This 2003 Gibson Les Paul Smartwood Studio in Muir Natural is one of the more unusual Les Pauls from this era, and this particular example has a ton of character. The natural top has a really warm, stripped-back look with the gold hardware, and the Smartwood construction gives it a noticeably different feel from a typical Studio.

At just 7.72 lbs on my scale, this one is exceptionally light for a Les Paul. It’s also one of the more resonant examples I’ve had through here—the guitar feels lively even unplugged, and that carries over really well once it’s amplified.

The original pickups have been replaced with DiMarzio 36th Anniversary humbuckers, and they sound fantastic in this guitar. The bridge pickup has been left uncovered, which gives it a little more open, punchy character, while the neck still has plenty of warmth and fullness. The electronics passed inspection with everything functioning normally.

Playability is excellent. It has had a recent setup, the intonation is spot on, and the frets and fretboard are both in excellent condition. Action is comfortable and medium, and overall it feels extremely solid and easy to play.

Condition is Very Good overall. The body and neck are both in excellent shape, with some minor rash and handling wear on the satin back as pictured. There are no chips, breaks, or cracks noted. For a guitar from 2003, it has been kept remarkably well.

It also comes with the original Smartwood-specific Gibson hardshell case along with the original Smartwood Certificate of Authenticity, which is a particularly nice thing to have with one of these.

What stood out to me

• Rare 2003 Les Paul Smartwood Studio
• Muir Natural finish with gold hardware
• Extremely light at 7.72 lbs
• Very resonant acoustically for a Les Paul
• Upgraded DiMarzio 36th Anniversary pickups sound excellent
• Uncovered bridge pickup gives it a little extra punch and openness
• Excellent frets and fretboard
• Recent setup with spot-on intonation
• Original Smartwood-specific Gibson hardshell case
• Original Smartwood Certificate of Authenticity included
• Overall remarkably clean for its age

The photos shown are real photographs of this exact guitar. I do not use AI-generated imagery, replacement backgrounds, or image manipulation to misrepresent the condition of my guitars. What you see is the instrument you’ll receive.

Like all my guitars, this one’s been cared for and dialed in—no guesswork, no surprises, just a great instrument that’s ready to play. I personally inspect and test every guitar before it ships, making sure it’s in the exact condition I’d want to receive myself. These guitars come from me, not a shop—each one gets the kind of attention and care only a real guitar lover gives. Ships fast and fully insured via Reverb Safe Shipping.

⏳ Quick note: These guitars don’t usually sit. Most are purchased within 3–7 days, and I regularly hear from watchers after the listing has already sold. If this one’s on your radar, now’s the window!