Posted by iBuyLesPaul.com
December 24, 2025
Christmas morning, the case is opened, and there it is: a beautiful Gibson Les Paul. Whether it’s your first Les Paul or the latest addition to your collection, one thing is certain—a proper setup is what separates a good guitar from a great one.
Even brand-new Les Pauls often need a little attention before they truly sound and play the way they should. Here’s what to do next to make sure your new guitar lives up to its legendary reputation.
1. Let the Guitar Acclimate
This step is often overlooked but extremely important.
If your Les Paul was shipped or transported in cold weather, do not open the case immediately. Sudden temperature changes can cause finish checking or neck issues.
Best practice:
- Leave the guitar in its closed case for 2–4 hours
- Let it slowly reach room temperature
- Then open the case and inspect it
This simple step can prevent long-term damage.
2. Check the Factory Setup (Don’t Assume It’s Perfect)
Many players assume a new guitar is perfectly set up from the factory. In reality:
- Climate changes during shipping affect neck relief
- String height may not match your playing style
- Nut slots are often cut conservatively (too high)
A Les Paul should feel comfortable, effortless, and inspiring—not stiff or awkward.
3. Truss Rod: Dial in the Neck Relief
The Les Paul’s mahogany neck and set-neck design are sensitive to humidity and temperature.
A proper setup starts with neck relief:
- Too much relief = high action and muddy tone
- Too little relief = buzzing and dead notes
A small truss rod adjustment (often 1/8 turn or less) can make a dramatic difference.
⚠️ If you’re unsure, this is where a professional setup is worth every penny.
4. Set the Action the Right Way (Not Just “Low”)
Les Pauls are not shred guitars—and that’s a good thing.
The goal is:
- Comfortable string height
- No choking during bends
- Full, resonant tone
Bridge height should be adjusted after the neck relief is correct. Many players are surprised how much better a Les Paul sounds when the action isn’t slammed as low as possible.
5. Intonation: Make It Play in Tune Everywhere
Nothing ruins the honeymoon faster than a guitar that won’t stay in tune up the neck.
Les Pauls use a Tune-o-matic bridge, which:
- Is precise
- But must be adjusted carefully
Proper intonation ensures:
- Chords sound correct
- Single-note lines stay true
- Studio and live performance accuracy
This is especially important if you change string gauge.
6. Choose the Right Strings (It Matters More Than You Think)
Les Pauls respond dramatically to string choice.
Common options:
- .010–.046: Balanced, classic feel
- .009–.042: Easier bends, slightly brighter
- .011s: More tension, thicker tone
Once you choose your gauge, the guitar should be set up specifically for it. Switching gauges without adjusting the setup is a common mistake.
7. Pickup Height: Unlock the Real Les Paul Tone
This is one of the most underrated adjustments.
Pickup height affects:
- Output
- Clarity
- Sustain
- Note separation
Too close = harsh, compressed tone
Too far = weak, lifeless sound
A few turns of a screwdriver can reveal the warm, powerful voice Les Pauls are famous for.
8. Nut, Frets, and the “Final 10%”
The difference between a good-playing Les Paul and a great one often comes down to:
- Properly cut nut slots
- Level frets
- Clean fretboard and frets
- Correct lubrication at contact points
This is where professional setups truly shine—especially on higher-end Gibson models.
Enjoy It — and Take Care of It
A Les Paul isn’t just a guitar; it’s an instrument with history, character, and long-term value. A proper setup:
- Makes it easier to play
- Improves tone dramatically
- Helps preserve the guitar over time
If you’ve received a Les Paul this Christmas, congratulations—you now own one of the most iconic guitars ever made. Treat it right, set it up properly, and it will reward you for decades.
Thinking About Buying or Selling a Les Paul?
At iBuyLesPaul.com, we specialize exclusively in Gibson Les Pauls—helping players and collectors understand what they have and what it’s worth.
Whether you’re just getting started or managing a collection, you’re in the right place.
Rock on and Merry Christmas
The iBuyLesPaul.com Team
We Buy, Sell, and Obsess Over Les Pauls Daily
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