Gear article

Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s (Inspired by Gibson) - Silver Mist

The Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s 'Inspired by Gibson' in Silver Mist is a solid-body electric guitar designed to replicate the specifications and feel of late 1960s-era instruments. Part of a premium series aimed at capturing vintage aesthetics and performance, it features ProBucker pickups and a slim neck profile.

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Overview and Construction

The Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s is a key model within the 'Inspired by Gibson' collection, representing a significant upgrade in craftsmanship for the brand. The guitar is constructed with a traditional mahogany body topped with a maple cap. While translucent finishes in this series utilise a AAA flame maple veneer, the Silver Mist finish provides a solid, metallic vintage aesthetic. The build is completed with cream binding and accents, staying true to the visual identity of the 1960s era.

Hardware and Playability

Designed for modern reliability with vintage feel, the guitar features a SlimTaper 60s neck profile, which is notably thinner than the '50s counterparts, facilitating faster playing and easier reach across the laurel fretboard. Tuning stability is managed by high-quality components, including Grover Rotomatic tuners and a Graph Tech nut. The instrument also employs the LockTone bridge and tailpiece system, which improves sustain and ensures the hardware remains secure during string changes.

Electronics and Sound

The sonic character of the Silver Mist Les Paul Standard 60s is defined by its ProBucker humbucking pickups. It is equipped with a ProBucker 2 in the neck position and a ProBucker 3 in the bridge position. This configuration is engineered to deliver the 'warmth and bite' associated with original PAF pickups. The result is a versatile tonal range suitable for jazz, blues, and classic rock, providing a thick low-end response and a clear, articulate high-end.

Market Position and Comparison

Retailing at approximately £549, this model serves as a mid-range alternative to the more expensive Gibson Les Paul Standard 60s. Within the Epiphone and Squier market segment, it competes with other signature or specialized models like the Squier Limited Edition Mini Stratocaster or the Stagg SES-30BK, though it occupies a more professional tier. Compared to the Gibson Les Paul Standard 50s P90 Tobacco Burst, this model offers a thinner neck and humbucking pickups rather than single-coil P90s.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the neck profile of the Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s?
The guitar features a SlimTaper 60s neck profile. This design is thinner and flatter than the 1950s style, intended for a faster playing feel and increased comfort for players with smaller hands.
Which pickups are installed in this model?
This guitar is equipped with Epiphone ProBucker pickups, specifically a ProBucker 2 in the neck and a ProBucker 3 in the bridge. These are designed to replicate the sound of vintage Gibson PAF humbuckers.
What body woods are used in the Silver Mist version?
The Silver Mist Les Paul Standard 60s features a mahogany body with a maple cap. Unlike the translucent finishes in the series, it does not use a AAA flame maple veneer because of the solid metallic paint.
Does the guitar come with a case or bag?
Yes, this specific 'Inspired by Gibson' model is supplied with a premium gig bag from the manufacturer. This provides protection for transport and storage immediately upon purchase.
What hardware is used for tuning stability?
The guitar uses Grover Rotomatic tuners and a Graph Tech nut. These components work together to ensure precise tuning and reduced friction at the headstock.
How does the bridge system work?
It features a LockTone bridge and tailpiece. This system 'locks' the hardware to the posts, which prevents the bridge from falling off during string changes and is intended to improve vibration transfer and sustain.
Is the Silver Mist finish transparent or solid?
Silver Mist is a solid metallic finish. While other '60s models use transparent finishes to show wood grain, this version provides a sleek, opaque silver look with cream accents.
Who are some notable artists associated with the Les Paul?
The Les Paul design is famously used by the inventor Les Paul himself. Additionally, modern pop icons like Taylor Swift have been known to use the instrument in various performances.
What is the typical price range for this model?
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s Inspired by Gibson in Silver Mist typically retails for approximately £549. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current promotions.
What material is the fretboard made from?
The fretboard is made from Indian Laurel. This is a common alternative to rosewood that offers similar tonal properties and a smooth playing surface.
How does this compare to the Epiphone 50s Les Paul?
The primary difference is the neck profile; the 60s model has a thinner SlimTaper neck, whereas the 50s model has a chunkier, rounded profile. The 60s model also uses different ProBucker pickup variations.
What kind of nut is used on this guitar?
The guitar features a Graph Tech nut. This is a high-performance material designed to eliminate 'string ping' and provide consistent tuning stability through self-lubricating properties.