Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (11)
$4,699.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$4,699.00
Musician's Friend
3.0 (7)
$4,699.00
zZounds
$4,699.00
Thomann
5.0 (8)
$3,899.00

Average Price: $4,539

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Gibson CS R4". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* 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

The Gibson CS R4, a tribute to the iconic 1954 Les Paul Goldtop, offers an exceptional blend of classic craftsmanship and modern precision. This reissue is a dream come true for vintage enthusiasts and modern players alike, capturing the essence of the original with painstaking accuracy. Its chunky C profile neck is perfect for those who crave the substantial feel of early Les Pauls. The guitar’s P-90 pickups are the heart of its sound, delivering a warm, creamy tone that is both vintage and versatile, allowing for a wide range of expression from smooth jazz lines to gritty rock riffs.

The wraparound tailpiece is a standout feature, enhancing sustain and resonance for a rich, full-bodied tone. This design not only echoes the aesthetic of the original but also improves string vibration transfer, giving you that sought-after Les Paul sustain. The guitar's mahogany body and carved maple top offer a balanced tonal foundation, while the nitrocellulose lacquer finish gives it an authentic vintage look and feel that will only improve with age.

Gibson’s dedication to detail is evident in every aspect of the CS R4, from its hide-glued mahogany neck to the vintage-correct cellulose nitrate trapezoid inlays. This guitar is not just an instrument; it's a piece of history, crafted for those who appreciate the artistry and soul of a true classic.

Key Features:

  • Chunky C profile neck for a substantial feel
  • P-90 pickups for a warm, versatile tone
  • Wraparound tailpiece for enhanced sustain
  • Mahogany body with carved maple top
  • Nitrocellulose lacquer finish for a vintage vibe
  • 24.75" scale length with a 22-fret rosewood fingerboard
  • Authentic vintage-style tuners and cream binding

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape 1954 Les Paul
Body Material Mahogany
Top Material 2-piece Plain Maple
Body Finish Gloss Nitrocellulose Lacquer
Neck Material Mahogany
Neck Shape Chunky C
Neck Joint Set Neck
Radius 12"
Fingerboard Material Indian Rosewood
Fingerboard Inlay Aged Cellulose Nitrate Trapezoids
Number of Frets 22, Narrow Tall
Scale Length 24.75"
Nut Width 1.687"
Nut Material Nylon
Bridge/Tailpiece Wraparound Stopbar
Tuners Kluson Single Line
Neck Pickup Custombucker Soapbar P90 Single-coil
Bridge Pickup Custombucker Soapbar P90 Single-coil
Controls 2 x volume, 2 x tone
Switching 3-way toggle pickup switch
Strings Gibson, .010-.046
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Gibson CS R4?

The Gibson CS R4 features a 'Chunky C' neck profile, providing a substantial feel that is reminiscent of the classic 1950s Gibson necks, ideal for players who prefer a thicker neck.

What type of pickups does the Gibson CS R4 have?

The Gibson CS R4 is equipped with Custombucker Soapbar P90 single-coil pickups, which offer a classic vintage tone with a rich midrange and dynamic response suitable for various music styles.

Is the Gibson CS R4 suitable for gigging musicians?

Yes, the Gibson CS R4 is suitable for gigging musicians, thanks to its solidbody construction, durable gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finish, and reliable hardware, ensuring consistent performance on stage.

How does the wraparound tailpiece affect the Gibson CS R4's sound?

The wraparound tailpiece on the Gibson CS R4 enhances tone and sustain by providing a direct string path and increasing string vibration transfer to the body, resulting in a fuller sound.

What is the body material of the Gibson CS R4?

The Gibson CS R4 features a mahogany body with a 2-piece plain maple top, providing a warm, resonant tone with a bright, articulate top end.

Does the Gibson CS R4 include a case?

Yes, the Gibson CS R4 comes with a hardshell case, offering protection and easy transport for your instrument.

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Trogly's Guitars: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Custom 1954 Reissue R4

Video thumbnail for Trogly's Guitars: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Custom 1954 Reissue R4 by The Trogly's Guitar Show

Trogly's Guitars: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Custom 1954 Reissue R4

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for "Pick of the Day" - 2003 Gibson Les Paul 1954 Reissue R4 and Carr Telstar by Emerald City Guitars

"Pick of the Day" - 2003 Gibson Les Paul 1954 Reissue R4 and Carr Telstar

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson R4 Gold Top by Casino Guitars

Gibson R4 Gold Top

Casino Guitars

Casino Guitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson CS R4.

Build quality

  • The 2019 models of the Gibson CS R4 are noted for weighing around 8 pounds or less, which is lighter compared to many production line guitars.

    Source
  • The Custom Shop models are reported to have a higher quality fit-and-finish, using higher grade materials compared to standard US-made guitars.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The "double gold" color on some models features a unique greenish-gold hue, which has been specifically highlighted by owners.

    Source
  • The R4 models are noted for having a wraparound tailpiece, distinct from stopbar models, impacting the playing experience and tone.

    Source
  • The R4 reissue features a bridge intonated for vintage string setups, which can challenge modern string configurations, necessitating potential adjustments for precise pitch.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • One owner acquired their under-8-pound model through FB Marketplace after extensive research and negotiation, highlighting the importance of patience and timing in finding deals.

    Source
  • Used 1996 R4 models can be acquired for $400 - $800 less than new Custom Shop R4s, providing a cost-effective alternative for enthusiasts.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The R4 offers a different neck profile and wiring setup compared to the Standard '50s with P90s, impacting the playability and historical accuracy.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of Custom Shop models emphasize a superior craftsmanship that distinguishes them significantly from regular US-made models, especially in terms of historical construction accuracy.

    Source
  • Owners report that modern R4 models generally have resolved historical intonation issues, performing adequately without requiring immediate aftermarket modifications.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Intonation issues are linked to the R4's wrap tailpiece, designed for 1950s heavy gauge flatwound strings with a wound G, requiring a balance for tuning accuracy.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Thomas Jäger uses Gibson CS R4

Thomas Jäger

Singer, Guitarist

Monolord

...
Verified via Instagram
Color/Finish: Gold Top

In an Instagram video, Thomas Jäger is seen playing a goldtop Les Paul and confirms in the description, "This @gibsoncustom R4 with a single P90 is one of the best guitars I’ve played."

See how Eirik Stordrange uses Gibson CS R4

Eirik Stordrange

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

He uses it in that video, he also wrote it in the description.

Genre Usage

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

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson CS R4, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Ground Control Audio Blood Oath
Ground Control Audio Blood Oath Overdrive Effects Pedals
1

More Gibson Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides