Studio Custom Gig Report

[BoogieMKIIA]

I've been using a Player Tele almost exclusively for gigs the past few years. Covers all the styles from country to pop to rock and you don't have to worry about dings and wear. Don't have to hassle switching guitars in the middle of a set.

Last night I took my 2002 Studio Custom and played it the last set. Maybe not as good for country tones but still very good. There were several highlights that will make me take it out more often.

The appearance is fantastic. The vintage natural flame top looked great under the light, much more dynamic than at home. Last song was a rock inspired House of the Rising Sun jam. The woody tone from the neck pickup was great for the first lead, not available on a standard Tele. Second lead was on the bridge pickup with a wah, that tone really stood out. Pickups are @JGravelin Ultimates with UOA5 magnets and slight tweaks, most excellent.

I'm at the point where I feel guilty having nice guitars and not playing them. Not worried about honest light wear from playing. The more you play them the better they sound and play,

I'll still use the Tele most due to the song mix of the band. The Hamer and Les Paul will be getting more playing time.

[Dave Scepter]

That's a gorgeous guitar👍🏼

[DaveH]

Yes it is.

[Kerry Marchman]

Killer guitar! Fantastic top!

[Brooks]

Beautiful

[rugby1970]

Outstanding

[draelyc]

Absolutely stunning Studio!  
 

How do your Studio and your LP compare/contrast?

 

[BoogieMKIIA]

6 hours ago, draelyc said:

Absolutely stunning Studio!  
 

How do your Studio and your LP compare/contrast?

 

The Les Paul sounds a bit fatter, the highs are a little less pronounced. The bridge PU is a slightly hot Gravelin and the neck is a PAF style Gravelin. Les Paul neck is not as chunky (it’s a 1973 Deluxe) and the guitar is heavy. I favor the Les Paul to the Studio Custom overall, perhaps because I’ve had it since it was new. 

[Travis]

Gorgeous flame on that studio. And I dig the LP, too. 

[hamerican gigolo]

On 5/3/2025 at 2:24 PM, BoogieMKIIA said:

having nice guitars and not playing them. 

If you feel that guilty, I'd be happy to take a short drive & relieve you of that gorgeous Studio... 😉

[BoogieMKIIA]

I got the Les Paul out on Saturday and played it the second half of the evening. Felt great and sounded great. Meaty is the term compared to the Tele. Not sure I could manage all three on one gig but will play one of them more often than just the Tele.