The Gibson 1957 Les Paul Goldtop Ultra Light Aged

I bought the ‘57 Goldtop version of the new Murphy Labs offerings. I went for the ultralight aged as it’s a players guitar and want my story to be told with the wear and tear. Plus it’s a hell of a lot cheaper. Although some of the Jean-by and ultra heavy aged have some stunning tops. Anyway back to mine, it’s kinda annoying that the guitar is a noticeable step up in build quality from my 2020 R0 I bought new last year. The bind is perfect, there is no ‘ binding ledge’ round the body binding, the lacquer is exceptional, not just in its look but in its feel, and has been sprayed right. Fretwork is again perfect, rolled binding edges on the edge of the neck, fret tangs rounded and smoothed. Set up perfect, nut actually cut right for once. Pickups are excellent, poss ... MoreI bought the ‘57 Goldtop version of the new Murphy Labs offerings. I went for the ultralight aged as it’s a players guitar and want my story to be told with the wear and tear. Plus it’s a hell of a lot cheaper. Although some of the Jean-by and ultra heavy aged have some stunning tops. Anyway back to mine, it’s kinda annoying that the guitar is a noticeable step up in build quality from my 2020 R0 I bought new last year. The bind is perfect, there is no ‘ binding ledge’ round the body binding, the lacquer is exceptional, not just in its look but in its feel, and has been sprayed right. Fretwork is again perfect, rolled binding edges on the edge of the neck, fret tangs rounded and smoothed. Set up perfect, nut actually cut right for once. Pickups are excellent, poss best I have had in a custombucker.

Great sounding guitar. Neck pick up is to die for. Not muddy but no too harsh, just the perfect balance. Neck and fret size is perfect. A true historic reproduction of a real 57. Very happy with my purchase.

Excellent guitar and sounds amazing. This one is very resonant, plays all genres very easily and looks amazing.

Best feeling Les Paul I've ever played!

I didn't want to spend the extra $$$ for the 59 - so I thought I'd "settle" for the 57.However, the one I received didn't have the chunky 57 neck - it feels more like the 59 neck. Then I noticed in the description that while it does say VOS - it doesn't actually say "historic". So maybe it's a 57 Gold Top with a 59 neck? Anyway - it's the best feeling Les Paul I've ever played.

Gorgeous - Smooth - Powerful

I had some concerns about how the guitar was going to look because the finish can look different on an online photo than in person, and it did. In person this guitar looks amazing!! The Murphy Lab killed it on this finish! I have purchased about 7 high end guitars over the years and this one I fell in love with immediately! As soon as I opened the case it was like WHOA!!!! The feel of the neck/action out of the box was awesome and the powerful pick ups sounded amazing through my '68 Fender Vibro-lux Reverb re-issue! I took advantage of the 48 months no interest loan option. This is my 2nd time buying a high end guitar from Derek White at Private Reserve and it's always been a great experience. He listens carefully and it is clear that this guy takes pride in his ... MoreI had some concerns about how the guitar was going to look because the finish can look different on an online photo than in person, and it did. In person this guitar looks amazing!! The Murphy Lab killed it on this finish! I have purchased about 7 high end guitars over the years and this one I fell in love with immediately! As soon as I opened the case it was like WHOA!!!! The feel of the neck/action out of the box was awesome and the powerful pick ups sounded amazing through my '68 Fender Vibro-lux Reverb re-issue! I took advantage of the 48 months no interest loan option. This is my 2nd time buying a high end guitar from Derek White at Private Reserve and it's always been a great experience. He listens carefully and it is clear that this guy takes pride in his work and honors his word. I'm actually looking forward to the next purchase with Derek at Private Reserve!

Meanest Les Paul Around

After playing this gold top a bit, it's probably one of my favorite Les Pauls Gibson has made. It has a great feel in the hands, the weight distribution is pretty great too for a Les Paul. The pickups are amazing and have a unique output that a lot of pickups don't have to ability to go anywhere near in tone. Truly one of my favorites Gibson has made.

Review of Gibson Custom Shop Murphy Lab 1957 Les Paul Goldtop Darkback Reissue Light Aged Electric Guitar in Double Gold

A work of art as much as it is a tool. Looks and sounds incredible. A pleasure to play and own.

Review of Gibson Custom Shop Murphy Lab 1957 Les Paul Goldtop Reissue Ultra Light Aged in Double Gold

One of the finest instruments I've played. Perfect in every aspect.

Review of Gibson Custom Shop Murphy Lab 1958 Les Paul Standard Reissue Ultra Light Aged in Bourbon Burst

How can I not, it's a dream guitar. From Presentation to playing, nothing needs to be different.

Still a dream, two years on....

For the music I like this guitar is as close to it gets to a universal instrument and there's simply nothing that could be improved upon in sound, playability, and appearance. I'm grateful to own this masterpiece!