Introducing the New Adam Jones Les Paul Custom by Epiphone
Epiphone recently released the Adam Jones Les Paul Custom, a signature guitar designed for the renowned Tool guitarist. This model marks a departure from the Limited Edition Custom Art guitars that were previously associated with Jones, signaling a shift towards more standardized offerings from the brand.
One notable feature of the Adam Jones Les Paul Custom is the inclusion of the iconic Gibson-like ‘open book’ headstock, a departure from the larger and rounded Epiphone ‘Kalamazoo’ era headstock seen in previous models. This makes it one of the few guitars in Epiphone’s current lineup to showcase this design element.
Following in the footsteps of Kirk Hammett’s Greeny model, which also sported the ‘open book’ headstock, Epiphone continues to expand its range of top-tier instruments under the ‘Inspired by Gibson Custom Shop’ line. The Adam Jones Les Paul Custom pays homage to Jones’ cherished 1979 Gibson Les Paul Custom, a guitar he holds in high regard as one of his all-time favorites.
Crafted with a mahogany body, maple cap, and a three-piece custom-profile maple neck with an ebony fretboard, this Chinese-built model boasts a host of premium features. The standout modification in comparison to the Custom Art series is the inclusion of a reverse-mounted Gibson Custombucker in the neck position, complemented by a Seymour Duncan Distortion pickup. Other notable components include CTS pots, Orange Drop capacitors, Epiphone hardware, GraphTech nut, and a unique Silverburst finish.
The attention to detail is evident in the tear-drop burst pattern on the rear of the guitar, as well as the custom headstock graphic designed by Joyce Su and Jones himself. Additionally, the guitar comes with a two-inch convex mirror, inspired by Jones’ own model, and a Deluxe Protector Series case for added protection.
While the price of $1,499 may seem steep, it is a fraction of the cost of the higher-end Gibson Custom Shop builds, offering a more affordable alternative to collectors and enthusiasts. Despite being priced below the Gibson Adam Jones 1979 Les Paul Custom, this Epiphone model maintains a high level of craftsmanship and quality.
Looking ahead, Epiphone has hinted at more signature models in the pipeline for this year, signaling an exciting time for fans of their guitars. The Adam Jones Les Paul Custom stands as a testament to Epiphone’s commitment to producing top-notch instruments that cater to the discerning tastes of musicians worldwide.