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Description
Meet the 1953 Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED," a vintage masterpiece that sings with historical significance and timeless appeal. Revered by guitar enthusiasts and collectors alike, this model represents a pivotal chapter in the evolution of the iconic Les Paul lineage. Originally introduced as a Goldtop in the early '50s, the 1953 edition showcases a notable transition in its architecture: the problematic trapeze tailpiece from 1952 was swapped for a more reliable combination stud bridge/tailpiece, enhancing both playability and sustain.
Crafted with a mahogany body topped with maple, and a mahogany neck crowned with a rosewood fingerboard, "OLE RED" delivers a warm, rich tone that reverberates through its history. The dual P90 single-coil pickups add a layer of versatility, offering everything from smooth, jazzy cleans to gritty, rock-ready growls. With its signature trapezoid inlays, Kluson deluxe tuners, and a classic white pickguard, this guitar is a visual and auditory standout.
For those who seek more than just an instrument, "OLE RED" is a piece of music history, akin to the guitars wielded by legends like Jimmy Page and Neil Young. Step into the shoes of the greats and let your music echo their legacy.
Key Features:
- Mahogany body with Maple top
- Mahogany neck with Rosewood fingerboard
- Combination stud bridge/tailpiece for improved sustain
- Two single-coil P90 pickups
- Trapezoid inlays and Kluson deluxe tuners
- Classic white pickguard
- Four control knobs and three-way pickup selector
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | Les Paul with Wraparound Tailpiece |
| Finish | Goldtop |
| Year | 1953 |
| 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 | Gold |
| Finish Style | Metallic |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Gibson Les Paul |
| Model Sub-Family | Gibson Les Paul Standard |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | SS |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
| Top Material | Maple |
FAQs
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What type of pickups does the 1953 Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED" have?
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The 1953 Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED" is equipped with P-90 single-coil pickups, known for their bright, punchy sound that works well for blues and rock genres.
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How does the wraparound tailpiece on the 1953 Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED" affect playability?
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The wraparound tailpiece on the 1953 Les Paul "OLE RED" offers increased sustain and a more straightforward setup compared to other bridge types, providing a vintage playing experience.
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Is the 1953 Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED" suitable for modern rock music?
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While the 1953 Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED" is primarily known for its vintage tone, its P-90 pickups can deliver the grit and punch needed for certain styles of modern rock.
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What is the neck profile like on the 1953 Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED"?
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The 1953 Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED" features a chunky neck profile typical of early '50s models, offering a substantial feel that appeals to players who prefer a thicker neck.
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How does the Goldtop finish on the 1953 Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED" affect its appeal?
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The Goldtop finish on the 1953 Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED" is iconic and adds to its vintage aesthetic, making it highly desirable for collectors and players seeking authentic '50s style.
Videos
Play and Trade Guitars
Jared James Nichols' No.1 OLE RED 1953 Gibson Les Paul
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED" 1953.
Features and functionality
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The 1953 Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED" is noted for its distinctive Cardinal Red overspray, making it visually unique among Les Pauls from the era.
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The 1953 Les Paul "OLE RED" is often compared to a Telecaster on steroids due to its robust tonal qualities and versatility.
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The 1953 Les Paul "OLE RED" features non-wax potted pickups, providing an open, organic sound with more overtones and controlled feedback.
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Mods and upgrades
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P90 pickups in these guitars can bark when cranked and shimmer when the volume is rolled back, offering versatile tonal options that inspire different playing styles.
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Players often swap the wraptail bridge for a more adjustable option to improve intonation, while maintaining the guitar's original tone.
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Use cases and applications
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"OLE RED" is highly valued for live performances, particularly at big festivals, as its tonal qualities shine when riffing in high-energy environments.
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The guitar's simple controls encourage players to be creative with their playing, making it suitable for various genres beyond blues and rock.
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User experience
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Owners often mention the emotional attachment to "OLE RED," highlighting its special place in collections due to its age, finish, and personal significance to players.
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The guitar's resonance and acoustic properties are notable, as great Les Pauls are described as sounding like small acoustic guitars when unplugged.
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Critic Reviews
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Artist usage
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The instagram was posted on the August 25, 2019.
I feel incredibly grateful, honored and beyond excited to share this post. Meet OLE RED, the 1953 Gibson Les Paul ‘Goldtop’ refinished in RED over the GOLD many many moons ago. I feel it is THE BEST GUITAR I have ever played. At 66 years old, she is ALIVE. The sound and feel is otherworldly, I can’t even believe it. I feel closer to the music and sound that I love. It has been a lifelong dream of mine to sling a real-deal 50s Les Paul over my shoulder. I cannot thank @lespaulforum enough for giving me the opportunity to do just that! It means the world to me and I have a feeling this axe will take BLUESPOWER to new heights never before imagined! ???? I’m freaking out!!!!
Used on the self-titled album, according to 2022 guitarguitar interview. The guitar was a gift from Charles Daughtry, one of the key people behind the Les Paul Forum.
Drake Bell is observed playing a 1953 Gibson Les Paul, known as "OLE RED," in a provided photograph, confirming his use of this specific guitar model.
Album Usage
The Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED" 1953 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson Les Paul "OLE RED" 1953, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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