Jimmy Page and the Les Paul. The names are synonymous, aren’t they? For generations of guitarists, the image of Page wielding his iconic Les Paul is etched in rock history. While many associate him with various Les Paul models and even Telecasters, there’s a fascinating chapter often overlooked: the 1996 Gibson Les Paul Jimmy Page model. This review delves into the unique story of one such guitar, offering a player’s perspective that goes beyond the spec sheet.
This particular 1996 model, acquired in Birmingham, England, back in ’96, boasts a history as intriguing as its sound. From the outset, this guitar was a sonic revelation, quickly becoming a workhorse, contributing significantly to albums like “Rainy Days,” “Live!,” and tracks from “Blue Moon.” Its voice was undeniable, captivating from the first chord.
However, the honeymoon period wasn’t without its turbulence. A persistent issue plagued this Les Paul: an insatiable appetite for top E strings. Breakages were frequent, sometimes reaching a frustrating ten strings a week! Attempts to remedy this by the supplier, including a bridge swap from a brand new guitar, only marginally improved the situation, reducing the carnage to a still unacceptable three to four strings weekly. For a main instrument, this was simply unsustainable.
Seeking a definitive solution, the supplier arranged for a factory replacement from Gibson. In the interim, a loaner guitar, the very one that had donated its bridge, was provided. This loaner, however, presented a stark contrast. While it thankfully didn’t suffer from string breakage, it was clearly a well-worn instrument, exhibiting the characteristic lacquer cracks common to Gibsons. More critically, its tone was a shadow of the author’s original purchase. Dismissing it as a consequence of the loaner’s hard life, anticipation grew for the arrival of the brand-new replacement.
Upon arrival of the new Gibson replacement, the moment of truth came. Plugged into a Boogie Mark IV, the sound was… disappointing. Alarmingly similar to the lackluster loaner, it lacked the magic of the original 1996 Les Paul. A side-by-side comparison with the original guitar, still thankfully in the store, revealed a stark truth: the original blew both replacements away. Despite being ostensibly the same Gibson model, the sonic disparity was undeniable.
It was in that moment, a firm decision was made. This original guitar, despite its string-breaking quirk, was not going back to Gibson. Another bridge swap, this time from the rejected new guitar to the cherished original, was performed. The supplier, attributing the sonic difference to a wiring “fault” in the original and bizarrely suggesting the inferior replacements represented the “true” Jimmy Page Les Paul sound, conceded the playability advantage of the original.
Fast forward to today, the string breakage, while still occurring, is a manageable characteristic. A string change every three hours of intense playing is a small price to pay for the guitar’s exceptional qualities. And with a more relaxed playing style these days, it’s hardly a factor. Perhaps the initial string issue was a consequence of youthful exuberance and heavy-handed playing? The answer remains elusive, and frankly, unimportant.
So, why keep a guitar with such a quirky past? Because it’s simply exceptional. It possesses a truly remarkable Les Paul sound, amplified by that coveted Jimmy Page neck profile. This guitar isn’t just good; it’s a keeper. Interestingly, the value of these 1996 models has appreciated significantly. When newer iterations emerged, some dismissed this version as a “poor copy” of Page’s iconic instrument. Yet, initially, it was marketed as an exact replica. Regardless of the marketing spin, the truth resonates in the wood and wire.
If you seek a genuine Les Paul experience, flaws and all, this 1996 Jimmy Page model delivers in spades. String changes are a minor inconvenience, easily offset by the instrument’s overall brilliance. Purchased for £2800 in 1995, these guitars in comparable condition now command prices exceeding £5000, and even approaching £6000 in the UK market.
In a personal rating system, this guitar earns a perfect 10 out of 10. Its playability and feel are unmatched. That neck is a game-changer.
Here’s what makes this guitar exceptional:
- Custom Neck Profile: A dream to play, facilitating effortless runs and bends.
- Quality Construction: Built to a high standard, ensuring resonance and longevity.
- Exceptional Les Paul Sound: Potentially capturing the very essence of Jimmy Page’s legendary tone.
- Ideal Weight: Balances comfort and sustain perfectly.
- Rarity: This specific model year is increasingly sought after.
- Overall Finish and Playability: A joy to behold and to perform with.
- Custom Signature Case: Adds a touch of collectibility and protection.
While perhaps not the first choice for ultra-heavy rock – where instruments like Ibanez might take precedence – for classic rock, think Led Zeppelin, this Les Paul paired with a Marshall amp and a wah pedal is all you need.
For further information on Gibson guitars, visit www.gibson.com.
For a more in-depth look and to hear this specific guitar in action, check out the video review.
And now, a closer visual inspection of this exceptional instrument:
Gibson Jimmy Page model in its protective case.
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