Introduction:
When it comes to guitars, everyone has their own preferences and personal opinions on what they consider to be valuable. While many guitarists may value their instruments based on their price or rarity, what truly makes a guitar valuable is how it resonates with its owner. In this blog post, we will discuss the most valuable guitar in my collection and why it holds such significance.
My Most Valuable Guitar:
The most valuable guitar in my collection is my 1981 Gibson Les Paul Deluxe. This guitar has been with me for over 20 years and has been a constant companion on stage and in the studio. It was originally purchased second-hand and has since undergone multiple modifications to make it truly unique.
Body and Design:
The Les Paul Deluxe has a solid Mahogany body with a Maple top finished in a stunning Tobacco Sunburst. What sets this guitar apart from other Les Paul’s is the addition of two mini-humbucker pickups instead of the typical humbuckers. The Mini-humbuckers give the guitar a unique sound that can cut through the mix without sacrificing tone. The guitar also boasts a fast Slim Taper neck that allows for fast playability.
History:
The Les Paul Deluxe was originally introduced in 1969 as a budget model for the Les Paul line. It was designed to appeal to the hard rock crowd and featured the mini humbucker pickups. The guitar didn’t achieve the same level of popularity as other Les Paul models, but it did have a following among musicians including Pete Townshend of The Who and Neil Young.
Modifications:
When I originally purchased this guitar, it had already undergone some modifications. The previous owner had added a Bigsby tremolo system and had replaced the tuners with high-end Grover locking tuners. I decided to take it a step further and completely overhaul the electronics. I replaced the original push/pull pots with high-end CTS pots and wired each pickup to its own volume control. This modification allowed me to blend the two pickups together to achieve a variety of unique sounds.
Value:
In terms of monetary value, my Les Paul Deluxe is not the most expensive guitar in my collection. However, its value to me is immeasurable. This guitar has been with me through thick and thin, and I have countless memories associated with it. From recording sessions to live shows, this guitar has been a reliable workhorse that has never let me down. It has never needed major repairs and has held up incredibly well over the years.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the most valuable guitar in my collection is my 1981 Gibson Les Paul Deluxe. While it may not have the same value as other guitars on the market, its significance to me makes it priceless. The unique sound of the mini humbuckers, the fast playability of the Slim Taper neck, and the overall reliability of the instrument make it a top choice for any gig or recording session. When it comes to guitars, the true value lies in the connection between the player and the instrument, and this Les Paul Deluxe has certainly given me years of enjoyment and inspiration.
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