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Few guitars are as well known
and considered classics. One of them is the Gibson “Goldtop”
which is the named given to Les Pauls with gold coloured tops,
and mahogany backs. The model has since been reissued many
times due to popular demand.
This
instrument is modelled around a 1960s Les
Paul Standard Classic, and has all the features,
which made that model very desirable.
The classic features a 1960s slim taper neck, which is a pleasure
to play, when compared to other “boat” type necks. It joins
the body at the 16th fret, which is common with
most Les Pauls. The fingerboard is made of rosewood. It is
adorned with aged binding and yellow pearloid trapezoid inlays.
The body is made from mahogany and has a single-ply carved
maple top. It is surrounded by aged single-ply binding which
combines well with the gold coloured top.
All
hardware is nickel and the pickup covers for the hot ceramic magnet 496R Neck) /500T (Bridge) are not present for more output.
Visually
the guitar is very appealing and all components combine well
with the gold coloured top. These include the amber top hat
knobs and slightly aged pickguard with “1960” subtly engraved
in one corner.
Fit
and finish is what you would expect of a high-end instrument
such as this: simply perfect.
The
instrument comes with a black reptile pattern hard-shell case as is normal with
most Gibson guitars.
I actually chose this guitar over
a more expensive ‘57 Les Paul solely for the feel of the neck.
It is hard to explain in writing but to me it just felt right.
The action is great, and string bending is easy thanks to
the short scale neck.
The
sound of this guitar is also incredible. The ceramic pickups
are wound hot and sound best when overdriven hard, to produce
rich creamy distortion with subtle overtones and seemingly
everlasting sustain.
Clean
the Classic also sounds very good, with a snarly treble bite
on the bridge pickup, whilst the neck pickup provides a darker
sound. Some people comment, that these pickups are too hot,
whilst others including myself think they are a perfect companion
to this instrument’s sustain and tone.
The
only modification required in my own opinion is a set of strap
locks, which have been fitted after this review for safety,
and peace of mind.
In
summary this is an excellent classic guitar, which I am sure
will be played for many years to come.
By Ernest H Slade
www.gear-review.co.uk
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