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Average Price: $5,995

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Transport yourself back to the golden era of rock with the 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom, a timeless masterpiece that captures the essence of '70s electric guitar craftsmanship. Revered for its rich history and iconic sound, this guitar is a testament to Gibson's dedication to quality and detail. The 3-piece maple top combined with a unique mahogany/maple/mahogany "pancake" body construction offers unmatched sustain and resonance. The 3-piece mahogany neck, crowned with an ebony fretboard and a neck volute, ensures both durability and a comfortable playing experience.

What truly sets this guitar apart are the Super '74 alnico humbuckers. These pickups have been meticulously recreated to deliver the authentic, era-specific tone that defined mid-'70s rock. Whether you're channeling the energy of a stadium performance or crafting intricate studio pieces, this guitar promises to deliver with precision.

Designed for both collectors and players, the 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom is more than just an instrument; it's an invitation to relive the magic of an unforgettable musical era. Each guitar comes with a hardshell case and a certificate of authenticity, underscoring its status as a prized addition to any musician's collection.

Key Features:

  • Accurate reissue of a 1974 Les Paul Custom
  • Mahogany/maple/mahogany "pancake body" with a 3-piece maple top
  • Super '74 alnico humbuckers for authentic vintage tone
  • 3-piece mahogany neck with an ebony fretboard and neck volute
  • Vintage-style details, including witch hat knobs
  • Includes hardshell case and certificate of authenticity

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Les Paul Custom 20th Anniversary
Finish Alpine White, Cherry Sunburst, Ebony, Wine Red
Year 1974
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, Red, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Gibson Les Paul
Model Sub-Family Gibson Les Paul Custom
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"
Series Gibson Norlin Era
Top Material Maple

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom?

The 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom features a '70s-style neck profile, which is typically a bit thicker and rounder than modern slim necks, offering a substantial feel that's favored by many players for its comfort and support during extended playing sessions.

What kind of tones can I expect from the 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom pickups?

The 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom is equipped with dual humbucking pickups, providing a rich, warm tone with plenty of sustain and a smooth, creamy overdrive, making it ideal for rock, blues, and jazz genres.

Is the 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom suitable for beginner guitarists?

While the 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom is a high-quality instrument, its weight and price point may be more suitable for intermediate to advanced players who can fully appreciate its tonal capabilities and craftsmanship.

What is the primary wood used in the construction of the 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom?

The 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom features a mahogany body and neck, providing a warm, resonant tone with excellent sustain, complemented by a maple top for added brightness and clarity.

How does the 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom differ from other Les Paul models?

The 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom is distinguished by its luxurious appointments like an ebony fretboard, gold hardware, and multi-ply binding, delivering a more refined aesthetic and a slightly different tonal character compared to standard models.

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

My Nicest Guitar Find EVER | 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom 20th Anniversary Natural Flame

Video thumbnail for My Nicest Guitar Find EVER | 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom 20th Anniversary Natural Flame by The Trogly's Guitar Show

My Nicest Guitar Find EVER | 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom 20th Anniversary Natural Flame

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom Wine Red | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom Wine Red | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom Black | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom Black | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Custom 1974 Original Test at TR Crandall Guitar in New York by Joong Mo Do

Gibson Les Paul Custom 1974 Original Test at TR Crandall Guitar in New York

Joong Mo Do

Joong Mo Do

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Custom from 1974 presented by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg and Tobias Hoffmann by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Gibson Les Paul Custom from 1974 presented by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg and Tobias Hoffmann

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Video thumbnail for 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom | GuitarPoint Vintage Guitars by GuitarPoint

1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom | GuitarPoint Vintage Guitars

GuitarPoint

GuitarPoint

Video thumbnail for 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom | GuitarPoint Vintage Guitars by GuitarPoint

1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom | GuitarPoint Vintage Guitars

GuitarPoint

GuitarPoint

Reviews

PROS

  • Epic T-Top pickups provide powerful, clear, and sparkly tones

  • Comfortable neck with smooth volute enhances playability

  • Low action and ultra-low frets create a "fretless wonder" experience

  • Pancake body with solid mahogany neck praised for its feel and sound

  • Stunning visual appeal with lightly figured maple cap and patina

  • Versatile sound suits rock, blues, and jazz genres

  • Durable vintage case in excellent condition

  • Appreciates in value over time, making it a worthwhile investment

CONS

  • Neck issues reported, including lack of straightness and excessive pitch

  • Some guitars may arrive dirty or with inadequate packaging

  • Potential weight variance; buyers should find one that isn't too heavy

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom.

Build quality

  • Owners highlight the significant weight of the guitar, often around 10 pounds, which can be taxing during extended play.

    Source
  • Some owners mention the low and smooth frets, which can make playing fluidly and bending strings more challenging.

    Source
  • The 1974 model's aged lacquer is often highlighted for its unique, surreal appearance, with some guitars transforming from white to a beautifully aged color.

    Source
  • Original Norlin-era witch hat knobs are highly praised for their aesthetic, with some users desiring exact replicas for their distinct look.

    Source

User experience

  • A user reported that the guitar's sharply radiused sides can be uncomfortable against the body during play.

    Source
  • Some owners describe the 1974 Les Paul Custom as having the best neck feel, attributing it to superior workmanship and material quality used that year.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to PRS CE24, the 1974 Les Paul Custom is noted to be much heavier, influencing player comfort and playability preferences.

    Source
  • A collector notes that the 1974 20th Anniversary model stands out in quality among other Les Paul Customs, citing better materials and craftsmanship compared to other years.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners note a typical selling price around $7,500, reflecting its status and desirability among collectors.

    Source
  • Although prices vary, the guitar is generally listed between $6,500 and $8,900, often influenced by its association with famous players like Randy Rhoads.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners emphasize the importance of refretting, as the original small frets hinder playability for more expressive styles like blues-rock and metal.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 1974 model is praised for its sound, particularly in rock and metal genres, where its "pancake" body construction contributes to a unique tone.

    Source
  • The 1974 Les Paul Custom retains its bold cherry burst color, adding to its visual appeal and making it a standout piece in collections.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • DiMarzio pickups with white bobbins were installed by a previous owner, maintaining an attractive aesthetic with the guitar's binding.

    Source
  • Consider adding gold pickup covers to match the guitar's aged patina, enhancing its vintage appearance while ensuring consistency in the look.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
paul_dunham

"Sherry" My 1974 Les Paul Custom in Tobacco Sunburst

My 1974 Les Paul Custom is in Tobacco Sunburst. It is an incredible instrument. I use it for many different genre's, but I mostly focus on Blues and Jazz. The Neck pick up is velvet, incredible thick and smooth and perfect for smooth jazz, crooning blues or getting Clapton's "Woman Tone". When I need this guitar to rock, I plug in my zvex box of rock distortion pedal and I instantly have the classic Les Paul and Marshall combination. This is a guitar I will keep for the rest of my life. I couldn't ask for a better signature axe.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Randy Rhoads uses 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Randy Rhoads

Guitarist

Ozzy Osbourne

...
Verified via YouTube

In this Live Footage from 1981, Rhoads can be seen with one of his main guitars, a 1974 Alpine White Les Paul Custom. Rhoads would commonly turn down one of the Pickups all the way and use the Toggle-Switch as a Killswitch.

See how Ace Frehley uses 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Ace Frehley

Singer, Guitarist

Kiss

...
Verified via Photo

Ace Frehley with KISS-- San Bernardino, California, January 18 1975, this is most likely his Les Paul Deluxe and the lighting on stage is making it appear white. Regardless this is not a Les Paul "Custom" as there is no inlay on the first fret and no diamond logo on the head stock.

See how John Fogerty uses 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom

John Fogerty

Singer, Guitarist

Creedence Clearwater Revival

...
Verified

In John Fogerty’s interview with Vintage Guitar Magazine, he mentioned that he recorded his self-titled 1975 solo album and his unreleased 1976 album “Hoodoo” with a newer 1974 Gibson Les Paul in tobacco Sunburst(as he retired both of his original CCR 1968 Les Paul Custom Black Beauties after the bands breakup) and a Sunburst 1973 Fender Telecaster(that he picked up for his 1973 first solo album “The Blue Ridge Rangers” and it can be seen on the unreleased 1976 “Hoodoo” album cover photo).

See how Lindsey Buckingham uses 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Lindsey Buckingham

Guitarist, Singer

Fleetwood Mac

...
Verified via Photo

Lindsey Buckingham played a 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom, notably during the Rumours Tour in 1977. A user-uploaded photo on Tumblr shows a later replacement with different tuners and a slightly more tinted color, suggesting a mid-tour change.

See how Steve Jones uses 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Steve Jones

Guitarist

Sex Pistols

...
Verified via YouTube

Steve Jones is seen playing a 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom, previously owned by Sylvain Sylvain of the New York Dolls, in the Sex Pistols' "God Save The Queen" music video on SexPistolsVEVO's YouTube channel.

See how Richie Faulkner uses 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Richie Faulkner

Guitarist

Judas Priest

...
Verified via Photo

In this May 10, 2019 Instagram post, Faulkner states:

"As pretty as can be, the @gibsoncustom 74 custom #lespaul in full flight from the other nights showdown in #atlanta. I used it for Spectre and Take these Chains. Sounds and plays amazing RHRF DOTF #judaspriest #firepower @gibsonguitar @gueikian #faulkyeah #eavyfaulkinmetal #gibsonfamily Pics by @sneezyphd"

See how Tom Keifer uses 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Tom Keifer

Guitarist, Singer

Cinderella

...
Verified via YouTube

Tom can be seen playing a white custom Les Paul throughout the video for Somebody Save Me

See how Eriko Hashimoto uses 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Eriko Hashimoto

Singer, Guitarist

チャットモンチー

...
Verified via YouTube

Eriko Hashimoto is seen using a 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom White (Aged) guitar during a live performance, as evidenced at the 2:40 mark in the YouTube video "Chatmonchy - 恋愛スピリッツ - Renai Spirits" by XTM301.

See how Michael Bolton uses 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom

Michael Bolton

Singer

Blackjack

...
Verified via YouTube

Michael Bolton plays a 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom throughout the video for his song "Fools Game".

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use 1974 Gibson Les Paul Custom, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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