Your thumbnail are 90% click bait now. I don't really want to click just top see if I want to watch or am interested in the product, lesson, or whatever it maybe. Don't get me wrong I have liked your channel for many years, but I sometimes avoid your video just because of the click bait thumbnails in my sub feed. You all can all flame away if you want too, I just don't like it, that's all. :)
Dude has to make a living, you are watching free content and someone has to pay, the clickbait helps them keep the lights on. Y’all feel so entitled like you are paying a subscription or something like that
But you clicked anyway, didn't ya? So as far as he's concerned, mission accomplished, lol. Congratulations on becoming an integral part of fueling the very thing you claim to despise. 🤣🤣👍
I have never played a Les Paul that would play in tune. Back in the 90’s some shit eating dog stole my main guitar, so I borrowed one of my cousin’s Les pauls to do some gigs. It was absolutely the worst guitar that I ever tried to play live. The tone was great but the intonation was all over the place. I took it to a great luthier named David Wallace who builds incredible guitars. He told me that there was nothing that he could do because the design of the guitar was the problem. I went to a local store and borrowed a used peavey tracer until my new guitar came in. I pick up Gibson guitars in stores all of the time and still find that they are still over priced great sounding boat anchors.
@@tabriel It's really not. If you ever are fortunate enough to play a '62 Stratocaster then you will immediately understand that some years are just much better than others.
As a 92 LP standard owner I can second that. It's the only Les Paul that remains at home, and I have had a bunch of reissues. Eveyone that plays it sees there's someting special to it
I bought a well loved 1991 sg standard in October. Was completely blown away by how well it stays in tune, sounds amazing. 1991 was definitely a good era for Gibson.
My 1st les paul was given to me...92 wine red/gold hardware studio. Ebony board..changed plastics to cream....absolute rock monster!!. I would never sell it since it means so much...great guitar
Good choice. In my opinion, cream pickguards are a great complement to several different finishes. However with a beautiful flame top, I may consider removing the pickguard.
Well, I can confuse things more, maybe. LOL I'm 72, and I've been at this guitar thing a long time, mid-late 60's. I've sat at a bar and listened to old timers talk about tri-5 guitars, 58, 59, 60 LPB's (I know one is 60, it's their story). They say all those guitars were made from 1 train car worth of 'mahogany and maple'. Also, that wood was 100+ years old when the LPB's were made! Gibson, in their infinite wisdom, just left the remainder of it at Kalamazoo when they moved. Said it was "too heavy" to move. Story goes it was auctioned off. Part of it was made into "kits", build your own 59. LOL. That's where the "Max" LPB came from. A luthier named "Max" built out some Kits. Today, Max Bursts bring a lot of $$$$!! There is still rumored to be some Kits, Max's, and some of the actual wood out there still! Keep your eyes, ears and wallets open!! Also a good resource would be member of the old guard Norm Harris, of NRG. He had most of the "old guard" in the store talking LPB's for a video not terribly long ago. Maybe go through his playlist's to find it?? I remember they talked about Max Bursts. I had a chance to buy one ~12 years ago, for $20k. I balked the chance. I've been kicking myself ever since!! I do have this special set of pups though 8) One more thing, I found some Tone-Pro like bridges at a store, they have Teflon-alloy saddles. Since I started using them all my Gibsons stay in tune much better! Making sure the nut is back_cut, and lubed (pencil/ graphite) etc, is very important also!! The only marking(s) on the bridge, are on the back, in small casting, I think it says "GT-0186" on 1 bar, and "Pat Pend" on another. I paid $16 ea for the nickle ones and $20 each for the gold ones. I used them to make cigar box guitars before I knew how well they worked on guitars! LOL I bought 15 the first time, Ni and Au. I have more coming.. That's all I got today. Thanks, peace --gary
No for les paul pick guard. Mine came with one but there was no way I was about to drill holes in the beautiful finish as it looks awesome. By the way, it never goes out of tune, even with old strings! It's about 20-ish years old now.
I have a '90 Les Paul Custom Sunburst (all original) that never had a pick guard installed that I bought back in 2009. It is a joy to play and is one of the best sounding I've owned in nearly 60 years I've playing. Is that in the good wood range?
my Standard is a 1992 I bought new in West L.A. music 32 years ago when I was 19teen and it feels and sound great,no tuning issues and she still is my N.1 guitar when I go out rehearsing and gigin...
I’ve had a 91 studio, v, and junior. I can attest that the 95 lp standard I had was great. I still have a 93 les Paul special in tv yellow that is a lifer.
I have a '90 Explorer in cherry that always confounded me why it just had this extra bit of mojo. I bought it around 98/99, very reasonable at the time.
I have a 96 LP Studio and a 96 The Hawk, both have really nice dark and rich fretboards on them. But my favorites are still my 2020 Standard, my 2021 LP Raven, and my 2010 SG Classic. They're my go to's.
Pickguard off. I put the screws back in to prevent losing them. Had a 95 Les Paul, but I don’t like the thinner necks. While it claimed to be 50’s rounded, they are not 50’s chunky.
Slash says 1987 is the best year. I’ve also heard the early 2000s are the “good wood” years for the Custom Shop. Some claim early 80s Les Pauls are the money. Basically, if someone likes their own guitar, they will claim magic pixie dust is sprinkled on guitars from that year. I wouldn’t put much stock in any of those opinions.
This. It’s all nonsense. Some guitars are better than others but it’s not decided by year of manufacture. Sometimes they’re just set up better. Sometimes they’re just played in and have the edges worn a bit. Sometimes it’s just personal preference.
i like the look of certain les pauls with pick guards, it really depends on what model and finish. Burst finishes and the bfg series look best without in my opinion, but they also sit right where i rest my finger sometimes and it throws me off lol. so i made a nice cut in mine where i can slide my fingers down and rest it on the pickup ring
I never heard about the “good wood era”, but can definitely attest to how good my LP sounds/feels! I have a 91 Les Paul Standard that has some definite mojo. I bought it back in 1996 from a friend, sight unseen for $850 (he had 13 LP’s at the time, told him to pick one out to sell me). He loaded it with EMG’s, but within a month I put my SD JB in there and pulled out the neck pickup (no pick guard/one volume knob). Tons of shows and some refrets later it still rocks, and surprisingly stays in tune!!! Unfortunately the 91’s are now going to be up in price, but AWESOME video nonetheless🤣
Hey Derek! Great to see you! I've owned three Revv amps. The latest is the D40! Digging the vintage tone with all the modern amenities. Just trying to save up enough to buy the matching cab. Feel like making a random UA-camr a deal?!
Pickguard yes! Also, I have a 91 standard and it’s basically the workhorse of my rig…one thing they are is heavy as a cinder block but none the less amazing
I have a 91 SG Special I bought brand new in 91. All black with 3 knobs. I knew nothing about guitars at the time just loved the sound. No pick guard by the way. Came like that. Anyway, a few people that do know something about guitars have played it and thought it was great. I love it too.
From an aesthetic standpoint,..I like the look of a Les Paul, both with or without a pick guard. For playing ? Personally, I absolutely need the pick guard. Otherwise, the relaxed fingers on my pick hand will travel a further distance to rest on the body of the guitar and inadvertently mute the high E or the B strings when it's a bad time for that.
@MBRMrblueroads Yes,.you are absolutely right. Oddly, there are a lot of people who like the idea of that. Musicians, particularly guitarists, are the only people I've seen that take this position. Nobody ever said,.."I can hardly wait till my new car gets dents and dings in it, and the paint fades, cracks and gets a lot of scratches in it. Or perhaps pay extra for one that already is in this condition while the same model is offered in perfect condition.
Pickguard depends on the top. I have a Les Paul with a solid finish so I left the pickguard on. I have another with a little bit flame under the guard so I took it off so I can see it. It just depends.
I have a 97 Les Paul studio with a G string that won’t stay in tune to save its life. I put a string tree on it and it helps. Now my kid has it as it doesn’t hold a candle to my 80s Yamaha SG’s.
Every Gibson stays in tune as much as any guitar with similar construction. Fix the binding at the nut or bridge and any tuning will take care of itself. BTW wood looks better than plastic any day, I have a box of pick guards off of all mine...just keep them in case someone cares when I sell the guitars.
@@AmiliaCaraMia with? You're a liar every Gibson I've owned even with a properly slotted nut goes out of tune because of slippage with the default tuner
If it comes without a pickguard I think it would look fine but I would never just purposely remove the pickguard. I keep my pickguard on my Les Paul and my 335.
I picked up a '99 vintage burst LP for £1,500. Couldn't be happier: it's a complete rock machine, has massive sustain and stays in tune without much effort. And yes, the pick guard stays on.
I have a mid 1990s Les Paul Studio. Ebony fingerboard. I dunno about good wood eras, but it definitely sounds great. It was just meant to be a stepping stone as I set out to replace all the guitar stuff i had sold, but it's so good that the Les Paul box is ticked, so I buy other stuff like SGs and an Explorer. Not skinny, but not fat? Between a 50s and a 60s neck? That's exactly like mine. A little fatter than I usually go for, but I suspect it's part of why it sounds so good.
The pick guard protects the finish. I see how scratched up my pickguard is and know the finish would be gone there. Pick guard on for sure, I have 4 Les Paul's and they all have the pick guard on. Plus I like to rest my fingers on it.
I've got a 94 Les Paul Studio with 498 and 500 Ts. Stays in tune , really comfy neck , most of my axes are Ibanez ,, tone wise can hang with a Custom. Wonder if the " good wood era " applies to more than just 91 in general ?? Much appreciated. Thank you
I have a 2023 built Les Paul Modern with a AAA flame top in Seafoam Green. However I like a pickguard, especially on a Les Paul, because it gives me somewhere to rest my pinky while I'm playing, which, in turn, also gives me a reference point from which to be able to pluck whichever string I'm trying to hit with better precision. My solution was to buy a custom clear acrylic pickguard for my Les Paul. I think it looks great, it serves the purpose I want it for, and it doesn't cover up the beautiful top on my guitar! Oh, and with regards to your original point I agree I feel like my Les Paul modern is extremely well-built, it stays in tune, it sounds great and feels great to play. There are no QC issues that I've found. I currently own 5 guitars, 2 Gibsons, 2 PRS-es and an American Ultra Stratocaster. My LP is easily my #1. I also currently have a Novo Miris Custom build ordered. The Novo should be ready about January.
Paul has a tech going over them, besides that he switches guitars between almost every song during a show. Both my Iceman’s stay in tune for more than one song out of the box, had a brand new 2016 LP Studio that didn’t, the auto tuning system on it had pretty bad tuners integrated, replacing them with standard Grovers did the trick, still annoying that Gibson doesn’t put more resources towards QC, there would be way less bad examples of new Gibsons ending up in YT videos if they did.
Pickguards depend on the top. I had a 2012 plain top in honeyburst that I took the guard off and it instantly looked better. I now have a 2021 standard in unburst and I’ve left it on. On a flame maple top I regard it almost as a lapel on the guitar.
I prefer pickguard on. Looks more distinguished and handsome. Pickguard off can look good depending on the finish but somehow looks incomplete, casual, and a little too PRS or Carvin shredder-style for my taste.
Hey you guys( Chunk reference “ The Goonies “, lol. Hometown boy makes good, probably the most decent person in the amp biz. Derek is never to busy to reach back out, in all my dealings with him. As always enjoying the channel, Ruderik
I own a 91 SG Standard I bought new back in July 1991 as a 17 year old. IT was my first electric guitar and I worked that summer to pay it off. It's a still a fantastic guitar, and despite the other guitars I own and that have come and gone, it's remained my consistent number 1!
BRILLIANT! You are 100% right. But it’s not just Les Pauls, either. My 1 of 200 1991-1992 Gibson Firebird Celebrity edition is one of the best guitars that I’ve ever played at any price or vintage. It’s better than the 63-64 firebirds I have played, better than custom shop firebirds I’ve had/played, better than murphy labs I had/played. And imo it’s the sexiest firebird ever made and they can’t copy the stuff they did on it with other guitars because of the funny coa they sent with them that promises such. I got lucky and traded a memphis 335 walnut for mine- and it’s one of the cleanest firebird celebrity in existence. It looks almost new. But the way it resonates in your hands, the way the firebird pickups scream. It’s like 8lbs too which is imo like the perfect firebird weight. I prefer lighter guitars but the firebirds seem perfect around 8. But Sounds like a strat with 3 testes with a dash of Les Paul. The only problem is I’m horrified to accidentally break any of the super rad plastic parts. The white pickguard with the black firebird logo 😱 The white truss rod cover that looks like the tip of rambos knife and has the black Gibson logo 😱 When you’re playing it it’s like driving a GT3 racecar- you can always see the big racecar wing on the back and remember that you’re driving something special. With the ‘bird you are always seeing the big old gold banjo tuners sticking behind the headstock outta the corner of your eye and remember that ur playing something special. Promise I’m always the only guy who shows up with a crisp clean looking firebird celebrity lol. Everyone wants you to go first too 😂 Like we gotta hear this asshole that has the balls to show up with something that different and cool. Every single time I pop them latches and pull back that pink blanket I *blush* when I see it. Every time. I always go to myself “omg that’s my firebird!” 🐦🔥
Robert, there is a small collector corner chasing MIK Epiphones because of the great tones. I found they are the post 1998ish MIK builds. What makes them great is the (measured) values of the tone caps. I suspect your "magic 91" Gibsons are likewise due to capacitor or maybe pots. Pickups will be "more like 1950s than last years" as Gibson's Marketing tries to tell. If you do get into collecting or seeking out the 91 Gibsons then make sure to use an ohm meter and capacitance meter to measure up all the guitars you look at and other years. You'll find a trend with the control circuits. ... The magical MIK Epiphones had 0.033uF tone caps vs other times/factories/common values.
‘91 perhaps because Gibson was flush with cash and profitable, and that meant less cutting corners. 88 - 91 is when Gibson was enjoying high demand for the first time since the 70s. Joe Perry and Slash were all over MTV with Les Pauls and the glam metal scene with pointy guitars was cooling down.
Nope. It’s because all of the good wood was in the one factory where all Gibson solid body guitars were made. They set up the Custom Shop shortly thereafter and all of the best wood went there.
The way I play if i dont have a pickgaurd on I dig a hole in the guitar right in front of the bridge pup. My sg has such a hole but i made a diamond plate aluinum gaurd to cover it up. It looks like a side boob im a pick gaurd on guy.
None of my Les Pauls have ever had the problem of not staying in tune. It’s all about how you setup your guitar. If you don’t know how, it won’t stay in tune and vice versa…
I just found out two weeks ago that the Les Paul Studio I inherited from my brother five years ago is a 91’ January 10, 1991. It needs a lot of work though original tuners are hosed has some Grover tuners on it amongst other things
I’ve always wanted a Les Paul, but I’ll never own one just not in the budget but as far as pick guards go, some look good with them some look good without them. Just depends on the color and woodgrain.
Best les paul I ever played or owned was a 2011 Traditional . I had to sell it and I have played 100s of les Paul's in the last 10 years and nothing has come remotely close .
That's exactly what I got; '91 LP Studio, gorgeous checked Blonde finish with gold hardware all over it, weighs a ton. Stunningly beautiful and it freaking screams, Over the years I've curiously checked prices on the '91 and always said to myself these are waaaaay undervalued.
Les Paul and pick guard? If it’s a gold top or painted finish, yes to pick guard. If it’s a AA, AAA or AAAA flame or quilt w/transparent finish, NO pick guard. When they have a gorgeous grain, I would never cover it.
I own a 91’ LP studio my first LP. Purchased it in 97’ from a pawn shop with a Marshall half stack jcm 900 and 1960 cab for $1100. I still have both and my LP is probably going to the grave with me!
Robert, I love your show man and I also love my Gibson Les Paul WITH the PICK GUARD ON. It's just my opinion, but the pick guard is a major part of a Les Paul's unique design and its classic style. Taking the pick guard off would be like buying a 1977 Pontiac Trans-am and removing the spoiler from the deck lif, or the Firebird from the hood. At my house it's just not done and the way I see it, if two really cool guys like us agree on the same look, then there it is. Anything else is just uncivilized. 🤜💥🤛💯
THE PICK GUARD ON A LES PAUL IS NOT NECESSARY BECAUSE IT IS AN ARCH TOP THAT SLOPES AWAY FROM THE STRINGS - AND - IT HIDES THE BEAUTIFUL FINISH UNDERNEATH
The secret is OUT!
6:30... LP pickguard OFF 👍
They say a broken/fixed headstock makes LP's sound better. Or does it?
@@nacuda9Mine does mate!!
@@nacuda9 I have heard it makes it stronger.
#teampickguard
And just like that, '91 Les Pauls went up in price on Reverb.
Like the spate of videos on Peavey Classic 50 and 30 amps...
Prices have gone stupid as a result!!
Creating the modern 59 bursts!?!
Bro I was literally thinking the same thing just now lmao
I don't care, that doesn't affect the price of the Harley Bentons in any way 😂
Thankfully I knew this a long time ago and already have 4 from that era! I just didnt go blabbin off about it!
3 hours after this vid dropped I got ads on reverb all 91s
Flame top- NO Pick guard
Solid finish- Pick guard
Pretty accurate. I also feel that way with plain top bursts, they need the pick guard
Your thumbnail are 90% click bait now. I don't really want to click just top see if I want to watch or am interested in the product, lesson, or whatever it maybe. Don't get me wrong I have liked your channel for many years, but I sometimes avoid your video just because of the click bait thumbnails in my sub feed. You all can all flame away if you want too, I just don't like it, that's all. :)
I've thought this same thing for awhile now about his thumbnails as well.
Dude has to make a living, you are watching free content and someone has to pay, the clickbait helps them keep the lights on. Y’all feel so entitled like you are paying a subscription or something like that
Same, don’t mind supporting if the video makes sense.
But you clicked anyway, didn't ya? So as far as he's concerned, mission accomplished, lol. Congratulations on becoming an integral part of fueling the very thing you claim to despise. 🤣🤣👍
Nah, you're actually right. Those clickbait titles are disappointing.
I agree with Derek. The first thing I did with both my Les Pauls, was remove the pick guard.
This is the way!
I much prefer it on. To each their own.
I thought it was just me about pick guard 😂
Pickguards belong on solid color LPs and some bursts. But mostly not on Translucent finshes.
@@evangelistbrianbaker Exactly!! Totally depends on the finish! : )
I have never played a Les Paul that would play in tune. Back in the 90’s some shit eating dog stole my main guitar, so I borrowed one of my cousin’s Les pauls to do some gigs. It was absolutely the worst guitar that I ever tried to play live. The tone was great but the intonation was all over the place. I took it to a great luthier named David Wallace who builds incredible guitars. He told me that there was nothing that he could do because the design of the guitar was the problem. I went to a local store and borrowed a used peavey tracer until my new guitar came in. I pick up Gibson guitars in stores all of the time and still find that they are still over priced great sounding boat anchors.
Yet another industry folklore story to go along with the rest. You either dig your guitar or not.
@@tabriel
It's really not. If you ever are fortunate enough to play a '62 Stratocaster then you will immediately understand that some years are just much better than others.
I like the pick guards on Les Pauls!
Most players that have experience with Les Pauls already knew this. The good wood era is considered from 1990 to 1996.
Some say it starts in the late 80s until around 2000 or so
I have a 93' studio and it's great, tried a 95' the same day I bought it and that one was meh, I think qc is a factor too
@@mohamedtlass3842 I have an '89 V that says you're on to something.
No pick guard. I love the finish on the guitar.
Exactly
As a 92 LP standard owner I can second that. It's the only Les Paul that remains at home, and I have had a bunch of reissues. Eveyone that plays it sees there's someting special to it
Best Les Pauls I've ever played (and owned), '90 Custom, '89 Studio, '91 Custom.
No pick guard on a les Paul!!! I agree with Derek. Something about a Les Paul, looks so much better without the pick guard.
That is an ongoing discussion.
I disagree. Liked the look when I was a kid but now I much prefer the guard on.
I think it depends on the finishes. Solid colors... I would prefer the pick guard. Natural or transparent finishes, I like the no pickguard look.
I absolutely despise pick guards. It makes no sense, why hide the wood. What’s the point of having one?
@@billyc6678 To stop your finish getting scratched up by your pick and fingers. Pretty obvious.
I bought a well loved 1991 sg standard in October. Was completely blown away by how well it stays in tune, sounds amazing. 1991 was definitely a good era for Gibson.
My 1st les paul was given to me...92 wine red/gold hardware studio. Ebony board..changed plastics to cream....absolute rock monster!!. I would never sell it since it means so much...great guitar
Good choice. In my opinion, cream pickguards are a great complement to several different finishes. However with a beautiful flame top, I may consider removing the pickguard.
The Tokai Love Rock neck is a similar carve, across between a 59' and a 60'. Wide board, not too thick, but something to grab.
Well, I can confuse things more, maybe. LOL I'm 72, and I've been at this guitar thing a long time, mid-late 60's. I've sat at a bar and listened to old timers talk about tri-5 guitars, 58, 59, 60 LPB's (I know one is 60, it's their story). They say all those guitars were made from 1 train car worth of 'mahogany and maple'. Also, that wood was 100+ years old when the LPB's were made! Gibson, in their infinite wisdom, just left the remainder of it at Kalamazoo when they moved. Said it was "too heavy" to move. Story goes it was auctioned off. Part of it was made into "kits", build your own 59. LOL. That's where the "Max" LPB came from. A luthier named "Max" built out some Kits. Today, Max Bursts bring a lot of $$$$!! There is still rumored to be some Kits, Max's, and some of the actual wood out there still! Keep your eyes, ears and wallets open!! Also a good resource would be member of the old guard Norm Harris, of NRG. He had most of the "old guard" in the store talking LPB's for a video not terribly long ago. Maybe go through his playlist's to find it?? I remember they talked about Max Bursts. I had a chance to buy one ~12 years ago, for $20k. I balked the chance. I've been kicking myself ever since!! I do have this special set of pups though 8) One more thing, I found some Tone-Pro like bridges at a store, they have Teflon-alloy saddles. Since I started using them all my Gibsons stay in tune much better! Making sure the nut is back_cut, and lubed (pencil/ graphite) etc, is very important also!! The only marking(s) on the bridge, are on the back, in small casting, I think it says "GT-0186" on 1 bar, and "Pat Pend" on another. I paid $16 ea for the nickle ones and $20 each for the gold ones. I used them to make cigar box guitars before I knew how well they worked on guitars! LOL I bought 15 the first time, Ni and Au. I have more coming.. That's all I got today. Thanks, peace --gary
I have a 91 SG and it sounds amazing! The neck is the slim taper. But my "Bonnie" is NOT for sale.
Paul Stanley of KISS has been singing the praises of 1990’s Les Pauls
No for les paul pick guard. Mine came with one but there was no way I was about to drill holes in the beautiful finish as it looks awesome. By the way, it never goes out of tune, even with old strings! It's about 20-ish years old now.
I have a '90 Les Paul Custom Sunburst (all original) that never had a pick guard installed that I bought back in 2009. It is a joy to play and is one of the best sounding I've owned in nearly 60 years I've playing. Is that in the good wood range?
I think we can let that pass 😂
my Standard is a 1992 I bought new in West L.A. music 32 years ago when I was 19teen and it feels and sound great,no tuning issues and she still is my N.1 guitar when I go out rehearsing and gigin...
I’ve had a 91 studio, v, and junior. I can attest that the 95 lp standard I had was great. I still have a 93 les Paul special in tv yellow that is a lifer.
I've got a 91 black Gibson Les Paul Custom that i've owned since 91, and it's one of the best guitars i've ever played.
I'm jealous, I have an 1980 Custom, but I want to get a 91 Custom :)
I have a '90 Explorer in cherry that always confounded me why it just had this extra bit of mojo. I bought it around 98/99, very reasonable at the time.
I have a 96 LP Studio and a 96 The Hawk, both have really nice dark and rich fretboards on them. But my favorites are still my 2020 Standard, my 2021 LP Raven, and my 2010 SG Classic. They're my go to's.
Pickguard off. I put the screws back in to prevent losing them.
Had a 95 Les Paul, but I don’t like the thinner necks. While it claimed to be 50’s rounded, they are not 50’s chunky.
Slash says 1987 is the best year. I’ve also heard the early 2000s are the “good wood” years for the Custom Shop. Some claim early 80s Les Pauls are the money. Basically, if someone likes their own guitar, they will claim magic pixie dust is sprinkled on guitars from that year. I wouldn’t put much stock in any of those opinions.
This. It’s all nonsense. Some guitars are better than others but it’s not decided by year of manufacture. Sometimes they’re just set up better. Sometimes they’re just played in and have the edges worn a bit. Sometimes it’s just personal preference.
This should be the pinned comment.
@JacobS-q7c I’m not describing wood at all. Murphy Lab guitars are just regular custom shop guitars with relicing.
Good wood era years keep shifting. Keep hearing 87-89, 90-01, and it goes on. Oh, and I’m becoming a pickguard off kinda guy.
I love how candid they are in this video. Thank you!
i like the look of certain les pauls with pick guards, it really depends on what model and finish. Burst finishes and the bfg series look best without in my opinion, but they also sit right where i rest my finger sometimes and it throws me off lol. so i made a nice cut in mine where i can slide my fingers down and rest it on the pickup ring
I never heard about the “good wood era”, but can definitely attest to how good my LP sounds/feels! I have a 91 Les Paul Standard that has some definite mojo. I bought it back in 1996 from a friend, sight unseen for $850 (he had 13 LP’s at the time, told him to pick one out to sell me). He loaded it with EMG’s, but within a month I put my SD JB in there and pulled out the neck pickup (no pick guard/one volume knob). Tons of shows and some refrets later it still rocks, and surprisingly stays in tune!!! Unfortunately the 91’s are now going to be up in price, but AWESOME video nonetheless🤣
Hey Derek! Great to see you! I've owned three Revv amps. The latest is the D40! Digging the vintage tone with all the modern amenities. Just trying to save up enough to buy the matching cab. Feel like making a random UA-camr a deal?!
Thank dude! Send me an email and we'll figure something out :)
Pickguard choice can also change with playing style. Sometimes I rest my pinky on it depending on what I'm playing.
The paul Stanley Gibson garage interview was all about his various 94 s as the magic year according to Paul and he has a couple as his main guitars
Pickguard yes! Also, I have a 91 standard and it’s basically the workhorse of my rig…one thing they are is heavy as a cinder block but none the less amazing
Definitely pickguard ON. But just because I actually often need it to repose the ring finger on while playing.
I have a 93 standard i love it,Got it in 95 ,removed the pick guard and changed the tuners....Its still my main Guitar ,The neck is perfect
I have a 91 SG Special I bought brand new in 91. All black with 3 knobs. I knew nothing about guitars at the time just loved the sound. No pick guard by the way. Came like that. Anyway, a few people that do know something about guitars have played it and thought it was great. I love it too.
From an aesthetic standpoint,..I like the look of a Les Paul, both with or without a pick guard.
For playing ? Personally, I absolutely need the pick guard. Otherwise, the relaxed fingers on my pick hand will travel a further distance to rest on the body of the guitar and inadvertently mute the high E or the B strings when it's a bad time for that.
@MBRMrblueroads Yes,.you are absolutely right.
Oddly, there are a lot of people who like the idea of that.
Musicians, particularly guitarists, are the only people I've seen that take this position.
Nobody ever said,.."I can hardly wait till my new car gets dents and dings in it, and the paint fades, cracks and gets a lot of scratches in it. Or perhaps pay extra for one that already is in this condition while the same model is offered in perfect condition.
No wonder my ‘93 Les Paul is still top notch because of the good wood era. 👏👏👏
Pickguard depends on the top. I have a Les Paul with a solid finish so I left the pickguard on. I have another with a little bit flame under the guard so I took it off so I can see it. It just depends.
I have a 97 Les Paul studio with a G string that won’t stay in tune to save its life. I put a string tree on it and it helps. Now my kid has it as it doesn’t hold a candle to my 80s Yamaha SG’s.
No pick guard. Enjoy the beautiful wood grain, don’t hide it with a piece of plastic.
Every Gibson stays in tune as much as any guitar with similar construction. Fix the binding at the nut or bridge and any tuning will take care of itself. BTW wood looks better than plastic any day, I have a box of pick guards off of all mine...just keep them in case someone cares when I sell the guitars.
Not true
@@Mark_B585I’ve had a similar experience as him. Most every Gibson I’ve owned works fine with a properly slotted nut
@@AmiliaCaraMia with? You're a liar every Gibson I've owned even with a properly slotted nut goes out of tune because of slippage with the default tuner
Still have several Gibsons… with a good set up tuning is as good as with my US PRS’s…
So, what you're telling me is, Gibson can't fix the binding for me at the factory? Ooooooof.
Or here's an idea: Gibson can stop making shitty tuners!
If it comes without a pickguard I think it would look fine but I would never just purposely remove the pickguard. I keep my pickguard on my Les Paul and my 335.
I picked up a '99 vintage burst LP for £1,500. Couldn't be happier: it's a complete rock machine, has massive sustain and stays in tune without much effort. And yes, the pick guard stays on.
I have a mid 1990s Les Paul Studio. Ebony fingerboard. I dunno about good wood eras, but it definitely sounds great. It was just meant to be a stepping stone as I set out to replace all the guitar stuff i had sold, but it's so good that the Les Paul box is ticked, so I buy other stuff like SGs and an Explorer.
Not skinny, but not fat? Between a 50s and a 60s neck? That's exactly like mine. A little fatter than I usually go for, but I suspect it's part of why it sounds so good.
I agree with Robert, keep the pickguard on.🤘🎸
booooo
The pick guard protects the finish. I see how scratched up my pickguard is and know the finish would be gone there. Pick guard on for sure, I have 4 Les Paul's and they all have the pick guard on. Plus I like to rest my fingers on it.
I use a clear acrylic pickguard on my Les Paul Modern.
I have a 1998 Les Paul standard and it’s a great guitar. And it does stay in tune with a proper setup.
I've got a 94 Les Paul Studio with 498 and 500 Ts. Stays in tune , really comfy neck , most of my axes are Ibanez ,, tone wise can hang with a Custom. Wonder if the " good wood era " applies to more than just 91 in general ?? Much appreciated. Thank you
The pickgaurd puts the right hand in the right position ime. Without one the gap down to the wood below the strings is to high
I think they are making some of their best Les Pauls right now.
I do agree that some of the new ones I have played feel great
I have a ‘22 Les Paul Classic and it’s been solid. Sounds great and no tuning issues whatsoever.
My ‘22 LP Classic has been solid. Sounds and plays great and no tuning issues at all.
I have a 2023 built Les Paul Modern with a AAA flame top in Seafoam Green. However I like a pickguard, especially on a Les Paul, because it gives me somewhere to rest my pinky while I'm playing, which, in turn, also gives me a reference point from which to be able to pluck whichever string I'm trying to hit with better precision. My solution was to buy a custom clear acrylic pickguard for my Les Paul. I think it looks great, it serves the purpose I want it for, and it doesn't cover up the beautiful top on my guitar! Oh, and with regards to your original point I agree I feel like my Les Paul modern is extremely well-built, it stays in tune, it sounds great and feels great to play. There are no QC issues that I've found. I currently own 5 guitars, 2 Gibsons, 2 PRS-es and an American Ultra Stratocaster. My LP is easily my #1. I also currently have a Novo Miris Custom build ordered. The Novo should be ready about January.
Paul Stanley just mention this in his Gibson interview. All my Gibsons stay in tune cause im not a chode and can tune.
Paul has a tech going over them, besides that he switches guitars between almost every song during a show.
Both my Iceman’s stay in tune for more than one song out of the box, had a brand new 2016 LP Studio that didn’t, the auto tuning system on it had pretty bad tuners integrated, replacing them with standard Grovers did the trick, still annoying that Gibson doesn’t put more resources towards QC, there would be way less bad examples of new Gibsons ending up in YT videos if they did.
I think my 97 Goldtop is a good wood erra.. had the dumb green inlays replaced with historic makeovers. Makes the appearance look so much better
I don't want pickguards on my Les Pauls, I find that they look way more rock without pickguards.
No pickguards on LP's. I have two 1991 guitars, a Fender American Strat and a Jackson Dinky XL Professional. They're both great.
#teamnopickguard for the win
I’m a fan of the pick guard. It’s classic.
Just picked up a 91’ 40th anniversary Les Paul with lawlor p90s 🙌🏻
Pickguard off if it has a nice flame top. Pickguard on if it's a plain/painted top.
Pickguards depend on the top. I had a 2012 plain top in honeyburst that I took the guard off and it instantly looked better. I now have a 2021 standard in unburst and I’ve left it on.
On a flame maple top I regard it almost as a lapel on the guitar.
93 les Paul studio with the ebony board. It’s a phenomenal player my number two guitar.
I have a '95 Studio and a '96 The Hawk. Both are just stellar guitars that really hold up tone and tuning wise. So good!!
I prefer pickguard on. Looks more distinguished and handsome. Pickguard off can look good depending on the finish but somehow looks incomplete, casual, and a little too PRS or Carvin shredder-style for my taste.
Hey you guys( Chunk reference “ The Goonies “, lol. Hometown boy makes good, probably the most decent person in the amp biz.
Derek is never to busy to reach back out, in all my dealings with him.
As always enjoying the channel,
Ruderik
Whatever year the guitar is that you love seems to be the "best" year for that particular type of guitar.
Are "91's" heavy or are they light?
Also pickguard ON the painted and OFF the transparent tops.
I own a 91 SG Standard I bought new back in July 1991 as a 17 year old. IT was my first electric guitar and I worked that summer to pay it off. It's a still a fantastic guitar, and despite the other guitars I own and that have come and gone, it's remained my consistent number 1!
Great opening jam! Thanks, too!
My comment,too!
I like both, one month with and one without . What is the white pick you are using ?
Hey Robert, what model is that 2nd Les Paul you hold ?
BRILLIANT!
You are 100% right. But it’s not just Les Pauls, either. My 1 of 200 1991-1992 Gibson Firebird Celebrity edition is one of the best guitars that I’ve ever played at any price or vintage. It’s better than the 63-64 firebirds I have played, better than custom shop firebirds I’ve had/played, better than murphy labs I had/played. And imo it’s the sexiest firebird ever made and they can’t copy the stuff they did on it with other guitars because of the funny coa they sent with them that promises such. I got lucky and traded a memphis 335 walnut for mine- and it’s one of the cleanest firebird celebrity in existence. It looks almost new. But the way it resonates in your hands, the way the firebird pickups scream. It’s like 8lbs too which is imo like the perfect firebird weight. I prefer lighter guitars but the firebirds seem perfect around 8. But Sounds like a strat with 3 testes with a dash of Les Paul.
The only problem is I’m horrified to accidentally break any of the super rad plastic parts. The white pickguard with the black firebird logo 😱
The white truss rod cover that looks like the tip of rambos knife and has the black Gibson logo 😱
When you’re playing it it’s like driving a GT3 racecar- you can always see the big racecar wing on the back and remember that you’re driving something special. With the ‘bird you are always seeing the big old gold banjo tuners sticking behind the headstock outta the corner of your eye and remember that ur playing something special.
Promise I’m always the only guy who shows up with a crisp clean looking firebird celebrity lol. Everyone wants you to go first too 😂 Like we gotta hear this asshole that has the balls to show up with something that different and cool. Every single time I pop them latches and pull back that pink blanket I *blush* when I see it. Every time. I always go to myself “omg that’s my firebird!” 🐦🔥
What model Les Paul is it ? Standard? Classic? Reissue? What ?
Robert, there is a small collector corner chasing MIK Epiphones because of the great tones. I found they are the post 1998ish MIK builds. What makes them great is the (measured) values of the tone caps. I suspect your "magic 91" Gibsons are likewise due to capacitor or maybe pots. Pickups will be "more like 1950s than last years" as Gibson's Marketing tries to tell. If you do get into collecting or seeking out the 91 Gibsons then make sure to use an ohm meter and capacitance meter to measure up all the guitars you look at and other years. You'll find a trend with the control circuits. ... The magical MIK Epiphones had 0.033uF tone caps vs other times/factories/common values.
Fabulous video. Very informative with a lotta joking too.
How about customizing a clear acrylic pick guard?
Pickguard Y/N all depends on the finish. I prefer pickguard on most. It was my impression good wood stopped at 1998.
‘91 perhaps because Gibson was flush with cash and profitable, and that meant less cutting corners.
88 - 91 is when Gibson was enjoying high demand for the first time since the 70s. Joe Perry and Slash were all over MTV with Les Pauls and the glam metal scene with pointy guitars was cooling down.
Most Gibsons born the same year as me are awesome !
Nope. It’s because all of the good wood was in the one factory where all Gibson solid body guitars were made. They set up the Custom Shop shortly thereafter and all of the best wood went there.
Team #nopickguard for me. I have a feeling everyone on Reverb with a '91 Standard listed is about to raise their prices...
The way I play if i dont have a pickgaurd on I dig a hole in the guitar right in front of the bridge pup. My sg has such a hole but i made a diamond plate aluinum gaurd to cover it up. It looks like a side boob im a pick gaurd on guy.
None of my Les Pauls have ever had the problem of not staying in tune. It’s all about how you setup your guitar. If you don’t know how, it won’t stay in tune and vice versa…
Same. I have a Gibson Les Paul, a Gibson SG and a Tokai LP and all stay in tune as well as my Strat and Tele.
None of my Les Pauls have tuning issues. They're set up correctly
My Tokai came with a loose pick guard. Optional to mount it and still have not. Half out of laziness half out of being OK with how it looks.
I'm 100% never pick guard. Pick guards are ugly on any and all guitars. I have no strats, only super strats with no guards.
I took the pickguard off my black Les Paul, others remain. Black looks great w/out a pickguard IMO
I just found out two weeks ago that the Les Paul Studio I inherited from my brother five years ago is a 91’ January 10, 1991. It needs a lot of work though original tuners are hosed has some Grover tuners on it amongst other things
I’ve always wanted a Les Paul, but I’ll never own one just not in the budget but as far as pick guards go, some look good with them some look good without them. Just depends on the color and woodgrain.
Best les paul I ever played or owned was a 2011 Traditional . I had to sell it and I have played 100s of les Paul's in the last 10 years and nothing has come remotely close .
That's exactly what I got; '91 LP Studio, gorgeous checked Blonde finish with gold hardware all over it, weighs a ton. Stunningly beautiful and it freaking screams, Over the years I've curiously checked prices on the '91 and always said to myself these are waaaaay undervalued.
Les Paul and pick guard? If it’s a gold top or painted finish, yes to pick guard. If it’s a AA, AAA or AAAA flame or quilt w/transparent finish, NO pick guard. When they have a gorgeous grain, I would never cover it.
I own a 91’ LP studio my first LP. Purchased it in 97’ from a pawn shop with a Marshall half stack jcm 900 and 1960 cab for $1100. I still have both and my LP is probably going to the grave with me!
The nature finish on a Les Paul without a pick guard looks amazing. The standard burst with a pick guard looks iconic. IMO
Depends on the LP! My 2007 GOTW #2 Antique fireburst, NO PICKGUARD!! My R9 pickguard... 18' Goldtop P90, pickguard!
Paul Stanley really loves the 94 les paul. He was talking about it on Gibson TV. His are custom shop though.
2002-3 was great for Custom shop
love the pick guard on my les paul
93 and 94 les Paul's are also considered to be great. 93 and 94 les Paul Classics are amazing as are the ealry R9s from that era
Robert, I love your show man and I also love my Gibson Les Paul WITH the PICK GUARD ON. It's just my opinion, but the pick guard is a major part of a Les Paul's unique design and its classic style. Taking the pick guard off would be like buying a 1977 Pontiac Trans-am and removing the spoiler from the deck lif, or the Firebird from the hood. At my house it's just not done and the way I see it, if two really cool guys like us agree on the same look, then there it is. Anything else is just uncivilized. 🤜💥🤛💯
You guys should do more videos together this was great!! And for the record no pick guard.😂
THE PICK GUARD ON A LES PAUL IS NOT NECESSARY BECAUSE IT IS AN ARCH TOP THAT SLOPES AWAY FROM THE STRINGS - AND - IT HIDES THE BEAUTIFUL FINISH UNDERNEATH