Gibson 1957 Les Paul Special Ref TV

“I want to really let loose on stage with that sweet, full-bodied mahogany tone from a Les Paul Special from the golden age of the ’50s and the tenacious sound of vintage P-90 pickups.” But with recent market price spikes, fully original models have become far too expensive to even consider. Aren’t you looking for a workhorse guitar—one you can really put through its paces in live performances and recordings—rather than just a collector’s piece to display?

Since its debut in 1955, the Les Paul Special has continued to be loved as a one-of-a-kind guitar that combines the clean lines of the Junior with the elegance of the Standard. However, prices for genuine 1950s vintage models have skyrocketed, making it an extremely challenging time for active players who are purely seeking great sound and playability. It’s extremely difficult to find a genuine vintage sound—one you can play to your heart’s content on stage without hesitation—rather than a high-priced, fully original guitar meant only for display.

This 1957 Gibson Les Paul Special has been meticulously refinished, had its parts replaced, and been modified to achieve the ultimate in playability. It embodies uncompromising, battle-ready specifications, thoroughly tuned from a player’s perspective.

The rich, sweet, and full-bodied midrange characteristic of mahogany blends perfectly with the powerful, focused high end produced by the original 1950s vintage P-90 pickups. The alluring harmonic richness that envelops the entire sound is an authentic tone that can only be experienced in instruments from this era.

The neck grip has been reshaped to a slimmer, more comfortable profile, and combined with the refretted frets, it delivers outstanding playability. It completely overcomes the playability issues often associated with vintage instruments.

The refretted fingerboard features rare Brazilian rosewood, consistent with instruments of this era, which supports fast response and a solid, punchy attack.

It has been refinished in eye-catching TV Yellow. Although the binding on the neck side has been removed, the overall finish is beautiful and does not detract from the vintage atmosphere.

While it is by no means inexpensive for a ’50s Special, compared to the prices commanded by fully original collector’s items, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to realistically acquire authentic sound and playability. I wholeheartedly recommend this guitar to players who want to powerfully project that ’50s P-90 sound on the front lines of studio and live performances—and who refuse to compromise on playability.

Authentic vintage tone and stress-free playability, unleashed after nearly 70 years. Experience the exquisite feeling that makes your fingertips dance the moment you pick it up.

[SPEC]
BODY: Mahogany
NECK: Mahogany
FINGERBOARD: Jacaranda
PICKUP: Original P-90
WEIGHT: 3.45 kg
NUT WIDTH: 42.5 mm
w/ Soft Case
Long Scale Neck *Refined finish
*Headstock veneer replaced
*Neck reshaped
*Frets, nut, knobs, and one capacitor replaced

[Repair/Modification History / Replaced Parts / Cosmetic Condition, etc.]
*Please note that as this is a used/vintage item, the information provided is based on our inspection.
We appreciate your understanding.

*Thoroughly adjusted in-store and comes with a 5-year adjustment warranty for your peace of mind. *Please feel free to contact our staff for more details about this item. *We offer high buyback prices for items purchased from our store.

Contact: Matsui