(SOLD) Gibson Les Paul Studio Gem Series Emerald 1996
Gibson LP Studio, Gem Series 'Emerald' model, made in USA 1996. This is such an awesome guitar. The Gem Series were only made in 96/97, they came in sapphire and ruby variations alongside this emerald finish and were sold largely to the Japan market. All models were basically LP Studios with P90s; a rare combo that's seldom popped up since these were discontinued. The finish is so dark it's almost black, but then the green flashes out at certain angles under certain lights; it's subtle and super classy. The gold hardware and aged cream plastics complete the vibe perfectly; this blends sophistication and street smarts perfectly. Tone-wise, well, you're in for a treat. The trademark sparkling clarity of the P90s is superb; it's complemented by a strong and complex midrange and a bold, thick attack. This eats up big lead lines with great enthusiasm. These mid 90s era Gibsons were made really well, plus these Japan market limited runs were subject to addition stringent quality control checks, so this one is bang-on for build quality. Overall: it's a gem (har).
Model: Gibson Les Paul Studio Gem Series Emerald
Made: USA, 1996 (serial 92346562)
Finish: 'emerald' semi-transparent super dark green
Body: mahogany, maple cap
Neck: mahogany, rosewood board, 24.75" scale, 12" radius
Weight: 3.910kg
Mods: tuners replaced, neck sanded back to satin/open pore style
Pickups: Gibson P-90 single coil x2
Case: basic non original gig bag
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. Headstock has no major marks; it may possibly have been refinished along with the neck. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands and feeling great, no major marks. The back has widespread light scuffs and dimples, but no major marks. The sides have minor dimples around the whole body, no major marks though. The front has some dimples along the back edge, dimples near the tailpiece and standard play wear on the guard and top horn. Overall: very good condition (8/10)
Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, action is low, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. Frets have a little wear, but there's heaps of life in them and they're pretty even, 7/10 for fret life left. No headstock breaks. Wearing fresh 10/52 Moonshiners string.