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Average Price: $3,000

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$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

What distinguishes the 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom from other Les Paul models?

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.

Is the 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom suitable for professional musicians?

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.

How does the sound of the 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom compare to other guitars from the Norlin era?

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.

What kind of neck profile does the 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom have?

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.

Are the pickups on the 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom suitable for heavy music styles?

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.

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Video thumbnail for 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom by GregsGuitars

1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom Black | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom Black | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom Black | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom Black | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom | GuitarPoint Vintage Guitars by GuitarPoint

1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom | GuitarPoint Vintage Guitars

GuitarPoint

GuitarPoint

Video thumbnail for 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom by williesguitars

1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom

williesguitars

williesguitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson Norlin Era 1973 Les Paul Custom Review by TheBlakem

Gibson Norlin Era 1973 Les Paul Custom Review

TheBlakem

TheBlakem

Reviews

PROS

  • T-Top pickups deliver a rich and distinctive sound

  • Ebony fretboard adds a unique "cry" to the sound

  • Comfortable neck praised by long-term users

  • Durable over decades, showcasing lasting build quality

  • Heavy build contributes to its powerful sound

  • Excellent condition even after decades, like a time capsule

  • Chainsaw case with well-preserved felt interior

  • Unique tone with more personality and subtlety compared to newer models

  • Versatile with different amps, from classic rock to bluesy sound

  • Distinctive inlays appreciated aesthetically

CONS

  • Some models exhibit poor woodwork on the back

  • Knob placement can be awkward for some users

  • 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

  • The 1973 Les Paul Custom features a "pancake body" construction, identifiable by a seam visible on the side of the guitar.

    Source
  • Original control knobs have likely been replaced, with the current ones not matching the era's typical witch hat knobs.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • 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

User experience

  • A user with a 1971 Les Paul Custom praises its patent sticker T-Top humbuckers, noting unmatched tonal magic compared to other guitars in their collection.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
skylinerr

Good

My main humbucker loaded guitar an old lp custom love the inlays had this all through uni and shit

Genres:

Artist usage

Add artist
See how James Hetfield uses 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom

James Hetfield

Singer, Guitarist

Metallica

...
Verified via Photo

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.

See how Pete Townshend uses 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Pete Townshend

Singer, Guitarist

The Who

...
Verified

"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."

See how Brian Baker uses 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Brian Baker

Guitarist, Bassist

Bad Religion

...
Verified via Photo

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.

See how Lori S. uses 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Lori S.

Singer, Guitarist

Acid King

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram photo, Lori shows her 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom.

See how Simon Tong uses 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Simon Tong

Guitarist

Gorillaz

...
Verified via Photo

A black gibson les paul with two hambuckers (propably Seymour Duncan JB). Used with The Shining in 2002.

See how Mark Deutrom uses 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Mark Deutrom

Guitarist, Bassist

Melvins

...
Verified via YouTube

Mark Deutrom discusses using his 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom in a YouTube video where he breaks down one of his tunes, highlighting its role in his current music setup.

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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    kkolar

    Gear IQ 120856