Improving a legend isn’t easy, but it has happened. Introducing the 2008 Les Paul Standard from Gibson USA-an elegant revision of a true classic, with several upgrades and new features that make this new model the best Les Paul Standard ever produced.
Based on research from consumer feedback and a drive to uphold and enhance the legacy of the Les Paul, Gibson USA’s 2008 Les Paul Standard sets a musical instrument benchmark for excellence and achievement, beginning with a new asymmetrical neck profile that makes it one of the most comfortable and playable necks ever offered on any guitar. The neck also features an enlarged neck tenon for maximum wood contact between the neck and body.
Locking Grover tuners are also a first for the Les Paul, giving the 2008 Standard an improved gear ratio of 18:1 and making string changes a snap. All newly designed controls, including custom-made, gold-plated potentiometers made by Bourns, one of the industry’s leading makers of guitar electronics, give the 2008 Standard a new level of sonic clarity and intensity.
It’s also one of the first Gibson USA models to utilize the revolutionary Plek system-a computer-controlled setup that carefully measures and dresses each fret, accurately measuring the height between the fingerboard and each string, virtually eliminating string buzz and providing unbeatable playability.
A set of Gibson’s traditional Burstbucker Pro humbuckers help deliver the powerful punch expected from a Les Paul, featuring Alnico V magnets with slightly higher output and a more open sound, faithfully capturing the magic of Gibson’s legendary PAF pickups of the 1950s.
A chambered mahogany body gives the 2008 Standard enhanced resonance, and a plain or flame maple top pays homage to the Les Pauls of the late 1950s and early 1960s.
Other new features include TonePros’ locking Nashville Tune-o-matic and stopbar tailpiece in chrome finish and strap lock buttons. Each 2008 Les Paul Standard comes with Gibson USA’s standard black snakeskin case.
The 2008 Les Paul Standard will be available at select dealers beginning August 1, 2008.
Click here for detailed specs, a photo gallery, and 360 imagery of the 2008 Les Paul Standard. Credit: Gibson.