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Average Price: $2,375

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$400

$1001+

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High-end

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Description

The 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard in ebony is a striking blend of classic design and modern innovation. This iconic guitar remains a favorite among musicians for its seamless blend of rich tonal quality and exceptional playability. The body features a chambered mahogany construction, reducing weight while maintaining the full-bodied sound Les Pauls are famous for. Topped with maple, it delivers a crisp, articulate tone that is perfect for any genre from rock to blues.

The asymmetrical neck profile provides a comfortable grip, allowing for effortless playability across the rosewood fingerboard adorned with classic trapezoid inlays. Equipped with two powerful humbucker pickups, this guitar produces a warm, versatile sound, capable of everything from smooth, mellow tones to aggressive, driving riffs. The locking tuners and input jack ensure stability and reliability, even during the most intense performances.

With its timeless aesthetics and modern enhancements, the 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard is more than just a guitar—it's a statement piece that will elevate your musical journey. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, this guitar is designed to inspire and perform with excellence.

Key Features:

  • Chambered mahogany body with maple top for lighter weight and enhanced resonance
  • Asymmetrical neck profile for comfortable playability
  • Rosewood fingerboard with trapezoid inlays
  • Dual humbucker pickups for versatile sound
  • Locking tuners and input jack for stability and reliability
  • Classic single cutaway solid body design
  • Stopbar tailpiece and Tune-o-matic bridge for precise intonation and sustain

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Les Paul Standard
Finish Chicago Blue, Desert Burst, Ebony, Goldtop, Heritage Cherry Sunburst, Honeyburst, Iced Tea, Lightburst, Silverburst, Wine Red
Year 2008 - 2012
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, Blue, Brown, Gold, Red, Silver, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson Les Paul
Model Sub-Family Gibson Les Paul Standard
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"
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Flamed

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard Ebony?

The 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard features a 60s Slim Taper neck profile, offering a thinner and faster feel compared to the traditional '50s profile, making it comfortable for both rhythm and lead playing.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard Ebony?

The 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard Ebony is equipped with Burstbucker Pro pickups, which deliver a classic, warm Les Paul tone with a modern edge, suitable for rock, blues, and jazz genres.

Is the 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard Ebony suitable for beginners?

While the 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard Ebony is a high-quality instrument favored by experienced players, its playability and iconic sound make it a worthwhile investment for serious beginners committed to learning.

How does the 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard Ebony handle different music genres?

This guitar is versatile, handling genres like rock, blues, and jazz exceptionally well due to its rich mahogany body and maple top, which offer a balanced, resonant sound.

What is the weight of the 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard Ebony?

The 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard Ebony typically weighs around 9 to 10 pounds, providing a solid feel and contributing to its sustain and tone.

DelHollowProductions

DelHollowProductions

An Introduction to the New Gibson 2008 Les Paul Standard

Video thumbnail for An Introduction to the New Gibson 2008 Les Paul Standard by DelHollowProductions

An Introduction to the New Gibson 2008 Les Paul Standard

DelHollowProductions

DelHollowProductions

Video thumbnail for Fuzz Guitars: Gibson Les Paul Standard 2008 (Ebony Left Handed) by Colin Hyland

Fuzz Guitars: Gibson Les Paul Standard 2008 (Ebony Left Handed)

Colin Hyland

Colin Hyland

Video thumbnail for Gibson USA 2008 Les Paul Standard by BUZZBEE TV

Gibson USA 2008 Les Paul Standard

BUZZBEE TV

BUZZBEE TV

Reviews

PROS

  • Lightweight at 7.5-7.7 lbs, making it easier to handle

  • Chambered body offers significant weight relief

  • Asymmetrical neck shape enhances hand comfort

  • Locking Grover tuners facilitate fast string changes

  • BurstBucker Pro pickups provide a cutting, powerful tone

  • Pleked frets ensure precise playability

  • Push-pull knobs allow for single-coil splitting

  • Neutrik jack prevents accidental cord disconnection

  • Versatile and reliable for professional musicians

  • Unique vanilla lacquer scent adds a sensory element

CONS

  • Gold plated volume/tone pots offer little resistance

  • Feedback requires adjustment when playing live

  • Higher action takes time to get used to for Strat players

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Les Paul Standard 2008.

User experience

  • Many strat players find the 50s neck on the 2008 model surprisingly comfortable and easy to adapt to.

    Source
  • Classic models are praised for their aesthetics, with some owners preferring them over more expensive models like the Slash Anaconda.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some owners highlight Gibson's inconsistent quality control post-2011, suggesting the 2008 models may have superior craftsmanship.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The 2008 model is noted for its thicker, rounded neck profile compared to the slimmer 60s neck of the 2021 model, influencing comfort and playability.

    Source
  • The Classic and Standard 60s models are similar in build, but the Classic offers weight relief and a lower price point.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Buyers are advised to check the 2008 model for potential fret wear, possibly necessitating a fret level and crowning.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Enthusiasts recommend swapping black hardware for cream and gold on the wine red model to enhance its visual appeal.

    Source
  • Customizing an Ebony Classic with gold hardware can cost around $150.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Classic model features zebra pickups and a direct-to-bridge circuit for a treble boost by bypassing tone wiring.

    Source

Critic Reviews

2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard combines classic Les Paul charm with some modern upgrades, like a lighter, chambered body that doesn't compromise on tone. Players will appreciate the excellent factory Plek setup and the comfortable asymmetrical neck shape. However, the Burstbucker pickups may not satisfy everyone, sounding a bit darker and less defined compared to earlier models. Some design choices, like the locking output jack and PCB-mounted electronics, feel unnecessary and may limit future modifications. Despite these quirks, the guitar's aesthetic appeal and overall playability make it a strong contender for those seeking a versatile rock guitar.

positive

2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard Review | David Boles, Blogs

bolesblogs.com

The 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard is celebrated as a "magical, cosmic beauty" that outshines many competitors with its playability and tonal richness. The reviewer praises its versatility, noting a "tremendous voice" that evokes strong emotional responses. However, there's a hint of nostalgia in the air, as the comparison to vintage models raises questions about the craftsmanship of modern guitars. Despite acknowledging purist sentiments, the review firmly advocates for the 2008 model as a fine representation of Gibson's legacy. Ultimately, the review conveys a heartfelt endorsement, tempered by reflections on the evolution of guitar craftsmanship.

positive

Gibson Les Paul 2008 Standard review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

With its vintage-like tones and sharper construction, the 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard delivers a compelling blend of modern updates and classic appeal. The build quality stands out, complemented by features like Grover locking tuners and a chambered body that enhances resonance. However, the asymmetrical neck profile may not suit everyone, and some players might find the frets lacking in refinement. While the guitar excels in delivering a rich, old-school sound, the balance between pickups can feel off until fine-tuned. Overall, this model's price and craftsmanship make it a solid choice for enthusiasts, but it may require some adjustments for optimal playability.

positive
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4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
mrrstrat

The Real Deal Les Paul

Gibson made changes in 2008 for the professional working musician: locking tuners, locking bridge and tail piece, Neutrik jack, asymmetrical neck, upgraded pots, Burstbucker Pro pickups, and chambered for resonance and weight relief. The result is a very versatile and reliable guitar for the working musician.

ernesto_valk

My Neil Young Guitar

So much upgrades it's not a Gibson anymore. Seymour Duncan Seth Lover pick ups, Bigsby and lock-in tuners to name a few.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how yuuho kitazawa uses Gibson Les Paul Standard 2008

yuuho kitazawa

Singer, Guitarist

the peggies

...
Verified via Photo

Yuuho Kitazawa played a 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard in Ebony during the "Feel Black" tour in 2021, as seen on Instagram by user yuyuuho.

See how Kevin Preston uses Gibson Les Paul Standard 2008

Kevin Preston

Singer, Guitarist

Green Day

...
Verified via Photo

During the Hella Mega Tour, Kevin Preston of Green Day can be seen playing a 2008 Gibson Les Paul Standard in Ebony behind the amplifiers and speakers. This guitar is tuned to standard E, similar to the one used by bandmate Jason White for songs in E flat/D sharp. The source is a user-uploaded photo.

Genre Usage

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