The Gibson Les Paul Studio Smokehouse is a special edition electric guitar that offers a unique combination of style, tone, and playability. With its distinctive Smokehouse finish and powerful pickups, this guitar is sure to stand out both visually and sonically. In this article, we will take a closer look at the features and history of the Gibson Les Paul Studio Smokehouse.
A Brief History of the Gibson Les Paul Studio
The Gibson Les Paul Studio was first introduced by the Gibson Guitar Corporation in 198It was designed to fill a gap in their model lineup for a more affordable Les Paul that still retained the iconic sound and playability of the original. The Studio model was aimed at musicians who were more focused on the guitar's tonal qualities rather than its cosmetic features.
To achieve a lower price point, the Les Paul Studio omitted certain features found on more expensive models. These included body and neck binding, as well as intricate headstock inlays. The body of the Studio was also slightly thinner than a standard Les Paul, making it lighter and more comfortable to play.
The name studio was chosen to reflect the idea that this model would provide the same sonic performance as a Les Paul Standard or Custom in a recording studio setting. The flashier models with additional cosmetic features were intended for stage use.
Features and Variations of the Gibson Les Paul Studio
The Gibson Les Paul Studio Smokehouse features a unique Smokehouse finish that gives it a vintage and worn-in appearance. This finish enhances the overall aesthetic of the guitar and sets it apart from other Les Paul models.
One of the standout features of the Les Paul Studio Smokehouse is its pickups. It is equipped with powerful humbucker pickups that deliver a rich and versatile tone. These pickups are known for their ability to produce warm and fat tones, making the guitar suitable for a wide range of musical genres.
The Studio Smokehouse also features a solid mahogany body and a maple top, which contribute to its rich and resonant tone. The mahogany neck with a rosewood fretboard provides excellent playability and a smooth feel.
Over the years, Gibson has produced different variations of the Les Paul Studio. Some notable models include:
Studio Standard
The Studio Standard was produced from 1983 to 1987 and featured a single-ply binding around the body and neck, chrome hardware, and white pickup rings and pickguard. It was available in various colors, such as Cherry Sunburst, Tobacco Burst, and Ferrari Red.
Studio Custom
The Studio Custom was produced from 1983 to 1985 and had features similar to a Standard model. It had a mahogany body with a maple top, gold hardware, and black pickup rings and pickguard. Some models even had Tim Shaw pickups.
Vintage Mahogany/Faded
The Vintage Mahogany model, later renamed the Les Paul Studio Faded, featured a carved mahogany body, top, and neck, along with Alnico V BurstBucker Pro humbucker pickups. This model was available in worn brown and worn cherry finishes, giving it a vintage look.
Studio Lite
In the mid-1990s, Gibson introduced the Studio Lite and Studio Lite M-III models. The Lite models were made with balsa wood portions of the body to reduce weight, making it more comfortable to play for extended periods of time. The Studio Lite M-III also featured a unique pickup configuration with two humbuckers and a single coil in the middle.
Why Choose the Gibson Les Paul Studio Smokehouse?
The Gibson Les Paul Studio Smokehouse offers a unique combination of style, tone, and playability. Its Smokehouse finish gives it a vintage and worn-in appearance, while the powerful humbucker pickups deliver a versatile and rich tone. Whether you're a professional musician or a hobbyist, this guitar is sure to inspire and enhance your playing.
The Les Paul Studio Smokehouse is perfect for players who appreciate the iconic Les Paul sound but prefer a more understated and vintage look. It offers the same tonal qualities as the more expensive Les Paul models but at a more affordable price point.
The Gibson Les Paul Studio Smokehouse is a unique and versatile electric guitar that combines vintage aesthetics with modern features. With its Smokehouse finish and powerful pickups, this guitar is sure to turn heads on stage or in the studio. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your musical journey, the Les Paul Studio Smokehouse is a fantastic choice for any guitarist.
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