1998 Gibson Custom Art & Historic Les Paul Classic - Transparent Honey

1998 Gibson Custom Art & Historic Les Paul Classic – Transparent Honey

The Altitude Summary

This 1998 Gibson Les Paul Classic in Transparent Honey is a standout from Gibson’s revered "good wood" era, celebrated for its exceptional tonewoods and craftsmanship. Weighing in at 8.6 lbs, it sits comfortably below the typical range for Les Paul Classics of this period, which often span from 8.1 to 10.5 lbs. This lighter weight enhances playability without sacrificing the rich, resonant tone Les Pauls are known for.  This early custom-shop classic has a highly figured top, and has exceptional build quality.

In excellent condition, this guitar exhibits minimal fret wear, ensuring smooth play across the fretboard. The body shows surface scratches on the front and back from regular use, along with a few small dings on the back—testaments to light authentic play history. Despite these minor blemishes, it plays exceptionally well and remains in excellent condition, offering the robust sound and feel that players cherish.

Built for Tone: Craftsmanship & Construction

Crafted with a solid mahogany body and a carved maple top, this Les Paul Classic delivers the warm, full-bodied tone that defines the model. The set-in mahogany neck features a slim '60s profile, providing a fast and comfortable playing experience. The rosewood fingerboard with trapezoid inlays adds both aesthetic appeal and smooth playability.

Vintage Voice: Pickups & Electronics

This Les Paul has a set of Gibson '57 Classic zebra pickups: a '57 Classic in the neck and a '57 Classic Plus in the bridge. These PAF-style humbuckers offer that iconic vintage Gibson tone—smooth, articulate cleans with rich mids and a touch of growl when pushed. The zebra bobbins not only enhance the guitar’s retro vibe but also deliver top-tier tonal character.

Player's Delight: Playability & Feel

The slim-taper neck profile ensures effortless playability, accommodating fast runs and complex chords with equal ease. The guitar's lighter weight enhances comfort during extended playing sessions, making it a reliable choice for both stage and studio work.

Key Features

• Year: 1998

• Brand: Gibson

• Model: Les Paul Classic

• Finish: Transparent Honey

• Weight: 8.6 lbs

• Body Wood: Mahogany with Maple Top

• Neck: Mahogany, Slim '60s Profile

• Fingerboard: Rosewood with Trapezoid Inlays

• Pickups: Gibson '57 Classic (Neck), '57 Classic Plus (Bridge), Zebra

• Bridge: Tune-O-Matic with Stopbar Tailpiece

• Tuners: Grover

• Condition: Excellent; minor surface scratches and small dings on back

• Playability: Exceptional; minimal fret wear

• Case: Original Gibson Custom Art & Historic Hardshell Case Included