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Average Price: $3,000
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
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Description
Capture a piece of rock history with the 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom, a guitar that embodies the spirit of classic rock and blues. Crafted during the intriguing Norlin Era, this solid body electric guitar is a testament to Gibson's dedication to legendary sound and robust build. Despite its controversial origins, this guitar has proven to be a sought-after gem for discerning players who crave the iconic LP growl paired with an undeniable vintage charm.
The 1973 Les Paul Custom exudes an unmistakable aura with its classic mahogany body and carved maple top, delivering warm, resonant tones that have defined countless rock anthems. Its ebony fretboard invites effortless playability, while the gold hardware adds a touch of elegance and prestige. The dual humbucker pickups deliver that unmistakable, full-bodied Les Paul sound, offering both clarity and power. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, this guitar is built to impress with its commanding presence and sonorous voice.
Key Features:
- Solid mahogany body with carved maple top
- Ebony fretboard for smooth playability
- Dual humbucker pickups for classic Les Paul sound
- Gold hardware for a touch of elegance
- Crafted during the iconic Norlin Era
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | Les Paul Custom |
| Finish | Alpine White, Brazilian Rosewood, Candy Apple Red, Cherry, Cherry Sunburst, Ebony, Ferrari Red, Goldburst, Goldtop, Natural, Silver, Silverburst, Tobacco Sunburst, Wine Red |
| Year | 1970 - 1985 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Body Shape | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Stop-Bar |
| Color Family | Black, Brown, Gold, Red, Silver, Tan, White |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony, Maple |
| Fretboard Radius | 12" |
| Model Family | Gibson Les Paul |
| Model Sub-Family | Gibson Les Paul Custom |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Mahogany, Maple |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Nut Width | 1.6875" |
| Offset Body | Non-Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
| Series | Gibson Norlin Era |
| Top Material | Maple |
FAQs
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What distinguishes the 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom from other Les Paul models?
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The 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom is known for its solid mahogany body with a maple top, set-neck construction, and dual humbucker pickups, which provide a warm, rich tone. Its distinctive features include an ebony fretboard and elegant finishes like Alpine White and Cherry Sunburst.
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Is the 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom suitable for professional musicians?
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Yes, the 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom is highly regarded for its craftsmanship and tonal versatility, making it a popular choice among professional musicians, especially in rock and blues genres.
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How does the sound of the 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom compare to other guitars from the Norlin era?
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The 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom offers a powerful, sustaining sound with pronounced midrange, typical of Norlin-era Gibsons. Its dual humbuckers produce a thicker, more robust tone compared to other models from the same period.
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What kind of neck profile does the 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom have?
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The 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom features a set-neck construction with a medium C-shaped profile, providing a comfortable grip for both rhythm and lead playing.
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Are the pickups on the 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom suitable for heavy music styles?
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Yes, the dual humbucker pickups on the 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom deliver a powerful output and thick tone, making them well-suited for heavy music styles like hard rock and metal.
Videos
GregsGuitars
1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom
Reviews
PROS
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T-Top pickups deliver a rich and distinctive sound
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Ebony fretboard adds a unique "cry" to the sound
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Comfortable neck praised by long-term users
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Durable over decades, showcasing lasting build quality
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Heavy build contributes to its powerful sound
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Excellent condition even after decades, like a time capsule
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Chainsaw case with well-preserved felt interior
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Unique tone with more personality and subtlety compared to newer models
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Versatile with different amps, from classic rock to bluesy sound
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Distinctive inlays appreciated aesthetically
CONS
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Some models exhibit poor woodwork on the back
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Knob placement can be awkward for some users
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Heavy weight may not be suitable for everyone
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom.
Build quality
Mods and upgrades
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The bridge pickup is identified as a DiMarzio Super Distortion, while the neck pickup may be an original T-Top with the cover removed.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
James Hetfield has been seen performing with a 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom, known as the "Iron Cross," on multiple occasions. The attached user-uploaded photo provides visual evidence of his use of this guitar.
"Pete used this cherry sunburst 1973 Les Paul Custom guitar for perhaps only one show: Newcastle Odeon on 7 November 1973. However, it is immortalized in the promotional poster for The Kids Are Alright film soundtrack."
In an Instagram post titled "Norlin Night," Brian Baker showcases his 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom, highlighting its vintage appeal from the Norlin era of Gibson guitars.
Album Usage
The 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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