If you’re a serious guitar player, you’ll want to invest in the greatest guitar for your playing style. The SG and the Les Paul are two of Gibson’s most popular guitars, and you’ve probably heard of them as well. In this article about LP SG, we’re going to put SG and Les Paul up against each other and see which one comes out on top, then the decision is up to you.
Differences Between a Gibson SG and a Les Paul
No more wasting time, We will head to a list of some different features between these two LP SG.
- About weight, the Les Paul is heavier, whilst the SG is more lightweight.
- Another feature is that the SG has a slimmer shape, and it is still thinner than the Les Paul.
- In terms of material, The SG is constructed entirely of solid Mahogany, whilst Les Pauls are constructed entirely of Maple.
- You can say that the Les Paul’s neck joins at the 16th, but the SG’s joins its body at the 22nd fret.
- A brighter, more noticeable midrange and highs are found in SGs, whilst the Les Paul shines in the lows.
- The output jack on the SG is positioned on the front of the instrument, while the output jack on the Les Paul is located on the bottom of its body.
However, despite the apparent distinctions between the two, there are some parallels between them as well. To give you an example, they are both manufactured from Mahogany. They each feature two humbucker pickups in the neck and bridge positions, as well as tone and volume controls that are quite similar to one another.
Key Specifications of Gibson SG and a Les Paul
To give you a more specific visualization of these two LP SG, we have prepared a table that compares Gibson SG and a Les Paul:
| Gibson SG | Les Paul | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Electric guitar | Electric guitar |
| Scale Length | 24.75-inch | 24.75-inch |
| Weight | 6lbs | 9-12lbs |
| Pickups | PAF | Humbuckers |
| Price | $1,599.00 | $1,599.00 |
Overview about The Gibson SG
Introduction
The SG was created at the same time as Gibson was creating the Les Paul. Despite the fact that the Les Paul was a tremendously popular model in the 1960s, its sales were on the decline. This was mostly due to Gibson’s primary competitor, Fender, introducing models that were far lighter and simpler to play.
The Solid Guitar, sometimes known as the ‘SG,’ was introduced as a reaction. With it, Gibson was able to compete with Fender by offering a lighter, sleeker version of the Les Paul. Since its publication, it has been in continuous production and has received support from a diverse range of internationally renowned artists.
Angus Young (AC/DC), Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath), Rob Krieger (The Doors), Frank Zappa, Derek Trucks, and Jerry Garcia are just a few of the well-known guitarists who have favored the SG above other instruments.
In want to get that vintage rock-and-roll sound and enjoy performing classics like AC/”Back DC’s in Black,” an SG is the guitar to consider.
Key Features
- It was first introduced in 1961.
- Construction using a single piece of material
- Hardtail Gibson with a mahogany body. Bridge with a vibrato
- Mids and highs that are bright and distinct
- Lightweight
- There are many versions within the SG family that are ideal for different players.
Design
Designers reworked the Les Paul’s smooth lines and added sharper edges as well as elements like the immediately identifiable devil horns, which are still there today. It also deviated even farther from the original by including a double cutaway and a flat top on the top.
The total weight of the instrument has also been reduced due to the absence of the maple top that was standard on Les Pauls. These modifications were made in order to lighten the overall weight while maintaining the same tonal balance.
Despite the fact that the tones were not perfectly matched, they were far from being awful. In fact, when modifying the equations that had proven to be so successful, Gibson accidentally created one of its most popular models.
Sound
The SG’s highs and mids have a certain brilliance to them that makes them stand out. This implies that it will appeal to players who like a somewhat more prominent overall tone than those who prefer a Les Paul guitar.
However, despite its primary emphasis, the SG is an extremely flexible guitar. You can see this by just glancing at the list of guitarists who have signed up to utilize it. There isn’t a single genre that encompasses everything. All types of music, from classic rock to blues and funk, have been performed on the SG.
Feel
With the SG, Gibson attempted to break away from the successful Les Paul template in terms of overall feel. Moving to a slimmer body and reducing the fretboard allowed them to save crucial weight, which had previously been seen as a drawback of the Les Pauls.
This resulted in a guitar that was far more “playable.” Because of the configuration of the body and neck, it was easier to move about while playing, and also allowed for easier access to the upper frets than a traditional guitar.
Even though Gibson wanted to attain more mobility, they did not anticipate that their tones would be altered in such a dramatic manner. The introduction of the SG revealed that many of the features that had previously been considered a bad characteristic of the Les Paul were, in fact, essential to the creation of the guitar’s tone.
Tone, Inputs, and Controls
While the design process was underway, this was one aspect of the instrument that stayed quite consistent. The two models have the identical effects and controls; the only difference is that they are placed in separate locations.
On the Les Paul, they are located on the front of the guitar, with a jack located beneath the body. The SG, on the other hand, has the jack located on the front of the instrument, next to the controls.
Both versions include tone and loudness effects that are extremely similar to one another. They are located on the front of the guitar and are readily accessible when the instrument is in use.
Overview about The Gibson Les Paul
Introduction
The Gibson Les Paul is one of the most iconic electric guitars ever made, and it is also one of the most expensive. It is, without a doubt, the most popular Gibson guitar, and it continues to be highly sought after to this day. According to the model and condition of the guitar, an original Les Paul from the 1960s might bring anywhere from $50,000 to $150,000.
Although the original’s design and tone have held up well over time, its remarkable adaptability has helped to establish it as a legendary instrument among performers of many musical genres.
When compared to the SG, it has a very different appearance, sound, and feel. This is due to the architecture of the structure as well as the materials employed in its construction; however, more on that in a moment.
It’s almost impossible to keep track of all of the artists that made Les Paul famous throughout the years. Among others who have contributed to the music of Les Paul are: Slash, Paul McCartney, Billy Gibbons, Pete Townsend, Jimmy Page, Ace Frehley, Peter Green, Gary Moore, Zakk Wylde, Peter Frampton, Joe Walsh, and Alex Lifeson to mention a few.
Design
The Les Paul’s design laid the groundwork for it to become the legendary instrument that it is today. With a single-cut body, rounded corners, and a slim-taper neck, it exudes traditional good looks. While all of these elements absolutely contribute to the renowned Les Paul tone, they are quite harsh and punishing.
The single-cut body, for example, is known to make it difficult for certain players to reach the top frets, and the slim-taper neck provides little respite.
Its body is also much thicker than the SG, owing to the addition of a Maple cap on top of its Mahogany frame. While this contributes to the creation of those iconic sounds and makes Les Paul look magnificent, it also causes him to gain a little weight. For some, this guitar is a breeze to play, but for others, it is a real challenge.
Gibson has made several attempts to address the weight problem, most recently with the introduction of the SG, but ultimately, if you want the Les Paul sounds, you have to learn to play a Les Paul. Everything, even the weight, is a factor.
Sound
In general, the sound of a Les Paul is significantly deeper and fuller than that of a Stratocaster. We believe it has earned such an enviable reputation for a reason, and when compared to the SG, its distinctive tone is fuller and has more punch.
The details of the Les Paul tone are ultimately determined by the type of Les Paul that you choose. This is due to the fact that factors like the kind of p90 humbuckers, the hardware, and the capacitors used in the instrument will have an impact on how it sounds. Before getting a hearing aid, make sure you do your homework to determine which model is best for you.
Feel
The shape of a vintage Les Paul guitar has a significant impact on how it feels in your hands. This recognizable sound comes from the guitar’s weight, which also results in a less-than-ideal playing experience. In terms of size and weight, the Les Paul is massive.
Even if Gibson does all they can to remake the wheel and tackle the playability concerns, there is no getting around the truth.
As a result of this, players have long come to terms with the fact that, in order to appreciate the traditional Les Paul tone, you must be willing to put up with the guitar’s bulk and weight.
Tone, Inputs, and Controls
In what way does a Les Paul sound different from other guitars? The concept of a vintage Les Paul tone is thrown about a lot, but what exactly does one sound like is unclear.
The simplest way to explain it is that it has a ‘thick’ sound with a sustained overdrive, which is what it is. This overdrive produces a tone that is almost creamy in texture, with enough ferocity if you need it.
The inputs and controls supplied are quite typical in terms of their functionality. In contrast to the SG, the inputs are located on the front of the guitar, adjacent to the volume knobs and tone controls, rather than on the back. As a result, they are quite accessible when playing.
Pros & Cons between Les Paul and SG
| Gibson SG | |
|---|---|
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight Excellent access to the higher frets There are several neck styles to choose from. Thinner body profile for better ergonomics P90 humbuckers are an excellent option for this guitar. | Having a slimmer physique (depends on your point of view) Neck dive is a potential problem. Knobs for volume and tone are less easily accessible. |
| Gibson Les Paul | |
|---|---|
| Pros | Cons |
| There are a variety of pickup choices. It seems to be fantastic. The classic rock sound | Extremely heavy It has the potential to be muddy, noisy, and distorted. Not very good at keeping in tune. Fragile and expensive |
Alternatives
Fender Stratocaster
In the case of guitarists, you’ve almost certainly heard of Fender’s flagship instrument, the Stratocaster. The Stratocaster, sometimes known as the Strat, is a favorite of many guitarists, and it is one of the most popular guitars ever made, according to Guitar World.
It has a distinct tone that is distinct from SGs or Les Pauls. It’s usually a bit more appropriate for that rural accent. Instead of AC/DC and Guns ‘n’ Roses, think of the Rolling Stones and early Led Zeppelin as inspiration.
Also, it’s more akin to the SG in terms of weight and playability, and it’s far less heavy than a Les Paul. Then there’s the price, which is much less than that of a Gibson, especially if you’re looking for a Les Paul.
Fender Telecaster
The Telecaster, which came before the Strat and was one of Fender’s initial successes, has long been the subject of heated dispute, with many people claiming that the Tele is the superior instrument.
With regard to its versatility, the Telecaster is sometimes referred to as a “musical chameleon” for its ability to adapt to any situation. It has an incredible capacity to sound fantastic no matter what genre you choose to play on it, which is rather remarkable.
As a result, if you prefer to change up your sound and explore a variety of genres rather than simply sticking to one or two, a Telecaster is an excellent option for you.
Epiphone Les Paul
All of Fender’s products are outstanding in their own way. Those looking for a guitar that will look and sound like a Gibson will be pleased to know that Epiphone is one of the finest options available.
Gibson is the owner of Epiphone, which explains their ability to accurately duplicate them. The biggest difference between their instruments and the Gibson originals is the price tag attached to them.
The Epiphone Les Paul, the company’s most well-known guitar, is often considered as the greatest Les Paul replacement available on the market.
Despite the fact that they don’t have nearly the same level of polish as a Gibson, the Epiphone does an excellent job of imitating the iconic tones for those on a tighter budget. If this relates to you, it’s definitely worth looking into.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Does the value of Gibson Les Pauls and Gibson SGs continue to rise over time?
Answer: Guitars are not investments unless you intend to use them exclusively for musical purposes. It is very unusual that an item may be purchased and resold for a higher price than it was initially purchased. However, it should be noted that certain brands and models hold their worth far better than other brands and models. Gibson Les Pauls and SGs are among the most highly regarded guitars available on the market today. If you take good care of yours and don’t abuse it, you should be able to sell it for up to 85 percent of its original worth if you ever decide to part with your possession.
Question: When it comes to Gibson SGs, are they simple to play?
Answer: The SG has an extra-thin neck that provides good access to the top frets of the guitar. Due to the reduction in overall weight and accessibility, the guitar is far more approachable to play than heavier versions such as the Les Paul.
Question: Why is an SG much less expensive than a Les Paul?
Answer: SGs are less difficult to construct than Les Pauls. When it comes to a Les Paul, the top must be custom carved by the maker. This is necessary for the overall tone of the instrument, but it increases the time and costs associated with the manufacturing process. SG, on the other hand, is faster and simpler to construct, which accounts for the price difference.
Ending
Both of these models are wonderful guitars that will leave you happy if you get the opportunity to play one of them at some point. We hope you could find your best electric guitar. If you find our information about LP SG useful, please share it with your friends and family who share the same hobby with you.