of arguments against it sctrictly from a luthier's viewpoint.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Well said - I was hearing that grittier thing too and like that description.

[@Crema59]

Gustavsson has super hot articulation and is a priceless beauty.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I hear that too. It has a vintage look that I find beautiful despite being a new build.

[@aminahmed2220]

W hat a fantastic video have a wonderful day also Wednesday is my younger brother birthday ❤😊

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Thank you!

[@norseman61]

I’ll think there are a lot of brands that do the “Les Paul” better than Gibson does. I don’t have any versions (other than a budget Chinese Epiphone Special and also a Jr of the same type), but I think I’d want a TRUE Gibson LP before venturing into the replicas… even if the replicas may be an improvement in quality or a better value.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Same for me. I’ll always have Gibson LP in the collection as much I love the alternatives.

[@stricknine8623]

After only listening to the first comparison and pausing to comment,..I can honestly say that the Les Paul is just sonically better. It certainly isn't a big difference at all but it is definitely significant. I also realize that this is completely subjective.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

It’s a great sounding Lester

[@chiefline7084]

I think you meant to say the Strat is unbeatable. You are forgiven

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Hahaha! I don’t disagree.

[@brownsfan7753]

The Gibson is more direct sounding, while the Gustavsson has more air around the notes!!

[@beegeewhy]

I’m not trying to find out which guitar is “best”. These two guitars are so similar, one can’t possibly be”better” than the other. Buy the one that feels best, or better still, buy both. “

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Agree! The “vs” construct for me is meant for comparison/contrast rather than competition. “Buy both” is always the best option with guitars!

[@Mark_B585]

Still not as good as those beautiful PRS you have but a fantastic guitar nonetheless

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Indeed - those PRS’s are functional art at its finest!

[@ikefork2606]

NOT a fan of the wrap-over combination bridge/tailpiece. Much prefer the Gibson Tune-o-Matic bridge and Stop-Tailpiece design.

[@MrBrumest]

Sound and tone are far from being psychological :)) The Gibson is way clearer and articulated.

[@MCSA210]

Gimme a Gibson and a tube Marshall half stack and I'm in hog heaven!

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Timeless tonal recipe!

[@DouglasFrey-c1k]

I hear no difference between the 2. Maybe direct into a Princeton reverb would reveal different tone.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I’d love to try that. I think I need a deluxe or Princeton!

[@thomknott9399]

I will take a Knaggs Steve Steven’s over any Les Paul.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

Knaggs makes a killer LP type.

[@georgeargon5113]

It's psychological. Period. If in doubt, study luthery, electronics and the psychology of marketing. Gibson can not justify its price gauging policy other than to create mystique in the minds of ageing boomers. Of course, Gutavasson is priced two to three times more than a Murphy Lab Custom Shop, definitely not for the average working musician and h/or hobbyist.

[@johnrathbun2943]

This is a lie. Les Paul reproduction are better quality then the Gibson Les Paul. Plus they are even cheaper.

[@markcripps2384]

What a load of tosh. Only Rheet, you and soft minded don’t know the only Les Paul (apart from a percentage of ‘59 vintage) worth having is the PRS 594. Even the S2 version pisses over all current Gibsons R7/8/9/0 included. I grew up during the 80’s so ok they don’t do pancake or multi pieces of wood when the glues used were crap too by modern standards, but the qualify control is still shocking. I had a white V around 2008, brand new, learned playing for a hour in a shop is not enough to discover if it’s an instrument or not. Spent close to £3k to get it to play right, sound right and stay in tune and none of it worked and it’s out there they are shite as could only get £600 back for it and I’m a real good salesman. So to recap, want a Les Paul there are two options, 1. Spend £100k and five years searching for a good 57-60 or hit up ya local PRS dealer and spend between £1500 for S2 or £4k for a nice core model. Gibson should be arrested for false advertising as so many like you have been deceived.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

My channel has several videos on the 594 including SE, Core, and Private Stocks including comparisons with my Les Paul. I love my 594 and play it more often than my Les Paul. Yet, many watchers favor the Les Paul (hence making this video to discuss).

[@JamesSanborn-p5e]

That magical thing that happens when a les paul headstock just magically falls off like an autum leaf... Never had that problem with a custom 24...

[@giorgimkheidze1501]

The Bonamassa/Eric Johnson tone which is dailed in makes it almost impossible to distinguish the two, but the Gustavsson is a bit brighter and with a bit more top end clarity. I'm sure that is almost 100% due to pickup difference (Throbak vs Custombucker). I don't know about playability, but I'd suspect Gustavson wins there with straight string pull. Both guitars sound absolutely phenomenal. Given the price you're paying though, why wouldn't anybody get the real Gibson for the looks? It's hard to compete with LPs in a beauty pageant already as is and that top cutaway on the Gustavsson just ruins any chance it would have. I'd be looking for a better copyright-friendly workaround. Just let the Muprhy Lab and Gustavsson collaborate on one-time Artisan runs already, like they did with Leo Scala.

[@RatherBeRiffing]

I love that idea! There is no substitute for the beauty of a burst in my opinion.

[@giorgimkheidze1501]

@@RatherBeRiffing oh and where's my manners? Completely forgot! Dude, your playing is absolutely worth either and both guitars. Pure goodness, like a thick, rich pan sauce. Thanks!.