Gear article
Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s Figured Fireball
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s Figured Fireball is a high-specification electric guitar from the 'Inspired by Gibson' collection, designed to recreate the aesthetics and performance of early 1960s models. It features a mahogany body with a AAA flame maple veneer and is equipped with ProBucker humbucking pickups to deliver vintage-style tones.
See live pricesBackground and Design
Part of Epiphone's 'Inspired by Gibson' range, this model serves as a modern tribute to the solid-body electric guitars produced during the early 1960s. The 'Fireball' designation refers to the specific translucent finish that highlights the AAA flame maple veneer. The construction adheres to traditional specifications, utilizing a mahogany body and a maple cap to provide the structural foundation associated with the Les Paul lineage.
The guitar features historically accurate cosmetic touches, including cream binding and gold top hat knobs with silver inserts. As a premium entry in the Epiphone catalogue, it is designed to offer professional-grade features, such as a Graph Tech nut and high-quality hardware, at a mid-range price point.
Playability and Hardware
A defining characteristic of the Standard 60s model is the SlimTaper 60s neck profile. This C-shaped neck is thinner than the 1950s-style profiles, intended to provide a faster and more comfortable playing experience for modern guitarists. The neck is topped with a laurel fretboard, offering a smooth surface for string bends and chordal work.
For tuning stability and resonance, the instrument is fitted with Grover Rotomatic tuners and a LockTone Tune-O-Matic bridge. The inclusion of a Graph Tech nut ensures that strings do not bind during heavy play, maintaining pitch accuracy during live performances.
Sound Character
The sonic profile of the guitar is driven by a pair of ProBucker humbucking pickups. A ProBucker 2 is situated at the neck, while a slightly hotter ProBucker 3 is placed at the bridge. This combination is designed to replicate the 'warmth and bite' of original PAF (Patent Applied For) pickups found on vintage Gibsons.
- Clean Tones: The neck pickup offers a rounded, jazzy warmth suitable for blues and rhythm work.
- Overdriven Tones: The bridge pickup provides the necessary output for rock leads and aggressive crunch, maintaining clarity even under high gain.
Target Audience and Comparisons
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s Figured is positioned for intermediate to professional players who require a vintage-style instrument without the cost of a Gibson USA equivalent. It is particularly suited for fans of artists associated with the Les Paul platform, including the namesake Les Paul and contemporary pop-rock icons like Taylor Swift.
When compared to alternatives like the Gibson Les Paul Standard 50s P90, this Epiphone offers a thinner neck and humbucking pickups rather than single-coil P90s. While Fender alternatives such as the Eric Clapton Stratocaster or Jim Root Telecaster offer different scale lengths and bolt-on neck constructions, the Epiphone remains a primary choice for those seeking the sustain and scale length (24.75") of a traditional set-neck mahogany guitar.
Artists who play it
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Frequently asked questions
- What body materials are used in this guitar?
- The guitar is constructed with a mahogany body and a maple cap, topped with a premium AAA flame maple veneer for a striking visual finish.
- What neck profile does the Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s have?
- It features a SlimTaper 60s neck profile, which is thinner and faster-playing compared to the chunkier 50s-style necks.
- Which pickups are installed in this model?
- The guitar is equipped with ProBucker 2 humbuckers in the neck position and ProBucker 3 humbuckers in the bridge position.
- Does this guitar come with a case or bag?
- Yes, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s Figured Fireball is supplied with a premium gig bag for transport and protection.
- What type of tuners are used on this instrument?
- It features Grover Rotomatic tuners, which are known for their precision and ability to maintain tuning stability.
- What material is the nut made from?
- The guitar uses a Graph Tech nut, which helps improve sustain and prevents strings from sticking during tuning.
- How does the bridge contribute to the sound?
- The LockTone bridge and tailpiece provide exceptional sustain and ensure the hardware remains locked in place during string changes.
- What is the typical price range for this model?
- In the UK market, this guitar typically retails for approximately GBP 749.
- Which famous artists are associated with Les Paul guitars?
- Notable users of Les Paul style guitars include the inventor Les Paul himself, as well as modern artists like Taylor Swift.
- What is the fretboard material?
- The guitar features a laurel fretboard, providing a durable and smooth playing surface that complements the mahogany neck.
- How does the 'Figured Fireball' finish differ from standard finishes?
- The Fireball finish is a translucent red-to-orange burst that highlights the grain of the AAA flame maple veneer underneath.
- Is this guitar suitable for professional stage use?
- Yes, with its premium hardware, ProBucker pickups, and stable tuning components, it is designed to be ready for stage performance.


