Description
The 2014 Gibson Custom Shop Les Paul Standard 1958 Reissue (R8) is a faithful recreation of one of the most iconic Les Pauls of all time; built to Gibson Custom Shop’s “Historic” specifications, it is designed to capture the feel, look, and response of the original 1958 models.
The solid body features a mahogany back and a maple top, finished in nitrocellulose lacquer. This classic construction lies at the heart of the Les Paul sound: offering great sustain, solid lows, a strong midrange presence, and the full, authoritative response that has made this model one of the most recognizable instruments in the history of the electric guitar.
The mahogany neck features a nitro finish and the distinctive “50s Rounded” profile—a substantial, chunky shape that fills the palm and provides a sense of great solidity, making it a favorite among players seeking the authentic feel of 1950s Les Pauls. The rosewood fretboard features a 12″ radius, 22 Historic Gibson Narrow/Tall frets, and a 43.7 mm Corian nut.
The electronics utilize the classic HH configuration, featuring a Gibson Burstbucker 1 in the neck position and a Burstbucker 2 at the bridge. These pickups are designed to evoke the character of early PAFs, delivering an open, dynamic response rich in harmonics. The neck pickup offers deep, creamy tones, while the bridge Burstbucker 2 adds increased attack and definition, excelling in classic crunch and distortion settings.
The controls follow the Les Paul tradition—two volume knobs, two tone knobs, and a three-way selector switch—allowing for easy manipulation of pickup nuances and playing dynamics.
Nickel hardware completes the vintage aesthetic, including an ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic bridge with Stop Bar tailpiece, Gibson Deluxe tuners, a single-ply cream pickguard, and classic Gold knobs.
Weighing in at 4.350 kg, this R8 has a commanding presence and feels incredibly solid when played. It is a substantial Les Paul, delivering the sustain, body, and tactile response under the fingers that many musicians specifically seek in Historic Reissue models.
This Gibson Custom Shop instrument is designed for those wanting to get as close as possible to the experience of a 1958 Les Paul, while enjoying the benefits of a modern, reliable guitar that is perfectly suited for stage or studio use. At the same time, its Custom Shop pedigree and Historic Reissue status make it an appealing choice for collectors.
Comes complete with case, certificate, and tags. Available at Guitar Sauce in Italy for anyone seeking a top-tier, vintage-inspired Gibson Custom Shop Les Paul R8; shipping is available throughout Europe.