WORST Les Paul JR?💩 2015 Les Paul Junior REVIEW

[@TheToneLounge]

Time Codes in the description box! I am currently editing the other videos in this series, so in the mean time I am adding other videos you might enjoy. Cheers Stock LP Jr with Vox AC15: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rGW4kqRvn9RkbLc Stock LP Jr with Vox Mini SuperBeetle: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iYmsfYawga2DaNk AC15 Tone Hacks: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jnTCZZiqjc-VY8U AC15 Vs Mini SuperBeetle: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3ndhpKgadWip9k

[@staple765]

I bought this guitar and used it to perform in a Beatles tribute band that portrayed the Beatles after they broke up, called after the Beatles, as if they never broke up and still played their solo hits. This guitar is excellent in my opinion performed with it in live shows for thousands of people never an issue and it even has the G-Force tuners, which never gave me any issues.

[@TheToneLounge]

The G-Force tuners seem to be hot or miss. Some people absolutely love them, while other hate them.

[@bobwallace9814]

I have this same Junior. I bought it from Sam Ash, no sales tax, no shipping charge and no interest for $500 out the door with the gold hard shell case. I also have an RG with Floyd Rose so both ends of the stick. For my couch playing the JR is great. The big difference in the two? This 2015 Junior now sells for $1200 and up the last time I looked a year ago.

[@TheToneLounge]

It’s odd: for such a hated year, these keep going up in price. Glad I got mine for the price that I bought it for.

[@guitagious9464]

I, for one, really love my 2015 junior. Got it for 500$ knowing I would make some minor changes to the guitar. No way would I waste any time with the G-force tuners. I replaced them right away with locking Kluson tuners that work superbly. Also replaced the cheap volume and tone knobs with black chrome, knurled, knobs that give me better traction for quick volume adjustments and they just look classy too. The guitar performs so well that I gig with it occasionally and, in my opinion, the tone is fantastic through a good Marshall tube amp with the gain set not too high. The only thing I wish was different now is that the fingerboard was the standard Gibson width instead of the 2015 wide board. Also, the fret wire could be a little higher profile and that would be just fine with a lot of us. I love the tobacco burst with natural light-finished back and sides. I lucked out, mine is truly gorgeous!!!

[@TheToneLounge]

You know, I agree with every single one of your observations. The figuring on my guitar is great, despite the neck being wider, I find it very comfortable. I hated the G-Farce tuners. I bought Hipshot locking tuners. I replaced the stock pickup and volume and tone pots. The pickup sounds great but it was similar to my Tele bridge pickup, most likely due the the flat poll alnico slugs. I personally hate the PCB volume and tone on the guitar. That is why I changed it for an Emerson Custom pre-wired kit for Les Paul junior. With these mods, I have an incredible guitar and have no need to get something more expensive. I've tried the 2019 models and they do not hold a candle to my guitar. Best purchase I've made in a long time.

[@guitagious9464]

Awesome!! I have been thinking I would like to try one of those Emerson Custom pre-wired kits to see just how sweet I could make my junior sound. Maybe I will. I just believe people like us made a wise choice to buy the 2015 model at such low prices due to their quirks and then mod them as we go along to make them like we want. It's a true "deal". And any sane person would have to admit that they're the most beautiful Juniors Gibson ever made with the see-thru back and sides (not blacked-out), and I really like the jangle of open strings across the brass nut. I did however ask Gibson to send one of the titanium replacement nuts, but I haven't installed it yet because I'm afraid of what it might do to the tone. I'll probably try it soon. Thanks for the video and conversation! Always love talking about Gibson guitars. I've had near-perfect ones and some that I couldn't believe they let out of the factory. But as far as this Junior goes, I'm keeping it to the end!!

[@TheToneLounge]

I've installed the Titanium nut and haven't heard a significant difference, or a difference at all. As far as the Emerson Custom kit is concerned, it is top notch. I don't know if you have watched the following video, where I talk about whether the upgrades were worth it? If not I will share it so you can watch it. It might answer some questions for you about the kit. Like you, my LP Jr ain't going nowhere. It is a fantastic guitar, and with the upgrades I would put it up against anything Gibson is currently putting out. We made a great choice with these guitars, too bad most still shun this guitar. They are really missing out. Here's the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qX-zpYSpjMaab9U

[@guitagious9464]

@@TheToneLounge, thank you! I just watched the video you directed me to and, holy crap! What a difference!! I love the way your Junior sounds now!! I'm definitely going to have to invest in one of those kits. The tone is more shimmery and you have a lot more usable range on the control sweeps. Hey, I see you also foil lined your control cavity. Did it get rid of the 60 cycle hum? (Not that it's a big issue for me or anything, just curious.) Yes, we made smart choices to purchase these jewels. One note on the G-"farce" tuners... yes, the system did, in fact, tune my guitar, but after a couple of big string bends I would always be out of tune. Plus, I didn't really want the headache of always having to remember to charge it up before every gig. But on a positive note, I love the thick rosewood fretboard that seems to be more smooth and refined than most of my other fingerboards - just wish they had NOT gone with the 27% lower fretwire profile. I need tall frets. In fact, I had my 2015 Les Paul Classic re-fretted with Stainless Steel 6110 (or equivalent) wire and it made a huge improvement in playability. But back to the Juniors... I may eventually have to buy a cherry red like yours - looks great and would probably show up better in low stage lighting. And how about those 2015 guitar cases?!?!? They're built like tanks! I believe the 2015 Gibson guitars with their original cases will someday be sought after, if for nothing but collect-ability's sake. After all, these design changes actually led the way to the new "High Performance" series, where a buyer can now choose between traditional and modern features on many models. Thanks again for the Emerson kit tip!

[@TheToneLounge]

The kit definitely opened up the guitar and gives me way more usable range than before. As for the shielding I did, it definitely helps a bit, but the inherent nature of the P90 makes it susceptible to RF interference despite my best efforts.Yeah I did notice that the rosewood fret-board was nice and thick. Definitely and important detail. The frets don't bug me too much. I see what you mean about them being a bit short. I always keep my eyes opened for another one at a great price. The next one I get I will keep it stock. The guitar is not popular now, but that may change in the future. The guitar cases are damn cool. I love it. It has that weird futuristic look that was common in the 50's. Some people hate it, I think it's cool!

[@bryantherocker]

THE VOLUME AND TONE POT ISSUE YOU MENTIONED IS PREFERRED BY MANY GIGGING REAL MUSICIANS, ENABLES THEM TO CLEAN UP BETTER IN LIVE GIGS

[@TheToneLounge]

Well, I’m a real gigging musician and I didn’t like them and found them to be junk. Each their own.

[@davemac2532]

Mine came with Kluson Deluxe tuners. They look vintage and work perfectly. I bought mine to use in a Southern Rock band and it became my favorite guitar. Sorry to hear others had a bad experience with this guitar. Mine resonated without being plugged in so I knew I had to have it. I get incredible tone with my controls and the P-90.

[@TheToneLounge]

Some of those models from 2015 are gems, while others are not that great. The QC was all over the place back then.

[@jonathanhorne6503]

I like my 2015 LPjr, you’re right it’s a great mod platform which I took full advantage of. I purchased it used and the previous owner had installed a Lollar P-90 and changed the pots. The auto tuner was also removed. I’m mostly an acoustic played and the necks width is the same as my daily player Martin. We recut the nut to match my Martin. I also installed a Lollar Charlie Christian in the neck position. Sounds lovely. My biggest complaint was the headstock logo. I managed to find a frisket mask and we back dated the headstock to the classic markings. I would have flipped the guitar because of the factory headstock. The last item was we installed a B5 Bigsby. I’m proud of the guitar and the way it turned out. I also managed to find a TDK HSC that fits perfectly.

[@TheToneLounge]

Sounds like some very extensive work done on this guitar. Well worth it if it works for you. What color is yours?

[@jonathanhorne6503]

@@TheToneLounge red. Same as yours. It’s one of two favorite electric guitars. The other being a Howard Roberts Fusion.

[@TheToneLounge]

That Howard Roberts is a darn cool guitar!

[@eatth1s]

The major issues you raise with the G force is the wrap around bridge and angled headstock, which would affect any tuner system. Also pretty sure the other issue you raise is because you are tuning individual strings which is affecting the tension so changes other strings? Aren't these designed to be strummed to tune? Granted I think there are major issues with the G force, and I've never tried one (but think as someone who plays multiple tunings at a gig in interested to get one), but the issues you raise don't seem to be the problems most people raise.

[@TheToneLounge]

Most people raise the issue that they can tune their own guitars, at least that is the main one that I've seen. I have no qualms with a tuning system that can tune faster and better than I can. These G-Force systems are either loved or hated. I did not have a great experience with them, that does not mean that you would as well.

[@KRAZEEIZATION]

I wish they still offered the cherry red today. The nut on this one is strange. I've never owned a Gibson and a Junior will be my first I'd say.

[@rogermoore1233]

I just bought a 2007 gibson les paul junior and it is totally stock. and plays and sounds amazing. The 2015 release they did cut alot of corners on the pickup, and overall setup.

[@TheToneLounge]

The pickup wasn't bad per se, it just wasn't what we've come to expect a P90 to sound like. The flat polls on that pickup gave it a more Fender type pf tone. Not a bad thing, unless you are looking for a more traditional P90 sound.

[@prestonrumbaugh7532]

i bought and modified two of these guitars. from top to bottom, i ditched the tuning system and replaced them with keystone les paul tuners. i also decaledand repainted (with lacquer) , the headstock to make it look like a vintage jr. i like the adjustable nut. i like the neck., i had a 58 gretsch 6120, and the neck was the same. chet atkins designed wide, flat C neck, for playing a style which keeps the thumb on the back of the neck as opposed to hanging over the top. i replaced the cheap " slug p 90" with a bareknuckle "nantucket" p 90 from england. i replaced the circuit board with old-school pots and solder. i replaced the stop-bar bridge with a " mann-made" adjustable bridge which is as far as i know , is the best bridge for this particular application. oh yeah...the very last thing? i carefully dug the les paul hyroglyphic thingy out of the back of the neck with an xacto knife., nothing against lester, it just wasn't his place to be there! all of these things being done...i love these jr's!

[@TheToneLounge]

It sounds like a lot of mods, but it isn't really. What you and I did, and I'm sure countless others have too, is take the bits off of the guitar that made no sense and made it a worthy instrument. I think all the choices you made make 100% sense. I don't mind the logo or the script, so I did not touch it. I am thinking about using a different bridge, just because I am obsessed with tuning. Have you tried the 2019 line of LP Juniors? I keep hearing great things about them.

[@prestonrumbaugh7532]

@@TheToneLounge nope, i've not see the 2019 jr yet, but i'm going to a guitar center tomorrow so who knows what i might see. take a look at " mann made" website. i generally go for callaham parts, but they don't make adjustable stop bars., mann is out of north carolina, and he builds a bridge for these guys made out of air-craft quality aluminum, with brass saddles. excellent design, excellent machining. perfect for these jrs!

[@TheToneLounge]

Thanks for the tip dude. I'll go add that to my list and I'll go check out the website. Cheers

[@stricknine8623]

One thing to note in regard to the G Force tuner and the idea of intonation being off.. The electronic tuner works from the pitch of open strings. So while intonation may be an issue, the "e" tuner doesn't get introduced to bad intonation while it is bringing in the pitch of an open string. Unless I am missing something here.

[@TheToneLounge]

No you are correct. What I was stating was that having such a tuner with a fixed bridge and no way to intonate means that the G- Force can’t compensate for the inaccurate intonation. It has a fixed target that works with a normal bridge. With this setup, it has no hope.

[@stricknine8623]

@@TheToneLounge I see !! Did you get finished with your move ?

[@TheToneLounge]

Nope, going to be staying at a hotel until all my stuff arrives.

[@stricknine8623]

@@TheToneLounge Well, I hope everything goes smoothly and you transition well. Im looking forward to your Gibson Amp content that you have talked about maybe doing. I don't know if that is a definite or contemplating.

[@TheToneLounge]

It’s 100% happening!

[@davisdeen-ty4so]

the newer Juniors are Supposed to be Real Nice?

[@TheToneLounge]

I only tried one and thought it was good, but not great.

[@geraldhills41]

My 2015 special is great but first change the tuners , replace the plastic jack socket plate and put strat type control knobs so you can do a violin effect !

[@geraldhills41]

Oh I forgot you need to replace the brass nut ! It wears out very quickly .

[@TheToneLounge]

The appointments on this guitar are the biggest issues. The neck is great, the finish is great and there are no issues with it, fundamentally speaking.

[@bobwallace9814]

Here's the two year ago real deal. After 30+ years I started looking at guitars again after getting a Sam Ash catalog in the mail. I had a price point in mind and called Sam Ash with eight different models and makes. Ash did ask what kind of music and what I would use it for and I told them, playing along to KZbins etc. They called back after about an hour and the guy says this is easy. Take the 2015 LPJ. He went on to say you're getting a classic Gibson made in America with a super duty hard shell case and at the price you are stealing it. Just look at prices in another 6 months. My price was $595 case included and........no tax because I didn't live in NY and.......free shipping and....if I took a Sam Ash card, no interest for 24 months. No brainer here. Went over to the local Guitar Center and picked up a Vox Pathfinder. The fit and finish on the Gibson was superb. The neck, perfect. I even liked the auto tuner. Why wouldn't someone want the ability to tune a guitar in about 30 seconds? I did install a Bigsby B5 on it. I did look at a lot of 2015 LPJ KZbin evaluations before pulling the trigger and all were positive....except for one.

[@TheToneLounge]

I got mine for $650 CDN with the hardshell case. I've seen them on the used market here for about $750-800, so I got a good deal on it. As I stated in the video, there are things about the stock guitar that I loved, hence why I decided to do the upgrades. Since I have done the upgrades I can't put the guitar down. The neck is great, the guitar rings almost like an acoustic and the new tone and volume pots are much, much more usable than the stock ones. I wasn't a fan of the G-Farce tuners and I could not be happier with the Hotshot locking tuners I put on. It's all down to preferences, but I think this is an incredible guitar once you do some tweaking to it. I'll most likely never get rid of it, it's now that good.

[@jeffnobles214]

There is way to wind/unwind the strings with the gforce, so you don't have to wind those 40:1 tuners by hand. Enjoyed the video.

[@TheToneLounge]

This is what I did! Cheers kzbin.info/www/bejne/qX-zpYSpjMaab9U

[@Dexter6662]

I own one LPJ 2015 for me the Gforce tuners are and is the only cons to me of course, it's okay neck could be less large but I really have pleasure play on it. I changed tuners 2 weeks after i got the guitar and tuning last a good while.

[@TheToneLounge]

I've ended up investing into my guitar far more than I should have. I even bought a new bridge this year. It's not a bad guitar, but it isn't great either (imho).

[@darrenleach7967]

I have 4x 2015 juniors every one has the lacquer cracking !! They are kept in studio with 28 other guitars that don’t have the finish problem !! Ok I know some you folk out there say you like that look but personally I don’t

[@TheToneLounge]

That's unfortunate. Gibson really made some poor decisions in the past, and keep making them now too.

[@mhdz10]

Hahaha nice video. I have the same guitar and honestly I love it. I also think the G-Force sounded as a good idea initially or at least it wouldn't bother me, but after really using it you realize it has its issues. My approach to G-Force is: I just use it to re-string the guitar and quickly get closer to the final tunning. Regularly I don't use it much. And it doesn't really bother me, I just focus on playing.

[@TheToneLounge]

The 2015 models are actually great guitars. I prefer them to the 2019/20 that I've tried. Some folks love the G-force and some don't. I did what you are doing as well, just use the G-force to wind strings faster. It didn't work as it took me forever to wrap the strings around the little hook thing. I'm happy with the Hipshots, they work very well.

[@McDagger90]

I appreciate your honesty!! The new Gibson's from the original collection are amazing. IF you're in the market for a Junior/Special...That's where to be! I appreciate your work. Much love from a fellow Canadian

[@TheToneLounge]

Hi Daniel, Thanks for the kind words. It’s so easy to be extremely negative or too enthusiastic about a product. I much prefer to get to know the ins and outs of a product before doing a review. Hopefully this translates to a more informative review. The new lineup is very good. I do prefer my 2015 with the upgrades. Which would you pick: a Junior or a Special?

[@McDagger90]

@@TheToneLounge I totally agree!! You really have to spend some time with it to form a proper opinion. Your review was definitely informative! After all the mods you did - it sounds like a totally different guitar! Plus at the price-point you got it for - you can't go wrong. It's still an amazing guitar. To be honest I've always loved the special. The juniors are great but I love having the neck pickup as option

[@TheToneLounge]

@@McDagger90 Thanks my friend! Cheers

[@michaelr.4878]

I agree about the wider fingerboard being a good thing..not a bad thing. Trust me, a wider board is always better than a skinnier board. I ordered and waited almost 2 years for a custom made Mosrite copy..and from the nut to about the 5th fret, the thing is pretty much unplayable. I love everythign else about the guitar. After the 5th fret, it is has the best neck I have ever played. But things are way too cramped in the cowboy chord region. So now, I use it as my capo guitar..or for barre chord heavy songs.

[@fredjaeger690]

I bought the les paul special double cut and have the same complaints. swapped out gforce, pups and pots. Now I love it.. Also used the hipshots w/ brackets.

[@TheToneLounge]

Awesome! How are you liking those Hipshot tuners?

[@andy_182]

Got mine for cheap so I’m happy with it Plays great, I love the wide nut width, but I understand why you’d hate it

[@TheToneLounge]

Yeah, some people really hate these guitars. Yet, they are currently going up in price. Go figure. lol

[@andy_182]

@@TheToneLounge Yeah! I put mine up for sale on Reverb, just to test the waters, and I already have two offers over 1300. Ridiculous, I bought this for 600 at a blowout sale from a music store. I love the damn thing and I know I will never find another TV Yellow Junior at that price again! Billie Joe uses it so I use it too!

[@TheToneLounge]

I don't intend to sell mine, unless it is really worth it.

[@Panic42000]

So basically you’re saying the 15 Les Paul Jr is the worst Les Paul ever because of the turners?

[@TheToneLounge]

Did I say that? People claim this is the worst line (2015) that Gibson ever put out. Yes, those tuners are not good (imho) the brass nut was not very good either, the pickup was alright but did not sound as "authentic" as the P90 I've owned and played.

[@adriananthony6654]

Swapped the pots... got a tusq nut changed the pup and slapped grovers on mine .....and ended up with an AWESOME Jr for about 700.00 (with the improvements)... "score" love the thing now and the Gibson "appreciation" is even BETTER 1000-1200 ish US .... SCORE x's 2 :)

[@TheToneLounge]

Right? I mean, I get why people hated these initially, but if you customize them to your needs, they are Gibson through and through. What color is yours?

[@Livelaughlimpbizkit]

The irony is I had this guitar and fucking hated the pickup, removed it and rewired all the electronics. Now I'd love another one of those pickups, I love the alnico slug p90's. Wish more were available, can usually only find neck versions. Ended up with a Lollar 50's wind in my current junior

[@TheToneLounge]

Yeah, I ready that this particular style of P90 was used on hollow body Gibsons in 1947. The flatter polls made sense for these particular guitars, like the ES 125. Later solid body guitars used what we know now as 50's and 60's P90. It was definitely a great pickup, but it did not have the snarl I was looking for.

[@pierrelesire860]

..don't even think to tune in 432Hz in automatic mode I guess ? balancing with the final cost once upgraded, is that still interesting to pay that price for a Gibson body..?

[@TheToneLounge]

That is a fair question and here is my take on it: I played the guitar stock for a full year. I really took the time to weigh the pros and cons. As I stated in the video, I love the neck, look and sound/resonance of this guitar. The foundation is, in my humble opinion, worth building upon. Buying a stock LP junior that was to my liking would have cost me more than the investment I made when I purchased the upgrades. Now that begs to question whether the upgrade made a difference? Well, you'll have to tune in for that response. Thanks for watching.

[@PopuluxeApocalypse]

For $650 CAD ($517 USD), I think you did more than okay - that’s Epiphone money! With case too. Couple bucks more and now you got a real sleeper. But yeah, the robot tuners we’re definitely a “meth choice” by the Gibson brain trust. I still think this guitar is a steal in today’s market but prices are going up! Thanks for the video and nice job, man.

[@TheToneLounge]

Thanks Christopher! Yeah, when I bought it I thought it was a good price. Someone else pointed to me that these are starting to go up in price. I have my eyes open for a double cut from the same year, I'd probably go for a TV yellow version!

[@luisfernandorojasvelasco4731]

Mine volume and tone works well, the pickup is hotter, is more like the Billy joe model, I agree is not easy to fix but it depends if you care about your instrument, not garbage in any way, and is over any Epiphone

[@TheToneLounge]

These are good guitars, but many hated them then and still hate them now. If you bond with it, stock, then that is awesome. I hated the robot tuners and did not care for the volume/tone pots. Once I modded it to my taste, the guitar is definitely a keeper. I tried the new line from 2019/2020 and much prefer my guitar.

[@GeorgeChristofi]

Informative. Although I have never really been a fan of Les Pauls looks wise they can sound great. I have never heard of anyone that has working robotuners on them though... Nice idea but it never worked. Looking forward to the pickup test. Not surprised at Gibson cheaping out on the pots. The way you described it, sounds like they put log pots in instead of linear pots so the variance was broader. I do know that some of the cheaper log posts have a really harsh taper so quality ones from Alpha or similar would cure the issue.

[@TheToneLounge]

The pots are not made for people who intend to use them. Full on? No problem. But like I said in the video, using them is not a very good experience. I installed a pre-wired kit and it is a night and day difference. The kit is wired to the 50's specs and what a delight it is to use them. I've installed the new pickup and all I can say is this, you have to watch the next video! lol

[@RavenMadd9]

subscribed.....love the honesty

[@TheToneLounge]

Welcome aboard! Have you tried the 2015 models?

[@RavenMadd9]

@@TheToneLounge thinking of getting one ....I.played one ...enjoy your week

[@robertinogochev3682]

The robot tuners were the worst. I have the same model and the only thing I changed were the tuners.

[@TheToneLounge]

Yeah, otherwise these are great guitars.

[@philjackson519]

Great honest review. I hope in the end up you get it something like the original LPJ .Thank you

[@TheToneLounge]

Thanks for the feedback. Here is the second part to this video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qX-zpYSpjMaab9U

[@alar7743]

@@TheToneLounge Story blew my mind and played them in a mixer, I bought such a guitar and immediately changed the pegs to used ones, buying them for 15 dollars and two cTc potentimeters for 10 dollars and changed the nut for 11 dollars - I outlined the distance between the strings as I needed and carved them myself on nuts even 30 dollars ....

[@wiseguy9202]

I absolutely love the wider fretboard. Finally, an idea worth the cost.

[@TheToneLounge]

I love the neck. So many hate, but I totally dig it.

[@wiseguy9202]

I know for me once I took to it, going back to my narrow fretboard guitars was somewhat odd. Good show man!

[@TheToneLounge]

Yeah when you play it for a while and switch to a different guitar, it does feel weird. My Tanglewood acoustic has a massive neck and playing my electric guitars feels super weird after playing the acoustic.

[@yuukkii5802]

I bought mine for $500 with a titanium nut and a cocked wah mod also with the robotuners replaced. Plays like a beast. That p90 is hella noisy though.

[@TheToneLounge]

That’s the nature of P90’s. But they do sound great.

[@claudiocruzat7667]

Dont use tons of distortion.

[@gearsbetweenears]

I have one too and is truely awesome. Tuners, 250k in tone and a TUSQ XL Adjustable Nut for Gibson is a must have.

[@TheToneLounge]

I have not tried 250k pots. What do you like about them compared to the 500k?

[@gearsbetweenears]

@@TheToneLounge It is just slightly less ice picky bright in that guitar. My next try will be swapping the magnets in the stock pup with A2. I tried replacing the pup with a mojotone hot p90 which is just garbage fyi.

[@TheToneLounge]

I can testify to A2 magnets. Less output but more clarity. What did you not like about the pickup?

[@TheToneLounge]

The mojotone I mean.

[@gearsbetweenears]

@@TheToneLounge The Mojotone was a dissapointment. It had no P90 character/response and more of a compressed humbucker feel/tone. Im still dialing in this guitar, but as your reviews are, it plays exceptionally well.

[@moforockband]

The Gibson Jr 2015 I personally think is a guitar that will be a collectors piece. The lovely finishes/gold 100th anniversary case/wicked zero fret and the beautiful growly sound it makes, make it a classic in my eyes. I bought one to try, and make some cash on, but ending up keeping it. The whole pickup, and electronics come out in 10 minutes, so you can put in a pre-wired alnico 2 with cts pots/switchcraft etc, but TBH I went put it back to how it originally was , as I missed the nasty bite it had. I have a custom shop Gibson here, and this little junior takes it on! I play this more, and also not frightened to take it to gigs if it gets banged/stolen (if we ever get back playing live).

[@TheToneLounge]

The 2015 Jr got a bad rap mainly because of it's appointments. The G-Farce tuners and wider neck threw people off. I like the neck but hated the tuners. Once modded to taste, these guitars are a great value. The original P90 that was on the guitar wasn't bad, it sounded good but it was too close in tone to my Tele bridge pickup. I'm under the impression that since that flat-pole design came out in 1946, it was probably voiced for semi-hollow body guitars, not a solid body. Hence, the slightly different bark it has.

[@jonathanhandsmusic]

The new epiphone jr and special are just as good, if not better than the 2015 Gibsons of the same type. Just in case anyone is looking for something that ticks all the boxes and now has a very Gibson-like headstock.

[@TheToneLounge]

I have yet to try the new Epi's, they are that good?

[@Irkennalpha]

I just compared an Epi vs a Gibson at a store and damn! The Epiphone Les Paul Jr is seriously cool, the neck is really a 50’s style and there’s a nice neck angle, opposed to the Gibson which is flatter, with a more Fender-esque feeling (flat top) How do you compare your model to a 50’s neck profile?

[@Macko1968]

The 2015 model was the nadir of Gibson. Neck width & depth wrong, neck joint wrong, auto de-tuners, aluminium nut, PCB controls & a pickup that looked like a P90 but was constructed like a Strat pick up. For such a simple guitar they sure screwed up a lot of it. Fortunately the 2019 puts things right & the Junior is back to being a high-quality, no frills beast.

[@TheToneLounge]

The neck wasn't an issue for me. I got used to it quite fast. As for the other issues, those can be fixed easily. Once all was said and done, my Junior ended up being a fantastic guitar. I would not get rid of it.

[@TheRitualist]

You missed something which is important for me and I know, it means a lot to you: your work with The Astroplex!!!!

[@TheToneLounge]

I did not have that guitar on The Astroplex! BUT! It might feature on Part 2!

[@TheRitualist]

@@TheToneLounge houlala houlala!!!! Such an amazing project!!!! 😍😍😍😍😍

[@TheToneLounge]

@@TheRitualist yep, and you'll be hearing me on some new stuff pretty soon too. ;)

[@alexwoolridge94aw]

No modern pots really have the taper of the old centralab pots Gibson used in the 50s and early 60s. I have a 1961 Les Paul jr and the volume and tone pots are usable from 0--10. True story

[@TheToneLounge]

The Emerson Custom stuff is actually excellent. Very much in line with the older pots.

[@alexwoolridge94aw]

@@TheToneLounge I will have to check them out. I'm thinking about VIPickups VI pots. Supposed to be reversed engineered centralab.

[@TheToneLounge]

@@alexwoolridge94aw Oh! Never heard of them. I'll have to check them out.

[@alexwoolridge94aw]

@@TheToneLounge yes indeed. They're a fair price too. $8 a pot I believe. I was gonna buy some but they're out of stock until later this month I believe

[@Buffrt66]

Your guitar came from the factory with audio taper pots. You like em or you hate em. I hate them. Replaced my pots in 3 of my guitars from audio taper to linear.

[@TheToneLounge]

Yeah, a friend confirmed the same thing to me. I really don’t like them and I really dig the new pots I just installed. Way more expressive and useable.

[@emanhacker]

Its alright opinions vary

[@TheToneLounge]

These are far from being bad guitars, they just need the right mods.

[@robsthedon]

Thanks for this, I nearly bought one.

[@TheToneLounge]

It's far from a bad guitar, but it does not a few mods to make it great.

[@rockthecasbahs]

I bought one brand new for pretty cheap back in high school, I'll never sell it or trade it in for anything.

[@TheToneLounge]

Awesome! Mine is a keeper as well. What colour is yours?

[@rockthecasbahs]

@@TheToneLounge Red

[@ragpickin]

Excellent reviews

[@TheToneLounge]

Thank you kindly!

[@gergemall]

I’m sorry to hear that

[@TheToneLounge]

Nah, it turned out to be a great guitar. Cheers

[@jameskrys5286]

I guess I'll stick with my PRS One.

[@TheToneLounge]

Great guitar too.

[@gergemall]

Thank you for your video

[@TheToneLounge]

My pleasure Jon.

[@stfu5617]

Ma man... great review. Thx

[@TheToneLounge]

My pleasure Ali! Cheers

[@alraymond1618]

well done and researched!

[@TheToneLounge]

Thanks Al! Have you tried the 2015 models?

[@alraymond1618]

@@TheToneLounge I tried the 2015 Goldtop, and the 2015 Firebird. Loved the wide, flatter necks on both but took some getting used to the movable nut. Good idea in practice though.

[@AICD1999]

I just had my G force do what you are describing. I thought its battery was low or something. Before that it worked fine.

[@TheToneLounge]

Yeah, it works great for a time and then randomly acts up. Mine was very frustrating as it bugged up a lot.

[@AICD1999]

I have Klusons and Grovers looking for a home.

[@TheToneLounge]

AICD1999 those are both excellent choices! Which would you pick?

[@AICD1999]

The Klusons are the olive tulips and the Grovers are nickel tulips. I may try them both

[@TheToneLounge]

The Kluson would look more authentic, but it’s really about practically. I went with locking tuners. They work great but don’t look authentic at all lol.

[@Liad138]

This is the only electric guitar i had

[@TheToneLounge]

Did you like it?

[@Liad138]

@@TheToneLounge i did not try many guitars thinking about getting a firebird. But yeah the tuners are hell i changed them to epiphones

[@TheToneLounge]

Even Epiphone tuners are far better than the G-Farce. I played one Firebird and it was an incredible guitar. I'm sure you'll dig it.

[@cdnpunk2270]

I think you gotta approach these ones in a more punk rock attitude. It's whatever

[@TheToneLounge]

Kind of what I did here. They have a solid foundation that makes these great for modding.

[@sammysosascorkedbat8973]

Thank goodness my 2011 Junior didn't come with one of those shitty G force tuner things

[@TheToneLounge]

You know, some people love them. I don't hate them (too strong of an emotion to give to an inanimate object) but I was no fan, that is for sure. How do you like your 2011 model?

[@martinhiggs7027]

This is why Gibson almost went BANKRUPT !!!!!!!!!!!

[@terrellriley8650]

You can't touch this guitar for under a $1000 US, so maybe it's a good time to sell!

[@TheToneLounge]

I just looked it up, seems like they have gone up a lot. How weird is that?

[@rorshakks]

Good review but back up, your head is huge in the frame.

[@TheToneLounge]

Thanks, my head is huge in real life too. Not just the frame. Cheers

[@rorshakks]

@@TheToneLounge All the more reason to back it, mang.

[@TheToneLounge]

Maybe you are right. But I can’t undo the video, so my huge head will have to do. 😜

[@kosmicwizard]

I have a 2019 Gibson lp jr dc tribute, I swapped the wiring for Emerson as you did, and replaced the stock pick up with a Kinman noiseless P90. It is an absolute beast now! :)

[@TheToneLounge]

I have not tried any noiseless options for P90s. Would love to though. I decided to go with a local pickup winder, he makes vintage spec'd pickups, and the P90 in my junior sounds incredible. How do you like the wiring harness?

[@kosmicwizard]

@@TheToneLounge The Kinman P90s are really expensive but are 99% there without any 60 cycle hum. I really like the tone of the PUP you picked, seems like it has more bottom end than the 2015 Gibson PUP had. I love Emerson products! It seems to me that the tone control particularly on my JR is usable through more of the spectrum than it was with the stock pots. I bought their Paramount second stage od and might get their Em-drive at some point, though I think the Klon klone I have is doing that thing well already.

[@alainbrisebois8334]

You just paid 600 too much. You should of bought à epi junior. All the same.

[@TheToneLounge]

Nah, it turned out to be an excellent purchase. Did you see the video I did about the upgrades I did to this guitar?

[@tommyskyridge]

worst ... the word is worst.

[@TheToneLounge]

Worst, worst, worst, worst is the word!

[@TheOlmecindian]

Why 650 ? I was going to buy one off a chick she said she paid 1800 for it . Glad I didn’t buy it lol

[@TheToneLounge]

Mine was a 2015, which I bought in 2018. So used price. Her quote sounds about right.

[@TheOlmecindian]

Arksolva Studio oh ok ...I see

[@SpaTZz9]

I had one of these. No matter what we tried, never stayed in tune. Pure garbage, first Gibson I ever hated.

[@TheToneLounge]

+SpaTZz9 I’ve tried other Gibsons that sucked, some from the 70’s and 80’, but those from about 2014 to recently were the ones I disliked the most.

[@Dead-Eye]

Sigh.

[@TheToneLounge]

You tired?

[@Dead-Eye]

@@TheToneLounge No, that's "Yawn."

[@TheToneLounge]

Oh. The video was that boring?

[@Dead-Eye]

@@TheToneLounge No, just like if I had been tired it would have been a yawn, if I were bored it would be a yawn too. What I did was a sigh. Different process.

[@TheToneLounge]

Ok, so why were you sighing?