1975 Gibson Les Paul Deluxe - Cherry Sunburst

The Altitude Summary

A Classic from the Norlin Era

Gibson's rich legacy in vintage guitars is well-established, with certain periods producing standout instruments. One such period, the Norlin Era (1971-1986), is often known for its cost-cutting measures that led to a mix of both revered and less desirable models. However, despite these changes, some exceptional guitars emerged—and this Les Paul Deluxe is a prime example.

Original and Well-Preserved

This Les Paul Deluxe remains all original, featuring patent-stamped mini-humbuckers, potentiometers dated to the 52nd week of 1974, and the original nut and frets. The only thing that does not appear original on this guitar is the output jack cover.  The guitar is in outstanding condition, with light play wear that adds to its charm. The frets show 90%+ life, and while the body exhibits minimal natural aging, there are no cracks, repairs, or modifications. The guitar also includes the original hardshell case, a valuable feature for collectors.

Playability and Sound

For those seeking rock and roll history combined with excellent playability, this guitar is an ideal choice.  The pancake body construction, visible along the sides, highlights the unique characteristics of this era. The mini-humbuckers deliver the classic Les Paul Deluxe tone—bright and mellow with the right amount of crunch, paired with smooth mini-humbucking tone.

The Norlin Era Overview

Ownership and Changes

The Norlin Corporation owned Gibson from 1969 to 1986, officially taking over in 1974. During this time, Gibson introduced several significant changes to the Les Paul model, including:

• Body: Shifted from a one or two-piece mahogany body to a pancake-style construction.
• Top: Replaced the traditional two-piece maple cap with a three-piece maple cap.
• Neck: Swapped the classic mahogany neck for a three-piece maple neck.
• Headstock: Enlarged the headstock and added a volute for extra strength.

Quality and Legacy

Though the Norlin Era (1971-1985) is sometimes regarded as a challenging time for Gibson, with production changes affecting quality, guitars like this Les Paul Deluxe have withstood the test of time. With their unique features and excellent craftsmanship, these guitars continue to be highly sought after by both players and collectors for their incredible tone and playability.