1998 Gibson Les Paul Special in Ebony, USED

The 1998 Gibson Les Paul Special in Ebony is a unique variation of the Les Paul lineage, blending vintage-inspired design with modern playability. This particular model stands out not only for its sleek and minimalist aesthetics but also for the addition of a Bigsby-style tremolo, which enhances its functionality and appeal for players who love incorporating subtle vibrato and pitch effects into their playing. Originally, the Les Paul Special was designed as a stripped-down version of the traditional Les Paul, focusing on delivering raw power and simplicity, and this 1998 iteration retains those core principles while offering something extra.

The body and neck of the guitar are made from solid mahogany, which contributes to the deep, resonant tones associated with Les Paul models. The ebony finish gives the guitar a dark, moody appearance, complementing the straightforward design of the Special series. This aesthetic is understated yet classic, allowing the player to focus more on the performance aspects of the instrument. The neck features a comfortable, rounded profile that appeals to both vintage enthusiasts and players looking for a more accessible playing experience.

The most notable modification on this guitar is the addition of a Bigsby-style tremolo, which is a significant departure from the fixed bridge typically found on Les Paul Special models. The Bigsby gives the guitar a retro feel and allows for expressive, smooth vibrato, lending itself well to genres like blues, rockabilly, and surf rock. Combined with the P-90 single-coil pickups that come standard on many Les Paul Specials, the guitar has a raw, punchy sound with a bit of grit, delivering strong mids and a slightly edgier tone compared to humbucker-equipped Les Pauls.

With its modified tremolo system and classic Les Paul Special characteristics, the 1998 Gibson Les Paul Special in Ebony is an intriguing guitar that bridges vintage style with modern versatility. The Bigsby-style tremolo expands its sonic possibilities while retaining the powerful, straightforward sound that Les Paul Specials are known for. Whether used for crunchy rock riffs or more nuanced tremolo-infused melodies, this guitar brings a unique flavour to any player's collection.