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Average Price: $2,749
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$400
$1001+
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Description
Experience the legendary Gibson craftsmanship in a sleek, modern design with the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite. This exceptional instrument brings the iconic Les Paul sound into a lighter, more manageable package, perfect for musicians who demand both performance and comfort on stage. Retaining the revered tone and feel of a classic Les Paul Custom, this version is crafted with a thinner mahogany body, making it easier to handle without sacrificing the rich, powerful sound that Gibson is known for.
Underneath its sophisticated exterior lies the 490R and 498T humbuckers, delivering a versatile range of tones from warm, creamy lows to bright, cutting highs. The Custom Diamond headstock inlay not only adds a touch of elegance but also signifies its genuine Gibson pedigree. The rosewood fretboard and '50s neck profile ensure a smooth, comfortable playing experience, ideal for both seasoned professionals and passionate hobbyists alike.
Whether you're tearing it up on stage or jamming in the studio, the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite is the perfect companion for any musical journey, blending vintage charm with modern practicality in one exquisite guitar.
Key Features:
- Thin mahogany body for lightweight comfort
- 490R and 498T humbuckers for versatile tonal range
- Rosewood fretboard with '50s neck profile
- Custom Diamond headstock inlay for signature style
- Classic 4-knob control layout
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | Les Paul Custom Lite |
| Finish | Alpine White, Ebony |
| Year | 2013 - 2016 |
| 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, White |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Gibson Les Paul |
| Model Sub-Family | Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite |
| 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 | Plain |
FAQs
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What makes the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite different from a standard Les Paul Custom?
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The Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite features a thinner mahogany body with traditional weight relief, making it lighter and more comfortable to play without sacrificing the classic Les Paul tone.
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What kind of neck profile does the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite have?
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The Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite has a mahogany neck with a rounded '50s profile, providing a comfortable grip for players who prefer a thicker neck feel.
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What pickups are installed in the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite, and what tones can they produce?
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The Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite is equipped with 490R and 498T humbucking pickups, offering a powerful and versatile tone suitable for rock, blues, and jazz, with excellent clarity and sustain.
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Is the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite is well-suited for live performances due to its lightweight design and powerful pickups, making it easier to handle on stage while delivering rich, full-bodied sound.
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What type of bridge does the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite feature?
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The Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite comes with a stop-bar bridge, which provides stable tuning and sustain, making it ideal for various playing styles.
Videos
GregsGuitars
2013 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite LTD. Edition, Part1
Reviews
PROS
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Lightweight design reduces fatigue during long gigs
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Maintains classic Les Paul tone despite thinner body
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Versatile sound with humbucker to single-coil switch
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Comfortable playability with a sleek, thinner body
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Retains iconic Les Paul aesthetics in a more manageable size
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Ideal for classic rock and punk with 490/498 humbucker combo
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Offers same mahogany neck and body as full-sized models
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Highly praised for its exceptional build quality and looks
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Limited edition status may increase future value
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Cost-effective alternative to full-sized Les Paul Custom
CONS
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490/498 humbucker combo may not suit everyone
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Lacks Mother of Pearl inlays, which some may miss
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite.
Build quality
Setup and maintenance
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Owners reported replacing factory electronics and nuts due to feedback issues and nut slot depth problems.
Source
Comparisons
Mods and upgrades
Value and pricing
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2016 models are considered rare and desirable due to traditional LP electronics and scarcity on the used market.
Source
Features and functionality
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The "lite" designation refers to a thinner body profile, roughly a third less thick than a typical Les Paul Custom.
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The 1988 model includes a coil tap switch replacing the second tone knob, offering versatile tonal options.
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It maintains a slim 60's neck profile, ideal for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more comfortable grip.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 13 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Paul McCartney used the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite on the 'Flowers in the Dirt' album. This guitar was a gift from Les Paul himself during a meeting in New York, as captured in the user-uploaded photo titled "Les-Paul-and-Paul-McCartney.jpg" from the Post-Gazette.
Can be seen in the video at the 10:40 mark. Called the "Diet Les Paul" by Kim due to its lighter weight compared to other Les Paul models. Used in CGCGGE tuning ('Pretty Noose,' 'Head Down,' etc.)
Mike Campbell is confirmed to own a Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite, as evidenced by the listing on Reverb.com. The guitar, with serial number 83378604, is noted for its onboard compressor feature, which is activated by a push/pull knob. The instrument shows some scuffs and scratches but is described as being in great overall condition.
Album Usage
The Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite 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.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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