Gibson’s back with some updated Faded Les Paul Standards 50s & 60s for 2024 – here’s what you need to know…
Gibson Guitar Corporation has announced the release of its 2024 Faded Les Paul Standard 50s and 60s models. The updated guitars build on the designs of their classic predecessors while incorporating minor but significant improvements.
The new models maintain the core features that have made Les Pauls popular among musicians for decades. However, Gibson has introduced subtle changes aimed at enhancing the instruments’ performance and appeal to modern players.
Here’s what you need to know…
What’s New With Gibson’s Faded Les Paul Standards For 2024?
A Heritage Reimagined
The Gibson Faded Les Paul Standards have long been celebrated for their understated elegance and superior playability. Initially relaunched in 2022, this line has undergone a meticulous overhaul for 2024, introducing refined features while preserving the essence that makes these guitars so beloved.
Classic Colors with Modern Flair
This year, Gibson offers the 50s and 60s models in a palette of timeless colors, each meticulously finished to highlight the guitar’s natural beauty:
Model | Color Options | Finish Type |
---|---|---|
50s Vintage | Honeyburst, Tobacco Burst | Thin Satin Nitrocellulose |
60s Vintage | Bourbon Burst, Vintage Cherry | Thin Satin Nitrocellulose |
The addition of humbucker covers in 2024 adds a touch of modern sophistication, blending seamlessly with the vintage aesthetics.
Distinctive Features: 50s vs. 60s
While both models share the core Faded Les Paul Standard DNA, they cater to different playing styles and preferences. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose the perfect match:
Feature | 50s Vintage | 60s Vintage |
---|---|---|
Neck Profile | Vintage (thicker, rounded) | Slim Taper (sleeker, faster) |
Pickups | BurstBucker 1 & 2 | BurstBucker Pickups |
Tuners | Kluson-style Vintage Deluxe with Keystone Buttons | Grover Rotomatics |
Control Knobs | Gold Top Hat Style | Gold Top Hat with Silver Reflectors |
Bridge | AA Maple Cap | AA Maple Cap |
Body & Neck Wood | Mahogany Body, Mahogany Neck | Mahogany Body, Mahogany Neck |
Fretboard | Rosewood with 22 Medium Jumbo Frets | Rosewood with 22 Medium Jumbo Frets |
Inlays | Acrylic Trapezoid Inlays | Acrylic Trapezoid Inlays |
Finish | Satin Nitrocellulose | Satin Nitrocellulose |
Additional Enhancements | Hand-wired controls, Orange Drop capacitors | Hand-wired controls, Orange Drop capacitors |
Enhanced Playability and Sound
Neck Profiles: Tailored for Your Style
The 50s Vintage boasts a thicker, rounded neck profile reminiscent of Gibson’s golden era, offering a comfortable grip for chord-heavy play and sustained solos. In contrast, the 60s Vintage features a slim taper neck, designed for speed and precision, making it ideal for shredders and players who favor intricate lead work.
Pickup Power: BurstBucker Evolution
Both models are equipped with BurstBucker pickups, but with distinct configurations to suit different tonal preferences. The 50s Vintage’s BurstBucker 1 and 2 deliver a classic Les Paul humbucker tone with a balanced output, perfect for blues and rock. Meanwhile, the 60s Vintage’s single BurstBucker pickups offer a slightly hotter output, catering to players seeking a punchier, more aggressive sound.
Visual and Functional Refinements
Control Knobs: Subtle Yet Striking
Aesthetic upgrades include the 50s Vintage’s Gold Top Hat Style knobs, which provide a classic look, while the 60s Vintage adds a modern twist with Gold Top Hat knobs featuring Silver Reflectors. This subtle change not only enhances visual appeal but also differentiates the models at a glance.
Tuners: Smooth and Reliable
The 50s Vintage retains the nostalgic Kluson-style Vintage Deluxe tuners with Keystone Buttons, offering reliable tuning stability and vintage charm. On the other hand, the 60s Vintage upgrades to Grover Rotomatics, known for their precision and smooth operation, catering to players who demand the best in tuning performance.
Superior Craftsmanship (What You’re Mostly Paying For)
Every Faded Les Paul Standard is built with meticulous attention to detail. The use of AA Maple Caps adds a touch of elegance, while the mahogany body and neck provide warmth and sustain. The rosewood fretboards with 22 medium jumbo frets and acrylic trapezoid inlays not only enhance playability but also add to the guitar’s visual allure.
Performance Enhancements
Gibson has listened to the feedback from the 2022 relaunch and made thoughtful enhancements:
- Humbucker Covers: The new covers on the humbuckers offer improved shielding and aesthetics, reducing unwanted noise while enhancing the visual appeal.
- Finish Updates: The satin nitrocellulose lacquer has been refined to provide an even smoother, less glossy finish, giving the guitars their signature faded look without compromising durability.
The Verdict: A Worthy Investment?
Having played the original 50s Faded models from the early 2000s, I can attest to their enduring quality and timeless appeal. The 2024 updates elevate these classics, offering enhanced features without straying from their beloved roots.
The slight price drop of around $200/€200 since 2022 makes these guitars an even more attractive investment.
Whether you’re a seasoned Les Paul enthusiast or a newcomer looking for a reliable, stylish, and versatile instrument, the Gibson Faded Les Paul Standards 50s & 60s are excellent choices.
With their rich history, superior craftsmanship, and thoughtful enhancements, these guitars are poised to remain favorites in Gibson’s lineup for years to come.
Compare the 50s vs. 60s: Which One Suits You?
50s Vintage | 60s Vintage | |
---|---|---|
Best For | Players who prefer a thicker neck and classic tones | Players seeking a slim neck and aggressive sound |
Tone | Balanced, warm humbucker tones | Punchier, hotter pickup output |
Visual Style | Classic Gold Top Hat knobs | Gold Top Hat with Silver Reflectors |
Tuners | Kluson-style Vintage Deluxe | Grover Rotomatics |
Preferred Genres | Blues, Rock, Classic Genres | Metal, Hard Rock, Progressive Genres |
Price | $2,499 (approx.) | $2,499 (approx.) |
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