NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

[Invader09]

Got this about a week ago. It is SERIOUSLY one of the most beautiful natural maple tops I have EVER seen ! It came with the standard 498T/490R combo, and I put the 498 in the neck, and a reverse zebra Invader in the bridge, and now its HAWT ! It sounds excellent now, and is a hell of a player aswell. Here's some pictures.

[Empty Pockets]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

That top is definitely awesome.

Even if you're playing heavier music, I would try some pickups that let the natural tone of the guitar through more. That Invader is gonna overpower all the fancy expensive wood you just paid for!

Not tryin to tell ya how to live tho man -- that thing looks like a monster. I'm starting to think a couple nice Les Pauls is all any guitarist needs...

[Andrew Lamprecht]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

I'm starting to think a couple nice Les Pauls is all any guitarist needs...

I'd take a couple good SGs over a couple good LPs...

[JOLLY]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

I love it!!

[astrozombie]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

an invader? must sound heavier than ****. awesome!

[phil_104]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

I'd take a couple good SGs over a couple good LPs...

I guess I now have to disagree with you, lol.

Seriously cool looking guitar dude! That natural maple top, and the vibe it gives just screams authentic rock attitude.

Play it in good health!

[Invader09]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

Thanks guys ! Yeah, I have NEVER seen a raw power with a top like this. It's stunning for sure.

[ricc]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

yea - that is really phenomenal. congrats! how is the 498 in the neck? i asked about doing that but some of the replies i got made me worried that if i did i might get burnt at the stake!

[JaySwear]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

i love it! like a brother to the BFG. very cool guitar.

[Invader09]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

The 498 in the neck sounds great (for what I use it for, that is) I like a creamy lead tone, and once in a while I will use it for a thick chunky ryhthm tone. It's not bad at all though. Obviously not as bright as some regular neck pickups, but a good tone for me.

[Nightburst]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

I've always wondered what an Invader sounds like in a good chunky LP!? Can you get any heavyer?

[JBG]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

Those were great guitars. One of Gibson's better ideas in the last 10 years or so. Les Pauls look great in natural. Congrats.

[lex666]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

Congrats on the new axe!! I really dig that top. I was beginning to think I was the only one who had a Raw Power. I do beleive the original Raw Powers came with EMG's. Mine did. I quickly replaced them with SD C5 & '59n.

Is yours heavy? Mine is. Mine is the heaviest of all my guitars weighing in at 9lbs 10oz (yes I weighed it) and it sings and screams. Quite possibly my favorite Les Paul in my entire collection.

[80's_Metal]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

nothing lie new guitar porn in the morning...ahhhhh. Nice!

[Invader09]

Re: NGD: 2000 Gibson Les Paul Standard Raw Power

lex666, Actually, there were 2 runs of raw power standards. one from 99-00 (some actually got produced through early 2001) and the second run comming in 2005.
The first run had the regular 498T/490R combo. and the second had EMG's. I believe that's what you have,because the second run didn't come with a pickguard either. It's lovely for sure ! Mine's not real heavey at all. I don't have a scale, but it weighs less than most LP's i've played. Sounds great acoustic too.