Opinion needed - first time Les Paul buyer

Petetheroadie · Jan 30, 2020

Hi all,

I've got a milestone birthday coming up, and I'm planning on getting a proper Gibson Les Paul.

As I'm a big U2 fan, I'm looking into GoldTops & Alpine White Customs.

I'm leaning more towards Goldtops, having seen a few in the flesh (they're damn pretty as well as nice sounding!)

There are 3 main options I'm considering:

1. 2019 Standard Goldtop - seem really well received, look and sound good - Burstbuckers are meant to be close to PAF sound too. Cost ~2100
2. Gibson Lee Roy Parnell Gold Top - Mixed reviews online - some saying it's closer to a Tele sound, some saying it's an amazing Les Paul. (I also prefer Les Pauls with pickguards). Only 100 of them made, so potential future increase in value. Cost ~ 3100
3 2019 '57 Reissue (Custom Shop) - Lovely guitar, Custombuckers are also meant to be very nice pickups. Expensive though @ ~4000

Would love the wisdom of the crowd here...

Should I just go for a standard as that the sensible starting point? Should I buy once and buy right and go for the 57 reissue? Is the Lee Roy Parnell one a good deal with potential future resale value?

Thanks,

Pete

fakejake · Jan 30, 2020

Hi there,
Congrats, these decisions are hard but fun!
I think everyone will agree that you should definitely try before buying. Then get the one you like best, in terms of young, feel and looks (which can be quite different in person than on a photo).
That aside, I’d go with the historic reissue. Yes, it is expensive, you say you’re having a milestone birthday, so go ahead and treat yourself if you can. Imo, historics do feel and look quite different than the other production line Les Pauls, and if you’re into the vintage thing than you’ll be much happier with one of those.
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Thundermtn · Jan 30, 2020

A used R7 is your best bet. You can find them down to around $2,400 USD. '13 and up generally will hold value better if you flip guitars.

Big Al · Jan 30, 2020

The new Les Pauls are excellent, by any standard. The Goldtops are incredible versions of the classic Les Paul and maybe a new high point for USA Goldtops. Buying new makes it yours and an awesome heirloom if held onto.

The biggest thing is neck. I like them but it is your choice to make. Try if you can.

Texas Blues · Feb 4, 2020

Petetheroadie said:
Hi all,

I've got a milestone birthday coming up, and I'm planning on getting a proper Gibson Les Paul.

As I'm a big U2 fan, I'm looking into GoldTops & Alpine White Customs.

I'm leaning more towards Goldtops, having seen a few in the flesh (they're damn pretty as well as nice sounding!)

There are 3 main options I'm considering:

1. 2019 Standard Goldtop - seem really well received, look and sound good - Burstbuckers are meant to be close to PAF sound too. Cost ~2100
2. Gibson Lee Roy Parnell Gold Top - Mixed reviews online - some saying it's closer to a Tele sound, some saying it's an amazing Les Paul. (I also prefer Les Pauls with pickguards). Only 100 of them made, so potential future increase in value. Cost ~ 3100
3 2019 '57 Reissue (Custom Shop) - Lovely guitar, Custombuckers are also meant to be very nice pickups. Expensive though @ ~4000

Would love the wisdom of the crowd here...

Should I just go for a standard as that the sensible starting point? Should I buy once and buy right and go for the 57 reissue? Is the Lee Roy Parnell one a good deal with potential future resale value?

Thanks,

Pete

Do nothing.

Sit on it for a while.

The right guitar will wait for you.

Les Paul Forum members.

Know this all too well.

Breath.

jebuscrebus · Feb 4, 2020

Try as many as you can get your hands on, the right one will find you.

Rockhard · Feb 4, 2020

Hi , yes as above , try some , check out the necks but I'd say used 57 RI best bet .

Opinion needed - first time Les Paul buyer

Petetheroadie

New member

fakejake

Well-known member

Thundermtn

Member

Big Al

Well-known member

Texas Blues

Active member

jebuscrebus

Member

Rockhard

Active member