2018 Gibson Les Paul Special "HONEYBURST" P-90 + OHSC

2018 Gibson LP SPECIAL "HoneyBurst".

P-90 Pickups. All Original, No modifications or alterations.

MADE IN USA.

$1300.

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The Gibson Les Paul Special P-90 is a stripped-down, no-nonsense electric guitar that delivers classic tone and playability. Introduced in 1955 as a more affordable alternative to the Les Paul Standard, the Special became a favorite for its simplicity, versatility, and the unique character of its P-90 pickups. Over the years, it has become an iconic model, cherished by players across genres, from blues and rock to punk and alternative.

Key Features of the Gibson Les Paul Special P-90

1. Body and Construction

• Body Shape: The single-cutaway body is instantly recognizable and provides easy access to higher frets.
• Material: Made from solid mahogany, the body offers warm, resonant tones with a pronounced midrange.
• Finish: The guitar is typically available in classic finishes like TV Yellow, Cherry, or Ebony, with a satin or gloss nitrocellulose lacquer for a vintage vibe.

2. Neck and Fingerboard

• Neck Material: A solid mahogany neck contributes to the guitar's warm tonal character.
• Profile: Often features a SlimTaper or Rounded C profile, depending on the model year, ensuring comfort and speed.
• Fingerboard: Made from rosewood or Indian laurel, with 22 medium jumbo frets.
• Scale Length: The standard Gibson scale of 24.75 inches provides a slightly shorter reach and a slinkier string feel.
• Inlays: Simple dot inlays enhance the minimalist aesthetic.

3. Pickups and Electronics

• P-90 Pickups: The heart of the Les Paul Special is its pair of P-90 single-coil pickups:
  • Neck Pickup: Warm and smooth, ideal for rhythm playing and jazzy tones.
  • Bridge Pickup: Bright and punchy, delivering raw, biting leads and power chords.
• Controls: Features a straightforward layout with:
  • Two Volume Knobs (one for each pickup).
  • Two Tone Knobs (one for each pickup).
  • A 3-way pickup selector switch.

4. Hardware

• Bridge: Equipped with a wraparound bridge or a Tune-O-Matic with stop bar tailpiece, depending on the model. Both options provide excellent sustain and intonation.
• Tuners: Vintage-style tuners or modern Grover tuners, ensuring stable tuning and a classic look.
• Nut: A Graph Tech or bone nut enhances tuning stability and sustain.

Tonal Characteristics

The P-90 pickups give the Les Paul Special a unique sound that sits between the clarity of single-coils and the warmth of humbuckers:

• Bright and Articulate: The P-90s deliver a crisp high end without being harsh.
• Punchy Midrange: Perfect for cutting through a mix, especially in rock and blues settings.
• Dynamic and Responsive: P-90s are highly touch-sensitive, making them great for expressive playing styles.
• Versatile: Capable of everything from clean, jazzy tones to raw, overdriven rock sounds.

Playability

• Comfortable Neck: The neck profile and shorter scale make the guitar easy to play, especially for those transitioning from acoustic or other electrics.
• Lightweight Design: Compared to other Les Paul models, the Special is lighter, making it comfortable for long sessions.
• Simple Controls: The straightforward electronics make it easy to dial in great tones quickly.

Famous Players

The Les Paul Special P-90 has been used by many legendary guitarists, including:

• Bob Marley: Known for his TV Yellow Les Paul Special.
• Leslie West (Mountain): Valued the raw power of the P-90s.
• Keith Richards (The Rolling Stones): Used it for its gritty, rock-ready tone.
• Billie Joe Armstrong (Green Day): Has a signature model based on the Les Paul Special.

Who Is the Les Paul Special P-90 For?

• Vintage Enthusiasts: Its design and tone are perfect for those seeking a classic, no-frills instrument.
• Rock and Blues Players: The P-90 pickups shine in these genres, delivering raw, expressive tones.
• Punk and Alternative Fans: The simplicity and bite of the Special make it a favorite for high-energy styles.
• Minimalists: If you value straightforward design and functionality, the Les Paul Special is an excellent choice.

Conclusion

The Gibson Les Paul Special P-90 is a timeless instrument that offers the perfect blend of simplicity, tone, and playability. Whether you're looking for vintage-inspired aesthetics, versatile sound, or a reliable workhorse guitar, the Les Paul Special delivers in spades. Its P-90 pickups and mahogany construction give it a distinctive voice that has stood the test of time, making it a must-have for players of all styles.