What's the Deal with Old Les Paul Customs? | 1978 Gibson Les Paul Custom Natural

The "Norlin" Era of Gibson is quite an interesting one due to all the spec changes that occurred. Some guys like them, some guys hate 'em, but there truly is something for everyone, but it can be kind of hard to pinpoint which one might be best for you! I hope this guide helps you. I personally really like the 1976-1982 era.

🐕 Episode Guide:
0:00 - Intro - Check Links in the Description
0:13 - Recap
0:40 - Les Paul Customs 1968-1970
1:24 - Les Paul Customs 1970-1972
2:00 - Les Paul Customs 1973-1975
2:40 - Les Paul Customs 1975-1981
4:18 - Les Paul Customs 1982-1986
5:00 - Pre-1975 vs Post-1975
5:44 - Inside Look / Specs
17:38 - Clean Tones
19:31 - Dirty Tones
20:51 - Final Thoughts

🎞️ Videos Mentioned:
0:18 Trogly's Unboxing Guitar Vlog 159

⚙️ Gear Used to Make the Show: (AFFILIATE LINKS)
Guitar + Recording:
Camera:
Affiliate Links are found in this description + comments section - clicking and purchasing items from partners will help financially support the show.

[Trog]

The Norlin Era can be a lot of fun if you're open to new ideas on what a Les Paul "Should Be." They certainly weren't traditional, but they're fun!
This is by no means a complete guide, but should be good enough to help you ID which one you might like to try!

[Kahuna]

What a shock to hear Jeff Beck passed today! A giant of a musician! God Bless him and his family!🙏

[paulscushschofield]

Give jeff beck a shout, he passed earlier today, ..Legend

[postaldelivery]

You should review one of those signature Jeff Beck Oxblood Gibson Les Paul In honor of his legacy. An amazing guitarist who will always be remembered.

[TomO.]

So long, Jeff Beck. We Miss You! 🎸🎶🎶🎶🎶😎

[larryburwell]

I replaced the pickups with paf and super distortion dimarzios also

[vox]

I have a late ‘78 LPC, and I love the maple necks because the low E is nice and round sounding not mushy like the mahogany necks tend to be

[FINELINEVAN]

In 77 I was 18 years old saw 2 of these maple topped customs. Feel In Love and bought one. Played my whole live with it in all kinds of situations and it continues to be my main guitar. Still have original paper work and pink registration card from Gibson. At the time I bought it took all my saving to buy
I kept it in good condition but it has normal west after playing all those years Only difference in my 77 are the knobs are not what you put on it they were slimmer knobs I replaced the bridge as it was worn with Gibson gold plated and the nut. I was glad you reviewed it and mine is heavy.

[mikelarson]

Loved and super appreciated the comprehensive timeline here, especially company history from the KMZ/ Nashville launch. Play the Nash for Jeff Beck tomorrow!

[larryburwell]

My 76 les Paul standard serial number of course starts with 00. My 81 les Paul custom cherry burst has burst on back and burst neck and chain saw case. Course I bought a new 90s case for it and replaced all black plastic with cream. Still have chain saw case and original black plastics

[jonathanhudak]

Nice score Austin! The Natch Les Paul Customs aren't my 1st choice for a LP Custom but that is a sharp looking guitar and for being nearly 45 years old it is in pretty remarkable condition. Your knowledge on the subject matter is amazing, you've definitely done your homework over the years... 👍

[jimilee]

That’s a sharp guitar, but it sounds a little lifeless, like the strings are dead.
RIP Jeff Beck.

[adrianr]

Welcome back everyone on this evening of tragic news :( RIP Jeff Beck

[spanfreckl]

I recently bought my first norlin era Les Paul and it's just like the one shown here in the video! A natural top '77 with all original electronics. Love it! Great vid

[ZaaaZ]

Happen to watch the 2009 initiation of Jeff Beck by Jimmie Page in the Rock & Hall of Fame yesterday. A celebration to enjoy..RIP Jeff

[pariahpokemonwesbragg]

Sounds great, easy to play, and looks beautiful. Maybe I can own one..at some point in my future... before I can't play and/or die.

[michaelweinman]

18:20 had one like that. A 1981 or so a REALLY good japanese copy. Miss it a lot. Cheers to Trogsters!

[OOOOOOOOO]

Hey Austin! The natural cleaned up really nice! Would love to see a video that goes in depth to your cleaning process.

[christopherguzzi]

Fantastic custom. No, it's not a "burst", just an awesome 45 year old Les Paul Custom.☺☺☺

[CharmCityPaintball]

I really love the natural finishes. This is a beautiful guitar! Thanks for the breakdown!