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Average Price: $750

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Step into a world of classic rock sound and modern comfort with the Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker. This solidbody electric guitar, steeped in history yet designed for today's players, offers a unique blend of vintage charm and contemporary performance. Crafted from lightweight mahogany, its thin body ensures long-lasting comfort whether you're rocking out on stage or jamming in the studio. Originally conceived as a student model, the Melody Maker quickly became a beloved choice among seasoned musicians for its ease of play and iconic P-90 pickups. These pickups are celebrated for their wide-ranging tone, delivering everything from clean, crisp sounds to gritty, high-output wails that have defined countless records.

The neck, with its '50s rounded profile, pays homage to the original Les Paul feel, providing a satisfying grip that invites you to explore every corner of the fretboard. It's not just about looks, though; the nitrocellulose lacquer finish not only enhances the guitar's vintage aesthetic but also improves its tonal resonance, allowing the natural sound of the wood to shine through.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or an enthusiastic learner, the Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker offers a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, making it a staple for any guitarist's collection.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight mahogany body with a slim profile for comfort
  • Dual P-90 single-coil pickups for a versatile range of tones
  • Vintage-inspired '50s rounded neck profile
  • Nitrocellulose lacquer finish for enhanced tonal quality
  • Rosewood fretboard with 120th Anniversary logo
  • Includes a gig bag for easy transport and storage

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model Les Paul Melody Maker
Finish Charcoal, Manhattan Midnight, Wine Red, Yellow
Year 2014
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Wrap-Around
Color Family Black, Blue, Red, Yellow
Finish Style Satin
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gibson Les Paul
Model Sub-Family Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Top Material Maple

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker Red have?

The Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker Red is equipped with a single-coil pickup configuration, offering a bright and clear tone that is distinct from the humbucker-equipped Les Paul models.

Is the Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker Red suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker Red is suitable for beginners due to its lightweight design, comfortable neck profile, and straightforward controls, making it easy to play and manage.

What is the neck profile of the Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker Red?

The Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker Red features a slim taper neck profile, which provides a comfortable and fast playing experience, ideal for players who prefer a sleek and agile feel.

How does the mahogany body affect the sound of the Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker Red?

The mahogany body of the Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker Red contributes to a warm, resonant tone with good sustain, offering a rich sound that complements the bright character of its single-coil pickups.

Does the Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker Red have a set-neck construction?

Yes, the Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker Red features a set-neck construction, which enhances sustain and stability, providing a seamless connection between the neck and body for improved resonance.

Dressed In Black

Dressed In Black

Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker 2014: budget-friendly, but is it worth buying?

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker 2014: budget-friendly, but is it worth buying? by Dressed In Black

Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker 2014: budget-friendly, but is it worth buying?

Dressed In Black

Dressed In Black

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker electric guitar review by Foxy's Guitar Show

Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker electric guitar review

Foxy's Guitar Show

Foxy'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 Melody Maker.

Features and functionality

  • The Gibson Les Paul Melody Maker features a tune-o-matic bridge highly appreciated by owners for its reliability and ease of use.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some owners consider upgrading to Lollar P-90 pickups, though many are satisfied with the stock configuration.

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  • Curtis Novak's MM-90 pickup is recommended for Melody Makers, matching the original size but with P90 voicing to avoid irreversible modifications.

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  • Installing a P90 requires careful consideration of routing, as modifications may affect the guitar's historical value.

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Use cases and applications

  • The guitar is well-suited for punk-inspired music, with owners noting its ability to deliver powerful, resonant tones akin to "Never Mind the Bollocks" era sounds.

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  • Despite appearances, vintage Melody Makers in rough condition can still offer desirable, authentic vintage tones, enhancing their appeal to collectors.

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Value and pricing

  • Owners have reported purchasing these models for as low as $400 from scratch and dent sales, indicating potential for excellent value.

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Setup and maintenance

  • A proper setup and adjustment of pickup height can significantly enhance tone before considering modifications.

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Comparisons

  • Melody Makers can outperform many other guitars if given a proper setup, suggesting a unique tonal quality.

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User experience

  • Even cosmetically rough vintage Melody Makers are often appreciated for their authentic aging and can command high interest due to their historical character.

    Source

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