What Is This Guitar?
In a world filled with limited editions and artist signature models that frequently enough come with hefty price tags, it’s easy too overlook the Gibson Les Paul Studio. This model stands out as an affordable option without compromising on quality.
While some may dismiss it as a lesser version of the iconic Les Paul, it offers exceptional value and sound quality, especially for those who prefer a more straightforward design.
Despite its merits, Gibson occasionally seems to overshadow this model. the recent introduction of the Studio Modern and the Studio Session has drawn attention away from the classic Studio. however, the new Double Trouble edition (a limited release) highlights this often-overlooked gem.
The “Double trouble” name is derived from the uncovered ‘Double Classic White’ pickups, which match the cream color of the pickup mounting rings and fingerboard binding, slightly darker than the single-ply pickguard.
Aside from the color of the covers, these are the same burstbucker pro humbuckers found in the standard Studio model. Essentially, you’re getting the essence of the full-fledged Standard double Trouble but at a savings of around $900. So, what else is different?
Visually, the most noticeable difference is the absence of binding along the top edge of the plain maple top.The body depth is approximately 3mm slimmer, but this is hardly noticeable. What you will notice is the weight.
This Studio model, similar to the original we reviewed in 2024, is far from being a heavy instrument. It incorporates gibson’s Ultra Modern weight relief, and while traditionalists might argue, “That’s not a Les Paul!”, many players appreciate the lighter feel. We certainly do.
In terms of features, the Studio closely resembles the higher-end Standard DT, particularly with its fingerboard binding, which has become a standard feature in this model. The binding is well-executed, forming the fret ends, known as ‘nibs’.
The hardware is consistent with Gibson’s Modern series: a Nashville tune-o-matic bridge with a wider travel, a lightweight aluminum stopbar tailpiece, and Gibson deluxe tuners with keystone buttons.The nut is crafted by Graph Tech,ensuring precision.
Specifications
- PRICE: $1,599 | £1,599 | €1,539 (includes soft case)
- ORIGIN: USA
- TYPE: Single-cutaway, solidbody electric
- BODY: 2-piece mahogany with center-joined carved maple plain top and Ultra-Modern weight relief
- NECK: 1-piece mahogany, SlimTaper profile, glued-in
- SCALE LENGTH: 629mm (24.75″) (Note: measured scale length is shorter)
- NUT WIDTH: Graph Tech/43.6mm
- FINGERBOARD: Cream bound Indian rosewood, acrylic trapezoid inlays, 305mm (12″) radius
- FRETS: 22, medium jumbo
- HARDWARE: Nashville tune-o-matic bridge, aluminum stopbar tailpiece, Gibson Deluxe tuners with keystone buttons – chrome/nickel plated
- STRING SPACING, BRIDGE: 50.5mm
- ELECTRICS: Uncovered ‘Double Classic White’ Gibson Burstbucker Pro humbuckers (neck and bridge), 3-way toggle pickup selector switch, volume and tone controls for each pickup (each volume with pull-switch ‘coil-tap’)
- WEIGHT: 3.45kg (7.59lb)
- OPTIONS: The standard non-limited Les Paul Studio ($/£1,599) features nickel-covered Burstbucker Pros
- LEFT-HANDERS: Not available for this model
- FINISHES: Dirty Lemon Burst (as reviewed),Cherry Sunburst - gloss nitrocellulose
- CONTACT: Gibson
Build Quality,Usability,and Sound
There’s little to criticize here. The impeccable finish and fretwork suggest a higher-end model than its price indicates; the SlimTaper neck profile is cozy, featuring a shallow ‘C’ shape with a slight flat back.
Weighing in at 3.45kg (7.59lb), this guitar defies the stereotype that all les Pauls are heavy. The string height and setup are excellent, requiring no adjustments, and tuning stability is reliable.
There’s little to criticize here. The impeccable finish and fretwork suggest a higher-end model than its price indicates.
it would be disappointing if the sound didn’t match the quality of its construction. Fortunately, it does. The neck pickup offers a rich depth and clarity, while the bridge pickup delivers a satisfying bite that shines with a bit of crunch.The output levels are well-balanced, requiring no adjustments.
Most importantly, the sound is not overly thick. While it has a smooth creaminess, it maintains clarity. In lower gain settings, the ’coil-tap’ effect is noticeable, providing a slightly rounder attack that is subtler compared to the more common humbucker to single-coil switching.
Playing with both pickups engaged is enjoyable, and utilizing the coil-tap on the bridge pickup helps to soften the crisp highs, which are enhanced by the absence of covers on these pickups.
The sound leans towards a more ’vintage’ character, reminiscent of a well-played instrument. It’s dynamic and expressive, and the Burstbuckers maintain an unpotted quality, adding to their old-school charm.
Final Thoughts
Final Verdict: ★★★★½
guitar World Summary: This les Paul is hard to put down,brimming with character,especially for those who appreciate the classic ‘Burst-like tones.
Moreover, the weight is a significant advantage, comparable onyl to vintage models or the higher-end Gibson Custom range. While the weight relief may alter the response, playing and owning a Les Paul of this weight is an absolute delight.
while some may miss the body binding and the finish options are limited, the exceptional playability and sound quality make these concerns seem trivial.
