1971 Gibson Les Paul "RECORDING MODEL" + CHAINSAW CASE

1971 Gibson Les Paul Recording Model w/ vintage Gibson Chainsaw Case Gold Interior. 

Relatively unknown but most versatile sounding Gibson guitar in my opinion. This guitar can produce a unique range of quality tones that a traditional Les Paul cannot make. You can go soft for good blues/jazz tones but you can also go heavy for rock/metal sounds. 

Guitar has some superficial wear from playing over the past 45 years. You can tell that the guitar has been played. Some surface checking, dings, marks but nothing major - the guitar is structurally very solid. Some visible wear behind the neck but the neck is still solid and straight - the wear is only an aesthetic thing. No effect on playability or tone. Toggle switch is a little sticky, but an easy fix. Pickups are 100% functional and original Gibson USA. Guitar is on the heavier side, approx. 9-10 pounds. But the weight makes it feel very firm and of sturdy quality when you put the guitar on your lap.

Headstock/inlay design similar to a Gibson Les Paul Custom. Stock Gibson Pickups and original Grover tuners. The bridge has been replaced by the previous owner but he provided me with the original bridge as well. The original Gibson bridge is included in sale.

Neck profile is on the chunkier side.. similar to a Baja Tele or early 50s Telecaster necks. But I prefer larger necks and this neck feels very good on your hands. If you have hands on the bigger side, you will enjoy this neck profile.

Non original but vintage 80s Gibson Chainsaw Case included. One of the most durable guitar cases I've owned. The unique gold interior adds a nice touch as well.

Most accurate demo of the guitar I’ve found is below.

Mandatory Signature Signing Delivery.

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Gibson Les Paul Recording Model FACTS:

The Gibson Les Paul Recording Model is a unique version of the iconic Les Paul, designed with studio musicians in mind. Introduced in 1971, it was part of Les Paul’s vision to create a guitar that excelled in recording environments, offering tonal flexibility and advanced electronics.

Key Features

1. Design

• Body:

  • Traditional Les Paul shape, but slightly thinner than the Standard models.
  • Constructed from mahogany with a maple top, typical of Les Paul guitars.
  • Often finished in a natural or walnut color, emphasizing its studio-oriented aesthetic.

• Neck:

  • Mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard.
  • Comfortable neck profile with 22 frets and block inlays.

• Weight:

  • Heavier than some Les Paul models due to the solid body and electronics.

2. Electronics

The standout feature of the Les Paul Recording model is its advanced electronics, which set it apart from traditional Les Paul guitars.

• Low-Impedance Pickups:

  • Equipped with specially designed low-impedance pickups, offering cleaner, more detailed tones ideal for recording.
  • Low-impedance pickups produce a broader frequency range, ensuring a pristine signal when plugged directly into recording equipment.

• High/Low Impedance Selector:

  • Includes a switch to convert the signal to high impedance, allowing compatibility with standard amplifiers.

• Onboard Controls:

  • Two volume knobs (one for each pickup).
  • Two tone knobs.
  • Phase switch: Alters the phase relationship between the pickups, creating unique tonal textures.
  • Decade switch: A rotary control that adjusts the frequency response of the pickups, offering a wide range of tonal options.
  • Three-way pickup selector switch.

3. Hardware

• Bridge:
  • Features the Tune-O-Matic bridge for precise intonation and sustain.
• Tailpiece:
  • Includes a stopbar tailpiece or trapeze tailpiece, depending on the production year.
• Tuners:
  • Vintage-style tuners, often with Grover or Kluson mechanisms.

Tone and Versatility

The Les Paul Recording model was designed to excel in studio settings, offering:

• Pristine Cleans: Thanks to the low-impedance pickups, the guitar produces detailed and articulate clean tones.
• Wide Frequency Response: Ideal for genres that require clarity and nuance, such as jazz, blues, and experimental music.
• Unique Sonic Textures: The phase and decade switches allow players to craft distinctive tones not found on other Les Paul models.

Challenges

Despite its innovative features, the Les Paul Recording model faced some challenges:

1. Complex Controls:
   • The advanced electronics and numerous switches could be intimidating for players used to simpler setups.
2. Limited Appeal:
   • Designed primarily for studio use, it lacked the raw power and simplicity that many live performers sought.
3. Weight:
   • Its solid construction made it heavier than other Les Paul models, which could be a drawback for some players.

Famous Players

The Les Paul Recording model has been used by notable musicians, including:

• Les Paul himself: The guitar was a personal favorite of the legendary guitarist and innovator, who frequently used it for live performances and recordings.
• Pete Townshend (The Who): Known to have used the Les Paul Recording model in the studio.

Legacy

Although it was discontinued in the late 1970s, the Les Paul Recording model remains a fascinating piece of Gibson history. Its focus on recording-oriented features and tonal versatility make it a favorite among collectors and studio guitarists.

Modern Reissues and Alternatives

• Gibson has occasionally revisited the concept of the Les Paul Recording model with limited reissues, but they remain rare.
• For modern players, low-impedance pickups and similar tonal flexibility can be found in some custom shop models or with aftermarket modifications.

Why Choose a Les Paul Recording Model?

1. Studio Excellence:
   • Perfect for players who prioritize clean, detailed tones in recording environments.
2. Unique Features:
   • The phase and decade switches offer creative possibilities not found in other guitars.
3. Collector Appeal:
   • Its rarity and association with Les Paul himself make it a valuable addition to any collection.