I've always wanted a Gibson Les Paul but the models I like seem to be well overpriced. I own an Epiphone made in Korean factory and can't fault it.
I think the issue is that there are competitive priced models available on the market like Harley Benton and Chinese fakes like Chibson.
Also a cheap bad playing and bad sounding guitar can be moded saving hundreds of pounds. Often the guitar reviewed on You Tube are heavily processed.
Who can justify spending thousands on a Gibson if for the same money you could get a guitar, laptop, DAW, software and speakers/ headphones and you're set up.
For a live situation a full guitar gig gear without draining your bank account.
Nevertheless I'd like a flame top G.