![]() ![]() The increased neck size at the body made it difficult to grasp comfortably which reaching for higher notes. What I found most limiting about the wider neck was the width at the upper frets. These necks felt much larger due to the increased width, but were still very playable. The neck on the Classic is listed as the same as the Junior, though it felt more like the “asymmetrical” shape on the Deluxe. Though not my personal preference, it was a quick adjustment to the new shape once I started playing. The wide, flat shape is surprisingly reminiscent of an Ibanez profile, but even wider. When I tried the wider “slim-taper” neck on the Junior, it certainly was a different feel. From this I was able to get a real feel for the new line, and give some feedback based on my actual experience and not just the forum hype.įirst, the neck. For comparison I also played a 2013 Les Paul Custom, 2014 Custom Shop 1960 Les Paul Standard Reissue, and a 2014 Les Paul Melody Maker. I spent time with a 2015 Les Paul Junior, Classic, and Deluxe. I focused on innovations causing the biggest uproar: the wider neck, the robot tuners, and the zero-fret nut. Like many, I was put off by the 2015 radical changes, but still wanted to give them a fair shot. I thought the wide range of models at differing price points in 2014 was great the models were creative, and the changes unique and interesting. In truth, I am a Gibson fan-boy from day one and did not want to discount all the new models just based on the general outcry. My local branch of that mega-guitar store chain said they were having a hard time selling the 2015 models, and planned only to order the special run models that do not have the new features. The largest distributor of Gibson in the UK, Andertons, offered to install regular tuners free on the 2014 models with mini-tune systems. Dealers have also voiced their displeasure at the changes. Many fans littered the forums with angry rants or promises to swear off Gibson forever. The Les Paul Standard is now the price of a Fender Custom Shop model, as well as high-end makers of Gibson-influenced designs, such as PRS, Collings, Heritage, Knaggs, and countless other well-respected makers. But what shocked us all was the huge price increase. We all rolled our eyes at the earlier notion of the robot tuners, and the announcement of a wider neck, brass “zero-fret nut”, lower profile frets, and titanium saddles had us all wondering what exactly is going on at Gibson HQ. This conundrum can be found all over the gear world and 2015 Gibsons are a prime example. We love innovation, but hunger for things from the “Golden Age” of electric instruments of the 1950s. What happens when you open the catalog of your favorite guitar company and you don’t like what you see? This was the gut reaction of many players when news broke of the Gibson 2015 line-up.Īs musicians, we're a fickle bunch: we love trying new things, but cherish vintage and vintage-inspired gear. ![]() Here's part of the other blurb from Reverb: I never thought I'd say this, but thank you, GC. That probably pushed Gibson over the edge. Apparently, GC told Gibson they wouldn't order anymore production model guitars. Either that, or Henry finally came to his senses. Dave, this is brand new news, but I'm sorry you beat me to the punch. ![]()
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