Introduced in 1955, the Les Paul Special featured a second P-90 pickup along with added volume and tone controls, enhancing the simple Junior design and providing players with the same controls found on a Standard. You still have a slab mahogany body and a set neck, but now the fingerboard is bound, offering a range of raw, dynamic tones that are more versatile than the Junior due to the extra pickup. The Les Paul Special serves as a bridge between the Junior and the Standard, yet it stands out as a really cool instrument with its own unique character.

If you’re looking for the timeless vibe of a Standard, the smooth feel of a Modern, the raw edge of a Junior, or a Gibson Custom treasure that stands the test of time, there’s definitely a Les Paul that fits your sound, playing style, and character. This Gibson Les Paul comparison and buyer’s guide is designed to assist you in making a confident purchase. No matter which route you choose, remember that you’re not just picking a guitar; you’re making an investment in a musical instrument that will endure for generations.

John E. Davis is a Texas Rock Guitarist offering FREE guitar lessons videos and covers guitar equipment, concert and music news. Visit TexasRockGuitarist.com for information on Guitar Lessons, Guitar Repair and Live Music Performance videos.