For quite a few decades now, many guitar manufacturers have honoured some of their more famous users with signature instruments. Arguably the oldest signature instrument is the Gibson Les Paul, which has evolved into a whole range of guitars. For some guitarists, a signature guitar is a representation of what they prefer in a standard instrument and for some, it is more of a custom designed tool, made to give them the functionality they need. Are they a marketing tool or a cash cow for the manufacturers or do they represent a genuine option on the path to sonic freedom for the average joe guitarist? Which signature guitars do we rate as bonafide usable guitars, and which signature guitars offer little in value to the buyer? Finally, for those players who cannot stretch to buy their favourite guitarist’s instruments, what alternatives are there that provide a suitable and comparative option?  Rate and Review the Guitar Smarts podcast here:https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/guitar-smarts-1580199 (On the right hand side, press the button that says 'Rate this Podcast')https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/guitar-smarts/id1548265334 (Follow this link, then open the podcast in your iTunes app and leave a rating in there)https://web.podfriend.com/podcast/1548265334 (Click on the 5 Stars under the podcast title and then leave a rating and review)Remember to please subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts, and come to see us on our social media channels below:https://www.facebook.com/Guitarsmartshttps://www.instagram.com/guitar_smarts/Have a very merry time playing guitar this week, and we will see you next Monday! Kiran & MattSupport the show