Your thoughts on the 09 50th anniversary 59 Les Paul

[8ohms]

Hi guys, I'm looking for a 59 Les Paul and have seen a few 09 50th anniversary models I really like. Gibson's description seems to imply it is a little more period correct and more refined than the average 59 historic. I haven't played or seen one up close so I can't pass judgement. Are they worth the extra money?

I am aware of Gibson's quality control issues over the past few years.
How is Gibson's quality for 09? What might be the better years to look for if any?
I currently own an 04 R7 which I love with no issues.

 

[rbuse]

Do a search for 09 R9 and you'll have enough reading to last a whole day !
Mostly positive.

 

[eldiablo]

50th or not all '09 R9's are the same guitar same price.
VOS is a few hundred less.

I have one as do many members on this forum.
As you might imagine they are most awesome guitars.

Do a search as mentioned and you'll find a ton of info

 

[R9.]

8ohms, it's not just the R9s that got the refresh.

 

[8ohms]

Thanks for the reply's guys. I'll do some more research.

 

[6L6]

The threads that came out earlier this year sorta spell things out in total but here's my take having owned one for a few months:
They are worth the extra dough if you got the dough and want the latest and greatest (remember, the new and improved specs change every few years). Like eldiablo said, the cost varies a lot depending on if it's a glossy limited run or VOS. Other options: If you are on a budget, don't forget about the 09 R8's or R7's, a fantastic deal if you score a nice one since they have the same changes and cost thousands less. There is also a ton of pre-09 used R9s that are also a great deal (some great ones came out in '07). One tonal observation about my '09 R9 compared to previous years (although I haven't done any tweaking to it yet): it is very clear sounding especially on the neck pickup which is a good thing IMO but is also a little more "polite" sounding than my other Historics when played at higher rock out volumes, probably due to the pickups being set pretty low which is easily remedied. I also like the nylon nut and neck shape better than previous years. As an aside, like most new reissues, don't expect these to appreciate unless you plan on holding onto it for a LONG time

 

[MikeSlub]

They're awful! I kept buying one after another, and I've yet to find a good one! :wah :rofl

Seriously -- they're awesome! The best from Gibson Custom IMO! :salude

 

[55Custom]

Hi guys, I'm looking for a 59 Les Paul and have seen a few 09 50th anniversary models I really like. Gibson's description seems to imply it is a little more period correct and more refined than the average 59 historic. I haven't played or seen one up close so I can't pass judgement. Are they worth the extra money?

.

There are some 2009 '59's on ebay for about $4450. And like any other Historic, you have to assess its quality one at a time. They're not all the same.

 

[pit_s_xroad]

They're awful! I kept buying one after another, and I've yet to find a good one! :wah :rofl

Seriously -- they're awesome! The best from Gibson Custom IMO! :salude

I have seen your pic earlier already... and still think it's "naughty" :biggrin: :applaude

a thing that surprised me was that no Lifton cases are with 'em anymore... :wah

PIT...:salude

 

[MikeSlub]

a thing that surprised me was that no Lifton cases are with 'em anymore... :wah

The first run of 500 50th Anniversary models in cherry sunburst and tobacco burst with the gold color COA did come in the brown reissue Lifton-style cases, which have no neck support and not enough padding to prevent damage to the guitar.

Subsequent to that first run, they have been shipping all 09's in the black cases, which have superior neck support and padding. :hank

 

[LSGoCards7]

I love my 09 50th Anny R9. Best sounding and playing Gibson I have played ever. Also, like Mike said, the black cases aren't vintage correct but they provide superior protection and support for the guitar.

 

[Mark Kane]

The first run of 500 50th Anniversary models in cherry sunburst and tobacco burst with the gold color COA did come in the brown reissue Lifton-style cases, which have no neck support and not enough padding to prevent damage to the guitar.

Subsequent to that first run, they have been shipping all 09's in the black cases, which have superior neck support and padding. :hank

the first 500 didn't all come with brown liftons. One of the ones I tried out with a number around 450 came in a black case. I'll gladly take those crappy brown liftons off your hands:spabout