Re: Using a Les Paul for lead?
I've always found the Les Paul to be a wicked leads guitar. For the longest time I didn't get along with them, but I tried a few after playing a few years on other guitars, and kind of fell in love with them again. I'm back to playing one as my main guitar now, after 3 years since my last Les Paul.
For leads, they are interesting, because they simply have a lot of "weight" in the tone, that shines through when you play leads. It's also good for guys who will play some rhythm between lead parts, as you get a lot of punch and body, so you can cut through and really accents what you play. Through a brit flavored amp, it can't be beat for rock. Strats and Teles will get you another vibe, but for pure rock, a LP is hard to beat. I use to be pretty big on PRS, because of the extra definition I perceived in their tone, but now I would rather go for the more full bodied character of the Les Paul.
In the price bracket of that LTD, there are also different models to consider. Epiphone Customs can be decent if you find a good one. The LTD are nice, specially if you are looking for something more modern, but the different scale and fret number will change the feel, tone, specially when playing the neck pickup (the bane of 24 fret guitars). Godin now makes a new series of set neck LP inspired guitars that come with pretty wicked pickups, and even P90s. Another great option is a used Gibson studio series. They are not all great, but some are really nice guitars. Of course if you have the cash, a used standard or traditional is great, but that gets a bit pricey.
Just play around, and you'll find something you dig. Don't be afraid of upper fret access, as with proper technique, it's manageable, although there is an adaptation period (like anything else really). The Les Paul design is cool, hopefully you'll find something you dig.
