Gear article

Gibson Les Paul Studio Double Trouble Dirty Lemon Burst

The Gibson Les Paul Studio Double Trouble is a limited-run electric guitar that combines traditional Les Paul construction with modern design updates. Finished in a Dirty Lemon Burst, it features a mahogany body with ultra-modern weight relief and exposed Burstbucker Pro pickups with distinctive double classic white bobbins.

Gibson Les Paul Studio Double Trouble Dirty Lemon Burst
Gibson Les Paul Studio Double Trouble Dirty Lemon Burst
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Background and Design

The Les Paul Studio Double Trouble is a contemporary iteration of the classic Les Paul formula, intended to bridge the gap between vintage aesthetics and modern playability. As a limited-run model, it distinguishes itself from standard Studio models through its specific 'Double Trouble' cosmetic appointments and hardware configuration.

The instrument utilises the foundational tonewood combination of a mahogany body paired with a carved maple cap. This pairing is engineered to provide the characteristic warmth and sustain associated with Gibson, while the maple adds necessary 'snap' and high-end clarity. The body incorporates Gibson's Ultra Modern weight relief, a process designed to reduce the physical burden on the player without significantly compromising the guitar's acoustic resonance.

Technical Features

The neck is constructed from mahogany with a SlimTaper profile, catering to players who prefer a faster, less bulky feel compared to vintage 1950s necks. The 22-fret rosewood fingerboard is bound, a premium feature often reserved for higher-tier models, which enhances the smoothness of the edges during play.

The electronics are centered around a pair of Burstbucker Pro humbuckers. These are notably exposed, featuring 'Double Classic White' bobbins rather than traditional metal covers or black plastic. The Burstbucker Pro pickups are designed for high output and a dynamic response, suitable for a wide variety of genres from clean blues to aggressive rock.

Andrew Taylor
Andrew Taylor

Sound and Character

Sonically, the Double Trouble model is defined by its balance of power and articulation. The Burstbucker Pro pickups provide rich output with a focus on articulate highs. This makes the instrument particularly responsive to picking dynamics and volume pot adjustments. The combination of the mahogany back and maple top ensures that while the low-end is thick, the guitar maintains enough definition to cut through a dense band mix.

Market Position and Alternatives

At a typical price point of £1,549, the Studio Double Trouble sits as a mid-to-high-tier option within the Gibson catalogue. It competes with other high-performance single-cut and double-cut guitars.

Notable alternatives from other manufacturers include: * Fender American Professional II Stratocaster: Offers a different tonal palette with its roasted pine body and single-coil configuration. * Fender Jim Root Telecaster: A more minimalist, high-gain alternative for modern metal players. * Gibson Les Paul Standard 50s P90: A more traditional choice for those seeking vintage specifications and P90 single-coil grit. * Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster: A signature model focusing on mid-boost versatility.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary difference of the Double Trouble model?
The Double Trouble is a limited-run version of the Les Paul Studio featuring exposed 'Double Classic White' Burstbucker Pro pickups and a specific Dirty Lemon Burst finish. It also includes a bound rosewood fretboard, which is not always standard on all Studio models.
What type of weight relief does this guitar have?
This model features Gibson's Ultra Modern weight relief. This involves strategically chambering the mahogany body to reduce weight while maintaining the guitar's structural integrity and tonal characteristics.
Which pickups are installed in the Gibson Les Paul Studio Double Trouble?
It is equipped with Burstbucker Pro humbuckers. These pickups are known for their rich output and articulate highs, and in this specific model, they feature exposed white bobbins for a unique aesthetic.
What is the neck profile of this model?
The guitar features a SlimTaper mahogany neck. This profile is thinner and faster than traditional '50s-style necks, making it more comfortable for modern playing techniques and smaller hands.
Does this guitar come with a rosewood fretboard?
Yes, it features a bound rosewood fretboard. The binding provides a smooth feel along the edges of the neck, and the rosewood contributes to the warm, traditional Les Paul tone.
What finish is used on the Double Trouble model?
The model is finished in 'Dirty Lemon Burst.' This finish is designed to capture a timeless, slightly aged Les Paul appearance while maintaining a modern edge.
Is this guitar suitable for high-gain music?
Yes, the Burstbucker Pro pickups are designed with a higher output than vintage PAF-style pickups. This makes them well-suited for overdrive and distortion while remaining dynamic.
What tonewoods are used in the construction?
The guitar uses a classic combination of a mahogany body and a carved maple cap. The neck is also made of mahogany with a rosewood fingerboard.
How many frets does the Double Trouble have?
The guitar is equipped with 22 frets on a bound rosewood fingerboard. This is the standard configuration for a Gibson Les Paul.
How does the price compare to a Les Paul Standard?
Typically priced around £1,549, the Studio Double Trouble is generally more affordable than a Les Paul Standard, such as the 50s P90 model, which often carries a higher price tag due to more elaborate cosmetic appointments.
Who are some famous artists associated with Gibson Les Pauls?
The Les Paul platform has been used by a wide array of legendary musicians including Les Paul himself, Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger, Dave Grohl, Duane Allman, and Brian May. Other notable users include Eddie Vedder, Hank Marvin, and Taylor Swift.
What is the visual appeal of the Double Classic White bobbins?
The exposed white bobbins provide a 'bold new twist' on the aesthetic of the guitar. They contrast sharply with the Dirty Lemon Burst finish, giving the instrument a standout, aggressive look compared to covered pickups.