Gibson Les Paul Traditional 2013

This is a Gibson Les Paul, so made in USA. The peculiarity of the 2013 version is that the mahogany body is completely full (no chambering, no weight relieving of any kind). Leaving aside the much more expensive models Reissues, so this is the first Les Paul solidbody produced 100% over 30 years (9 holes of traditional weight relieving were drilled on all standard in the early 80s it seems to me).
For the rest, we have a profile handle "rounded late 50's" with rosewood fingerboard, vintage mechanical Kluson Deluxe, two microphones Classic 57/57 Classic +, a grade AA maple top, and the usual electronic with selector 3 positions, two tones and two volumes. A simply note that the email includes the famous "Orange Drop capacitors," but I will later.
There's no split pickups or wiring "series out of phase push pull kill switch true bypass my c .. on the dresser," here it is on classic, far from the gasworks The current standard of Paul.
I add that I have acquired new guitar, his condition was absolutely impeccable, finishes the settings, and the opening of flycase is always a special moment ...

UTILIZATION

I have a Les Paul Standard 2008 (version in so strongly hollowed body), and I had a fear: the weight of the Trad ... My standard weighs 3.7 kg, and is therefore very comfortable to play. I expected 4,5 kg with little sister, but then surprise: "only" 4.1 kg on the scale.
The playability is almost equivalent between these two Paul, and I'm really happy!
The weak point of this guitar is its ergonomics average in access to acute, but being a fan of this model for several years I did not even think about it anymore (it says crazy shredders will probably tend to go elsewhere obviously).
The handle is a little bigger than the standard 2008, but it is really comfortable. Impossible for me to choose which one I prefer, but it is true that the feeling of a handle is something totally variable from one individual to another.

SOUNDS

The Les Paul traditional 2013 is an enchanting guitar: sounds that are issued a standing invitation to the blues / rock. When empty, the guitar already sounds a lot, projecting a thud and "compact". Standard 08 is no exception, but with a slightly lighter more air more acoustic side,.
Connected, this Trad '2013 projects a chubby and warm clear sound. All positions are good, the grain is warm, balanced tone and set completely homogeneous microphones. The 08 standard and Alnico V magnet pickups offer more clacking sounds, but also the busiest in the lower and upper medium, and are therefore less balanced. The set of Burstbucker pros is much less homogeneous clear sound with a pickup loud enough that denotes next to the roundness of the neck pickup (which is quite good).
Another difference: the quality of the electronic trad: race knobs is very progressive, especially the tone is really exploitable its full extent without this side "deaf" where the highs are bloated (thank you Orange condos drop).
Light overdrive, Trad is once again in my opinion a step up from the standard: 57 Classic Alnico II vintage grain marked personality bluesy roots that magnifies plans. The standard does not demerit, especially on the side of the neck pickup, but the pros Burstbuckers seem fairly nondescript in this game, no real character or personality.
Wholesale ACDC crunch way, the difference is equally audible standard shows its teeth: the rendering is more aggressive, sharper. Trad is more smooth, but full violin gives a more massive sound impression "block", like taking a big fat pad vintage compact in esgourdes well!
The melting point, the lands of distortion, Trad 'difficult to follow, the microphones are imprecise and fuzzy side installs. For his part, is the standard in its field: the sound is better defined, including drop D tuning down style, and climbing high gain are possible (at least up to a certain level).

OVERALL OPINION

In this comparative review, I find myself with two guitars that are visually very close but ultimately quite different musically.
These are two excellent guitars, whose qualities are not necessarily located in the same place:
Standard 2008 is the most versatile in my opinion, but the price of this versatility is a small deficiency personality.
The Traditional 2013 is racier and more character, but it will be a less convincing hair in contexts high gain.
In short it is decided I keep both!

The Les Paul Traditional has received some modifications for its 2013 vintage, and some of these changes are essential to how the guitar sounds, making this the most authentic Les Paul outside the Historic range model.
Here are the features of this new version:
-Solid mahogany body without a cavity (not "weight relief")
Table massive maple-grade AA
Mahogany-grade ("quater-sawn") with rosewood fingerboard, profile '50
Micro-handle Classic 57 pickup 57 Classic Plus ("wax potted") Alnico II magnet
Capacity-Orange Drop
-2 Settings volume and 2 tone with insert tip selector
Of course, the instrument is Made in USA and comes with the usual high quality black suitcase, made in Canada.
The sunburst of my model is sublime. Finish without the slightest defect is worthy of Custom Shop models.

UTILIZATION

The handle sees his profile unchanged and that's good as it is to my taste! It is round but I find comfort perfect course. The back is painted as usual for these models. I appreciate that, having no problem sweating hands.
Ergonomics is one of the historical Paul, it has, so to speak, no change since the appearance of the guitar Gibson catalog. The guitar, by the wood used and the thickness of his body, has a heavy weight, but here again, I am very satisfied and since I had my first LP in 1982, I found the perfect shape . Access to acute proves less "natural" than a SG, for example, without a problem.
Getting a good sound with the Les Paul Traditional 2013 shows a breeze since you have to connect it to (almost) any amp. And yes! it will sound even on a small transistor though, obviously, it can not deploy all of its numerous features.
I found the perfect system 2 volumes 2 tones. When one has tasted that allows in terms of ability to save and sound variations, this system, there are limited other guitars (even high quality) that do not.

SOUNDS

I remain on the volume levels and tones to notice two things that are a definite improvement over the old model.
2 volumes show more progressive on this 2013 model as the previous one (I know perfectly the subject since I have a LP Traditional 2012 and another in 2011). Where he had put the volume at least virtually, at least around 2 or down to get a clear sound from a Crunch, the 2013 model allows all shades, exactly how my LP Reissue 57 Custom Shop. This is a considerable advantage which is a real plus in terms of sound nuances.
Settings now have capabilities Orange Drop. The electronics LP has always been quality (higher, for example, that offers its Fender Stratocaster guitar on which lower the volume inevitably leads to acute loss) and one step closer to perfection with these new capabilities that therefore equip the Traditional 2013. Thus, not only the two volume buttons to show more gradual but retain the frequency range. Sound at low volume is defined, balanced and rich.
2 volume and 2 tone, I said, a combination that allows an incredibly diverse sonic palette, subtle nuances such drastic changes. Everything is possible and all sounds can be obtained, the brighter the more fat. This LP is revealed at ease in all circumstances and can address all musical genres. You can really speak of versatility even if it is more comfortable in some styles.
Is it necessary to return to the set of microphones? if not to remember how they excel, whether clean or saturation, or rhythmic solo. They are especially great that the absence of cavities in the body promotes their hairline, their definition, firmness at low frequencies, their distinction in the treble, midrange richness and sustain. On this last point, the difference is obvious from the previous Traditional: the sustain is longer and the note continues without disintegrating. For example, a combo Fender Hot Rod Deluxe in "more drive" becomes infinite sustain, of course, this is also the case in a Supersonic 60, both set to maximum gain.
Globalment if I had to summarize, I think this Lp 2013 Traditional sounds with more warmth and body than previous vintages, the already excellent.

OVERALL OPINION

Here is what changes on the 2013 model:
-Presence capabilities Orange Drop
-Full body (no cavities, although previous models were far from LP Standard with their big knockouts that created real "sound chambers")
-Volume progressive
-Presence of inserts in tip potentiometers
Table-grade AA
Inning grade
Disappearance of color Desert Burst, Ice Tea, Gold Top, Ebony and Wine Red
-Appearance of colors: New Honey Caramel Burst and Burst
So this is my third Les Paul Traditional is to say if I like the highest point for this model! With the changes made to the 2013 model, Gibson wanted to meet the pressing demands of users and enthusiasts for a Les Paul with a solid body at an affordable price for a Les Paul that is closest possible to the original guitar without provided part of the Custom Shop Reissues of range. In this respect, the quality / finish / price ratio is no doubt perfect and the best brand. And for once, Gibson has played the game since all these improvements are achieved without the selling price is increased. That's rare enough to know! Especially as these improvements have consequences for an improved sound quality.
As I noted in the beginning of my opinion, my Les Paul Traditional 2013 has an exemplary finish (he also was the same for my two other 2011 and 2012): zero defects. The Heritage Cherry Sunburst is a stunning beauty and sound is enhanced by the few design differences.
Quite honestly, this LP is the level of sound quality of my Custom Shop R07. They were not quite the same sound palette but it would be difficult to say that Custom is better me.
Gibson strikes a blow, a masterstroke with this new version of its flagship model catalog. Flawless! A guitar that revives the history and origins and is positioned very, very high in the current catalog of the brand, regardless of price.

The Les Paul Traditional has received some modifications for its 2013 vintage, and some of these changes are essential to how the guitar sounds, making this the most authentic Les Paul outside the Historic range model.
Here are the features of this new version:
-Solid mahogany body without a cavity (not "weight relief")
Table massive maple-grade AA
Mahogany-grade ("quater-sawn") with rosewood fingerboard, profile '50
Micro-handle Classic 57 pickup 57 Classic Plus ("wax potted") Alnico II magnet
Capacity-Orange Drop
-2 Settings volume and 2 tone with insert tip selector
Of course, the instrument is Made in USA and comes with the usual high quality black suitcase, made in Canada.
The sunburst of my model is sublime. Finish without the slightest defect is worthy of Custom Shop models.

UTILIZATION

The handle sees his profile unchanged and that's good as it is to my taste! It is round but I find comfort perfect course. The back is painted as usual for these models. I appreciate that, having no problem sweating hands.
Ergonomics is one of the historical Paul, it has, so to speak, no change since the appearance of the guitar Gibson catalog. The guitar, by the wood used and the thickness of his body, has a heavy weight, but here again, I am very satisfied and since I had my first LP in 1982, I found the perfect shape . Access to acute proves less "natural" than a SG, for example, without a problem.
Getting a good sound with the Les Paul Traditional 2013 shows a breeze since you have to connect it to (almost) any amp. And yes! it will sound even on a small transistor though, obviously, it can not deploy all of its numerous features.
I found the perfect system 2 volumes 2 tones. When one has tasted that allows in terms of ability to save and sound variations, this system, there are limited other guitars (even high quality) that do not.

SOUNDS

I remain on the volume levels and tones to notice two things that are a definite improvement over the old model.
2 volumes show more progressive on this 2013 model as the previous one (I know perfectly the subject since I have a LP Traditional 2012 and another in 2011). Where he had put the volume at least virtually, at least around 2 or down to get a clear sound from a Crunch, the 2013 model allows all shades, exactly how my LP Reissue 57 Custom Shop. This is a considerable advantage which is a real plus in terms of sound nuances.
Settings now have capabilities Orange Drop. The electronics LP has always been quality (higher, for example, that offers its Fender Stratocaster guitar on which lower the volume inevitably leads to acute loss) and one step closer to perfection with these new capabilities that therefore equip the Traditional 2013. Thus, not only the two volume buttons to show more gradual but retain the frequency range. Sound at low volume is defined, balanced and rich.
2 volume and 2 tone, I said, a combination that allows an incredibly diverse sonic palette, subtle nuances such drastic changes. Everything is possible and all sounds can be obtained, the brighter the more fat. This LP is revealed at ease in all circumstances and can address all musical genres. You can really speak of versatility even if it is more comfortable in some styles.
Is it necessary to return to the set of microphones? if not to remember how they excel, whether clean or saturation, or rhythmic solo. They are especially great that the absence of cavities in the body promotes their hairline, their definition, firmness at low frequencies, their distinction in the treble, midrange richness and sustain. On this last point, the difference is obvious from the previous Traditional: the sustain is longer and the note continues without disintegrating. For example, a combo Fender Hot Rod Deluxe in "more drive" becomes infinite sustain, of course, this is also the case in a Supersonic 60, both set to maximum gain.
Globalment if I had to summarize, I think this Lp 2013 Traditional sounds with more warmth and body than previous vintages, the already excellent.

OVERALL OPINION


Here is what changes on the 2013 model:
-Presence capabilities Orange Drop
-Full body (no cavities, although previous models were far from LP Standard with their big knockouts that created real "sound chambers")
-Volume progressive
-Presence of inserts in tip potentiometers
Table-grade AA
Inning grade
Disappearance of color Desert Burst, Ice Tea, Gold Top, Ebony and Wine Red
-Appearance of colors: New Honey Caramel Burst and Burst
So this is my third Les Paul Traditional is to say if I like the highest point for this model! With the changes made to the 2013 model, Gibson wanted to meet the pressing demands of users and enthusiasts for a Les Paul with a solid body at an affordable price for a Les Paul that is closest possible to the original guitar without provided part of the Custom Shop Reissues of range. In this respect, the quality / finish / price ratio is no doubt perfect and the best brand. And for once, Gibson has played the game since all these improvements are achieved without the selling price is increased. That's rare enough to know! Especially as these improvements have consequences for an improved sound quality.
As I noted in the beginning of my opinion, my Les Paul Traditional 2013 has an exemplary finish (he also was the same for my two other 2011 and 2012): zero defects. The Heritage Cherry Sunburst is a stunning beauty and sound is enhanced by the few design differences.
Quite honestly, this LP is the level of sound quality of my Custom Shop R07. They were not quite the same sound palette but it would be difficult to say that Custom is better me.
Gibson strikes a blow, a masterstroke with this new version of its flagship model catalog. Flawless! A guitar that revives the history and origins and is positioned very, very high in the current catalog of the brand, regardless of price.
I bought my model during a private sale in Woodbrass, enjoying a very good 25%: € 1490, I did not let the opportunity pass!

The Les Paul Traditional has received some modifications for its 2013 vintage, and some of these changes are essential to how the guitar sounds, making this the most authentic Les Paul outside the Historic range model.
Here are the features of this new version:
-Solid mahogany body without a cavity (not "weight relief")
Table massive maple-grade AA
Mahogany-grade ("quater-sawn") with rosewood fingerboard, profile '50
Micro-handle Classic 57 pickup 57 Classic Plus ("wax potted") Alnico II magnet
Capacity-Orange Drop
-2 Settings volume and 2 tone with insert tip selector
Of course, the instrument is Made in USA and comes with the usual high quality black suitcase, made in Canada.
The sunburst of my model is sublime. Finish without the slightest defect is worthy of Custom Shop models.

UTILIZATION

The handle sees his profile unchanged and that's good as it is to my taste! It is round but I find comfort perfect course. The back is painted as usual for these models. I appreciate that, having no problem sweating hands.
Ergonomics is one of the historical Paul, it has, so to speak, no change since the appearance of the guitar Gibson catalog. The guitar, by the wood used and the thickness of his body, has a heavy weight, but here again, I am very satisfied and since I had my first LP in 1982, I found the perfect shape . Access to acute proves less "natural" than a SG, for example, without a problem.
Getting a good sound with the Les Paul Traditional 2013 shows a breeze since you have to connect it to (almost) any amp. And yes! it will sound even on a small transistor though, obviously, it can not deploy all of its numerous features.
I found the perfect system 2 volumes 2 tones. When one has tasted that allows in terms of ability to save and sound variations, this system, there are limited other guitars (even high quality) that do not.

SOUNDS

I remain on the volume levels and tones to notice two things that are a definite improvement over the old model.
2 volumes show more progressive on this 2013 model as the previous one (I know perfectly the subject since I have a LP Traditional 2012 and another in 2011). Where he had put the volume at least virtually, at least around 2 or down to get a clear sound from a Crunch, the 2013 model allows all shades, exactly how my LP Reissue 57 Custom Shop. This is a considerable advantage which is a real plus in terms of sound nuances.
Settings now have capabilities Orange Drop. The electronics LP has always been quality (higher, for example, that offers its Fender Stratocaster guitar on which lower the volume inevitably leads to acute loss) and one step closer to perfection with these new capabilities that therefore equip the Traditional 2013. Thus, not only the two volume buttons to show more gradual but retain the frequency range. Sound at low volume is defined, balanced and rich.
2 volume and 2 tone, I said, a combination that allows an incredibly diverse sonic palette, subtle nuances such drastic changes. Everything is possible and all sounds can be obtained, the brighter the more fat. This LP is revealed at ease in all circumstances and can address all musical genres. You can really speak of versatility even if it is more comfortable in some styles.
Is it necessary to return to the set of microphones? if not to remember how they excel, whether clean or saturation, or rhythmic solo. They are especially great that the absence of cavities in the body promotes their hairline, their definition, firmness at low frequencies, their distinction in the treble, midrange richness and sustain. On this last point, the difference is obvious from the previous Traditional: the sustain is longer and the note continues without disintegrating. For example, a combo Fender Hot Rod Deluxe in "more drive" becomes infinite sustain, of course, this is also the case in a Supersonic 60, both set to maximum gain.
Globalment if I had to summarize, I think this Lp 2013 Traditional sounds with more warmth and body than previous vintages, the already excellent.

OVERALL OPINION


Here is what changes on the 2013 model:
-Presence capabilities Orange Drop
-Full body (no cavities, although previous models were far from LP Standard with their big knockouts that created real "sound chambers")
-Volume progressive
-Presence of inserts in tip potentiometers
Table-grade AA
Inning grade
Disappearance of color Desert Burst, Ice Tea, Gold Top, Ebony and Wine Red
-Appearance of colors: New Honey Caramel Burst and Burst
So this is my third Les Paul Traditional is to say if I like the highest point for this model! With the changes made to the 2013 model, Gibson wanted to meet the pressing demands of users and enthusiasts for a Les Paul with a solid body at an affordable price for a Les Paul that is closest possible to the original guitar without provided part of the Custom Shop Reissues of range. In this respect, the quality / finish / price ratio is no doubt perfect and the best brand. And for once, Gibson has played the game since all these improvements are achieved without the selling price is increased. That's rare enough to know! Especially as these improvements have consequences for an improved sound quality.
As I noted in the beginning of my opinion, my Les Paul Traditional 2013 has an exemplary finish (he also was the same for my two other 2011 and 2012): zero defects. The Heritage Cherry Sunburst is a stunning beauty and sound is enhanced by the few design differences.
Quite honestly, this LP is the level of sound quality of my Custom Shop R07. They were not quite the same sound palette but it would be difficult to say that Custom is better me.
Gibson strikes a blow, a masterstroke with this new version of its flagship model catalog. Flawless! A guitar that revives the history and origins and is positioned very, very high in the current catalog of the brand, regardless of price.