Okay, basically I have a 1000 dollar budget. I'm looking for a Les Paul style guitar, and I've narrowed it down the these 2. If you have any other suggestions, please feel free.
My question is what one is better? And why?
The Agile AL-3000 will run me about 600 dollars, and I'll probably end up changing the pickups to some Pearly Gates or maybe buy a new wah pedal with that money. I'll also probably do some more minor upgrades, like the a potentiometer upgrade.
With the Studio, I'm not sure if I'd change the pickups or not. If so, that'll be later on down the road.
I'll also be doing a pot upgrade, since the studios only have linear pots.
My playing style is that of... Jimmy Page/Led Zeppelin, Thin Lizzy, Guns N' Roses, Black Sabbath, Aerosmith, etc.
Answers & Comments
Verified answer
Hello there,
Of course selecting a guitar is a personal choice. We all have different tastes. I would prefer a Gibson over an Agile anytime. Why buy a copy if you can afford the real thing?
I think the construction is better. Gibson uses a lot of hand labor in the construction, assembly and fitting of their guitars. Gibson uses high quality parts. High quality parts and more hand labor means a higher price. I think it is worth it.
Linear pots? Why do you want to swap out the linear pots for audio taper pots. The linear pots always seemed to have better control (in my opinion). The audio taper is not a uniform change. Small change for a ways then jumps to a big change. I think Gibson still uses CTS pots. Those are as good as you will find in a guitar.
Later,
When it comes to guitars, price shouldn't be your guide for buying. You should always go with what feels best in your hands and plays best for YOU. The reviews help, but they can't tell you if you will like it. I suggest going to your local SamAsh or Guitar Center and trying out both of the guitars. See which one feels best to you. Compare their tone and playablity. I personally own an Epiphone Les Paul Plus Top. I love it. I wouldn't trade it for anything, except maybe a Gibson. I find that the copy (the Agile) usually doesn't meet the expectations of the original (the Epiphone). So from one guitar player to another, I strongly suggest going with the Epiphone. Epiphone has always had my back. Their guitars have amazing tone and playability. They stay in tune very well, and sound amazing with the Alnico humbuckers that are in there. The bridge pickup, with distortion, sounds amazing; it gives a real heavy Zakk Wylde sound. So overall I would definitly suggest the Epiphone LP. Hope this helped =]
Not sure why anyone would consider an Agile over a Gibson, but it's your money.
if you're planning on upgrades then why not buy a Chinese Gibson Les Paul.
i have bought 4 of them and get them shipped all the way from China for $300 total!!!