Les Paul Standard vs. Traditional

Attribute	Les Paul Standard	Traditional
Body Type	Solid	Solid
Top Wood	Maple	Maple
Back Wood	Mahogany	Mahogany
Neck Wood	Mahogany	Mahogany
Fingerboard Wood	Rosewood	Rosewood
Number of Frets	22	22
Scale Length	24.75 inches	24.75 inches
Pickups	Burstbucker Pro	Burstbucker 1 & 2
Controls	2 Volume, 2 Tone	2 Volume, 2 Tone
Bridge	Tune-O-Matic	Tune-O-Matic
Tailpiece	Stopbar	Stopbar
Finish	Various options	Various options

Introduction

The Les Paul guitar is an iconic instrument that has been a staple in the music industry since its introduction in the 1950s. Over the years, Gibson has released various models of the Les Paul, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Two popular models, the Les Paul Standard and the Les Paul Traditional, are often compared by guitar enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the attributes of both models and highlight their similarities and differences.

Body Construction

Both the Les Paul Standard and Traditional feature a solid mahogany body, providing a rich and resonant tone. However, the Les Paul Standard typically has a weight-relieved body, which means it has strategically placed chambers to reduce its overall weight. On the other hand, the Les Paul Traditional usually has a solid, non-weight-relieved body, resulting in a slightly heavier instrument. This difference in body construction can affect the overall feel and sustain of the guitar.

Top Wood

Another notable difference between the Les Paul Standard and Traditional lies in their top wood. The Les Paul Standard often features a AAA-grade maple top, which is known for its beautiful figuring and enhanced clarity. In contrast, the Les Paul Traditional typically comes with a plain maple top, offering a more vintage aesthetic. While both top woods contribute to the guitar's overall tone, the AAA-grade maple top on the Les Paul Standard is often considered to provide a brighter and more articulate sound.

Pickups

When it comes to pickups, the Les Paul Standard and Traditional offer different options. The Les Paul Standard usually comes equipped with Gibson's Burstbucker Pro pickups, which are known for their versatility and balanced tone. These pickups deliver a wide range of sounds, from warm and smooth to aggressive and biting. On the other hand, the Les Paul Traditional typically features Gibson's '57 Classic pickups, which are known for their vintage-inspired tone. These pickups offer a more traditional and bluesy sound, with a slightly lower output compared to the Burstbucker Pro pickups.

Neck Profile

The neck profile is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a Les Paul guitar. The Les Paul Standard often features a slim-taper neck profile, providing a comfortable and fast playing experience. This neck profile is favored by players who prefer a sleek and modern feel. In contrast, the Les Paul Traditional typically has a thicker, rounded neck profile, reminiscent of the vintage Les Paul guitars. This neck profile offers a chunkier and more substantial feel, appealing to players who enjoy a more traditional and substantial neck.

Hardware and Finishes

Both the Les Paul Standard and Traditional models come with high-quality hardware and finishes. They usually feature a tune-o-matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece, providing excellent tuning stability and sustain. The Les Paul Standard often offers more modern finishes, including various burst options and vibrant colors. In contrast, the Les Paul Traditional typically features more vintage-inspired finishes, such as Heritage Cherry Sunburst and Tobacco Burst. These finishes, combined with the guitar's overall aesthetic, contribute to the instrument's visual appeal and character.

Price

Price is an important factor to consider when comparing the Les Paul Standard and Traditional models. Generally, the Les Paul Standard is priced higher than the Les Paul Traditional. This price difference can be attributed to the Standard's additional features, such as the weight-relieved body, AAA-grade maple top, and Burstbucker Pro pickups. However, it's important to note that prices may vary depending on the specific model, year of production, and any additional customizations.

Conclusion

Both the Les Paul Standard and Traditional models offer exceptional craftsmanship and sound quality. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and playing style. If you prefer a more modern feel, versatility in tone, and a lighter instrument, the Les Paul Standard may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a vintage aesthetic, a thicker neck profile, and a more traditional tone, the Les Paul Traditional might be the better option. Regardless of your choice, both models are sure to provide an incredible playing experience and a timeless sound that has made the Les Paul guitar legendary.