Yes, I know you have been converting thy brother's Les Paul for a while. If you played the guitar it would be game over. Shredder's action and WLHs make that guitar a beast.
Be prepared to play a lot of them as it is doubtful you will find your dream guitar on the first grab off the rack. I hope that isn't the case but it sure was for me.
I don't know why you have to shop more to get a nice sounding Les Paul, but I also had too when I was shopping a few years ago for a new Les Paul LPJ. I though it was only because it was the lowest of the lowest of the Les Paul offering. Anyway I found a good one and still surprised when comparing to Traditionals and Standards (for sound only as the look is totally not there).
ive always shopped for any guitar that i buy. usa made prs and taylor are two brands that have a good amount of consistency, but if i was in the market for one id still play a bunch before pulling the trigger
When I got my Goldtop I had no choice in what they were going to send me but I hit the lottery with that guitar. That guitar looks, plays, and sounds phenomenal.
Re: Les Paul shopping - shopping tips and standard or traditional?
I'd buy a warmoth les paul, not a gibson...but if I HAD to choose, knife to my throat, I'd take a traditional. solid body huh, not a semihollow without fholes.