Gibson Les Paul Studio Gothic, very black indeed, made in USA in 2000. This is a guitar that my younger-self really wanted, and for good reason: it's a perfect rock machine that strikes a nice balance between mean and understated. The matte black finish, coupled with the ebony board and black hardware combines for a blackest-LP-ever look that's very cool. 2000-era Gibsons avoided some controversial later changes, so you get some nice specs: ebony board, 490R/T pickups, deluxe Grover tuners... all sensible and hardy additions that have aged perfectly. The tone this delivers is classic LP: growl, punch and warmth, all with heaps of grunt and body... perfect for noisy rock and roll. This ticks all the boxes: plays smoothly, looks killer, sounds mean. Tip trick: it'll still be cool in another 18 years, pretty safe to say that! 

Model: Gibson Les Paul Studio Gothic
Made: 2000, USA (serial 02880489)
Finish: satin black
Body: maple top, mahogany body
Neck: mahogany with ebony board, 12th fret moon & star inlay, '59 profile
Mods: none
Pickup: 490R/490T set
Case: original Gibson hard case, good quality and condition

Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. There's some minor finish chips on the end of the headstock, on the bottom horn edge and below the second tone knob. There's some major scuffing along the bottom edge surrounding the rear strap pin, but it's only surface-deep. There's some scratches on the guard and minor dimples and play-wear on the top. Overall: good condition (7/10).

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. Frets have some normal wear but there's heaps of height left, 8/10 for life left. No headstock breaks! Setup with fresh 11/49s and playing beautifully.