Gibson The Paul
| The Paul | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Gibson |
| Period | 1978 – 1982 (The Paul) 1980 - 1984 (Firebrand) |
| Construction | |
| Body type | Solid Walnut (Mahogany 82-84) |
| Neck joint | Set |
| Scale | 24.75" |
| Woods | |
| Body | Walnut |
| Neck | Walnut |
| Fretboard | 22 fret - Ebony |
| Hardware | |
| Bridge | Tune-O-Matic |
| Pickup(s) | 2 T-tops |
The Paul is an electric guitar made by Gibson Guitar Corporation. The first model was manufactured from 1978 to 1982.[1] It was targeted to customers who wanted Gibson quality and reputation at a lower price point. It included such high end items as the Grover tuning keys and the Tune-O-Matic bridge but saved money with nickel plating rather than gold, attaining further cost savings by not including the carved top (often maple) seen on most Les Paul variants. It has a solid walnut body and neck and affectionately called "The Coffee Table Burst" [2] because of its natural finish[3].
In 1996, the model was resurrected with the The Paul II, with a mahogany body and carved top like a Les Paul Studio instead of the flat top of prior models of The Paul. The body is 2/3 as thick as a normal Les Paul and features a rear belly cut as well. In 1998 The Paul II was replaced by The Paul SL, itself discontinued in 1999.