BaCk to BasiCs

Gear Editor Dave Burrluck on why Gibson should now focus on quality

“Gibson has always been hugely innovative, but today that desire has to be player-led. Things like the G Force tuners, not to mention that 2015 spec, were answers to questions that few of us asked. I don’t agree that Gibson needs to annually update its guitars, certainly not its core electric models – the LP Junior, Special, Standard Custom, not to mention the SG, the Firebird, the Flying V and even the Explorer. These are the foundations of our industry. Yes, we might want vintage, modern and posher, more versatile versions – in the manner of Fender’s USA Original, Professional and Elite series – but Gibson’s constant model tweaking gets very confusing. I just want a good vintage-inspired Gibson Les Paul Standard. Nailing those classic recipes in the production range is key. Those who want aged Historic replicas can go to the Custom Division, and pay for it.

“I also agree with Henry that Gibson should stand for quality and while he believes variable QC is ‘fake news’ I can only go on what I’ve seen – and had in for repair – and that suggests that some of the lower-end Gibson models in recent years have had a very ‘made in hurry’ feel to them. When I pick up my 1957 Les Paul Junior it doesn’t feel – or sound – cheap even though back then it was a starter guitar. Yes, quality costs but I’d be happier to see a much higher start-point to the USA production range so long as that came with high-quality and consistency.”