A good thing nowadays is that everyone can get a good guitar, cheap or expensive.

@nurk_barry

2 жыл бұрын

Exactly

@robertm2000

2 жыл бұрын

You do have to be knowledgeable and fairly careful when you buy an inexpensive guitar, but it is definitely true that you can get an instrument that is very close to the top-of-the-line guitars at a huge savings.

@sorenahlback

2 жыл бұрын

@@robertm2000that’s true. I buy both cheap and more expensive guitars and I enjoy to experiment with the cheap ones and make them feel like the expensive ones. I have an Epiphone that cost about 100 $ that plays like butter after hours of adjustments. Even if I can afford whatever guitar I want I feel like 100 to 1000 $ is what I want. But nothing wrong with people who want to buy expensive guitars. However I want to make all adjustments I want without being afraid of ruin a value.

@michaelheller8841

2 жыл бұрын

So very true. One of my purchases last year was an Epiphone Les Paul SG. Mick Taylor inspired. I payed $450 for it and added handwired humbuckers to it for another $350. So, at $800 all in it blowed away some guitars in the 3k plus range. Some need more setup than others. I got lucky. I purchased many guitars of Epiphone and a PRS all under a thousand and all Rock. Budget guitars are now made better than ever. Years ago you can pay $500 for a guitar and it can still be a dog.

@michaelheller8841

2 жыл бұрын

@@robertm2000 if it’s set up right, you can do amazing things with a budget one. I have expensive ones and budget ones. All rock.

I was in Nashville last week and bought a Junior from the Gibson Garage. I couldn't be happier with it. It is gorgeous, plus it plays and sounds great!

You're exactly right, any product is worth what someone is willing to pay for it. I can't imagine a guitar that I would pay $10k for even if I could afford it but $5-7k that seems reasonable

I love my Les Paul I love my strat we are lucky to have such beautiful guitars to discuss

Gibson has drastically improved their quality in my opinion.... I think maybe that they plek all the guitars helps....I never played a les paul that I really liked even though they look awesome, but recently I played a 60's standard and fell in love with it...it's absolutely flawless, and plays amazing....it even stays in tune at my outdoor gigs in hot humid Florida...i love my telecaster, but each guitar is a tool for a specific tone i need for certain songs...oh yeah, i loved my standard 60's so much i ended up buying a 59 custom shop 2 weeks later😂😂😂

@SoundlabStudios63

Жыл бұрын

I’m calling the 2019-present day Gibsons the “Gibson is Back” era. I’m about to buy a 50s standard, and it’s the best guitar I’ve ever played. Totally worth the money.

Why do people with no say in your playing experience feel the need to weigh in on what anyone else can/does/should play?

@byronmitchell2067

2 жыл бұрын

This comment should be higher.

@leverdusoleil3914

2 жыл бұрын

@Chris Hendrix Amen to that! Well said.

PRS custom 24 private stock they go for $10,000+ but I would only buy it used for about 1/2 the price ha

I've got a 2014 gibson les paul r9 best les paul I've ever owned

If money wasn't an issue and the law of diminishing returns, the most I would spend would be in the $5k range for a brand new guitar. Vintage is a whole other story.

@danielbell4007

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for not saying “whole nother”

@michaelheller8841

2 жыл бұрын

Bret, you are very right. There has to be a limit in our budget or we would all snatch up all the original 59’ Les Pauls lol. Hard to do with only maybe a low quantity ever made. I’m around the 5k to 7.5k and it has to really talk to me. I have 15 guitars, so that’s further down the road. I always say this is my last one but I don’t believe I’m telling the truth lol. If it’s all fun, we keep going.

@peterallen1041

2 жыл бұрын

I totally agree Brett, 5k. Great vid Dylan!

@maxpeck4154

2 жыл бұрын

@@danielbell4007 yes!!!

@WhyAlwaysMeMario

2 жыл бұрын

I think you bring up another great point that most people get confused. The idea of "the law of diminishing returns" doesn't apply to the initial purchase of an item. The possibility of "deprecation" is more apt. The "law" will only apply IF you purchase an item and then "invest" additional money into the initial purchase, hoping to affect the resale value for a net gain. A example would be if you purchase an item (lets say a Harley Benton guitar) at 300.00 retail and then dropped 250.00 for new picks ups, 300.00 for new neck binding, and a re-finish at 700.00. The modifications can tremendously affect the resale value...in a negative. The likelihood of you recouping what you put in is next to null. Same goes for a legacy brand such as Gibson or Fender. If you "invest" the same modifications the end result would be the same. Why? Its due to the idea that within certain categories modifications can / will deprecate value. And because of each modification (here's where the "law" applies) you have now limited the possibilities of netting a "higher" asking value within the used market space due to "collective perception". Case in point, within the instrument category, most people are apprehensive on modifications. Questions, come up such was the job done right? If so, what parts were used? Are the replacement parts original period correct? Or cheap aftermarket? Who did the work? Are they well known and respected within the industry? Etc. These questions change the "perception" of value. Whereas within the housing market, modifications can affect the market value...in the positive. Keep in mind scarcity can and will play a huge factor in market value, but that's whole other ball of wax. And you are right to mention "Vintage is a whole other story" because time and scarcity will be the determining factors in resale value. Hope this helps others really understand this concept.

If someone asks me about a Gibson being expensive I ask their context. You want it for an investment or you want it to play. For an investment, it's great. Box it up in the attic for 20 years. You want it to play? There are loads of guitars for cheaper with better sound, weight, and feel in my opinion.

@Otis-Isom

2 жыл бұрын

I bought my sg for playing purposes it sounds and feels incredible and is about 7 1/2 lbs. Gibson’s are great playing guitars and there standard range are competitive with any guitars in the same price bracket from my experience.

@DaringDan

2 жыл бұрын

@@Otis-Isom completely agree about the SG. didn't want to get too wordy.

@kenthhamner2641

2 жыл бұрын

There are tons of people playing Gibson CS guitars professionally.

@DaringDan

2 жыл бұрын

@@kenthhamner2641 They're great guitars. My point is that you can get guitars that sound as good and if not better for less money. That's just a fact.

@DaringDan

2 жыл бұрын

@@EarthSouthside that's not what im arguing at all.

I'm truly baffled when this point comes up (which is all the time). Especially when it comes to Gibson. I echo all of Dylan's points, but I think we also have to acknowledge the elephant in the room. The general lack of understanding when it comes to construction, inflation, and perceived value. Dylan hits the nail on the head pointing out that the original retail cost of Gibsons and Fenders has been consistent for over 60 years (when adjusted for inflation). What most people fail to contextualize is how important it is to factor inflation and "perceived value" in comparison thinking. We all know (within the guitar community) that if you decide to sell your Gibson (purchased at full retail) you are more than likely to command a higher market rate than a Far Eastern made instrument like say Eastman guitars. Eastman's are fantastic guitars but in today's used market, they will not command the same resale value near, equal to, or above the original retail price than a Gibson guitar. The agreed-upon "perceived value" of any goods is built over time. Hence, the ability of certain legacy brands to maintain higher resale values than their competitors. I'm talking about brands Rolex, Mercedes Benz, Tiffany of New York, Gucci, and yes Gibson. Versus Timex, Ford, Old Navy, etc. You might think, "I would never pay 20K for a Rolex" Ok, cool; it's not for you. Maybe the "details" are something you're just not keyed into. But to others, those details matter and have a value attached to them. Will you get a nice return on that Timex watch you love? Probably not. Will that Rolex you purchased in 2020 more than likely appreciate in 10 years. Yup. Is Rolex the best-made watch company out there? Nope. Do the watch brands that have better movements command the same appreciation at auction? More than likely no. You get the point. Legacy brands have many different intrinsic elements "baked" into their story that supports value Now if you are trying to make the case that Gibson are "too expensive" in comparison to something made in the Far East. That's a way different story, and really in the eye of the beholder. That's like saying a pair of jeans from Walmart for $29.99 versus a high-end Japanese denim brand for $499.99 are one and the same. Yes, to a certain extent but the perceived value and resell value is vastly different between the two brands. To wrap it up, I feel most of the comments Dylan calls out (and from the entire web0sphere) come from individuals who may not be in the financial position to purchase a Gibson, Fender CS, etc which is no slight. And I'm sure some are in a position "can" but choose not to. However, I would wager that most would gladly play/own a Gibson if the initial cost was not a factor knowing that there will be a better chance to recoup at resale. The moral of the story is that we have to stop the negative feedback loops that some people within the guitar community like to swim in. It's toxic and unnecessary. I've never, ever, ever, heard of anyone walking up to a guitar player with a gun to their head and say "play this or die". If you have please share. I suppose the question is if you're not in the market for a guitar in that price range, why the "F" do you care so damn much about how others spend THEIR money? Simply play what you got and not be so wrapped up in what you think others should spend THEIR money on. And this is coming from a working stiff living paycheck to paycheck. In the end a great song is still a great song no matter what tool you used to get there. History is littered with examples. Apologies for the epic post, but I had to get this off my chest. And thanks to Dylan for having a smart talk about it. Peace.

@maxpeck4154

2 жыл бұрын

^ This. A little inflation calculator will show that what a US made LP Standard went for in 1959 aligns with what they go for now. They're also marketing themselves as a lifestyle brand, kinda like Harley Davison. Unless a company is paying you to advertise for them, why would every piece of clothing you own, the wall of your garage/music room have their insignia on it? The people that REALLY play Gibsons and ride Harleys don't need that...

@danbgone5032

2 жыл бұрын

I’ve owned three Gibsons. The 84 LP was given to me from my father. The V I got on my 18th birthday. The JR was a gift from my wife for my 35th. I sold the V for my first Tele. I kept the two LPS because they were gifts. I have no problem paying $2500 for a guitar I LOVE to play. Needless to say, I have quite a few Tele’s. What I can’t understand is someone throwing 10k at a 2021 LP “super duper” wood edition. There comes a point where the dollar cost versus tone/playability is out right ridiculous. You factor in Gibsons last twenty years of QA and utterly horrendous PR, and people will hate the brand. I also very much dislike the frequent response, put politely or not, that a large portion on the complainers can’t afford Gibson products. It’s a silly argument when you factor in all the other shops that regularly sell thousand of guitars for well over 2k. Sorry if my response is muddled, French is my first language. 👍

@WhyAlwaysMeMario

2 жыл бұрын

@@danbgone5032...Your statement about..."There comes a point where the dollar cost versus tone/playability is out right ridiculous."...may make sense to you, but for those who see value in things you may not acknowledge really only rests with you. Let me make two points...one how many guitars are you buying a week? a month? a year? How does Gibson pricing impact your life like say buying gas for your car? Or groceries? I mean if you are buying a Gibson a month I can understand the frustration. And if you are, please let me know that you're purchasing at that volume. My other point touches on your statement..." also very much dislike the frequent response, put politely or not, that a large portion on the complainers can’t afford Gibson products."...I suspect that a lot of the folks that get frustrated with the pricing feel that the cost is outside of their means. Which is fine. No one is forcing anyone to buy a Gibson. No one...I mean no one. This rabid mob attitude that Gibson "should be priced like this or priced like that" is unhealthy. It is what it is. Look, I want a Rolex, however, the one I want I can't get at the moment, so I wear what I have now which gets me by. Do both watches preform the same function? Yup! But do I still want a Rolex? Yup? I see it as art. But for the moment it's out of reach. Cool, I'll wait, but I'm going all mob style hating "this and that" about the watch. What's really nuts is that automobiles are priced way to high for what you get. Hence the saying about driving a new car off the lot and watching the value immediately drop. And that sector doesn't nearly get the same level of moaning that the guitar community love to dish out. Listen, people should buy what they can afford and just play. Its that simple. It's like the famous Vernon Trent quote..."amateurs worry about equipment, professionals worry about money, masters worry about light, I just make pictures." At the end of the day if people have all this time to hate so much, well they aint got time for playing...which is exactly what I'm about to do.

@stef4492

2 жыл бұрын

Perfectly said.

@giovandenberghe1628

2 жыл бұрын

You should buy a guitar to play it, not to sell it.

I think of the Fender as a tool designed by an inventor with input from the artist, Gibson more of a luxury furniture maker that decided to build instruments like fine furniture with input from the artist. Fender is the model T and Gibson is Cadillac. both serve their purpose. If money was no issue id buy the 59 Murphy Lab lightly aged Les Paul.

@clockwork914

2 жыл бұрын

Extremely well put from a car guy😉

@areyoujelton

2 жыл бұрын

Fender is the sports car and Gibson is an overpriced couch or table.

@kirkwilson6229

2 жыл бұрын

That's a very nice comparison.

@DapperHesher

2 жыл бұрын

I think that's kinda a crap analogy. Fact is, the Gibson construction methodology was adapted from the craftsmen/artisan era of instrument making to fit post-industrial manufacturing mythologies as demand grew, presumably the best they could. Like adapting a coachbuilt car to mass manufacture scale. Leo Fender was an engineer and the Broadcaster/Telecaster/Stratocaster was absolutely an industrial design exercise, designed precisely to the manufacturing processes of it's day. That's not the Model T, Leo didn't invent the Model T or the assembly line. He designed a guitar to take advantage of a LONG established post industrial revolution approach to consumer products. There are aspects of the way Les Pauls are built that are plainly more difficult to fit into a simple mass manufacture scenario, and presumably that's why they cost more... though that said, they HAVE taken advantage of modern manufacturing methodologies themselves where they can. To that same point, things have changed since the 1950s that SHOULD make Fenders easier/more cost effective to manufacture as well. How much either company are justified in their respective price points, or are conversely gouging brand loyal consumers is really only known the them.

@jamesdalzell6741

2 жыл бұрын

@@DapperHesher It's a comments section, all the comments are someone's opinion that they thought of in that moment and most are crap or great to someone, that's quite reply for a crap analogy, thanks for the in depth analogy, its just not all that important really what I think or what you think, you know your always right so congratulations to you

Anyone can get a guitar that fits their needs nowadays. No one should be guilted for buying something a bit more expensive because they enjoy the prestige brand or because it has higher end accoutrements. I have amps and guitars ranging from $100 to thousands. And I like them all. Play what you got and enjoy it.

Totally agree with you Dylan and thanks for all your other videos that explain pickups

And then there's the Carvin guitars. Carvin who as we know made all manner of guitars, cut by a CNC. A virtually custom guitar where you choose many aspects of how the guitar is built. I own several and I can tell you that these fine instruments were priced very competitively for what they are. So yeah, Gibson makes a very fine guitar.. their prices have been out of control for a long time.

Thanks for making these points. Incidentally, as a machinist, I can tell you that even with a machine cutting the basic shape, all the finishing and fretting, fretboard etc. still jave to be done by hand. There are still several hours of hand time on a "machined" guitar.

I agree 100% with you brother I know my Les Paul when I pick it up it is a Luxury Item .. also I work at a cnc shop and the material of wood the parts/tools wear faster soo it costs more as well on harder woods

Left your other video to watch this one! Firm believer in the les paul here! Good insight!!

I would love to have a new Murphy Aged 1959 Les Paul. I bought a 2019 50s standard cherry sunburst! Love that guitar my favorite guitar I’ve ever owned

Ok… so heres my philosophy with respect to expensive guitars…. I have nothing against expensive instruments from large manufacturers…however .. I would much rather spend my money buying an instrument from a small builder or individual builder simply because I like knowing who built my instrument….If it wasn't me then I want it to be somebody I know at least on a casual level. I'd rather support the little guys that build with heart and integrity…just my opinion.

Fantastic take on this one Sir! You've summed it up brilliantly. It does really boil down to what you want, and what you're willing to spend for it. If you love it and have the money, you buy it and love it all the more. I don't own a Gibson Les Paul currently, but it is on the list and I'm absolutely willing to pay around $2K for one. I think, for me the $3k to $5k range is a little steep, but a few years down the road and I might change my mind(I still got a third kid to send to college). I have knock offs and have mod'd them and love them, but I plan to own the real deal some day. Same with Tele's and Strats though, I have the budget and mid range knock offs, but have the parts on order to build a Warmoth custom Strat. I still want to own at least a Player Series if not an American Strat. Like others have said on this thread, if you have built one, or even mod'd one, you know that all these things that go into making the instrument sound and play great, take time, and time is money. But some of us just love music and guitar and hell, all the instruments for that matter, and if it makes you happy, it's all good!! Thanks for doin' what you do Dylan! Love your takes, love your channel!

Very informative. Thank you. Well done!

Interesting...I agree with your comments on the relative costs of each instrument. The main point for me is that everyone is at a different stage of life. When I was in high school/college $$ were very important, so a good import or used instrument would be a better value. As I have gotten older, $$ are still a consideration, but quality/quantity also have a place in the discussion. Quantity is about chasing tone. Quality comes down to how much to pay for an instrument. I am on the fence if a Gibson is better than an import (I have an Epi with Gibson pups as well as a MIM Strat). I have also started to put together parts casters. The first one I built is a budget tele with OK parts, but now working on a strat with better quality parts. I am looking forward to completing the strat, but they all have their place. At some point I will probably own a Gibson, I just haven't been able to admit it to myself yet. I like your channel - in fact I will probably use the output jack that you recently discussed in a previous video thanks, Tom.

I'm retired and living on SS. I bought a 2019 LP Studio Tribute on sale for less than $1000, still made in US and a great guitar. Mahogany body, maple cap, set neck, 490 pickups, all the great LP stuff without the binding or expensive finishes. I love it, maybe my favorite guitar. I have 4 different G&L Tributes (around $500 each) that are fantastic too and probably as good as my Fender Player Strat ($750). Every one is worth the money, the LP just feels right and is flawless and perfect, the others are great too but with slab bodies and bolt-on necks. We are in a win-win market today, lots of fantastic guitars for not much money. And that is the most I could spend for guitars and I feel very lucky to own what I do.

I recently got my hands on an unloved, abused First Act Strat copy for the purpose of practicing some basic luthier/wood working skills. After completely dismantling, stripping, leveling, crowning, refinishing blah blah blah, long story short, the little turd plays great and sounds surprisingly sweet. I can't put it down. It was basically free but I learned a lot from this little project and that is valuable to me.

Damn.. I got you Dylan. Great input on the matter. I always love listening to you about everything. Truly, you changed my mind completely. I love my $150 Ibanez GIO though. 24 frets and two humbuckers of power and a 5 way switch set up to split the hums. Listening to your take, makes me amazed that Les Pauls aren't more expensive to look at the work as opposed to the "standards" we attempt to hold on the makers of our tools of our art. They put their artistic value in too, and that makes me respect Gibson more. Thank you Dylan for your kind words of information and wisdom. :)

Totally agree with you. And if a Gibson Les Paul Standard is too expensive for you, there is some alternative like the Tribute. 1500$ is the max I am willing to pay right now, but some day I will own a Standard Les Paul.

@sixslinger9951

2 жыл бұрын

I bought a Tribute Les Paul and it's one of the best guitars I've ever owned at $1300.00 My $1500.00 strat, not so much.

The most I'd spend if I had the money would be what I have spent. The most would be 700 to 800 max. I have the skills I need to work on any imperfections or quality control issues missed. With that said a few months ago I bought a Harley Benton guitar with 5 piece maple and mohogany neck, 24 stainless steel frets, neck thru, Grover locking tuners, and emg pickups. It absolutely plays and feels amazing. The best part is it's less than 500 dollars. My only complaint on this guitar is I didn't like the pickups and swapped them out. The only quality imperfections on the guitar was on some parts of the guitar had some glue leak over they overlooked, not a big deal and easy job, and two frets at the bottom were a little sharp for me, also not a big deal and easy fix. Not to sound rude but I'd take guitars like that all day everyday compared to what I've seen with much more expensive brands including Gibson.

nice content, please advice me, at present I have a Fender American Special SSS strat. I am thinking of buying an electric with humbuckers, either gibson or a prs. Which one should I go for the prs or the gibson? Thanks in advance.

There is A lot more time and effort put into building a les paul vs a strat or Tele. Hence the price difference. Pretty simple really.

@liquid7315

2 жыл бұрын

I had a dream I got a 57' les paul original. :(

@abcrx32j

2 жыл бұрын

Too bad that the time doesn't lead to an outstanding quality.

@pastorofmuppets1968

2 жыл бұрын

@@abcrx32j agreed

@cameronfarrell9076

2 жыл бұрын

I think the comparison made here is not the best. I think a better comparison would be between the Les Paul and an esp horizon, the specs are more similar and the specs that differ should make the esp more expensive, yet here in Australia a horizon is 2 grand cheaper than a Les Paul and yet imo esp destroy Gibson in quality. Where does the extra 2 grand come from?

@TheLeadG

2 жыл бұрын

There are other guitars with similar quality for half the price. Both are overpriced. This really is a red herring. Using fender as the comparison which is also overpriced. Saying “well see this overpriced thing is even more overpriced than that thing because of labor” okay? That doesn’t prove anything but why one is more overpriced than the other. It still doesn’t answer to the argument of Gibson being overpriced.

I just bought my first gibson les paul after 2 years of playing. It cost me £1400 used which is a lot considering I saved for it on £6.75 per hour. I changed the pot values and put in a different pickup set and now it suits me perfectly and I want to play it every time I see it. I think it's important for people to buy the guitar that they want. Don't buy an epiphone if you have your heart set on a gibson becase you won't be satisfied. If you just want something cheap and functional then get an epiphone.

@tomwhittaker9461

Жыл бұрын

5 to 7k is ridiculously expensive, imo. A guitar shouldn't cost more than $ 1000. An electric one, that is.

I could also add with my years of being a CNC machinist. You don’t just push a button and it’s done. Wood is very abrasive and will wear the tooling and everything involved in CNC equipment is very expensive. There’s a lot of work and cost but you get quicker more consistent product from them.

@DylanTalksTone

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for this. I think a lot of folks mis understand the whole CNC thing

You sir are 100% accurate. now getting people to understand is a whole different matter. There is no limit for the right guitar

How much more guitar do you get every $1k you spend? 1,2,3,4,5.... Probably $3k for me. Good talk on CNC equipment. The amount you said is probably right for a simple job/machine. I have spent plenty more on specialty machines with large tool turrets. Definitely the initial cost of the tooling and fixturing can be alot. After that it is cycle time and minimizing changing jobs(set ups), predicting tool wear/cost. Boy we can get deep in the weeds... Fun stuff.

@kirkwilson6229

2 жыл бұрын

I'm a machinist myself, and not only is all that true, all the finishing and fretwork and such still has to be done by hand. The machines just cut the basic shape.

@gazza595

2 жыл бұрын

I'm surprised that CNC machinery for woodworking is that cheap TBH, I've bought CNC machinery for manufacturing, mainly aerospace industry and would not expect to get much change from 500K. You are correct about running costs, the way I worked was to amortise the capital cost over the expected production volumes and then overlay running costs such as consumables and maintenance contracts on as per unit cost.

There is a ghost builder in MA where I live. He builds les Paul clones (incredible replicas). The wood alone to source for my guitars is half the price of an American Gibson. You pay for what you get. It is art. I actually don’t know how they can sell them for 2500 and make anything.

I bought a Les Paul Studio a couple of years ago and absolutely believe it is the best bang for buck guitar I own.

So last stimulus i bought a guitar. My first thought was im gonna get a les paul studio or special. I ended up buying a prs s2 after watching factory tours. It was the s2 factory where they workers were playing music while working. So that shows a happier workplace. That's important to me and pros makes a good guitar

You make a lot of sense in what you say, I love your motor home, I don’t think they would barely fit on our roads in 🇬🇧😀

Gibson Custom Shop Black Beauty $5,000, The Gibson shop Cobra Burst $6,500, or the more ornate one< on Reverb for $9,500. $6,500 CB you can play. The $9,500 CB just to look at.

They are worth it if you want it. I personally own one Les Paul. A 2017 Classic. Original tag was 1,999.00 I was lucky enough to score mine used in mint condition for 1,300. It's a great sounding, playing guitar. My point is there is always the opportunity to get a much better price if you go used. I personally have used Craigslist and OfferUp for years and have saved myself hundreds of dollars. Here in Florida buy, sell and trade is huge. Just need to be scam smart. And as they may be worth it I think everyone likes to get a discount regardless. Buying a guitar brand new off the wall depreciates the second you step out that door.

Last 5 guitars I have I've made because I like being able to add all the nice upgrades I want and finish them how I would like without spending an arm and a leg, although I do have to spend the time to actually put everything together and keep the quality in check. Now, having said this, and keeping in mind the ask is if money were not an issue, what would be the most I would spend, then I would have to say about $10k for a new guitar (e.g. a 10 top PRS) and for a cool vintage guitar, I think I would go as high as $100k (e.g. a 58' Korina Flying V or a Les Paul). Higher than that, I think I would really have to be a historian or full time collector and not just to have the guitar and use it regularly.

I wanted a faded Alpine White Les Paul Custom since I was about 12 because of Randy Rhoads. I just got one and I can say, objectively, I just don't see the multi-thousand dollar difference between it and a standard or studio. It is a fantastic guitar and emotional value is there for me. However, most customs are destined to hang on walls and be conversation starters. Mine is going on tour and I can confidently say that I could substitute it for a cheaper Les Paul or various other guitars and it wouldn't have any sort of negative effect.

I bought three different Gibson’s from Guitar Center. 2019 Jr DC (799), 2019 Les Paul Special GC limited edition (999)and a 2021 SG Special (1499). I have not needed a setup on any of them, stay in tune really well, way better than their reputation. I used to buy $350-800 guitars and I can say playability wise and tone wise, the Gibsons are worth the price. You could upgrade the lower price guitars and be happy but by the time you put the money into them, you have almost put as much as a new Gibson. Compared to other guitars, PRS may have more modern appointments but the tone is not there. Fenders are Fenders, if you want that sound, it’s what you get. Fender and Gibson set the tone standards, everything else is somewhere in between.

Dylan, I love the sound effects. I totally missed them the first time I watched this. If money was not an issue I would spend 10 grand. Told my wife I was selling all my tools to by a broadcaster. Also told her I would leave it stock. Lol. Thanks for sharing

Budget shouldn’t be the main reason in picking a guitar. Obviously, that is part but not all. Most of the purchase is based on what your looking for and the other is I want a Gibson, Fender, PRS and so on. I own and always wanted a Gibson Les Paul because Jimmy Page rocked on one with that big sound like many others did as well. Still, you have to pick one up, hopefully it’s set up nice. It’s a personal taste, feel, and sound. There is not one brand that’s the best, it’s personal taste and feel. I own Gibson, Fender, Epiphone, and PRS. If I want a certain tone, I pick up the guitar I want for that tone. They are all different and that’s the fun part. My second favorite guitar is the Fender Tele. The most simple design of them all but it rocks, twangs and can almost play any type of music. They are what they are. That’s why they are all great. As far as price that sets them apart is all in the material. You can buy a Tribute Gibson Les Paul for $1200 or a Standard for $2500 and there is a difference. You can say the same for. Fender Tele Player MIM for $750 and Get an American one for $1250 or so. If you want more out of a Tele you pay more. It’s not about someone in their chair telling anyone what’s the best. You choose on what feels right, play the damn thing lol. I will always have a favorite but that doesn’t make it the best of guitars. They are all tools. If I’m in a certain mood I pick up the one I want a certain sound. Great analysis about why guitars cost more than others.

@robertprice5039

2 жыл бұрын

What was the joke I just heard! I wonder how many Les Pauls were sold due to people listening to Page's Telecaster on the first couple of albums?

@michaelheller8841

2 жыл бұрын

@@robertprice5039 Very much so. But once we found out the secret we purchased Telecasters too lol. I thank Joe Walsh, Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page for both the Les Paul and Telecaster. Both guitars Rock!! Hell yeah.

@davidcudlip6587

2 жыл бұрын

Jimmy also played on stage, what was considered a cheap "beginner" guitar back in the day. That old black and white Danelecto/Silvertone double cut. Sounded great though.

I have a beautiful 50 LP Standard that I love($2500). I also have a double cut LP special with P90’s that I paid $700 for ( plank of wood). I love it just as much. Both guitars are money well spent. So worth it.

New subscriber! Keep that guitar content coming brother! Love it! No limit on how much I'd spend on a guitar. Like you said, how does one put a price on happiness?

I liked watching my first video Dylan, you make some good points. I own a couple of guitars. Different brands, models and prices. I like them all. I like having different guitars and amps to play depending on what im going for and my mood. I dont see the conflict? Play what you want to play. Save up and and get what you want just like anything else a car a surfboard whatever. You want a macdonalds hamburger or a butger from your local pub? 3dollars vs 10 dollars, both are burgers but hey there's a huge cost difference. Big product difference too. Ive had both, big deal right. So buy what fits you and what you can afford or figure out how to get what you really want. This is america, your allowed to. So cool, glad i watched and weighed in. I think most people that play a lot own more than 1 guitar and more than 1 style of guitar. Whatever floats your boat right? Or your land yacht😃👍

Great vid Dylan. I have Gibsons and I have Fenders. I love them both. They are very different and that is a good thing. After repairing and building guitars, honestly Fender are far more overpriced than Gibson. (For the materials and time spent). I did not say they are better. The beautiful thing is we get to decide which is better for us, and we can do that without thinking someone is stupid for disagreeing. Am I horrible because my favorite color is blue? Are you horrible if you choose red? To each his own bro. Just buy both and used them for their own purpose or whichever is best for what you are planning. Or if you choose…don’t.

Don't forget to mention inlays on the Les Paul, compared to the dots on the Tele.

I just got my Les Paul Special and it is wonderful. Best Les Paul for me. I've owned an ES335 and a Les Paul Std. And I prefer this over those.

sick shades, what are they? Please and thanks

I purchased a LP Standard last year. My only issue is that static is generated when I move my hand on the neck. It was an online purchase. If money were not an issue, I would want to be able to go to a large music store and pick my dream guitar. I could do plenty of try out stuff before making a decision. By the way, if anyone knows if the static will subside I would sure like to know. 👍

To answer the question you’ve asked, I REALLY want one of those Murphy labs Firebirds!!! Or the three pup LP Custom. Such beautiful axes!!! I’d happily pay the $7k + they’re asking!

For me, I am super happy with my Gibsons I bought used. I have a LP studio faded and an SG special (this one is dual humbucker, dot fret markers). Both were five hundred used and they are great, I love them. I prefer guitars that are excellent for sound, playability, and materials but are purposely short on the cosmetic appointments that make them more expensive. I had a PRS when I was younger which I loved but I started to hate the burden of owning something that is so expensive, it gets to be more of a showpiece than a player's guitar. I also had an original 1960-something Fender Mustang, but same deal, I didn't get a "kick" out of owning something because it's collectible. Right now I am in the market for a new acoustic with the same principle in mind, I am hoping to find a used Taylor 314ce which I believe reaches the perfect threshold of good things like all solid construction and quality workmanship but without the unnecessary-to-me additions like overly fancy inlays or whatever.

I have a range of cheap and expensive guitars, I also hand make them. To make a t style guitar I can pick up ash dirt cheap. I can make a body in a couple of hours. For a carve top / figured top it's almost 4 times the cost and 3 times the time. I also recently bought a hobby CNC, It now takes me 6 hours to make a body and is prone to problems which means a lot of waste... CNC isn't quicker but it is more repeatable . Next, a CNC can make one guitar at a time so to make 600 a week you would need many, many 500k$ cnc's. Money no object isn't relevant, I spend what I feel I can afford on something that speaks to me.

I have a gibson LP goldtop darkback… It has inspired me to write many songs (which is what’s most important to me.)

Well said Dylan. Very educational. It’s all a matter of the consumers opinion and needs.

Dylan, thanks for another great video. If money wasn't an issue, I would spend $3000 - $5000 for a new guitar. I don't buy guitars off the wall anymore. These days I buy parts and have my guy at the shop put it all together. I'm working on a tribute guitar for a family member and the pickups alone will cost a little over $600. By the time it is done, it will cost over $1000 but it will have 3 humbuckers (with their own tone knobs and coil splitting), Fender Vintage Locking Tuners, 4 control knobs and a custom neck plate. If someone wants to spend $3000 for a guitar it is their money and their business, not anyone else's. What might be right for you might not be right for some. Just because someone disagees with you doesn't make them evil. Happy Playing everyone!

Great topic I agree with you 100 % personally I have been very a budget minded guy when it comes to buying a guitar and justifying what I pay for one ..anyway I recently bought a used 2016 Les Paul Standard for $2,200 on reverb with make offer option after searching for a Gibson Les Paul Standard made in USA 🇺🇸 for months I noticed one thing they hold their value so thats something to think about and like you said they last a long time if you take care of your investment 😉 thanks again loved the topic

Just spent 5K on a Custom Shop 58 reissue and it’s worth every penny. A serious cut above the 2020 Standard I own. You feel it immediately when you pick it up.

@deanmccaskill5495

2 жыл бұрын

You’re just the person I want to talk to!! I have a 2020 Std 50s. ( And 4 others also) The original plan was to get an R8 VOS but I just couldn’t wait. So about a month ago I got the Std. But I still want the R8. So you think I should do it or what?

@deanmccaskill5495

2 жыл бұрын

PS I’ve never even had my hands on one but I want one bad!!

@TheScunion

2 жыл бұрын

@@deanmccaskill5495 All I can say it’s a night and day difference in regard to the feel and playability between a Standard and a CS. That’s not even getting into the tonal aspects of it. The Custom Buckers have a really nice clarity and a top end that’s bright without being harsh and ear piercing. Very dynamic and open. With dirt tones it sets in the mix very well. I literally got it a week ago and out of five gigs I probably played it 80% of the time over a Stat I’ve loved and played for 27 years. Ya gotta play one before buying. It’s not a subtle difference between the CSs and the Standards; it’s very, very noticeable.

@deanmccaskill5495

2 жыл бұрын

@@TheScunion Yeah Ive heard that. I had a line on one in May but I used the money to buy the Std and a bunch of amps ( like 4) and a bunch of cheaper(ish) guitars. But now I have all that. I think I’ll get one in the fall. Any years I should avoid? ( although it’s just as easy or cheap to buy a new one these days anyway) And thanks for the reply.

@TheScunion

2 жыл бұрын

@@deanmccaskill5495 I can’t say I’m schooled in them enough to say if there were some particular years that were dogs. Mine is a 2015 and before buying it I played 5 different CS bursts at Sweetwater. ( I live like and hour from there). 58s/59s/60s VOS and Murphy Lab lite aged alike and they were awesome but I didn’t like them as much as the 2015. You know sometimes a guitar just speaks to you. Again I would recommend playing as many as possible. What got me fired up was I played a 2020 r8 about 6 months back and it was on; I had to have one.

My simple assessment is - how much cash would I be willing to carry into a bar full of drunken lunatics? (of which I could be one), and that's how much I'd be willing to spend on any axe.

@treverroddick8489

2 жыл бұрын

Never looked at it that way. Makes sense to me. My view has always been that if I’m good enough to “need” a US built Les Paul - Gibson will probably give me one.

Nice video, Dylan. Got a laugh out of some of the comments and then some folks out there are angry, insecure know it alls. You made a lot of sense and I'm currently saving up for a Les Paul Standard.

I have a Tele I bought back in 2008 (so I guess it's vintage now lol) that's MIM. It's pretty nice and I like it a lot. Bought a used Gibson SG with P90s the next year and shit, you can tell the difference in quality. And that's not a knock on the Tele. Granted I play the Tele more because when I do work overseas, I bring the Tele only with me.

Finally someone is speaking sense, and putting value on time. Being a bass player (and hobbiest modifier) I find my self having to defend pricing on USA, German, Poland, and japanese made basses. after working on enough crap, why can’t we all just appreciate a well designed and built instrument and be glad we have parts builders who understand quality counts for something.

Look at my profile picture I love them all I got the 06 Prs ted mccarty 12 years ago used from GC. It was mint condition the detail was spot on . In 2013 I ordered the fender it came straight from the Corona shop the details were spot on. The LP I got it in 2017 from GC it was nice the details had a little issues. But what a sweet playing axe. Happy with this line up I have a 62 Telle reissue too it plays nice butt not like the LP or Mccarty!

My thinking is for $1000-2500 you can have a very nice playing and sounding guitar.(electric) Anything over is mostly eye candy 🍬. If it's worth the expense to you go for it.

Love my 2021 les Paul

I’ll spend $2,400 on a Les Paul over $1,900 for a Tele everyday and twice on Sunday.

Good thing I like Fenders (from a playing position standpoint) as that's what I started on. Couldn't afford a Gibson at the time. But if I want that Les Paul or SG sound, I can justify the cost of the standard version of these no problem. I'd love a VOS Les Paul, but can't quite justify the cost.

The only guitar I would buy is the 59 reissue for around 3-$4000 ( used)

The telecaster a kitchen cutting board with a neck and pickups best design ever lol

Dylan is really loving his new SG.

@DylanTalksTone

2 жыл бұрын

I do like it a lot

@jralanmorgan

2 жыл бұрын

@@DylanTalksTone it looks quite the sight.

@DylanTalksTone

2 жыл бұрын

It’s fantastic

Appreciate your channel

all of my guitars i purchased used at around the 400 dollar mark. they where sold new at or above 700 dollars. the only exception is a cheaper guitar thay i personally modified, and may further modify still. Schecter Hellraiser Deluxe- 250 bucks used in great condition 2020 Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60's- bought used in great condition for 200 bucks Both are wonderful and I use them both all day every day. Even If money was not an object- 700 dollars is my absolute top limit for buying ANY guitar. I refuse to go above it because there's no point after that dollar mark.

I think what people mean when they say Gibsons are overpriced is compared to other brands. Other brands around the $2.4k are typically better but I think that comes down to Gibsons being a bit inconsistent. I've played USA Les Pauls that really weren't worth the money and others that I'd gladly pay that amount for, and even invest in some upgrades.

Recently I have become a Gretsch Convert, and my two nicest guitars are an Broadkaster and a Broadkaster Jr. Both I got as NOS Guitars with very nice discounts, but if money was not an object I would probably top out at $3,500 for a very nice Japanese Built Player's Edition Gretsch.

Well, if money was not an issue and unlimited, I would probably still have a $3,000 or $4,000 personal limit. I just do not see why I would pay anything more than that for a guitar. I have had a Gibson Les Paul that I simply could not connect with. I tried everything with that guitar, but it never felt right to me. So I sold it to a guy who immediately fell in love with it. The good part of that Gibson Les Paul is that I got my money back out of the deal. So that was cool. I also had a PRS that just was not right. Again lots of tweaks and adjustments but it just wasn't the guitar for me, and it moved on to a gal who loved it. Now my G&L S-500 needed a little bit of a set up, but man that guitar IS "THE ONE". It fits me perfectly and feels, plays, and sounds so incredibly great. I just love it. To be honest, the S-500 was bought on a whim and I thought it wouldn't work out, but it was on sale for a really great price. All three were bought on line. All three had reviews that built up my excitement about the guitars. Yet only one has stayed with me and that was the one I thought I would send back. I think it comes down to one simple fact, we are all different. A Les Paul will feel good to one person and not another person. So play what you want to play on the guitar that inspires you the most. Besides, it's your money.

As with anything, get the one you really want - you'll only waste time and money in the long run if you choose something that's a compromise.

@dispersemedia

2 жыл бұрын

But many people don't know what they want and preferences can change over time. There is also fun in trying out many stuff, both good and bad.

@Davidthestratman7

2 жыл бұрын

Until you figure out that it won't stay in tune for recording

@sixslinger9951

2 жыл бұрын

@@Davidthestratman7 my Les Paul tribute stays in tune just as well as my Strat or PRS

thank you for this vid! I've been saying it forever. Just by wood alone, a Gibson is going to be more. let's not forget that putting binding on and scraping it is two additional people. if you want to compare fender to anyone, compare them to Ibanez. other than perhaps the trem, they are much more in line

I bought a used LP 15 years ago for $1400 and I have played it almost every day. I just ordered a custom built guitar from a small manufacturer for $5000, and I don't feel at all bad about it because I know I play it for 30+ years if I live that long. I only have two hands, so it is more important that I get a guitar that I love than get a bunch that are just okay. That being said I do have a cheap guitar that gets a lot of play as well, but it does exactly what I want it to do.

I personally don’t spend more than a grand usually. I’d say $1500 but your right it’s up to the end user/buyer. I have an Epiphone Les Paul and I love it.

I've already bought a LP Custom and a Custom Shop R9 LP so my pain point for spending is pretty high :) Realistically I would pay up to about 10K for the right guitar

my "top limit" thus far has been $3000 US, but I am also prepared to out $1800 in wood and parts and build a custom for myself. by myself that takes 2-3 months but I'm making some nice guitars.

Hi Dylan. Love the content you post. This video is of particular interest to be because I just bought a new Gibson SG Standard. It sounds exactly like I hoped it would. However, I do have a gripe. The action was nearly 1/4" off the neck, the nut was atrociously cut. The nutslots are way too high (roughly 1/16" above the first fret. The strings hang up in the slots and make that pinging sound when they jump way farther than I wanted to go. Do you think that for $1,500 plus taxes they should set the nutslots properly and adjust the action to a reasonable spec.? Sweetwater's 55 point inspection let it out the door that way. Also a disappointment. I know how to set the nutslots and adjust the action. But considering what I paid, it shouldn't require more than a little tweak IMO. And I don't want to count on my mediocre skills with this potentially fine instrument. So now I have to pay another $150-$200 for a professional setup when it should have gone out the door that way, considering what I paid for it.

@sixslinger9951

2 жыл бұрын

Fender and Sweetwater sent me a $1500 strat with the worst setup ever and with high frets that I need to address. My Gibson LP and PRS came to me perfect from the factories.

@DennisAlvarezMusic

2 жыл бұрын

@@sixslinger9951 Now that I've finished the build for Gibson, I have a very fine instrument. I would imagine the Q.C. problem with certain brands is probably the management putting unrealistic production quotas on the workers. That kind of corporate crap will usually result in inferior products going out the door. Just my opinion though.

In Canada a 5 axis CNC runs from 300k-1.5 million

If money was not an issue the price of the guitar to me would not matter. I have a $500 Epiphone LP and I also have a $5000 Gibson R8, at that time 5k was my max, I've looked at guitars in the 10K+ range as well. It's more about getting what I want, not so much of what others want and that I will never put a limit on.

If I was going to spend a grand and the only 2 options were a gibson les paul studio or the new epiphone prophecy. Which would you choose?

@clockwork914

2 жыл бұрын

Studio. That’s just me, but I’d definitely get a Studio or even a Tribute.

I use to think their guitars were overpriced, and that they had quality Issues. However, after watching 14 part series called, “The Process,” on Gibson’s KZread channel, it made me realize how much work went into their guitars. I believe The new leadership has really made a positive difference. Like someone in the comments pointed out, the Epiphone line is even doing better. It is a good comeback story.

@dirtydanthesecretsauceman8519

2 жыл бұрын

Both Epiphones and Gibsons are great. I’m a huge believer in Epiphone. They feel great but you don’t have to feel cautious around them.

@Paul_Lenard_Ewing

2 жыл бұрын

If you compare the average wage, the average income and cost of living in '59 compared to know you are paying 20% more know for an LP Standard. In other words you have to work 20% more hours now to buy a LP now than then. In '59 it was ALL done by hand, the finish took 3 days not 30 minutes, you got better wood and hand wound PU's ...the time back then to finish a guitar was counted in days not hours. The only factor going in your favor was back then no one had any idea that a electric guitar would appreciate in price. Now we know that in 5 years we can break even and every year after that the guitars will increase in value. So are we being gouged? Yes! Does it matter? NO!!! I do know a secret to get a cheap one. You have to check every day and go to estate sales where a Gibson will only be advertised and sold as an "Electric Guitar' One third of the price is not uncommon.

@vegashdrider

2 жыл бұрын

@@Paul_Lenard_Ewing first off there was no magic wood in the 50s, hand wound doesn’t mean superior sound which is why PAFs vary so greatly in tone, some of those vintage guitars are lemons, and god forbid you have to work a little harder to get one.

@abcrx32j

2 жыл бұрын

Epiphone is some proof that part of that Gibson work is probably wasted effort, like too much for not much improvement.

@Paul_Lenard_Ewing

2 жыл бұрын

@@vegashdrider So we will call the the guitars equal in sound! BUT ... even so the time and labor was much more in '59 because of the added time hand winding PU's and shaping wood with a band saw etc. To say nothing of constantly dealing with a lot more human error. But the price is 20% higher now. In short it takes 20% more of man hours of labor for a guy to buy an identical guitar that is now made primarily by machine. Actually I believe the differences is even higher as in many different ways of doing the math from two vastly different times. There could be something that could be a rational argument for the present prices but my accountant friends tell me it would be likely very small. My highest figure was a 28% difference. My lowest was just shy of 22%. I did not factor in the price of transportation but on the other hand purchases for Gibson's materials are in very high volumes.

Had to hit the sub button. Can we talk? The term u used; inspiration for me = enthusiasm. I can't keep my hands off my Gibson LP. My Studio, then my Standard and then My Black Beauty Custom. Recently I purchased a New Tribute but I needed to make some changes. Jumbo SS Frets and of course a new Bone Nut. Value?; in 1971 my wife bought me" The Black". In 2005 I was destitute, broke and had no way to get home. Brazil to Switzerland. I reluctantly put The Black in a music mag. (Brazil) The add went up and within hours 2 guys showed up. Buckle rash and faded binding the gold color gone from the pick ups and Stop bar. It had already been refretted 3 times (in Switzerland) nice work too. Do u think I wanted to sell her? no. The one guy offered me 40g's American in the original case. Turns out he did all the research on the serial #'s, he didnt even need to hear it played. I sold it and went home...value

I've been playing guitar seriously since 1967. Guitars were relatively inexpensive back then. My first Fender Strat I got used in 1969 for $115.00. Approximately10 years later, I bought a very similar Strat of the same vintage and it was the first time I paid over $1,000.00 for a guitar. Since then, I've paid as much as $3,000.00. I have guitars valued well over that now but they were all gifts. If money wasn't a consideration, to get a guitar that I really loved, I would pay whatever the seller wanted for it. I can't make music with money. I need the instrument.

@KJ4VGA

2 жыл бұрын

Interestingly, adjust for inflation that $115 would be ~$850 today. Which only a little under what i see a used strat normally sell for now, depending on the model.

Before watching this video in full I could already tell you the difference in price is definitely in the labor cost of the construction. I paid $1700 for my 2016 gibson les paul Traditional. It was 2300 new. For the labor of binding and all the materials gibson guitars are fantastic for what you get. I bought an original beat up 1961 Gibson Les Paul jr in January. Talk about a fantastic guitar. 3 grand for that one and totally worth it

I have a R7 les Paul and it was dear but well worth it for me

$10,000 is my current day upper limit. There’s just not many guitars over that, that I like. I always scour for deals on custom shop instruments or even standard production USA made guitars, like the old American Vintage Fenders(which are a killer value). I just picked up a mint condition 2004 ‘52 Tele for almost half of what people are asking on Reverb. Save your money and take your time!

Here in Brazil, a Gibson Les Paul Standard costs about 22 months of an average worker's salary. Even If I had this money, I would not have the guts to spend all of that in just one guitar.

You can get a used relic strat for around $3000. That is my max now but it could change.

Nice shades

Gibson USA is good enough for me, so the top of the line is the Modern LP at $2800-ish. The Supreme and Elegant, I don't need fancy, just solid playability. BTW, a Studio or Tribute can be had at $1500-ish; probably equal apples to Fender. Really, a Special is most like T-style slab body; i think a new one with 2 p-90s is about a grand. Gibson's the King of Bling, if you want it, they'll do it for coins of the realm. Ü♥♫

For the price that you pay for a Gibson or a Fender or a PRS or any other full price quality guitar, it should be perfect when you get it home. The price of the setup and any adjustments should be included in the purchase price. They should have arrangements with local techs. They are missing an opportunity and giving away sales.

I think Gibson and Fender make it hard to compete with entry level guitars, but I think boutique builders have a leg up on those custom shops because they offer greater attention to detail and a story. I think the demand for seeing your being built on KZread or otherwise is starting to take hold, people understand that's available and they want it. I think we're going to see the high end of what guitars can be pushed out soon with a higher price tag attached.