First Les Paul

[o4hc]

HI -

 

I am looking to buy a Les Paul for the first time. If I was wanting to spend say around or under $3000, what's the best way to use that money? A new reissue or a late 70's/80's model?

 

I prefer traditional looking LPs, either gold or various bursts.

 

Looking mostly on eBay. Live in New Zealand so I don't get too much opportunity to try out different models.

 

Thanks for your help!

[Kineman Karma]

G'day o4hc,

 

Mate I own a well and truly road worn 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom which is pictured in my signature pic below.

 

Firstly no matter what vintage instrument you are keen on be it Non RI or RI, I would suggest you be absolute certain on what type of neck profile you prefer to play.

 

I don't know your experience as a muso so I apologise in advance if I offend.

 

When I play my 73 LPC I just can't put it down, it has a 60's neck profile and is a breeze to play and just sounds awesome and has that charismatic vintage vibe/mojo.

 

I also have a Fender Strat that has the neck profile of a baseball bat and as much as I love the sound of it, I find it very difficult to play for a lengthy period of time because the neck profile is huge.

 

At the moment I am keen on purchasing a Les Paul Traditional honeyburst to which I absolutely love how it appears vintage looking and it sounds awesome with it's 57 Classic pick ups but the neck profile would eventually just prevent me from doing shows for long periods of time because of it's fat 50's neck profile.

 

I like original non reissue instruments because they are already worn in, however there are some very good re issues and even as I say the traditional looks great, sounds great and feels great if the neck profile is right for you I would suggest the Traditional which you can pick up for $2300 AUD.

 

Being in your position of not being able to test drive one prior to purchase I suggest you get the neck profile preference down pat first.

 

Just my two cents worth mate and I wish you the best.

 

Cheers.

[T Bone]

With your budget, I'd go for a Historic, probably an R7. Be sure to read the eBay ad well, and make sure you've got the option of a refund and are buying from a good Seller (check their profile thoroughly). Be prepared for the fact that on a return, you'll eat shipping both ways (costly for International).

[o4hc]

With your budget, I'd go for a Historic, probably an R7. Be sure to read the eBay ad well, and make sure you've got the option of a refund and are buying from a good Seller (check their profile thoroughly). Be prepared for the fact that on a return, you'll eat shipping both ways (costly for International).

 

Great! Thanks guys. This is exactly the kind of info I was hoping for. All valuable advice.

 

I am assuming an R7 is a Reissue '57 right? Much difference between say a 2006 and a 2011?