Gibson Les Paul 56 Goldtop Custom, Art & Historic (2005)

We are always surprised at how good the guitars from the earlier years of the Gibson Custom Shop are, which operated under the name “Custom, Art & Historic” back then. They are often in no way inferior to their newer counterparts and this '56 Reissue Goldtop is a perfect example of this. Despite a slightly thicker neck profile the guitar sits perfectly in the hand and impresses with its fantastic vibration behavior, quick response and full sound even when played dry. On the amp you quickly realize that it is not just made for typical warm Les Paul sounds: with plenty of bite and attack it also masters the most aggressive Rock riffs and shoots distorted licks around your ears in a way that is a real joy. It is well known that the P90 pickups used in '56 Les Pauls have a fantastic and versatile sound. And here, too, the sound is extremely balanced and crisp, allowing you to play any style of music in the best possible way. Whether it's bright, clean chords, singing solos on the neck pickup or rhythm riffs with twang - so far, we haven't found anything that doesn't sound great on this guitar, which perfectly captures the resonant, penetrating and bony sound of an original '56. ...and then there's the perfect look with the gold tone of the top being super authentic. Not even the usual artificial signs of ageing are missing. Especially not since this Paula has also acquired one or two slight traces of use and play in a natural way over the last 20 years, which gives it a highly credible appearance. Otherwise this powerful sounding top player is in top condition.

• Includes original case, certificate, hangtags
• Weight: 4110 grams