Gibson has unveiled a surprising twist on a beloved classic, introducing exclusive Les Paul Special models featuring mini humbuckers. This bold move reimagines the iconic single-cut electric guitar, offering players a fresh sonic palette while retaining the instrument’s vintage charm.
Les Paul Special with Mini Humbuckers
Historically, the Les Paul Special was a bridge between the entry-level Les Paul Junior and the coveted Les Paul Standard. While maintaining the Junior’s all-mahogany construction, the Special boasted an upgraded aesthetic with a bound fingerboard.
Now, Gibson takes the tone upgrade further.
Tobacco Burst
These new exclusive models, finished in a rich Tobacco Burst, feature solid mahogany bodies and glued-in mahogany necks with a comfortable ’50s Vintage profile.
The 12” radius rosewood fingerboard retains the classic dot inlays.
P-90
The most significant departure from tradition lies in the pickup configuration. Players can choose between a P-90/mini humbucker combination or dual mini humbuckers, offering a unique tonal range previously unavailable in this model.
Gibson highlights the mini humbucker’s “low-noise humbucking pickup performance and a slightly brighter and more open tone,” fitting seamlessly into the P-90’s footprint.
Expanding on the original Special’s control layout, these new models feature individual volume and tone controls for each pickup and a three-way selector switch, all wired with Orange Drop capacitors.
Alnico II
For those considering a DIY upgrade, Gibson mini humbuckers are available separately for $129, offering a straightforward swap for existing P-90 equipped guitars.
However, the exclusive models showcase black surrounds, differing from the cream surrounds on Gibson’s aftermarket Alnico II mini humbuckers.
Additional features include a 5-ply black pickguard, a wraparound bridge/tailpiece, black ‘Top Hat’ style control knobs, and Vintage Deluxe tuners with white buttons, reinforcing the guitar’s retro aesthetic.
Gibson Exclusive
These exclusive Les Paul Specials, priced at $1,799, include a hard-shell case. They are available exclusively through Gibson Direct, including at the Gibson Garage in London and Nashville.
This release follows Gibson’s recent unveiling of the Les Paul Standard Double Trouble, a limited-edition model featuring “double white” uncovered humbuckers and a faded nitro finish.
This latest announcement further demonstrates Gibson’s commitment to exclusive limited-edition releases.
