I've never owned a Gibson but have only played a couple that really knocked my socks off. My Edwards knocks my socks off. There is a slight tonal difference that I've always attributed to the pickups and maybe the finish technique. I like LP Customs and I like ebony fretboards, so the it makes sense that the most notable Gibson I ever played was the LP Studio Platinum, which sports a maple top and ebony fretboard. It really snapped. The other one is a friend of mine's early '70's custom that also just snaps and screams. Played it through an attenuated cranked Twin Reverb and it sounded like Andy Summers. Amazing.
I'd have to say it varies from guitar to guitar. Quality-wise, I think Edwards is a lot more consistent, but the peaks of a Gibson may be better than the peak Edwards, if that makes sense.
