Buying a REAL Les Paul - Need Advice

**Davers**

I've always wanted to learn to play guitar and that might lead me to why I really like GH. Anyways, I'm getting ready to buy a real Les Paul. Now I haven't really done my research on guitars that much other than the fact that this is the guitar I want. I know they can be expensive, I really don't want to have to spend more than $600-$700.

I need advice on what I should look at. I'd be buying this just for myself to learn to play and have fun with as a hobby. So it doesn't have to be pimped out or anything like that. What do you suggest?

I know Epiphone has some inexpensive Les Pauls and Gibson is known for their Les Pauls. But I'm asking on here because I know there are several guitarists that can give me some insightful tips and suggestions

Even a good online store or music store in the New Orleans/Baton Rouge area.

Thanks in advance!

**inkjt510** · Joined: 22 Mar 2008 Posts: 1213

So you've never played a guitar before but you think it's a wise decision to drop $700 on one?
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**xXryannn** · Joined: 31 Oct 2007 Posts: 576 Location: pittsburgh

It is highly unlikely you will find a Gibson Les Paul for under $1,000, let alone $700 (unless you go used). Your only choice is to go with the Epiphone, and the quality on those is not that great. If I were you I would go with a cheap Stratocaster or something, especially since it's your first guitar.

**Davers** · Posted: Thu Apr 01, 2010 7:27 am Post subject:

My brother is a guitarist and I've always wanted to pick it up. I've messed around on his guitar so it's not like I'm just doing this on a whim.

As for Gibson, I understand that they are expensive and I would like to take a different route. I really don't want to have to raise an extra $500 if I can help it. I wasn't sure on Epiphone. My brother suggested that I go with it since Gibson's are probably out of the question for me.

Also, not trying to sound mean or anything, but I'm getting a Les Paul. I like them and it's what I'm getting. I know it might not be everyone's first guitar but it's going to be mine. Dropping $700 on a first guitar isn't really a problem when you know what you want (well to an extent) and have a desire. At least not for me

I would just like some advice on where I can buy something in the price range listed that will work great and look nice and have a nice sound. What to stay away from, what I should invest in, etc etc. Links, pics, vids, or whatever are welcomed

**aknu** · Joined: 11 Feb 2009 Posts: 175 Location: Denmark

You could try go for a Les Paul Studio by Gibson. Not quite as pricey as the standard/custom etc, but still not cheap either. But I do recommend buying one thats gonna last and has a nice sound, ie not epiphone :p

**Gamer9254** · Joined: 09 Jul 2009 Posts: 613 Location: Milford, CT

**Davers** · Posted: Mon Apr 05, 2010 11:42 am Post subject:

**blackwidowcd** · Joined: 17 Nov 2007 Posts: 1717 Location: Bucketheadland

**ravagetalon** · Joined: 21 Jul 2007 Posts: 2130 Location: KY

The Epiphone Les Paul Standard is a great guitar. At about $500 you're getting all the guitar you'll ever need for a long time. However... for your first guitar I wouldn't recommend dropping $500. Grab one of the starter kits from Epiphone or Squier by Fender.

**Z7X** · Posted: Mon Apr 19, 2010 2:58 am Post subject:

What are you going to do about an amp? Borrow your brother's? Something to consider.

**Davers** · Posted: Mon Apr 19, 2010 4:57 am Post subject:

I've found the guitar I'm buying. It's an Epiphone Les Paul with amp for $600. Here's a pic of the set I'm getting (free shipping too):

I'm happy with dropping the money. If, and that's a big IF, it doesn't work out, my brother will be more than happy to buy it from me.

I'm glad someone said Epiphone was a good guitar. I have to admit, I did look into other guitars when the poster above said it wasn't good quality. My brother disagreed and so I decided to get the above guitar. Glad someone else can vouch for them as well.

**OpenYourEyes** · Posted: Mon Apr 19, 2010 5:25 am Post subject:

I know you've already bought the guitar/ know what you're getting, but I have to throw this in. Dropped $450 on my first set up, I got a Stratocaster for $300 and a Spider III for $100, along with around $20 in accessories (tax added the rest), and I love it. The Strat is an amazing guitar, and the sound is great. The feel is awesome, too.

I do like the guitar that you've picked up, though.
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