Over the years Gibson has consistenly tinkered with the Les Paul formula looking for ways to goose sales and spark interest. The Gibson LPJ is one of those models, and it sports an interesting combo of worn satin finish, and ominous all-black pickups. But don't be fooled: This is a traditional Gibson in every way, and the black pickups are their 490R and 498T models with smooth black covers.

But this all a good thing, as for what they lack in fancy cosmetics, the Gibson delivers in pure Les Paul playing experience. The Alnico 2 neck pickup provides warm and smooth rhythm response, while the 498T in the bridge uses Alnico 5 and higher DC resistance for stronger output and bite. And it's still a maple top and weighs just 8.8 pounds, which is pretty good for a non-chambered Les Paul. 

The Gibson LPJ falls into the "bargain" category of USA Les Paul guitars. But that's more a matter of what traditionalists want and not how good this guitar is. If you want to live the Les Paul life on an Epiphone budget, this is your guitar.

This guitar is in excellent condition for it's age with some minor marks and signs of handling, mostly in the jack area. Plays and sets up well, and with no fret wear. Come with original Gibson padded bag. Every guitar we sell gets a pro setup before shipping.

• Worn Cherry nitrocellulose lacquer finish
• Maple top with Mahagany back, 8.8 pounds
• Mahogany set neck
• Rosewood fretboard with trapezoid inlays
• 12" fretboard radius, 1-11/16 nut width
• 24-3/4" scale length
• 490R Neck pickup - Alnico 2, ~8K DC resistance
• 498T Neck pickup - Alnico 5, ~14K DC resistance
• Individual volume and tone controls
• Tune-o-match bridge with stop bar
• Original bag