This page about Gibson Les Paul Studio Custom XPL with Explorer Headstock is a stub. You can help improve it:

Pricing and availability

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

For guitarists seeking a blend of classic rock aesthetics and modern playability, the Gibson Les Paul Studio Custom XPL with Explorer Headstock offers an intriguing option. This electric guitar combines the legendary Les Paul body with the distinctive Explorer headstock, creating a unique visual and tonal experience. The guitar is built for those who appreciate the traditional Les Paul tone but desire a bit more flair and edge in their instrument's design.

Equipped with dual humbucking pickups, this guitar delivers the warm and powerful sound Les Pauls are known for, while the modern wiring ensures clarity and precision. The mahogany body and maple top contribute to its rich sustain and dynamic range, making it suitable for a variety of musical genres. The slim taper neck allows for smooth playing across the fretboard, catering to both rhythm players and lead guitarists alike.

Key Features:

  • Unique Explorer headstock design
  • Dual humbucking pickups for versatile tonal options
  • Mahogany body with a maple top for enhanced sustain
  • Slim taper neck for comfortable playability
  • Vintage-style tuners providing reliable tuning stability
  • Available in a range of finishes to suit personal style preferences
The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Story, Review + Demo | 1986 Gibson Les Paul Studio Custom XPL (Les Paul with Explorer Headstock)

Video thumbnail for The Story, Review + Demo | 1986 Gibson Les Paul Studio Custom XPL (Les Paul with Explorer Headstock) by The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Story, Review + Demo | 1986 Gibson Les Paul Studio Custom XPL (Les Paul with Explorer Headstock)

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Les Paul Studio Custom XPL with Explorer Headstock.

Features and functionality

  • The Gibson Les Paul Studio Custom XPL has an Explorer style headstock, a unique feature within the XPL series, known for its distinctive aesthetic.

    Source
  • Gibson XPL series offered bright color finishes, with the Les Paul Studio Custom XPL being highly collectible, sometimes selling for over $60K.

    Source
  • The Les Paul Studio Custom XPL is sometimes compared to the Flying V with Firebird headstocks due to its unconventional design.

    Source

Build quality

  • Epiphone V2 models were constructed with laminated Mahogany/Alder bodies and featured either a Kahler tremolo or traditional Stop Bar tailpiece.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • These models had 22 frets, a 24 3/4" scale length, a nut width of 1.68 inches, and a Rosewood fretboard with dot inlays, affecting playability.

    Source

User experience

  • The Explorer headstock design is appreciated for its unique look, and despite rigorous use, these guitars hold tune well under moderate whammy bar use.

    Source
  • Some owners find the Explorer headstock visually displeasing, comparing it to a shoe in aesthetics.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The V2 is described as suitable for thrash and hair metal styles, where its durability was tested during intense performances.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite their historical context and unique features, Epiphone V2 models often don't command high resale value due to heavy use and modifications.

    Source
  • Current listings show the white version priced at $50K and another variant at $100K, indicating significant collectible value.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Rick Nielsen uses Gibson Les Paul Studio Custom XPL with Explorer Headstock

Rick Nielsen

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Guitarrista

The Guitarrista forum discusses Rick Nielsen playing a Gibson Les Paul Studio Custom XPL with an Explorer headstock, highlighting its unique design.

See how Aldo Nova uses Gibson Les Paul Studio Custom XPL with Explorer Headstock

Aldo Nova

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Woodytone

Aldo Nova is associated with the Gibson Les Paul Studio Custom XPL with Explorer Headstock, as detailed in the Woodytone article titled "Aldo Freakin’ Nova: Les Paul, Marshall."

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Gibson Solid Body Electric Guitars

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides