GIBSON > Gibson Vintage
1956
Gibson Les Paul Custom Black
Same specs as 1955
1956
Gibson Les Paul Goldtop (3rd Series)
The tone capacitors changed to Sprague's "bumble bee" tube cap, which was black with colored value stripes. The Bumblebee caps were used from 1956 until 1960 for all pre-SG Les Paul models (Juniors, Specials, Standards, Customs).
1956
Gibson Les Paul Junior
Threaded post inserts which are sunk into the for the wrap-around tailpiece increased in length. This modification stops the posts from leaning forward. This was a common problem on 1954 and 1955 Les Paul Juniors, and often cracked the wood between the posts and the pickup. Also the pickup was moved slightly towards the neck to allow more wood between the pickup route and the bridge posts. This happened in early 1956.
1956
Gibson Les Paul Junior 3/4 size (1st year)
1956
Gibson Les Paul TV
Mahogany body, full 24.75" scale, mahogany neck meets body at 16th fret, black "hat" knobs. Threaded post inserts which are sunk into the for the wrap-around tailpiece increased in length. This modification stops the posts from leaning forward. This was a common problem on 1954 and 1955 Les Paul TV Juniors, and often cracked the wood between the posts and the pickup. Also the pickup was moved slightly towards the neck to allow more wood between the pickup route and the bridge posts. This happened in early 1956.
1956
Gibson Les Paul TV Special
Threaded inserts sunk in the wood for the studs on the wrap around stud tailpiece increased in length. This modification stops the studs from "leaning forward". This was a common problem on 1954 and 1955 Les Pauls.