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Average Price: $2,749

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$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

What makes the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite different from a standard Les Paul Custom?

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.

What kind of neck profile does the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite have?

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.

What pickups are installed in the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite, and what tones can they produce?

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.

Is the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite suitable for live performances?

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.

What type of bridge does the Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite feature?

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.

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

2013 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite LTD. Edition, Part1

Video thumbnail for 2013 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite LTD. Edition, Part1 by GregsGuitars

2013 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite LTD. Edition, Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for This One Won The Wood Grain Lottery | 2014 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite Vintage Sunburst Flame Top by The Trogly's Guitar Show

This One Won The Wood Grain Lottery | 2014 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite Vintage Sunburst Flame Top

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for "Fixing" The Les Paul Design | 1988 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite Review + Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

"Fixing" The Les Paul Design | 1988 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite Review + Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for What Year Should I Buy? The Custom Lite History | 2013 Gibson LPC Lite Review + Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

What Year Should I Buy? The Custom Lite History | 2013 Gibson LPC Lite Review + Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for 2016 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite White Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

2016 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite White Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Trogly's Guitars: 2016 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite by The Trogly's Guitar Show

Trogly's Guitars: 2016 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Trogly's Guitars: 2013 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite Black by The Trogly's Guitar Show

Trogly's Guitars: 2013 Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite Black

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Vintage Guitar Oldenburg presents a Gibson Les Paul Custom lite by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg presents a Gibson Les Paul Custom lite

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Video thumbnail for GIBSON USA Les Paul Custom Lite *1 OF 250 "Ebony + Dark Rosewood" (2016) by Squealing Pig Guitars

GIBSON USA Les Paul Custom Lite *1 OF 250 "Ebony + Dark Rosewood" (2016)

Squealing Pig Guitars

Squealing Pig Guitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Lightweight design reduces fatigue during long gigs

  • Maintains classic Les Paul tone despite thinner body

  • Versatile sound with humbucker to single-coil switch

  • Comfortable playability with a sleek, thinner body

  • Retains iconic Les Paul aesthetics in a more manageable size

  • Ideal for classic rock and punk with 490/498 humbucker combo

  • Offers same mahogany neck and body as full-sized models

  • Highly praised for its exceptional build quality and looks

  • Limited edition status may increase future value

  • Cost-effective alternative to full-sized Les Paul Custom

CONS

  • 490/498 humbucker combo may not suit everyone

  • 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

  • 2013 models had split diamond headstock inlays, while 2014 had pineapple inlays, with inconsistent QC noted across both years.

    Source
  • The 1988 model comes with a period-correct chainsaw case, adding to its vintage appeal and protection.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners reported replacing factory electronics and nuts due to feedback issues and nut slot depth problems.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Les Paul Custom Lite is described as a hybrid between an SG, LP Special, and regular Les Paul, offering a unique feel and balance.

    Source
  • Compared to an Epiphone LP Prophecy, the Custom Lite is about 10% lighter while still maintaining tonal integrity.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users replaced pickups with Fishman models for improved performance, indicating dissatisfaction with stock options.

    Source
  • Some guitars from this era have had their pickups replaced with Suhr SSH+ & SSV sets, noted for their high-quality sound.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • 2016 models are considered rare and desirable due to traditional LP electronics and scarcity on the used market.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The "lite" designation refers to a thinner body profile, roughly a third less thick than a typical Les Paul Custom.

    Source
  • The 1988 model includes a coil tap switch replacing the second tone knob, offering versatile tonal options.

    Source
  • It maintains a slim 60's neck profile, ideal for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more comfortable grip.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite being thinner, the guitar retains the substantial feel of a traditional Les Paul Custom, weighing around 8.23 lbs.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 13 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Paul McCartney uses Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite

Paul McCartney

Singer, Bassist

The Beatles

...
Verified via Photo

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.

See how Kim Thayil uses Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite

Kim Thayil

Guitarist

Soundgarden

...
Verified via Premierguitar

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.)

See how Mike Campbell uses Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite

Mike Campbell

Guitarist

Fleetwood Mac

...
Verified via reverb.com
Color/Finish: Ebony Year: 1988

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.

See how Iñaki Antón uses Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite

Iñaki Antón

Guitarist, Music Producer

Extremoduro

...
Verified via YouTube

Iñaki Antón used a Gibson Les Paul Custom Lite during the "Yo, minoría absoluta" tour, as seen in the 2002 live performance of "Ama, ama, ama y ensancha el alma" by Extremoduro, available on Warner Music Spain's YouTube channel.

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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