NYC resident here buying first LP. Hunt one in person or buy online?

[LPplayerNYC]

Just as the title says. I am looking to purchase my first Les Paul standard after loving a Tribute model I used to own but sold when I needed the money (stupidest decision I ever made I LOVED that guitar).

I basically want to start playing open mics in NYC I am a blues player and need a guitar as I currently don’t own one.

I know all guitars are different especially Les Paul’s. If you were me, living in Manhattan, would you hunt one down in a shop new or used, or would you just order a brand new one on Sweetwater. I want to keep my budget right around the $3000 mark.

I am open to hearing opinions of certain used years to look for, or where to purchase, any info would be greatly appreciated. Recently I played a Les Paul Faded in a GC that I really liked that reminded me of my Tribute due to the finish. I’m open to the gloss ones as well.

Thanks!

 

[LPplayerNYC]

Also, would you feel comfortable toting a Les Paul standard around NYC via subway/cabs or should I maybe just buy a used Tribute for fear of theft or damage? It’s a little rough in NYC these days a person tried to fight me in Popeyes today just because I apparently glanced at them the wrong way

 

[Subliminal lanimilbuS]

Lots of guitars in NYC. It is definitely the better route to be able to check out a guitar in person first to see how it plays and sounds. Plus to check for any issues.

 

[LPplayerNYC]

Lots of guitars in NYC. It is definitely the better route to be able to check out a guitar in person first to see how it plays and sounds. Plus to check for any issues.

That’s exactly what I was thinking, so many guitars here, why not hunt one down. I could care less about a ding or a bruise here or there as long as the playability and tone stand out. Plus maybe be able to strike a deal. Thanks for the reply.

 

[J T]

Go over to 30th st guitars.

 

[Blue97FXSTC]

Ask Todd Louis if he’s willing to offload one.

 

[jb_abides]

Hunt one down. Try out many, save one a great used one.

I don't know which of the classic stores are still open, but Sam Ash announced some store closures so maybe they are willing to deal aggressively.

Invest in a sturdy nondescript gig bag, maybe a used and abused one, for the subway, with backpack or cross-body straps to make yourself less of a target.

Think about Uber, or moving...?

Be safe, be careful... Good luck out there.

 

[jb_abides]

Ask Todd Louis if he’s willing to offload one.

Yeah, he certainly would know where to look, or who to ask.

 

[LPplayerNYC]

Hunt one down. Try out many, save one a great used one.

I don't know which of the classic stores are still open, but Sam Ash announced some store closures so maybe they are willing to deal aggressively.

Invest in a sturdy nondescript gig bag, maybe a used and abused one, for the subway, with backpack or cross-body straps to make yourself less of a target.

Think about Uber, or moving...?

Be safe, be careful... Good luck out there.

Can’t move, I’m a chef here in the city for good now it’s the best place for my career and I’d like to open a small blues bar within the next few years, don’t see many in NYC. But you are right sir, Uber or Cab with the guitar in hand

 

[LPplayerNYC]

Small Blues Bar with vintage back line amps, and great from scratch bar food, strong drinks. That’s my plan.

 

[charliechitlins]

Small Blues Bar with vintage back line amps, and great from scratch bar food, strong drinks. That’s my plan.

Nobody filled the Dan Lynch void.
It's been a long time...I don't know if Terra Blues still exists. I suspect not.

 

[JASON510]

I like what I've read so far. Use a gig bag or case that doesn't say "Gibson" on it. Play guitars in stores and try to support the little guy. I recently purchased a LP Studio from Sweetwater and had a very disappointing experience.

 

[MBSC]

My Generation Guitars in Syosset Long Island..John is the man

 

[jb_abides]

Small Blues Bar with vintage back line amps, and great from scratch bar food, strong drinks. That’s my plan.

I miss the Lone Star Cafe, that was one of the best venues and hangs in NYC... maybe a smaller scale version if the draw isn't there...

Remembering The Lone Star Cafe NYC

Beginning in 1976, the Lone Star was a haven for Texas-style bad behavior in New York City. It was a raucous, often crowded place, with free-flowing...

msmokemusic.com

 

[J T]

try rudys in soho

 

[charliechitlins]

I miss the Lone Star Cafe, that was one of the best venues and hangs in NYC... maybe a smaller scale version if the draw isn't there...

So many shows at the Lone Star.
So long ago, I don't remember.
Burrito Bros, Jorma...I saw a lot of the Blues guys during those years, but don't remember the venues...some were undoubtedly at the Lone Star. Gatemouth, Otis Rush, Fenton Robinson, Luther Allison...
I wonder what happened to that iguana...

 

[charliechitlins]

I miss the Lone Star Cafe, that was one of the best venues and hangs in NYC... maybe a smaller scale version if the draw isn't there...

Interesting picture of Albert Collins in that article!

 

[jb_abides]

Interesting picture of Albert Collins in that article!

Too many Alberts for that guy, I guess! LOL

 

[LPplayerNYC]

I like what I've read so far. Use a gig bag or case that doesn't say "Gibson" on it. Play guitars in stores and try to support the little guy. I recently purchased a LP Studio from Sweetwater and had a very disappointing experience.

Can you elaborate on your disappointment I’m very curious?

 

[mthrunn]

Just as the title says. I am looking to purchase my first Les Paul standard after loving a Tribute model I used to own but sold when I needed the money (stupidest decision I ever made I LOVED that guitar).

I basically want to start playing open mics in NYC I am a blues player and need a guitar as I currently don’t own one.

I know all guitars are different especially Les Paul’s. If you were me, living in Manhattan, would you hunt one down in a shop new or used, or would you just order a brand new one on Sweetwater. I want to keep my budget right around the $3000 mark.

I am open to hearing opinions of certain used years to look for, or where to purchase, any info would be greatly appreciated. Recently I played a Les Paul Faded in a GC that I really liked that reminded me of my Tribute due to the finish. I’m open to the gloss ones as well.

Thanks!

I would do whatever suits you, man. I too live in Manhattan, have > 10 LP’s, take the subway all the time with them, and have never ever had a problem