Which way to go for a vintage goldtop ('52/'53 vs. '68)?

[aladdinsane]

Hey everyone,

Just posted this in the '50s section, but it involves '68s, so I thought I'd post here, too.

Been really thinking about getting a goldtop. I've always been a Custom guy (mostly Norlins and some newer ones) and I started down the road of the '54 Custom, but something has led me to the goldtop after a lot of lurking here, researching, etc.

So, the question is, do I try to pick up a '52/'53 with some issues or try for a '68? I've seen some of each in the same ballpark, pricewise.

The dilemma is trapeze vs. TOM, mostly, and whether or not it's smarter to try for a 50s LP in the same price range. Just wondering what you all think about the playability of the trapeze with or without the MojoAxe, etc. vs. a '68.

Also, I saw a 10 lb.+ 68 recently and I know most people go for the 8-9 range. I don't mind a 10 pounder, as I'm used to my Norlins.

Thanks!

 

[oldsongs]

I think you'll find the best value in a 1953-55 wraptail goldtop or pre-PAF Custom, and both of those guitars should play great. It might mean saving up more money or being patient for the right deal to come along. An intact '68 will be tough to find and expensive. I'd rather have a McCarty-era Gibson

 

[aladdinsane]

I think you'll find the best value in a 1953-55 wraptail goldtop or pre-PAF Custom, and both of those guitars should play great. It might mean saving up more money or being patient for the right deal to come along. An intact '68 will be tough to find and expensive. I'd rather have a McCarty-era Gibson

I hear ya. I've found a real '68 with some small issues for a good price, so I was wondering about it vs. a trapeze 52/53. I don't think a 53-55 will ever be within my reach now that they're in the 20-30K range (sadly). If you had a good price on a '68, would you go for it over the trapeze? Or would a trapeze with a MojoAxe be the better was to go?

 

[Progear]

I hear ya. I've found a real '68 with some small issues for a good price, so I was wondering about it vs. a trapeze 52/53. I don't think a 53-55 will ever be within my reach now that they're in the 20-30K range (sadly). If you had a good price on a '68, would you go for it over the trapeze? Or would a trapeze with a MojoAxe be the better was to go?

Money wise , Go for the '68 with a TOM, the spread between a 50's and a '68 is not big.. It would be more about the individual guitar rather the the year... IMHO .. eace2

 

[marshall1987]

I think it would be advisable to play examples of each (early 50's, late 60's) and select the guitar that sounds and plays best. Since the price range is assumed to be about the same, it comes down to your personal preference.