Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (11)
$1,599.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (17)
$1,599.00
Amazon
5.0 (1)
$2,465.03
Reverb
5.0 (6)
$1,399.00 New
$900.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (3)
$1,599.00
zZounds
5.0 (11)
$1,599.00
Thomann
4.7 (9)
$1,444.00 $1,375.00 $69.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£1,599.00

Average Price: $1,567

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Gibson Les Paul Studio". 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 Les Paul Studio Electric Guitar is a masterful blend of classic Les Paul elements and modern enhancements, tailored for musicians who desire unparalleled tone and playability without the frills. The Ultra-Modern weight-relieved mahogany body, capped with maple, offers a balanced and resonant tone while ensuring that long performances are a breeze. The guitar's mahogany neck features a Slim Taper profile, providing smooth, fast playability, and is paired with a bound rosewood fingerboard adorned with acrylic trapezoid inlays for a touch of elegance.

The standout feature of this Les Paul Studio is its Burstbucker Pro pickups, which deliver a dynamic range of PAF-inspired tones, from warm vintage to punchy modern sounds. These pickups are wired to push/pull volume controls, allowing for versatile coil-splitting capabilities that let you easily switch between humbucker and single-coil tones. Whether you're strumming chords or shredding solos, the Les Paul Studio offers incredible versatility and sonic depth.

Available in a variety of stunning nitrocellulose lacquer finishes, this guitar not only sounds great but looks the part, too. Paired with Vintage Deluxe tuners and a "Les Paul Model" headstock inlay, it embodies the authentic Les Paul aesthetic that players have cherished for decades.

Key Features:

  • Ultra-Modern weight-relieved mahogany body with plain maple cap
  • Slim Taper mahogany neck with traditional heel
  • Bound rosewood fingerboard with acrylic trapezoid inlays
  • Burstbucker Pro pickups with coil-splitting capabilities
  • Vintage Deluxe tuners with keystone buttons
  • Available in gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finishes
  • Includes a soft-shell case for protection and portability

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Chambered Solidbody
Body Shape Les Paul Studio
Body Material Mahogany
Top Material Maple
Body Finish Gloss Nitrocellulose Lacquer
Neck Material Mahogany
Neck Shape SlimTaper, Traditional Heel
Neck Joint Set Neck
Radius 12"
Fingerboard Inlay Trapezoid
Number of Frets 22
Scale Length 24.75"
Nut Width 1.694"
Nut Material GraphTech
Bridge/Tailpiece Aluminum Nashville Tune-O-Matic Bridge, Aluminum Stop Bar Tailpiece
Tuners Vintage-deluxe
Neck Pickup Gibson Burstbucker Pro Humbucker
Bridge Pickup Gibson Burstbucker Pro Humbucker
Controls 2 x volume (push/pull coil-split), 2 x tone
Switching 3-way toggle pickup switch
Strings Gibson, .010-.046
Case/Gig Bag Softshell Case

FAQs

What pickups are used in the Gibson Les Paul Studio Electric Guitar?

The Gibson Les Paul Studio Electric Guitar features Burstbucker Pro humbucking pickups. These pickups offer a powerful, aggressive tone while maintaining the rich harmonics and midrange characteristic of Gibson's classic PAF design.

Is the Gibson Les Paul Studio suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the Gibson Les Paul Studio is suitable for advanced players. It offers professional-quality sound and playability with features like Burstbucker Pro pickups and a SlimTaper neck, making it a versatile choice for experienced musicians.

What is the neck profile of the Gibson Les Paul Studio?

The Gibson Les Paul Studio features a SlimTaper neck profile, which provides a comfortable and fast playing experience, ideal for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

How does the Gibson Les Paul Studio differ from the Les Paul Standard?

The Gibson Les Paul Studio differs from the Les Paul Standard primarily in aesthetics, as it lacks the binding and ornate finishes of the Standard. However, it retains the core tonal qualities and playability, making it a more affordable option.

Does the Gibson Les Paul Studio come with a case?

Yes, the Gibson Les Paul Studio Electric Guitar comes with a softshell case, offering protection and convenience for transporting the instrument.

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

New Gibson Tribute & Studio Models - Affordable No Frills US-made Les Pauls

Video thumbnail for New Gibson Tribute & Studio Models - Affordable No Frills US-made Les Pauls by Andertons Music Co

New Gibson Tribute & Studio Models - Affordable No Frills US-made Les Pauls

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for 1995 Gibson Les Paul Studio, white by GregsGuitars

1995 Gibson Les Paul Studio, white

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for Mark Agnesi Talks About The Les Paul Studio by Gibson TV

Mark Agnesi Talks About The Les Paul Studio

Gibson TV

Gibson TV

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio Demo in Ebony - Sam Bell @ Nevada Music UK by PMTVUK

Gibson Les Paul Studio Demo in Ebony - Sam Bell @ Nevada Music UK

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Gibson USA 2018 Guitars - Les Paul Classic vs Les Paul Studio by Andertons Music Co

Gibson USA 2018 Guitars - Les Paul Classic vs Les Paul Studio

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for Gibson 2016 Les Paul Studio Faded Overview  •  Wildwood Guitars by Wildwood Guitars

Gibson 2016 Les Paul Studio Faded Overview • Wildwood Guitars

Wildwood Guitars

Wildwood Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio Demo! by Darrell Braun Guitar

Gibson Les Paul Studio Demo!

Darrell Braun Guitar

Darrell Braun Guitar

Video thumbnail for The Gibson Les Paul Studio is Back and Better than Ever! by Andertons Music Co

The Gibson Les Paul Studio is Back and Better than Ever!

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for Gibson 2016 Les Paul Studio Faded Series T by Musician's Friend

Gibson 2016 Les Paul Studio Faded Series T

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Video thumbnail for Gibson 2016 Les Paul Studio Faded T by Guitar Center

Gibson 2016 Les Paul Studio Faded T

Guitar Center

Guitar Center

Video thumbnail for 1995 Gibson Les Paul Studio, black (clean and overdrive) by GregsGuitars

1995 Gibson Les Paul Studio, black (clean and overdrive)

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio - Guitar Review - Great Sounds on Tap! by The Guitaristas

Gibson Les Paul Studio - Guitar Review - Great Sounds on Tap!

The Guitaristas

The Guitaristas

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio, Wine Red | Gear4music demo by Gear4music Guitars

Gibson Les Paul Studio, Wine Red | Gear4music demo

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

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Gibson Les Paul Studio - Top 5 Reasons to Buy over Epiphone

Play and Trade Guitars

Play and Trade Guitars

Video thumbnail for It's a Secret to Everybody! | 2005 Gibson Les Paul Studio White | Review + Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

It's a Secret to Everybody! | 2005 Gibson Les Paul Studio White | Review + Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for If Daft Punk Had a Signature Guitar... | 2005 Gibson Les Paul Platinum Review + Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

If Daft Punk Had a Signature Guitar... | 2005 Gibson Les Paul Platinum Review + Demo

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The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio, Smokehouse Burst | Gear4music demo by Gear4music Guitars

Gibson Les Paul Studio, Smokehouse Burst | Gear4music demo

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

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Gibson USA Les Paul Tribute VS Les Paul Studio Tone Review (No Talking)

Music Force Official

Music Force Official

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Gibson Les Paul Studio Guide 2025 (DON'T Buy THIS ONE...)

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Play and Trade Guitars

Video thumbnail for NEW Gibson 2019 | Classic, Studio and Standard! by GAK

NEW Gibson 2019 | Classic, Studio and Standard!

GAK

GAK

Video thumbnail for Gibson - 2015 Les Paul Studio Demo at GAK by GAK

Gibson - 2015 Les Paul Studio Demo at GAK

GAK

GAK

Video thumbnail for 2011 Gibson Les Paul Studio satin black Part2 by GregsGuitars

2011 Gibson Les Paul Studio satin black Part2

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

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That Was a "FAST" Trade! | Trade Tuesday Season 4 E6 | Gibson Nitrous Les Paul

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The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio, Ebony | Gear4music demo by Gear4music Guitars

Gibson Les Paul Studio, Ebony | Gear4music demo

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Video thumbnail for 2024 Gibson Les Paul Studio Electric Guitar | Demo with Zach Person by Guitar Center

2024 Gibson Les Paul Studio Electric Guitar | Demo with Zach Person

Guitar Center

Guitar Center

Video thumbnail for No Talking...Just Tones | Gibson Les Paul Studio Ebony by Peach Guitars

No Talking...Just Tones | Gibson Les Paul Studio Ebony

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1993 Gibson Les Paul "Studio", black Part1 by GregsGuitars

1993 Gibson Les Paul "Studio", black Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for The Gibson Les Paul Studio IS BACK! And stronger than ever. by Thomann's Guitars & Basses

The Gibson Les Paul Studio IS BACK! And stronger than ever.

Thomann's Guitars & Basses

Thomann's Guitars & Basses

Video thumbnail for 1993 Gibson Les Paul Studio by GregsGuitars

1993 Gibson Les Paul Studio

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for Product Spotlight - Gibson 2015 Les Paul Studio Electric Guitar by Guitar Center

Product Spotlight - Gibson 2015 Les Paul Studio Electric Guitar

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Guitar Center

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Gibson Les Paul Studio vs Custom Shop - That Much Of A Difference?

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The Studio Rats

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2007 Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded Cherry Demo

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The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio by Import Music USA

Gibson Les Paul Studio

Import Music USA

Import Music USA

Video thumbnail for 2010 Gibson Les Paul Studio worn brown by GregsGuitars

2010 Gibson Les Paul Studio worn brown

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for 2008 Gibson Les Paul Studio worn brown by GregsGuitars

2008 Gibson Les Paul Studio worn brown

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

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Is The Gibson Les Paul Studio A REAL Les Paul?

Cryptic Mask Guitar

Cryptic Mask Guitar

Video thumbnail for 2008 Gibson Les Paul Studio, white, Part1 by GregsGuitars

2008 Gibson Les Paul Studio, white, Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio 2010...Antes del debacle de Gibson by Guitar Express

Gibson Les Paul Studio 2010...Antes del debacle de Gibson

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Guitar Express

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Gibson 2016 Les Paul Studio Faded Series T - How it Sounds

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Tony Lee Glenn

Video thumbnail for GIBSON Les Paul Studio Wine Red (Обзор от GAIN OVER) by Гитарные обзоры GAIN OVER

GIBSON Les Paul Studio Wine Red (Обзор от GAIN OVER)

Гитарные обзоры GAIN OVER

Гитарные обзоры GAIN OVER

Video thumbnail for 2011 Gibson Les Paul Studio satin black Part1 by GregsGuitars

2011 Gibson Les Paul Studio satin black Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for The New Les Paul Studio – deep dive demo by Guitarist

The New Les Paul Studio – deep dive demo

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Guitarist

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio Test 2008 Ebony/Gold Hardware - Original Tune by jim bob

Gibson Les Paul Studio Test 2008 Ebony/Gold Hardware - Original Tune

jim bob

jim bob

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio Wine Red - Quick Look | PMTVUK by PMTVUK

Gibson Les Paul Studio Wine Red - Quick Look | PMTVUK

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Demo Gibson Les Paul Studio - Faded Cherry by Tony Grimsley

Demo Gibson Les Paul Studio - Faded Cherry

Tony Grimsley

Tony Grimsley

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio, worn brown by GregsGuitars

Gibson Les Paul Studio, worn brown

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for No Need To Spend a Fortune! Gibson Les Paul Studio Wine Red by Dressed In Black

No Need To Spend a Fortune! Gibson Les Paul Studio Wine Red

Dressed In Black

Dressed In Black

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio 1993 by Dmitry Andrianov

Gibson Les Paul Studio 1993

Dmitry Andrianov

Dmitry Andrianov

Video thumbnail for 1995 Gibson Les Paul Studio by GregsGuitars

1995 Gibson Les Paul Studio

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for 2015 Gibson Les Paul Studio Midnight Manhattan Demo and Review by cryptonet007

2015 Gibson Les Paul Studio Midnight Manhattan Demo and Review

cryptonet007

cryptonet007

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio. The Electric Guitar we Love to Hate. by Now, We Break It DOWN

Gibson Les Paul Studio. The Electric Guitar we Love to Hate.

Now, We Break It DOWN

Now, We Break It DOWN

Video thumbnail for 2016 Les Paul Studio Faded - Review and Demo by Michael Rendon

2016 Les Paul Studio Faded - Review and Demo

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Michael Rendon

Video thumbnail for ЧЕСТНЫЙ ОБЗОР/МОЙ GIBSON LES PAUL STUDIO Wine Red (By NickSong) by NickSong

ЧЕСТНЫЙ ОБЗОР/МОЙ GIBSON LES PAUL STUDIO Wine Red (By NickSong)

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NickSong

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio Nitrous Orange Electric Guitar How to Stretch Strings Properly by Sammy Bones

Gibson Les Paul Studio Nitrous Orange Electric Guitar How to Stretch Strings Properly

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Sammy Bones

Video thumbnail for 1991 Gibson Les Paul Studio Demo/Review by VME Guitars- Venancio Portalatin

1991 Gibson Les Paul Studio Demo/Review

VME Guitars- Venancio Portalatin

VME Guitars- Venancio Portalatin

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio Wine Red 1995 USA by Loud Lemon Demo

Gibson Les Paul Studio Wine Red 1995 USA

Loud Lemon Demo

Loud Lemon Demo

Video thumbnail for 2010 Gibson Les Paul Studio, worn brown, Part1 by GregsGuitars

2010 Gibson Les Paul Studio, worn brown, Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio 2015 Manhatten Midnight Blue Special Run guitar review by Foxy's Guitar Show

Gibson Les Paul Studio 2015 Manhatten Midnight Blue Special Run guitar review

Foxy's Guitar Show

Foxy's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio review and breakdown.  Just how good is this guitar? by Dads Guitar Guide

Gibson Les Paul Studio review and breakdown. Just how good is this guitar?

Dads Guitar Guide

Dads Guitar Guide

Video thumbnail for 1991 Gibson Les Paul Studio by wutzdog001guitars

1991 Gibson Les Paul Studio

wutzdog001guitars

wutzdog001guitars

Video thumbnail for 2001 Gibson Les Paul Studio, Part1 by GregsGuitars

2001 Gibson Les Paul Studio, Part1

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GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for 2016 - GIBSON LP STUDIO - pelham blue by rhum66

2016 - GIBSON LP STUDIO - pelham blue

rhum66

rhum66

Video thumbnail for Les Paul Studio - Alpine White - Unboxing by Tanner's Favorite Things

Les Paul Studio - Alpine White - Unboxing

Tanner's Favorite Things

Tanner's Favorite Things

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Gibson Les Paul Platinum | The Best Guitar I've Ever Played

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Jake Pool Music

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio 2015 | Lee Wrathe by Lee Wrathe

Gibson Les Paul Studio 2015 | Lee Wrathe

Lee Wrathe

Lee Wrathe

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio 2008 vintage mahogany by Денис Булатов

Gibson Les Paul Studio 2008 vintage mahogany

Денис Булатов

Денис Булатов

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio USA 1995 by J-Guitar Music Shop

Gibson Les Paul Studio USA 1995

J-Guitar Music Shop

J-Guitar Music Shop

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio Nitrous 2012 USA & Roland Cube 80XL Guitar amp by Raul E De La Garza

Gibson Les Paul Studio Nitrous 2012 USA & Roland Cube 80XL Guitar amp

Raul E De La Garza

Raul E De La Garza

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio - Wine red 2021 Demo by Franko Torres Music

Gibson Les Paul Studio - Wine red 2021 Demo

Franko Torres Music

Franko Torres Music

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio 1993 by Nick Scarfo

Gibson Les Paul Studio 1993

Nick Scarfo

Nick Scarfo

Video thumbnail for 2016 Gibson Les Paul Studio in Pelham Blue 😃Unboxing, Review and Demo! Episode 3 👍 by Guitars with David

2016 Gibson Les Paul Studio in Pelham Blue 😃Unboxing, Review and Demo! Episode 3 👍

Guitars with David

Guitars with David

Video thumbnail for GOTW 5 - Gibson Les Paul Studio Ebony by LadkorGuitars Vlad

GOTW 5 - Gibson Les Paul Studio Ebony

LadkorGuitars Vlad

LadkorGuitars Vlad

Video thumbnail for No Tip Gibson Les Paul Studio Guitar by Guitar Tech Sammy Bones Backstage by Sammy Bones

No Tip Gibson Les Paul Studio Guitar by Guitar Tech Sammy Bones Backstage

Sammy Bones

Sammy Bones

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Chameleon Flip Flop Green by felipe araujo

Gibson Les Paul Chameleon Flip Flop Green

felipe araujo

felipe araujo

Video thumbnail for 1991 Gibson Les Paul Studio Demo by Oscillate Music

1991 Gibson Les Paul Studio Demo

Oscillate Music

Oscillate Music

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio Wine Red 2004 (USA) by serge

Gibson Les Paul Studio Wine Red 2004 (USA)

serge

serge

Video thumbnail for 2001 GIBSON LES PAUL STUDIO UPGRADED GOLD HARDWARE '57 CLASSIC HUMBUCKERS UP CLOSE REVIEW VIDEO by Essex Recording Studios

2001 GIBSON LES PAUL STUDIO UPGRADED GOLD HARDWARE '57 CLASSIC HUMBUCKERS UP CLOSE REVIEW VIDEO

Essex Recording Studios

Essex Recording Studios

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional quality control with perfect setup out of the box

  • Lightweight due to modern weight relief, making it comfortable for extended play

  • Burstbucker Pro pickups offer a fantastic range of tones with coil-tap feature

  • Beautiful finishes like Blueberry Burst and Wine Red grab attention

  • High-quality gig bag included, comparable to some hard cases

  • Versatile sound suitable for various genres from blues to metal

  • Affordable price for an American-built Les Paul with premium features

  • Excellent sustain and resonance from mahogany body and neck

  • Neck binding and fretwork provide smooth playability

  • Reflector knobs and additional hardware add aesthetic appeal

CONS

  • Stock tuners can be of poor quality, affecting tuning stability

  • Some users report needing to adjust pickup heights out of the box

  • Nitro finish can become sticky with extended play

  • Frets may require additional polishing or dressing over time

  • Simplified design lacks some premium features of higher-end models

Owner Insights

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

Value and pricing

  • It's noted that new Gibson LP Studios can be purchased for about $1,279 after discounts, despite a list price of $1,599.

    Source
  • It's suggested to negotiate down to $450 for used models without a hard case, as $500 is considered the high end of the market.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Gibson Les Paul Studio is mentioned to be heavier than a double neck SG, highlighting its substantial weight.

    Source
  • The Gibson Studio is often favored over the Epiphone IBGC for its lighter weight and feel, which can be immediately noticeable when playing.

    Source
  • The Gibson LP Studio is considered a "Standard without binding," offering a similar sound profile but with a thinner build.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Vintage mahogany models are noted for being lighter due to chambering, affecting the overall playability.

    Source
  • The guitar's weight is a recurring issue, with some players unable to play comfortably for more than 45 minutes.

    Source
  • The 2018 Gibson Les Paul Studios feature neck binding and a smokehouse burst finish, which are highly appreciated by owners for their aesthetics and rarity.

    Source
  • The new Studio Sessions feature a cream neck binding, an aesthetic draw for many, especially in the cobalt burst finish.

    Source

Build quality

  • Locking Sperzel tuners mentioned as a substantial improvement over stock tuners, enhancing tuning stability.

    Source
  • The Studio's unbound body appeals to enthusiasts who prefer simplicity, with the neck binding seen as a perfect compromise for visual appeal.

    Source
  • Gibson Les Paul Studios from 1990-2011 may have an ebony fretboard, with post-2000 models in alpine white specifically noted for this feature.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Studio is recommended for those seeking a high-quality instrument with the potential for pickup upgrades to suit various musical styles.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report the Studio's porous finish enhances resonance, contributing positively to the guitar's tonal characteristics.

    Source
  • Owners with multiple guitars, including 25 Gibsons, affirm the Les Paul Studio's enduring quality and value, noting its potential for appreciation over time.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users suggest upgrading the bridge pickup to a Gibson 498T for enhanced tonal clarity, especially in comparison to the stock Epiphone setups.

    Source
  • Some owners recommend upgrading from the stock 490R & 498T pickups for more clarity and less "flubby" sound, with Seymour Duncan SH-1 '59 pickups often suggested.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gibson Les Paul Studio Review - The Blogging Musician

adamharkus.com

The Gibson Les Paul Studio shines with its iconic tone and playability, offering a lower action and a slinkier setup than many competitors. However, it’s not without flaws; early issues with sharp bridge saddles, a sticky neck finish, and a nitro-cellulose coating prone to wear and tear over time are notable downsides. While it provides a satisfying sound with its 490R and 498T pickups, durability is questionable as the finish may degrade, impacting tuning stability. Ultimately, it's a solid, albeit imperfect, choice for those seeking that classic Les Paul sound without the premium price of the Standard model.

Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 53 Reviews and 285 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
martin_gotte

A great playing workhorse

I own a 1991 ebony Studio and played it on countless gigs and in the studio. 1 piece mahogany back, 3 piece maple top, comfortable medium-sized mahogany neck, ebony fretboard, no binding, 490R/498T pickups. The neck pickup sounds warm and jazzy when played clean, and throaty and singing when distorted. The middle pickup position delivers a great rhythm sound, while the bridge pickup can sound (positively) gnarly in a clean setting and aggressive and rich when distorted. Due to the ebony fretboard, this guitar has a sharp attack and sounds more like a LP Custom than a LP Standard. This guitar has a great 70s/80s hard rock Les Paul Sound and is a real workhorse.

Roles:
From Gear Setup
liam082

Damn!

So I ordered mine for £569 instead of £899 from DV247.com. Mines finished in a nice trans wine red nitro. Mines a 2015 model

The neck is very fast, slightly fatter than I was expecting but I think it is the nicest feeling neck I've played and fits my hand perfectly though the fret board is very wide but after 10 miniutes it feels great especially for bends. The nitro can get kinda sticky on the neck when playing for a long time like 2-3hours. The maple cap has a very nice grain to it and has a slight flame on some parts and others has the nice grain of maple. A very nice top.

The zero fret brass nut is a very nice feature, I reallly like it though haven't adjusted it because the action out the box was perfect and nice and low. The only thing that wasn't set up nicely was the pick ups. Far too close to the strings and just made everything sound abit muddy and crunchy and not very good really. I have lowered both pick ups and damn they sound excellent. really great sounding pick ups.

The guitar has a fair weight to it, not sure if it is heavier than my Epiphone Les Paul Custom or not but its pretty heavy none the less. the guitar has excellent sustain and is nice and loud when playing unplugged and has a very nice unplugged tone too which is always something to look out for as its a good pointer to how good a guitar will sound plugged in.

The case is extremely nice and the handle is set over the body so when carrying it the case sits flat and doesnt try to learn towards the ground which I personally love. the G force robot tuner thing is actually really good. not my type of thing but it is very accurate so I'm unsure if I'll put some klusons on or just leave it as is.

The strings are 10-46s which are far too light for me (I play 11-52s on les pauls) I'll change them when I can be bothered. This is the first every gibson I have owned and I was worried I'd get a bad one as I was unable to try it in person but this is perfect for and is probably the nicest feeling guitar I've ever played. I highly recommend it. I don't think theres anything I don't like other than the PCB electronics which I'm going to get done by a Gibson dealer because I would rather get it done professionally for a change

jimmarchi1

the lacquer will 'break in' on the neck... play it! The wide nut? that's pretty typical Gibson. the epis don't have a wide nut? I assumed they did. I have never played a recent epi for more than 1 minute to hate on it and put it down. And never an epi LP. Just 335s. You will adjust. What do you think of the REAL, hand carved slim taper? Nice, right?

jimmarchi1

I should be I the same wight range as an epi, most epis are a little weight relieved as are studios these days. Even I traditionally built LPs, weight is all over the map though. Some are under 8lbs, other (like the 88 standard I had) are over 10.... every legit Gibby or Gibson-level copy is very different. Tht's why I give Boom shit all the time. Having tried 2 non-related gibbies and a Chinese epi he thinks he gets what tis about. That's assuming a consistency between toy guitars and pro guitars, year to year, model to model, unit to unit that Gibson intentionally avoids.

liam082

my fiancee has put it away for my birthday now :( but I played it for the most part of today, just can't put it down. I changed the strings to a set of daddario 50-11s i had spare and now it feels spot on for me. The Gforce thing made changing strings take like 50 seconds, so quick!

The high end Epi lps are very nice guitars, you should try one. My lp custom has a bone nut, grover tuners and all the other stuff of a high end guitar. In 2015 gibson made the fretboards 0.5'' wider but with the same string spacing. its noticable but feels very good, makes the neck feel more comfortable to me having large hands. A few people have complained about it though. My epi weighs 8 and a half pounds and the gibson comes in at 9. A nice weight to it but nothing over the top. I like that gibson make every guitar different, it can be annoying but it also means that when you find the right one it is gold! I've never played a guitar that feels so good, the epi is a close second though. I like that this neck is slghtly fatter than all my other guitars, it does feel abit better for playing longer

davide_campanella

Good guitar good sound

The guitar is perfect for different kind of music. I play alternative rock/ metal, in order to play that music I changed the pickup mounting Irongear AlNiCo pickups. My guitar in particular is the 1993 deluxe gold edition. I can only recommend it.

Roles:
S

Workhorse for 5 Years

Put this guitar through hell and back, changed everything on it, traded it, got it back with all new hardware for a second time, played it for 5 years every weekend and wouldn't give it up for anything. The Mahogany body and neck are very resonant and light for a Les Paul at 8.5 lbs. It currently has Seymour Duncan JB/Jazz and basically stock Gibson hardware throughout. Just one of my favorite guitars ever.

jeff_hilton

2013 Les Paul Stuiowith switchable pots, it is a great addition to any collection.

I have a 2013 model with switched pots to go from humbucker to single coil. I was skeptical when I bought it but soon was pleasantly surprised to find that I could get some great tones out of it with a little trial and error. I own a 1984 custom and a 1982 standard which each have their unique sounds that I love as well, but I have to switch back and forth with Telecasters, and Stratocasters if I use them. This Studio model can do the work of several guitars and has become a go-to utility guitar in the studio and on stage. Considering it was less than $1300.00 it is going to be a keeper that I hope a grandchild will enjoy someday in the future.

gchiaren

Nice review. I love the Les Paul Studio, as you said it's such a great workhorse that you don't feel like you need to baby as much as a Custom :)

R

Great guitar

I have a 2016 worn brown studio. It’s an awesome guitar. No issues with it ever, but it just gets home use.

niandra

Awesome guitar!

This is my first Gibson guitar, and I am very impressed. I played a number of Les Pauls (both Epiphone and Gibson) at the shop and was very happy with this one. This is way better than any of the Epiphone models, and from what I can tell, just as good as the regular Gibson Les Paul Studio. It's really in the sweet spot of value, tone, and playability. And I love the natural satin finish. It sounds great with the Burstbucker Pro's, and plays amazingly well.

sherlockslug

Everything you'd want.

All I can say is that you no longer need to spend 10,000 more on a Les Paul Standard, nor do you need to spend hundreds more on an HP. This has everything you'd need in a guitar. The humbuckers work great for metal, blues, country, or any other genre you can think off. The volume knobs have coil taps for each pickups and tone control for each, in addition to the beautiful colors available. The main problem here is the tuners, as they are of a pretty terrible quality. They are fine if you stay in one tuning, and even then they go out of tune on a regular basis. However, if you switch tunings a lot the strings can break, even if your careful, and the tunings will always be out of tune as they can't stay in tune if frequently used. This is the one thing you maybe should check out the high performance for.

jimmarchi1

the tuners are fine, its the nut that's your problem... make sure the string slots are deburred and smooth using some fine grit, wet sandpaper, then clean it good and get some graphite string lubricant.... the break angle on the strings of a Gibson 3x3 headstock promotes the strings binding at the nut so you need to make the nut as smooth and slippery as possible to counteract that

if you do all this stuffand your strings are still catching listen carefully for 'pinging' when tuning your G and B strings... if you har pinging then its still the nut and you need more lubricant, if you don't hear pinging but you are getting string slippage then you need to address the way you are wrapping your strings on and how you apply tension when tuning up to pitch the 1st time... the stock Kluson-style tuners really are much better than people will have you believe and going to grover rotomatics (or simillar sealed designs) doesn't do a lot for stability, it just improves turning precision... if you go with locking tuners you will probably get less slippage, but more breakage when the strings bind at the nut because the locking tuners will not give when the string is caught.

Gibsons are tough but they can be tamed if you know what you're about.

djlove_stellarmusic

2014 120th Version

I acquired this guitar through an even trade of a pair of Technic SL-1200MK2s. It came brand new with a checkerboard pick guard and the original pick guard. I chose to leave the checkerboard on. My first Les Paul was an Epiphone Standard which I bought back in 2005. I never liked it. I traded it in 2006 for a 2006 Gibson Les Paul Studio Vintage Mahogany, but I never really warmed up to that either. This Studio, for some reason, is 100 times better than the Studio I bought back in 2006. I like the neck much better and it's very "pretty". This guitar also came with a Gibson Modern Vintage Leather Strap with Memory Foam Pad. I really got a great deal on this considering I had three pairs of the SL-1200MK2's and could easily part with one set.

lordspaghetti

Great guitar.

The Gibson Les Paul is an iconic electric guitar, that is for some people a bit pricey. The studio is nice because you get the classic feature of the traditional Les Paul but for a lower price at only $1200. The humbuckers are capable of achieving a wide variety of tones that can range from R&B to funk or to even blues. In conclusion, this is a go to guitar for me.

Artist usage

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See how Calvin Harris uses Gibson Les Paul Studio

Calvin Harris

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

you can see in this frame of his '360 Session Interview' video he had a Wine Red Gibson Les Paul Studio on the floor. However, he no longer owns this guitar anymore and has since upgraded to 2 Les Paul Customs.

See how Noel Gallagher uses Gibson Les Paul Studio

Noel Gallagher

Singer, Guitarist

Oasis

...
Verified via YouTube

Noel plays a Gibson Les Paul Studio at their TV-Debut.

See how Jerry Cantrell uses Gibson Les Paul Studio

Jerry Cantrell

Singer, Guitarist

Alice in Chains

...
Verified via Photo

Jerry Cantrell is seen with a 1992 Gibson Les Paul Studio Lite in Translucent Black, featuring a mahogany top and back with a Chromyte insert, as evidenced by a user-uploaded photo.

See how Frank Iero uses Gibson Les Paul Studio

Frank Iero

Singer, Guitarist

My Chemical Romance

...
Verified via Photo

From the tuning pegs on the headstock, it should indicate that this is a Gibson Les Paul Standard 50s.

See how Joe Perry uses Gibson Les Paul Studio

Joe Perry

Guitarist

Hollywood Vampires

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "The Joe Perry Project - Bright Light Fright (Aerosmith song, live in Boston, MA 8/19/25)" uploaded by Smash Machine! on YouTube, Joe Perry can be seen playing a 2025 Gibson Les Paul Studio Figured Top.

See how Lenny Kravitz uses Gibson Les Paul Studio

Lenny Kravitz

Guitarist, Singer

The Plastic Ono Band

...
Verified via Photo

Lenny played this Gibson Les Paul Studio live at Rock in Rio, in Madrid, 2012, as seen in this source image.

See how Mat Zo uses Gibson Les Paul Studio

Mat Zo

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this email from Mat Zo from February 2017 detailing his studio gear, he lists a Gibson Les Paul Studio as one of his electric guitars.

See how Joey Jordison uses Gibson Les Paul Studio

Joey Jordison

Guitarist, Drummer

Slipknot

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video from Roadrunner Records, serving as the music video for Murderdolls’ iconic cover of Billy Idols White Wedding, Jordison can be seen playing a white Gibson Les Paul Studio. (from as much as I can gather due to me personally not being able to spot any binding, however I may be wrong)

See how Jason Becker uses Gibson Les Paul Studio

Jason Becker

Guitarist

Cacophony

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video Jason beckers guitar collection is shown. at one point of the video a black les paul studio is shown hanging on a wall

See how David Byrne uses Gibson Les Paul Studio

David Byrne

Singer, Guitarist

Talking Heads

...
Verified via YouTube

In the "Sessions At West 54th" performance from November 15, 1997, David Byrne is seen playing a Gibson Les Paul Studio Electric Guitar.

See how Jason Richardson uses Gibson Les Paul Studio

Jason Richardson

Guitarist

Chelsea Grin

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by Jason Richardson (@jasonreevesrichardson), he can be seen with a Gibson Les Paul Studio Satin, suggesting its use during a solo practice session.

See how Joe Trohman uses Gibson Les Paul Studio

Joe Trohman

Guitarist

Fall Out Boy

...
Verified via Photo

in this photo we can see joe playing with a gibson les paul studio alpine white and his first expensive guitar

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 Studio, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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felipefern

felipefern

Gear IQ 188

marc_michael_moser

marc_michael_moser

Gear IQ 214

ricardoklaus

ricardoklaus

Gear IQ 400

freezeetch

freezeetch

Gear IQ 1539

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laszlo_berta

Gear IQ 152

pandacup

pandacup

Gear IQ 263

battonnick

battonnick

Gear IQ 647

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laszlo_berta

Gear IQ 152

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thiswillhavetodo

Gear IQ 553

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martin_gotte

Gear IQ 995

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davey_zandbergen

Gear IQ 255

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thelastdolphin

Gear IQ 732

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martin_gotte

Gear IQ 995

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jdmattinson

Gear IQ 430

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cornfed94

Gear IQ 397

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martin_gotte

Gear IQ 995

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ricardoklaus

Gear IQ 400

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strangerx

Gear IQ 63

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rainer

Gear IQ 353

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freezeetch

Gear IQ 1539

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chillpoop

Gear IQ 111

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thelastdolphin

Gear IQ 732

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jrgn

Gear IQ 62

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freezeetch

Gear IQ 1539

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freezeetch

Gear IQ 1539

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lostart

Gear IQ 134

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jlaurence

Gear IQ 129

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michael_paul_aguilar

Gear IQ 100

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evan_obrien

Gear IQ 66

gianluigi_cavallo

gianluigi_cavallo

Gear IQ 132

ariel_rachum

ariel_rachum

Gear IQ 97

2 alternative and related items for Gibson Les Paul Studio, curated by the Equipboard community.

Gibson Les Paul Standard

$1,899.00 - $2,799.00

similar sound high-end alternative

The Gibson Les Paul Standard guitar is very similar to the Studio Faded. Two humbuckers, singlecut body, but the Studio Faded has modern weight relief and has Burstbuckers pro pickups.

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