2016 Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP Tobacco Burst, (Used)

The 2016 Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP in Tobacco Burst combines the legendary sound and appearance of a traditional Gibson Les Paul with the innovative features of Gibson's 2016 High Performance range.

Made in the USA, this distinctive instrument pairs classic mahogany and maple construction with modern appointments including G FORCE automatic tuning, a wider neck profile, an adjustable titanium zero-fret nut and an ergonomically sculpted neck heel.

The result is a versatile Les Paul that retains the warmth, sustain and powerful humbucker tones associated with the original design while introducing additional playing comfort and practical innovations.

Featuring a mahogany body with traditional weight relief and a carved AAA figured maple top, the Les Paul Traditional HP delivers the substantial feel and rich resonance expected from a premium American-made Gibson.

Its beautiful Tobacco Burst finish highlights the figured maple and complements the guitar's traditional cream binding, rosewood fingerboard and chrome hardware.

The set mahogany neck features a substantial Traditional profile, with Gibson's wider 1.745-inch Soloist neck width providing additional room across the fingerboard.

A rosewood fingerboard with 22 frets and mother-of-pearl trapezoid inlays completes the premium specification.

The guitar features a pair of classic Gibson humbuckers: a '57 Classic in the neck position and a '57 Classic Plus in the bridge.

Inspired by the sound of vintage Gibson PAF pickups, these humbuckers deliver warm cleans, expressive blues tones, powerful classic rock overdrive and rich sustaining leads.

The G FORCE automatic tuning system provides convenient motorised tuning and access to alternative tunings, while the included charger allows the rechargeable system to be maintained.

Another attractive feature is the removable clip-on pickguard, allowing the guitar's appearance to be changed without the conventional screw-mounted pickguard arrangement.

This particular 2016 Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP is presented in Excellent Pre-Owned Condition, indicating only very light signs of previous use.

Weighing 10.18 lbs (approximately 4.62kg), it offers the substantial playing feel associated with a traditional Les Paul.

The guitar comes complete with a hardcase, containing the removable clip-on pickguard and G FORCE charger.

For players seeking classic Gibson sound and styling combined with innovative performance features, the 2016 Les Paul Traditional HP is a particularly interesting instrument.

At A Glance

Detail	Information
Brand	Gibson
Model	Les Paul Traditional HP
Year	2016
Finish	Tobacco Burst
Country of Manufacture	USA
Weight	10.18 lbs / 4.62kg
Condition	Excellent – Pre-Owned
Case	Hardcase Included

Pre-Owned Condition Report

Excellent Condition

This 2016 Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP Tobacco Burst is presented in Excellent Pre-Owned Condition, indicating only very light signs of previous use.

The guitar features its attractive Tobacco Burst finish, carved maple top, traditional Les Paul construction and distinctive High Performance appointments.

Please study the accompanying product photographs carefully for an accurate assessment of its individual cosmetic condition, including the body finish, neck, fingerboard, frets and hardware.

G FORCE Automatic Tuning System

This guitar features Gibson's G FORCE automatic tuning system, an innovative motorised tuning arrangement introduced to provide convenient tuning adjustment and access to alternative tunings.

The G FORCE charger is included and stored inside the hardcase.

Removable Clip-On Pickguard

The guitar comes with its removable clip-on pickguard, which is stored inside the hardcase.

This allows the appearance of the guitar to be changed between a traditional pickguard-equipped Les Paul and a cleaner look that leaves more of the figured maple top visible.

Weight – 10.18 lbs

This particular guitar weighs 10.18 lbs (approximately 4.62kg).

Its substantial weight gives it the familiar solid-body feel appreciated by many traditional Gibson Les Paul players.

Hardcase Included

The guitar is supplied with a hardcase, providing valuable protection during storage and transportation.

The removable clip-on pickguard and G FORCE charger are both stored inside the case.

What's Included

• 2016 Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP Tobacco Burst Electric Guitar

• Hardcase

• Removable Clip-On Pickguard

• Gibson G FORCE Charger

Service & Setup

The Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP features an adjustable truss rod, adjustable titanium zero-fret nut and Tune-O-Matic bridge, allowing suitable adjustment of neck relief, string action and intonation. Its G FORCE system should be operated and maintained in accordance with Gibson's instructions, including appropriate charging of the rechargeable battery. Regular maintenance of the nut, bridge, frets, fingerboard and electronics helps preserve consistent performance. As with all guitars, setup can naturally change due to variations in humidity, temperature and other environmental conditions, potentially affecting neck relief, string action and overall playability.

Key Features

• 2016 Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP: American-made High Performance electric guitar.

• Tobacco Burst Finish: Classic vintage-inspired Les Paul appearance.

• AAA Figured Maple Top: Beautiful carved maple construction.

• Mahogany Body: Traditional Gibson warmth and sustain.

• Traditional Weight Relief: Classic weight-relief construction.

• Set Mahogany Neck: Authentic Gibson construction.

• Traditional Neck Profile: Substantial playing feel.

• Wider Soloist Neck Width: 1.745-inch nut width.

• Fast-Access Neck Heel: Improved access to the upper frets.

• Rosewood Fingerboard: Classic Gibson feel and appearance.

• 22 Frets: Traditional Les Paul playing range.

• Mother-of-Pearl Trapezoid Inlays: Premium appointments.

• Gibson '57 Classic Neck Humbucker: Warm, vintage-inspired sounds.

• Gibson '57 Classic Plus Bridge Humbucker: Additional output and attack.

• Traditional Dual Volume & Tone Controls: Straightforward tonal adjustment.

• Three-Way Pickup Selector: Classic Gibson operation.

• G FORCE Automatic Tuning: Convenient motorised tuning.

• G FORCE Charger Included: Stored inside the hardcase.

• Adjustable Titanium Zero-Fret Nut: Modern tuning and setup feature.

• Tune-O-Matic Bridge with Titanium Saddles: Premium bridge hardware.

• Stop Bar Tailpiece: Traditional Gibson design.

• Removable Clip-On Pickguard: Included inside the hardcase.

• Excellent Pre-Owned Condition: Beautifully preserved example.

• Hardcase Included: Protection for transport and storage.

Why You'll Love It

The 2016 Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP is a fascinating combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation.

At its heart is everything players expect from a Les Paul: a mahogany body, carved maple top, set mahogany neck and a pair of powerful Gibson humbuckers.

However, the High Performance specification introduces several features that make the guitar stand apart from a conventional Les Paul Traditional.

The G FORCE automatic tuning system is a particularly distinctive addition, allowing players to tune the instrument automatically and select alternative tunings without manually adjusting each tuning machine.

The wider neck provides additional space between the strings, while the sculpted neck heel improves access to the upper register.

The titanium zero-fret nut and upgraded bridge saddles add further modern refinements.

Despite these innovations, the guitar retains the classic warmth and character of Gibson's '57 Classic pickups.

The inclusion of the removable clip-on pickguard is another attractive feature, allowing the guitar's appearance to be changed to suit personal preference.

For guitarists who appreciate the Les Paul's traditional sound but want additional modern features, the Traditional HP offers a unique and compelling combination.

Detailed Features & Benefits

Traditional Mahogany Body with AAA Figured Maple Top

The Les Paul Traditional HP features a mahogany body topped with beautifully figured AAA maple. This traditional construction provides the familiar foundation for the rich sustain, strong midrange and clear attack associated with Gibson Les Paul guitars. The carved maple top adds visual depth and character beneath the Tobacco Burst finish, while the cream body binding completes its timeless appearance.

Traditional Weight Relief

The 2016 Traditional HP uses Gibson's traditional weight-relief construction, retaining the substantial feel associated with classic Les Paul models. This approach incorporates internal weight-relief cavities while preserving the familiar solid-body response. At 10.18 lbs, this particular guitar offers a reassuringly substantial playing feel.

Tobacco Burst Finish

The Tobacco Burst finish offers a traditional Gibson appearance, combining warm amber and brown tones with darker shading around the edges of the carved maple top. It complements the guitar's cream binding and chrome hardware, creating a sophisticated vintage-inspired aesthetic.

Set Mahogany Neck with Traditional Profile

The guitar features a set mahogany neck with Gibson's substantial Traditional profile. This shape provides a fuller playing feel than many slim modern necks and is particularly appealing to guitarists who enjoy classic Gibson dimensions. The set-neck construction contributes to the familiar response associated with traditional Les Paul guitars.

Wider Soloist Neck Width

One of the defining features of the 2016 High Performance range is the wider neck design. With a nut width of 1.745 inches, the Traditional HP provides additional space across the fingerboard compared with conventional Gibson neck dimensions. This can be particularly attractive to players with larger hands or those who appreciate more room for intricate chord voicings and fingerstyle techniques.

Fast-Access Neck Heel

The High Performance neck joint features a sculpted heel designed to improve access to the upper frets. This is a particularly useful refinement for lead guitarists who regularly play in the higher register. It retains Gibson's traditional set-neck construction while providing a more comfortable playing experience near the body joint.

Rosewood Fingerboard & Mother-of-Pearl Inlays

The rosewood fingerboard features 22 frets and elegant mother-of-pearl trapezoid inlays. Its traditional playing surface offers a familiar feel for rhythm and lead guitar, while the premium inlays and cream binding provide attractive finishing details.

Gibson '57 Classic Neck Humbucker

The Gibson '57 Classic neck pickup is inspired by the warm, expressive sound of the company's original late-1950s humbuckers. It provides rounded cleans, articulate midrange and smooth lead tones, making it particularly effective for blues, jazz and classic rock.

Gibson '57 Classic Plus Bridge Humbucker

The bridge position features the Gibson '57 Classic Plus, designed to provide a slightly stronger response than the standard '57 Classic. Its additional output and upper-midrange presence make it particularly effective for overdriven rhythms, classic rock riffs and expressive lead guitar. The combination of the two pickups offers a broad range of vintage-inspired tones.

G FORCE Automatic Tuning System

The G FORCE system uses motorised tuning machines controlled by a compact electronic unit mounted on the rear of the headstock. It allows players to tune all six strings automatically and access preset alternate tunings. This is particularly useful for musicians who regularly move between standard tuning, drop tunings and open tunings.

G FORCE Charger Included

The inclusion of the original G FORCE charging accessory is particularly useful, as the automatic tuning system relies on a rechargeable battery. The charger is stored safely inside the hardcase, helping keep the instrument's tuning system convenient for regular use.

Adjustable Titanium Zero-Fret Nut

The High Performance specification includes an adjustable titanium zero-fret nut. This design allows the string height at the nut to be adjusted, providing additional flexibility during setup. Its metal construction also distinguishes it from conventional Gibson nut materials.

Tune-O-Matic Bridge with Titanium Saddles

The guitar features a Nashville-style Tune-O-Matic bridge equipped with titanium saddles. This provides individually adjustable string intonation while maintaining the familiar Gibson fixed-bridge arrangement. The Stop Bar tailpiece completes the traditional Les Paul hardware configuration.

Removable Clip-On Pickguard

The 2016 High Performance models feature a removable pickguard arrangement that allows the pickguard to be fitted or removed without the conventional screw-mounted installation. This provides a practical way to change the guitar's appearance while showcasing the figured maple top. The pickguard for this particular guitar is included inside the hardcase.

Expressive Classic Rock Tones

The combination of mahogany construction and Gibson '57 Classic pickups makes this guitar particularly effective for classic rock. The bridge pickup provides strong attack and sustain, while the neck pickup offers warmth and smoothness for melodic lead playing. The traditional controls allow players to shape their sound directly from the instrument.

Excellent for Blues & Contemporary Music

Although the Traditional HP draws heavily on vintage Gibson design, its flexible humbucker tones make it suitable for numerous musical styles. The warm neck pickup is particularly effective for blues, while the bridge pickup provides additional power for harder rock sounds. The modern neck and tuning features add practical versatility for contemporary playing.

Who Is It For?

Gibson Enthusiasts: Traditional Les Paul sound with distinctive 2016 HP appointments.

Classic Rock Guitarists: Rich humbucker tones and powerful sustain.

Blues Players: Expressive dynamics and warm '57 Classic pickups.

Lead Guitarists: Improved upper-fret access and comfortable wider neck.

Players Using Alternative Tunings: Convenient G FORCE automatic tuning.

Recording Guitarists: Versatile Gibson sounds and quick tuning changes.

Collectors of Distinctive Gibson Models: An interesting example of Gibson's High Performance era.

Playing Styles & Applications

The Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP is particularly suited to classic rock, hard rock, blues, jazz-influenced playing, alternative rock and contemporary music.

The '57 Classic neck humbucker provides warm, rounded tones for blues, jazz and melodic lead playing.

The '57 Classic Plus bridge pickup offers additional attack and power for rock rhythms and expressive solos.

The G FORCE tuning system makes it particularly appealing to musicians who regularly experiment with alternative tunings.

Its traditional control arrangement provides intuitive tonal adjustment, while the wider neck and sculpted heel offer additional playing comfort.

How It Compares

Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP vs Traditional T

The 2016 Traditional T retains a more conventional Les Paul specification, including traditional tuning machines, a standard-width neck and a conventional nut.

The Traditional HP adds G FORCE automatic tuning, a wider neck, titanium zero-fret nut, fast-access heel and upgraded bridge hardware.

Both share the classic character of Gibson's '57 Classic pickup configuration, but the HP introduces several modern performance features.

Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP vs Les Paul Standard HP

The 2016 Les Paul Standard HP offers a more modern playing concept with additional electronic switching options and a different neck design.

The Traditional HP focuses on classic Gibson humbucker tones and straightforward electronics while incorporating the principal High Performance hardware and ergonomic improvements.

Players who want vintage-inspired sound with modern conveniences may particularly appreciate the Traditional HP.

Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP vs Conventional Les Paul Standard

A conventional Les Paul Standard provides the familiar combination of mahogany and maple construction, dual humbuckers and traditional controls.

The Traditional HP offers a different playing experience through its wider neck, sculpted heel and automatic tuning system.

It is particularly appealing to guitarists who enjoy the traditional Les Paul sound but appreciate practical modern refinements.

Gibson Les Paul Heritage

Introduced in 1952, the Gibson Les Paul became one of the most influential electric guitar designs ever produced.

Its combination of mahogany construction, carved maple top and set neck established a distinctive tonal character that would help define generations of rock and blues recordings.

During the late 1950s, the introduction of Gibson humbucking pickups further developed the model's sound, creating the warm, powerful response associated with classic Les Paul instruments.

The Les Paul Traditional range was developed to celebrate these vintage-inspired construction principles.

In 2016, Gibson introduced separate Traditional (T) and High Performance (HP) ranges, allowing musicians to choose between conventional specifications and more innovative features.

The Les Paul Traditional HP represents an interesting chapter in Gibson's history, combining classic sounds with automatic tuning and modern ergonomic improvements.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Type	Electric Guitar
Brand	Gibson
Model	Les Paul Traditional HP
Year	2016
Series	High Performance
Finish	Tobacco Burst
Country of Manufacture	USA
Body Shape	Les Paul
Body Material	Mahogany
Body Top	AAA Figured Maple
Weight Relief	Traditional
Body Binding	Cream
Neck Material	Mahogany
Neck Construction	Set Neck with Fast-Access Heel
Neck Profile	Traditional
Fingerboard Material	Rosewood
Fingerboard Radius	12" / 305mm
Fingerboard Inlays	Mother-of-Pearl Trapezoids
Number of Frets	22
Scale Length	24.75" / 628.65mm
Nut Type	Adjustable Titanium Zero-Fret Nut
Nut Width	1.745" / Approx. 44.3mm
Neck Pickup	Gibson '57 Classic Humbucker
Bridge Pickup	Gibson '57 Classic Plus Humbucker
Pickup Configuration	HH
Controls	2 Volume, 2 Tone
Pickup Selector	Three-Way Toggle
Electronics	Passive
Tuning System	Gibson G FORCE Automatic Tuning
Bridge	Nashville Tune-O-Matic with Titanium Saddles
Tailpiece	Stop Bar
Hardware Finish	Chrome
Pickguard	Removable Clip-On – Included
Number of Strings	6
Weight	10.18 lbs / Approx. 4.62kg
Condition	Excellent – Pre-Owned
Case	Hardcase Included
Additional Accessories	G FORCE Charger, Clip-On Pickguard

Power Requirements

The Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP uses passive humbucking pickups, so no battery is required for the guitar's audio signal.

However, the Gibson G FORCE automatic tuning system uses a rechargeable battery.

The included G FORCE charger allows the tuning system's battery to be recharged.

The guitar connects to a suitable amplifier, effects processor or audio interface using a standard ¼-inch instrument cable.

Fair Deal Music Expert Verdict

The 2016 Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP Tobacco Burst is a superb example of Gibson's approach to combining classic Les Paul construction with innovative modern features.

Its mahogany body, AAA figured maple top and traditional set neck provide the familiar sound and feel associated with premium American-made Les Paul guitars.

The Gibson '57 Classic and '57 Classic Plus humbuckers offer expressive vintage-inspired tones suitable for blues, classic rock and contemporary music.

The High Performance features make this model particularly distinctive.

Its G FORCE automatic tuning system provides convenient tuning adjustment, while the wider neck, fast-access heel and titanium hardware introduce additional comfort and flexibility.

The removable clip-on pickguard is another thoughtful feature, allowing the beautiful figured maple top to be displayed without permanently altering the instrument.

This particular example is presented in Excellent Pre-Owned Condition, weighs 10.18 lbs and comes complete with a hardcase containing the G FORCE charger and removable pickguard.

Best Suited For: Classic rock, blues, hard rock, Gibson enthusiasts and players seeking traditional tones with modern features.

Customers Usually Upgrade From: Epiphone Les Paul Standards, Gibson Les Paul Studios, Les Paul Tributes and conventional dual-humbucker guitars.

Most Commonly Paired With: Marshall valve amplifiers, Orange amplifiers, low-gain overdrive, distortion, delay and reverb.

Our Tip: Experiment with the G FORCE system's alternative tuning presets. Its automatic tuning functionality makes it particularly convenient to explore open tunings without repeatedly adjusting each tuning machine manually.

Showroom Advice: The wider neck and G FORCE tuning system create a noticeably different experience from a conventional Les Paul Traditional. These features make the 2016 HP especially interesting for guitarists who appreciate modern conveniences alongside classic Gibson tones.

Why Buy Pre-Owned From Fair Deal Music?

Buying a pre-owned Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP from Fair Deal Music offers an opportunity to own a distinctive American-made electric guitar with an excellent combination of traditional design and modern technology.

Our experienced team understands the importance of accurate condition grading, detailed specifications and transparent information about included accessories.

This particular guitar is presented in Excellent Pre-Owned Condition, weighs 10.18 lbs and comes complete with a hardcase, removable clip-on pickguard and G FORCE charger.

Warranty, Returns & Delivery

This is a pre-owned electric guitar, with its condition and included accessories detailed above.

Applicable warranty and returns arrangements are governed by Fair Deal Music's current terms, with available UK delivery and showroom collection options provided at checkout.

The included hardcase provides valuable protection during storage and transportation.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

Based in Birmingham, Fair Deal Music specialises in new, used, vintage and collectable guitars, basses, amplifiers, effects pedals, keyboards and professional audio equipment.

Our experienced team of musicians provides knowledgeable advice and personal service, helping customers find instruments suited to their playing styles and requirements.

Customers benefit from competitive pricing, UK delivery options, our Birmingham showroom and part-exchange services.

Part Exchange – Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Fair Deal Music buys and part-exchanges a wide range of musical equipment, including Gibson Les Paul guitars, Gibson Custom Shop instruments, Fender guitars, basses, amplifiers and effects pedals.

Your existing equipment could help towards the cost of this 2016 Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP.

Frequently Asked Questions

What condition is this Gibson Les Paul Traditional HP in?

It is presented in Excellent Pre-Owned Condition, indicating only very light signs of previous use.

Does it come with a case?

Yes. A hardcase is included.

Is the G FORCE charger included?

Yes. The charger is stored inside the hardcase.

Does it come with the removable pickguard?

Yes. The clip-on pickguard is included inside the hardcase.

How much does the guitar weigh?

10.18 lbs, approximately 4.62kg.

What year was it manufactured?

2016.  

Where was the guitar made?

USA.

What does HP stand for?

High Performance.

What finish does it have?

Tobacco Burst.

What is the body made from?

Mahogany with a AAA figured maple top.

Does it have weight relief?

Yes. The 2016 Traditional HP uses traditional weight-relief construction.

What is the neck made from?

Mahogany.

What neck profile does it have?

A Traditional Les Paul neck profile.

Is the neck wider than a conventional Les Paul?

Yes. The HP specification features a 1.745-inch nut width.

What is the fast-access heel?

A sculpted neck joint designed to improve access to the upper frets.

What is the fingerboard made from?

Rosewood.

How many frets does it have?

22.  

What is the scale length?

24.75 inches.

What pickups does it have?

A Gibson '57 Classic in the neck position and a '57 Classic Plus in the bridge.

What is the difference between the '57 Classic and '57 Classic Plus?

The '57 Classic Plus has a slightly hotter response, making it particularly effective in the bridge position.

Does it have coil-splitting?

No. The standard Traditional HP pickup configuration uses conventional humbucker controls without factory coil-splitting.

What is G FORCE?

Gibson's motorised automatic tuning system, which can tune the guitar automatically and access alternative tunings.

Does the G FORCE system need charging?

Yes. It uses a rechargeable battery.

Is the charger included?

Yes.

Can the guitar be played if the G FORCE battery is flat?

The passive pickups can still produce sound, although the automatic tuning functions require battery power.

What is a titanium zero-fret nut?

An adjustable nut design using a titanium zero-fret component to provide additional setup flexibility.

What bridge does it have?

A Nashville-style Tune-O-Matic bridge with titanium saddles and a Stop Bar tailpiece.

Does it require a battery for its pickups?

No. The pickups are passive; the rechargeable battery powers the G FORCE tuning system.

Is it suitable for classic rock?

Yes. The '57 Classic humbuckers and traditional Les Paul construction are particularly well suited to classic rock.

Can I part-exchange another guitar towards this Gibson?

Yes. Fair Deal Music considers selected guitars and other musical equipment for part exchange.