Les Paul Special 1 vs 2: Which One Reigns Supreme?
Are you ready to dive deep into the world of Gibson’s iconic Les Paul guitars? Today, we’re pitting two legendary instruments against each other: the Les Paul Special 1 and the Les Paul Special 2. These guitars, both carrying the Les Paul legacy, offer distinct features and sonic characteristics that cater to different playing styles and preferences. This comparison will help you understand their differences and discover which one might be the perfect fit for you.
The Les Paul Special series is known for its stripped-down, no-frills approach to rock and roll, offering a raw and powerful sound. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting out, understanding the nuances between these two models is crucial. We’ll explore their construction, electronics, playability, and overall value. Get ready to uncover the sonic secrets of the Les Paul Special 1 and the Les Paul Special 2!
From their humbucker pickups to their classic finishes, there’s a lot to dissect. We’ll explore which model best suits your needs, whether you’re chasing the vintage tones of the Special 1 or the modern edge of the Special 2. Let’s get started and find out which Les Paul Special will become your next favorite axe!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | les paul special 1 | 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Body Wood | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Neck Profile | Rounded 50’s | SlimTaper |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood | Rosewood |
| Number of Frets | 22 | 22 |
| Scale Length | 24.75″ | 24.75″ |
| Pickups | P-90 (x2) | Humbuckers (x2) |
| Controls | 2 Volume, 2 Tone, 3-Way Switch | 2 Volume, 2 Tone, 3-Way Switch |
| Bridge | Wraparound | Tune-o-matic with Stopbar |
| Tuners | Vintage-Style | Grover Rotomatic |
| Finish | Gloss | Gloss |
| Hardware | Nickel | Chrome |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Body Wood
- Les Paul Special 1: Typically mahogany, known for its warm, resonant tone and sustain. Mahogany bodies often contribute to a fuller sound, but can be heavier.
- 2: Often uses mahogany or a similar tonewood. The specific wood can vary depending on the manufacturer and year. Expect similar tonal characteristics to the Les Paul Special 1.
- Winner: Tie
Pickups
- Les Paul Special 1: Usually equipped with P-90 single-coil pickups, delivering a raw, gritty, and powerful sound. They are known for their distinctive growl and excellent dynamic response.
- 2: Generally features P-90 pickups, consistent with the Les Paul Special 1. The specific model of P-90 can vary.
- Winner: Tie
Controls
- Les Paul Special 1: Typically features a straightforward setup with two volume and two tone controls, offering a broad range of tonal shaping capabilities. This allows for precise adjustments to the guitar’s sound.
- 2: Usually offers the same control configuration as the Les Paul Special 1, providing flexibility in shaping the sound.
- Winner: Tie
Bridge
- Les Paul Special 1: Often features a wraparound bridge, known for its simplicity and direct string-to-body contact, contributing to sustain. Tuning stability can be a consideration.
- 2: May use a wraparound bridge or a Tune-o-matic with a stopbar, offering improved intonation and potentially better tuning stability.
- Winner: 2
Neck Profile
- Les Paul Special 1: Neck profile can vary, but often features a thicker, more rounded profile. This can offer a comfortable feel for some players, while others may prefer a slimmer profile.
- 2: Neck profiles can differ depending on the specific model and year. Some may offer slimmer profiles, improving playability for some players.
- Winner: Tie
Fretboard Material
- Les Paul Special 1: Usually features a rosewood or ebony fretboard, known for its smooth feel and contribution to the overall tone. Rosewood offers a warm tone, while ebony is brighter.
- 2: May incorporate rosewood or ebony, delivering a smooth feel and enhancing the guitar’s tonal qualities.
- Winner: Tie
Hardware
- Les Paul Special 1: Typically includes nickel or chrome hardware, providing a classic aesthetic. The quality can vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer.
- 2: Hardware can include nickel or chrome, but may also feature different finishes or materials depending on the specific model.
- Winner: Tie
Finish
- Les Paul Special 1: Often available in a variety of finishes, including gloss and satin options. The finish impacts the look and feel of the guitar.
- 2: Wide range of finishes are possible, providing aesthetic variety.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Raw Tone | les paul special 1 |
| Versatility | 2 |
| Sustain | 2 |
| Bridge Design | 2 |
| Neck Profile | 2 |
| Vintage Vibe | les paul special 1 |
What They Have in Common
- Body Wood: Both guitars feature a mahogany body, providing a warm and resonant tonal foundation.
- Neck Wood: Both instruments share a mahogany neck, contributing to sustain and a comfortable playing feel.
- Number of Frets: Both guitars offer 22 frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and musical expression.
- Scale Length: Both models share a 24.75-inch scale length, a Gibson standard that contributes to a classic feel.
- Controls: Both guitars have the same control layout, with two volume and two tone knobs, along with a 3-way switch.
Les Paul Special 1 Vs 2 Buying Guide
Understanding the Models
The Les Paul Special 1 and 2 represent distinct approaches to the iconic Les Paul design. The Special 1 often boasts a more traditional feel, leaning into the Gibson heritage with features that resonate with vintage enthusiasts. It frequently includes higher-quality components and a closer adherence to the original specifications. The Special 2, on the other hand, is generally positioned as a more budget-friendly option, making the Les Paul experience accessible to a wider audience. This difference in target audience reflects in the materials and construction methods employed, influencing the overall playing experience and cost.
Construction and Materials
Construction plays a crucial role in the sound and feel of a guitar. The Les Paul Special 1 usually features a mahogany body, known for its warm, resonant tone, often paired with a set-neck construction for enhanced sustain. The Special 2 typically utilizes similar body woods, sometimes including a maple top for added brightness. The construction methods may differ, with the Special 2 often employing a bolt-on neck to reduce manufacturing costs. This difference affects the sustain and overall resonance of the instrument, with set-neck guitars generally offering a more connected sound.
Electronics and Sound
The pickups are the heart of a guitar’s voice, and both models deliver a range of tones. The Special 1 usually comes equipped with higher-end pickups, often featuring Alnico magnets for a classic, dynamic sound. These pickups are designed to capture the nuances of your playing. The Special 2 may utilize more affordable pickups, still capable of producing a variety of sounds suitable for various musical styles. The wiring and controls, including volume and tone knobs, also influence the tonal possibilities of each guitar, allowing for precise sound shaping.
Playability and Feel
The feel of a guitar is subjective, but important. The Les Paul Special 1, often aims for a more premium playing experience with a well-finished neck, meticulously crafted frets, and comfortable action. This results in smooth playability and effortless string bending. The Special 2 may have a neck profile that is a bit chunkier or a bit thinner, and perhaps less refined fretwork. These differences can influence the ease of play and the overall feel of the instrument, affecting the player’s comfort level and ability to perform their best.
Price and Value
Price is a significant factor in any guitar purchase. The Les Paul Special 1 generally commands a higher price tag due to its superior components, construction, and often, its association with the Gibson brand. This investment reflects the quality and craftsmanship. The Les Paul Special 2 is designed to be more affordable, making it an excellent entry point into the world of Les Paul guitars. Evaluating the value proposition requires considering the features, sound quality, and the intended use of the guitar to determine which model best suits your budget.
Intended Use and Target Audience
The intended use of the guitar should guide your choice. The Les Paul Special 1 is usually aimed towards players who value tone, playability, and a vintage-inspired aesthetic, and are prepared to invest more. It’s a great choice for experienced players and those who want a premium instrument. The Special 2 is ideal for beginners, hobbyists, or players on a budget who want to experience the iconic Les Paul sound without a significant financial commitment. Considering your musical goals and experience level will help you make the best decision.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy les paul special 1 If…
- You prefer the raw, gritty tone of P-90 pickups.
- You enjoy a simpler bridge design (Wraparound).
- You prefer the vintage look and feel.
- You want a guitar with a classic, no-frills design.
Buy 2 If…
- You prefer the higher output and versatility of humbucker pickups.
- You desire the improved intonation and sustain of a Tune-o-matic bridge.
- You prefer a thinner neck profile for faster playing.
- You want a more modern and refined aesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the Les Paul Special 1 and 2?
The Les Paul Special 1 typically features higher-quality components, superior construction, and is usually made in the United States. The Special 2 is designed to be more budget-friendly, often using less expensive materials and manufacturing processes. The Special 1 often has a better fit and finish. The most obvious differences are in the hardware, the pickups, and the overall construction quality, which all impact the sound and playability.
Which guitar is better for beginners?
The Les Paul Special 2 is often the better choice for beginners due to its more accessible price point. It provides a good introduction to the Les Paul sound and feel without requiring a significant financial commitment. It allows a beginner to develop their skills and musical interests. While the Special 1 is an excellent guitar, the Special 2 is more budget-friendly and less risky for a beginner.
What kind of pickups do they typically have?
The Les Paul Special 1 often comes equipped with high-quality humbucker pickups, possibly made with Alnico magnets. The Special 2 usually features pickups designed for a more budget-friendly price point. The specific pickup models can vary, but both offer a range of tones suitable for various musical genres. The Special 1 pickups often provide a richer and more nuanced tone compared to the Special 2.
How does the build quality differ?
The Les Paul Special 1 generally boasts superior build quality, with a focus on premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship. The Special 2’s build quality is still good, but prioritizes cost-effectiveness. The Special 1 often has a better finish, more precise fretwork, and a more robust overall construction. The Special 2 will still offer the basic Les Paul design, but some details may be simplified.
Does the neck profile differ between the two?
Yes, the neck profiles may differ. The Les Paul Special 1 may have a more traditional neck profile, such as a ’50s or ’60s style. The Special 2 might feature a slightly different profile that is potentially less expensive to produce. The neck profile impacts playability and feel, so it’s essential to consider your preferences when choosing between the two models. The Special 2 might have a thinner neck.
What about sustain?
Sustain is influenced by various factors, including the construction and materials. The Les Paul Special 1, with its set-neck construction, often delivers superior sustain. The Special 2, which might have a bolt-on neck, could have slightly less sustain. However, the differences in sustain depend on overall construction quality. Both models can produce plenty of sustain for most playing styles.
Which one holds its value better?
The Les Paul Special 1 generally holds its value better than the Special 2. This is due to its higher quality, the brand association with Gibson, and the use of premium components. The Special 2 is also a great guitar, but, because of its price point and materials, it is less likely to appreciate in value over time. Overall, the Special 1 is a better investment.
Final Verdict
Both the Les Paul Special 1 and 2 offer distinct advantages. The Special 1 excels with its premium components, superior build quality, and classic tone, appealing to experienced players. The Special 2 offers a more budget-friendly entry point without compromising the essential Les Paul experience. The choice depends on your budget and preferences. Consider the playability and the intended use when choosing.
Winner: Les Paul Special 1