Pricing and availability

Average Price: $1,600

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Unleash your inner rock legend with the Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash, a guitar that perfectly balances classic design with modern flair. This limited edition marvel is crafted with an environmentally-conscious swamp ash top, offering not just a unique visual appeal but also contributing to the guitar's signature rich and airy sound. The mahogany body is complemented by a 1959 rounded neck profile, providing a comfortable grip for those who crave both power chords and intricate solos.

The Les Paul Swamp Ash is equipped with two Alnico magnet humbuckers, the 490R in the neck and the 498T in the bridge, delivering the robust, smoky tones that have defined rock music for decades. Whether you're shredding in the studio or lighting up the stage, this guitar ensures a sound that's both timeless and versatile.

With its rosewood fingerboard and classic dot markers, the Les Paul Swamp Ash offers a warm, familiar feel while maintaining the playability Gibson is renowned for. The blend of modern and vintage elements makes it a perfect fit for players who appreciate tradition but aren’t afraid to stand out. And, with chrome hardware and a gig bag included, you're ready to take your sound anywhere.

Key Features:

  • Carved swamp ash top with a mahogany body
  • 1959 rounded mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • Two Alnico magnet humbuckers: 490R (neck) and 498T (bridge)
  • Classic Gibson controls: two tone knobs, two volume knobs, and a three-way pickup selector
  • Chrome hardware with vintage-style tuners
  • Includes gig bag for easy transport and protection

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash?

The Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash offers a warm, round tone with slightly mellow highs, thanks to its Swamp Ash body. The 490R and 490T pickups provide a classic Les Paul sound with rich harmonics and sustain, suitable for rock, blues, and jazz.

Is the Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash is a high-quality instrument with excellent tonal characteristics, its features and price point may be better suited for intermediate to advanced players who can fully appreciate its craftsmanship and sound.

How does the neck profile of the Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash affect playability?

The Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash features a traditional Les Paul neck shape with a 24.75-inch scale length and a 12-inch radius, providing a comfortable grip for smooth playability across various styles, especially for those accustomed to classic Les Paul guitars.

What are the standout features of the Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash's electronics?

The Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash is equipped with 490R and 490T humbucking pickups that deliver excellent hum-canceling capabilities and a versatile range of tones. The guitar includes a 3-way pickup switch and independent volume and tone controls for each pickup.

Does the Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash come with a case?

Yes, the Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash comes with a hardshell case, providing protection during transport and storage, ensuring your guitar remains in excellent condition.

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

2011 Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash Studio Part1

Video thumbnail for 2011 Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash Studio Part1 by GregsGuitars

2011 Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash Studio Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for 2011 Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash Studio Part2 by GregsGuitars

2011 Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash Studio Part2

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash Studio Is Good For Jimmie Deeghan's Music And Back by gearwire

Gibson Les Paul Swamp Ash Studio Is Good For Jimmie Deeghan's Music And Back

gearwire

gearwire

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Studio Swamp Ash - Quick Look by PMTVUK

Gibson Les Paul Studio Swamp Ash - Quick Look

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for แจ๋วมาก Gibson Les Paul Studio Swamp Ash by chatreeo

แจ๋วมาก Gibson Les Paul Studio Swamp Ash

chatreeo

chatreeo

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul studio Swamp Esh from 2003 presented by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg and Tobias Hoffmann by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Gibson Les Paul studio Swamp Esh from 2003 presented by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg and Tobias Hoffmann

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • The spalted Ash used in the body is softer than regular Ash, making it prone to scratches despite its striking appearance.

    Source
  • Some owners have upgraded to Sperzel locking tuners, noting a significant improvement over the stock tuners.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Swamp Ash model is part of Gibson's limited 'Smart Wood' series, known for its lightweight chambered body and thin skin finish.

    Source
  • Certain models have a decal on the neck volute, indicating a lighter, chambered body.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note that the original pickups offer a hot and fat sound, contrasting with the guitar's lightweight build.

    Source
  • Despite its unique wood and finish, some owners wish they hadn't passed on purchasing it when they had the chance.

    Source
  • One owner mentioned regret over selling a Studio in TV yellow, indicating emotional attachment and satisfaction with the model.

    Source

Comparisons

  • It's noted as brighter compared to typical Les Pauls, which may appeal to players seeking a different tonal profile.

    Source
  • The Les Paul Studio has been compared to the SG, with the SG being noted as lighter in weight.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Buyers are advised to check the truss rod functionality and neck for any twist when purchasing used.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A model similar to the Swamp Ash was bought for $550, highlighting its competitive pricing in the used market.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
keoni_boyer

One of my favorite guitars, I always come back to it

I have a 2003 with an ebony fret board, no inlays. I placed Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates in the bridge & neck. It ROCKS!

Genre Usage

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Gear IQ 98

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