The unveiling of Gibson's Les Paul Reference Monitor Series at last year's 137th AES Convention allowed us a first look at the Les Paul guitar's aesthetics overlaid on a studio monitor. Based on initial buzz, the LP Series was just a bit shocking to those averse to "style forward" pro audio products, though absolutely logical with a marketer's eye. After all, studio dwellers often stare into speakers while working and listening intently; why shouldn't our "instruments" resemble one of the most attractive ones we regularly hear, play, and/or record? But for our purposes, the real question is this: Has Gibson Brands' Pro Audio divisiona group including top studio monitor brand KRK Systems and portable PA purveyors Cerwin-Vegabuilt another accomplished reference monitor? MORE>>