Gear article
Gibson Slash Les Paul Standard Left Handed (November Burst)
The Gibson Slash Les Paul Standard Left Handed is a premium signature electric guitar designed to the specific performance requirements of the Guns N' Roses guitarist. It features a solid mahogany body with an AAA flamed maple top, powered by custom Burstbucker Alnico II pickups and hand-wired electronics.
See live pricesOverview
The Gibson Slash Les Paul Standard Left Handed represents a collaboration between Gibson and one of rock music's most influential figures. This specific model, finished in 'November Burst', is built to deliver the sustain, warmth, and tonal characteristics associated with Slash's career. Unlike standard production models, this signature edition incorporates specific hardware and aesthetic choices approved by the artist, including a distinct neck profile and custom-voiced electronics.
Construction and Materials
The guitar is constructed from a solid mahogany body, providing a foundation of rich sustain and low-end warmth. This is paired with an AAA flamed maple top, which adds a visual depth to the November Burst finish and contributes a touch of brightness to the overall harmonic profile. The mahogany neck features a 50s Vintage profile, providing a substantial feel in the hand, and is topped with a rosewood fingerboard for a smooth playing surface.
Electronics and Hardware
At the heart of the instrument's sound are the Custom Burstbucker Alnico II pickups. These are designed to capture the high-gain searing leads and thick rhythm tones that define Slash's signature sound. The electronics are hand-wired and utilize Orange Drop capacitors, which are known for their reliability and precision in tone shaping. The guitar also features signature aesthetic appointments, such as the 'Skully' logo on the back of the headstock and Slash's signature on the truss rod cover.
User Experience and Suitability
This instrument is primarily suited for rock and blues players who require a high-output instrument with vintage ergonomics. The 50s neck profile is tailored for those who prefer a thicker grip compared to modern 'slim-taper' designs. As a left-handed model, it serves a specific market segment that often lacks access to high-end signature specifications. The package is rounded out with Slash-approved accessories, including Ernie Ball strings, Dunlop Tortex picks, and a vintage-style brown hardshell case.
Market Comparison
Compared to other signature models like the Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster or the Jim Root Telecaster, the Slash Les Paul offers a more traditional, heavy-set mahogany construction with a focus on Alnico II humbucking tones. Within the Gibson range, it sits alongside the Les Paul Standard 50s P90, though it provides a distinct humbucking output rather than the brighter, single-coil snap of a P90. While more accessible than a Fender Custom Shop '61 Telecaster Relic, it remains a professional-grade instrument far removed from entry-level options like the Squier Mini Stratocaster.
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Frequently asked questions
- What body woods are used in this model?
- The guitar features a solid mahogany body paired with a high-grade AAA flamed maple top.
- Which pickups are installed in the Slash Les Paul Standard?
- It is equipped with Custom Burstbucker Alnico II pickups, designed to replicate Slash's specific tonal preferences.
- What is the neck profile of this guitar?
- The guitar utilizes a 50s Vintage-profile mahogany neck, which offers a thicker, more traditional feel.
- Does this model come with a case?
- Yes, it includes a vintage-style brown hardshell case as part of the signature package.
- Are the electronics hand-wired?
- Yes, the guitar features hand-wired electronics equipped with Orange Drop capacitors for precise tone control.
- What unique aesthetic markings identify this as a Slash signature?
- It features a 'Skully' logo on the back of the headstock and a signature on the truss rod cover.
- Is this guitar available for right-handed players?
- While this specific listing is for a left-handed version, Gibson produces the Slash Standard in both orientations.
- What accessories are included in the box?
- The guitar comes with Slash-approved Ernie Ball strings and Dunlop Tortex picks.
- What finish is applied to this specific model?
- This model features the 'November Burst' finish, highlighting the AAA flamed maple grain.
- How does the sound differ from a standard Les Paul?
- The use of Alnico II magnets in the Burstbuckers provides a warmer, smoother response compared to the Alnico V magnets often found in modern Standards.
- What is the typical price for this instrument?
- The typical retail price for this model is approximately GBP 2699.
- What material is the fingerboard made of?
- The fingerboard is made of rosewood, which is a traditional choice for Gibson Les Paul models.
