Specifications:
Model: Gibson Custom Shop Murphy Lab '57 Les Paul Custom 3-Pickup Reissue
Year: 2023
Finish: Ebony (Murphy Lab Light Aged Nitrocellulose Lacquer)
Aging: Murphy Lab Light Aging (Lacquer Checking, Light Wear on Hardware & Finish)
Top: Solid Mahogany (No Maple Cap, True to 1957 Spec)
Body: One-Piece Mahogany (No Weight Relief)
Neck: One-Piece Mahogany ('50s Chunky Profile)
Fingerboard: Ebony with Mother of Pearl Block Inlays
Frets: 22 Medium Jumbo
Scale Length: 24.75”
Nut Width: 1.687” (Nylon Nut)
Pickups: Custom-Wound Gibson Custom Bucker (PAF-Inspired)
Neck: Custom Bucker
Middle: Custom Bucker
Bridge: Custom Bucker
Electronics:
2 x Volume, 2 x Tone (Hand-Wired with CTS Pots & Bumblebee Capacitors)
3-Way Toggle Switch (Traditional Les Paul Custom Wiring)
Bridge: ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic with Lightweight Aluminum Stopbar Tailpiece
Tuners: Grover Rotomatic (Nickel, Aged)
Hardware: Aged Gold (Murphy Lab Light Aged)
Weight: [To be confirmed]
Personal Thoughts:
The Murphy Lab '57 Les Paul Custom 3-Pickup Reissue is the epitome of vintage elegance and tonal versatility, and this 2023 model with light aging takes it to a whole new level. Finished in classic Ebony, this guitar exudes rock royalty, paying tribute to the legendary "Black Beauty" Les Paul Customs played by icons like Peter Frampton and Randy Rhoads.
The solid mahogany body (without a maple cap) gives this guitar thicker lows, smooth mids, and a warm, full-bodied sound, while the ebony fingerboard adds attack, clarity, and articulation. The three Custom Bucker pickups provide a stunning range of tones, allowing for everything from creamy neck-position jazz tones to searing bridge-position rock leads. The middle pickup adds an extra layer of versatility, especially when blended with the neck or bridge.
The Murphy Lab Light Aging treatment is incredibly tasteful, with subtle lacquer checking, softened edges, and just the right amount of wear on the gold hardware to make it feel like a well-preserved vintage instrument. The '50s chunky neck profile has that iconic vintage feel, substantial yet comfortable, making it perfect for both lead and rhythm playing. The Grover tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability, and the ABR-1 bridge with aluminum stopbar tailpiece enhances resonance and sustain.
Condition Report:
This Murphy Lab '57 Les Paul Custom 3-Pickup Reissue is in excellent condition, meaning it has no additional wear beyond the factory-applied Light Aging treatment. The Ebony finish is immaculate, with the Murphy Lab lacquer checking and subtle aging giving it a true vintage vibe. The ebony fingerboard is pristine, with frets showing little to no signs of wear.
The aged gold hardware has the intentional Murphy Lab wear, giving it a beautifully aged patina without excessive tarnishing. All electronics function perfectly, with no static, dropouts, or issues with the volume and tone controls. The 3-way switch is crisp and precise, allowing for effortless pickup selection.
This guitar comes complete with its original Gibson Custom Shop Lifton-style hard case, COA, and all case candy, making it an outstanding choice for both collectors and serious players. If you’re looking for a truly special Les Paul Custom with iconic looks, vintage-inspired tone, and world-class craftsmanship, this Murphy Lab Light Aged '57 Black Beauty is a top-tier option.