2024 Epiphone 1959 Les Paul and Les Paul Custom! Inspired by Gibson Custom

In this Guitar Spotlight, Clay takes a deep dive into the all new Inspired by Gibson Custom 1959 Les Paul and Les Paul Custom from Epiphone!
What are your thoughts on the new headstocks? Hardware? Electronics? Price?
Let us know in the comments below!
Dig the video? Like and subscribe for tons more MME content!!!
All guitar recordings in this video are done with a Marshall DSL1CR
Check out our New Arrivals online @ www.mountainmusicexchange.com - click the “New Arrivals” link in the menu
Social Media:
Facebook: Mountain Music Exchange
Instagram: Mountain Music Exchange
TikTok: Mountain Music Exchange
As always thanks for hanging with the MME gang!

[@roimodeste]

For the Epiphone LP Custom it's great to have an ebony fingerboard like on the Gibson, the 50's wiring is great too but on the other hand on the 59 Epiphone it's too expensive for an Indian laurel fingerboard. A Nitro finish and a rosewood fingerboard and it was perfect. In any case, the Gibson headstock is much prettier.

[@LeopoldShitzalot]

Epiphone have been putting out high end guitars since 2019/2020 thats when JC Curliegh Restored Epiphone back to where they should be epiphone was never meant to be a budget brand in the first place and they weren't until Norlin ruined them when they took over Gibson that ends with JC Curliegh in 2019/2020... also the epiphone Pro buckers are highly acclaimed pickups and made the same exact same way with the same materials as the Gibson burst buckers..and the $500 pickups is ridiculous the reality is they are no better than anything else no matter how much you try and convince..

[@Myfingersstinklikefish]

You are so right it's a Gibson marketing con job the epiphone Pro buckers are highly acclaimed pickups and done the same way from top to bottom as the Gibson burst buckers this Gibson Headstock on a legendary Epiphone has ruined epiphone especially in resale value I have three 2021 high end Epiphones with their Kalamazoo headstocks they will have resale value later on

[@deshawn4077]

Whats your opinion on the Epiphone Alnico Pro 2 pickups?

[@BlueberryStinkFinger62]

​@@deshawn4077if you are talking about the epiphone Pro buckers they are highly acclaimed pickups and made the same way as the Gibson burst buckers with the same materials and bobbins.. also another excellent pick up is the epiphone Alnico classic vintage humbuckers also highly acclaimed..

[@booshting3520]

​​@@BlueberryStinkFinger62When guitarists look to upgrade their pickups, nobody is choosing Epi Pro buckers😅 They are admittedly better than the mudbuckers they used to use, but they are certainly not "highly acclaimed", not by real players 😅

[@dingleberry6486]

The getting-tiresome price complaints to me are moot. As good as the Epi LPs have been the last several years - they have been woefully underpriced. These IBGC guitars are where they should be price wise.

[@Myfingersstinklikefish]

Here's the specs on a 2021 epiphone modern figured Sg...as you see its high end..and no difference other color changes from 2021 to 2024 ....Epiphone SG Modern Figured Electric Guitar Specifications Shape: 60's Kalamazoo Brand Logo: Modern Epiphone in MOP HS Center Logo: Gibson Pineapple Machine Heads: Grover Locking Rotomatic with Tulip Button HS Face Color: Black Gloss Truss Rod Cover: 2-Ply, (blank) Binding: None Neck Material: Mahogany Nut: 43mm Graphtech WHITE Neck Profile: Asymetrical Slim Taper Neck Joint: Set Neck Finish: Gloss Black Fingerboard Material: Ebony Inlay Style: Std. Trapezoid 12th Fret inlay: Std Trapezoid Side Dots: 2mm Black Binding: Single Ply WHITE (needs to be true White) Scale Length: 24.75, (628mm) Radius /Number of Frets: 12", 24 Body Style / Shape: SG - Body blends smoothly with side of neck Heel Sculpting: none, 3mm step Material: Mahogany with 3/4" Plain Maple Cap Veneer: Top: AAA Flame Maple Neck Pickup: Epiphone Probucker 2 PB2NHBN-4 Bridge Pickup: Epiphone Probucker 3 PB3NHBN-4 Pickup Mounting Rings: Black Switch Type: 3-Way Toggle / Black Cap Control Assembly: 2 Vol(coil splits via push/pull)/2 Tone(1 with Phase via push/pull)/ 3 Way V/T Knob Color / Type: Clear Top Hats with Ridge Output: Nickel plated metal plate Back Plates: Black Hardware Plating: Nickel Tail Piece Type: LockTone Stop Bar Bridge: LockTone ABR Strap Button: 2, Butt and Back of Heel

[@billydworrell8259]

Excellent reaction and break down of the EPIPHONE. I was able to pick up the EPIPHONE 1959 LP Standard reissue with those PAF electronics and mine is called a Honey burst with that Satin finish. And it came with the Pink ( Fur ) Lifton ( replica case ). Mine also has the commemorative badge on the back of the switch selector. A very cool look and addition. Mine was a demo model from Sweetwater and I was thrilled to get the whole setup at an incredible bargain price. Usually I'm a sucker for today's beautiful finishes from Gibson and EPIPHONE, but the retro 59 which is 2 years younger than me by the numbers, I ve fallen in love with the not so Shiny fit , feel and finish, There were no scratches, dents or cracks anywhere to be found. The guitar plays amazing and the electronics are incredible. You said $500 for the pickup s alone. They sound awesome. I do appreciate your tip about the lemon oil and will do that. Mine does not have the new Gibson style open book headstock, tho to many as you stated that can be a deal breaker. Personally it's a non issue to me. I did swap out the blank truss rod cover with one that says Standard. It's a purchase that I couldn't be happier with.

[@michaeltsatvs6139]

Agreed!!!!! The 59' Epi LP Standard Outfit Limited Edition is a FANTASTIC GUITAR!! 🤘 I have one too in the Lemon Burst flavor 😎👍.

[@billydworrell8259]

I absolutely love mine , i swapped out the truss rod cover to say, Standard. The weight is slightly less than my LP 60s Smokehouse Burst. But so comfortable to play , I love the limited edition plate on the back of the pickup selector switch. Really adds a classy touch along with the Reissue Pink fur Lifton hardshell case. Glad you are enjoying yours.​@michaeltsatvs6139

[@Myfingersstinklikefish]

The 2021 epiphone customs and 2024 epiphone very little difference

[@booshting3520]

Yes, both copies of the real thing

[@dananthony6258]

This guy deserves a subscribe for this video. Great job on this video. Thank you 🙏

[@claytonjones705]

Thank you a ton! Much appreciated!

[@gregperkins7723]

I have the dark burst Les Paul and the 355. Just fell in love with these new epies! Having owned several gibson les pauls (including custom shop R0) as well as a gibson 335. For some reason I am loving both more than I ever did the gibsons. Maybe it's because they could NOT feel, play and sound any better, but because I have not had to rob a bank to get them. Leaves a lot of headroom for my guitar budget.

[@Coolbeans1492]

There’s no guilt that’s why. I stopped myself from buying a standard because i didn’t want to spend the money now looking at these

[@gregperkins7723]

@@Coolbeans1492 Right. Playing a really "Gibson" is not as fun when you know subconsciously you HAVE to like it. update; i picked up the epi greeny and it is the best of all of them IMO. It was $1500 but saved me $1500 from buying a 10lb 50s standard Gibson. This one is 8lbs of near perfection in terms of feel and sound. Best pu's I have ever played too.

[@Coolbeans1492]

@@gregperkins7723 honestly I’m not so obsessed with hb standards. What id like to see is a gold top p90 version with rosewood. I would also like it with mother of pearl and wouldn’t mind paying a little more for it. Bonus points if it’s a 68 reissue. Thats the only reason I’m contemplating grabbing either an lp or sg special atm. I think the p90s on the sg are something else and the sg special is more indicative of the 60s than the standard is.

[@BlueberryStinkFinger62]

It's not an authentic epiphone that Gibson Headstock doesn't belong on epiphone it's not the epiphone Kalamazoo headstock..

[@donthewatcher]

tested 3 today 5/3/24 the 335 custombuckers - Alpine LP custom 490r/498t- and the 1959 LP custombuckers i bought the LP Custom alpine and got everything the $5800 Gibson has , and the mom and pop store gave me $100 off on the sale.

[@claytonjones705]

I got one in black!

[@mr3klax]

Good choice. I got the Alpine White too. Took it to my luthier for a pro set-up. He was very impressed.

[@claytonjones705]

The white one is always a cool look too! Both look like the classy tuxedos of rock and roll!

[@JBI1]

Long tenon neck as well on the custom.

[@davecooper360]

The '59 Factory burst LP is very nice and definitely gives an old burst vibe. Key word: vibe. I like the exaggerated v.o.s. finish. If you play it enough it will wear accordingly and look more "lived in" lol. Of course doesn't sound as buttery and full as a Gibson Custom Shop but still sounds excellent! If you can play, this guitar will sound incredible. I love the tone you were getting here btw! The white LP Custom I got is surprisingly resonant and sustainy! It looks and feels great and really sings. I was afraid the 490r/498t would sound muddy but they have good clarity and a really nice warmth. The 355 is like a 1970s luxury car. Feels great, plays effortlessly, and sounds plenty warm and sweet. Do these sound as good as Gibsons? Many say 'no'. I say 'almost' They're not for everyone but I think they're bad ass.

[@Coolbeans1492]

1.) a gibson vs normal epiphone is a matter of 5% and a custom to standard gibson is a matter of 2% so to the untrained ear yes these sound exactly like a gibson. And with the high end pickups may sound even better than standard gibson. 2.) acting like lacquer wears in to full relic over 6 months is silly. It takes touring and extensive gigging over years and decades to get a guitar to wear in like a fender heavy relic. most of those old guitars people admire have been going through this process since the 50s or 60s. The idea that youll buy a lacquer guitar and ware it in before you die is silly. Thats why theres murphy labs in this world. 3.) finally the finishing techniques and materials in new guitars isnt what they were using back then. New nitro finishes arent like the nitro finishes of the 1950s and are much more robust and buff to a higher gloss. The vos finish for example is gibson trying to recreate how these guitars would’ve appeared new to give you an idea on what it wouldve been like. The new finishes do not ware out very easily like an old gibson or fender and are also most likely thicker as well. For that reason it doesnt really matter if its poly or lacquer its a matter of preference for whether you like thinner or thicker finishes. You can both styles on either but thinner requires more labour which is why youre more likely to find that on more expensive nitro lacquer guitars. Either way the finish is most certainly thicker than it was in the 50s which still arguably took 75+ years to ware in as you see them now.

[@dananthony6258]

I’ve been waiting to many year for this.

[@SubutaiTuul]

i agree when it comes to indian laurel, as you oil it over time its going to become very dark, my now older 59 has a very dark fretboard now its darker than some of my rosewood fretboard guitars, i also think it feels identical. just my opinion of course. I am looking to get the new 59 simply because of how much i loved the old one. Great review and love your accent.

[@claytonjones705]

I understand where a purist might not love the Laurel but I didn’t mind it at all. If no one told me either way I’d have just gone about my day thinking it was rosewood lol. Thanks for watching and as for the accent, I appreciate it! Lol we all sound that way here 😂

[@rustyshackleford9557]

Folks should buy what they want and play what they want. Most guitar buyers can barely play and so it really doesn't matter what guitar they choose. I have been a working musician for 40+ years and I have worked as a liscensed repair tech for multiple guitar brands. I prefer to play a 89$ Grote strat that has 33$ worth of Artec Alnicos. Most of my gigs are under 150$ per man. I love hosting blues jams and playing my sub 100$ guitars while hobbyist show up with 2000$ axes. It is like winning a sporting clay/ skeet tournament with a 700$ shotgun while everyone else has a 7000$ skeet gun. A pro could tour with a 250$ IYV and find no problems.

[@zengzeng9173]

True, but the truth is you can play, you know how to compensate the cons of inexpensive guitars, and you have stronger fingers, but many hobbyists can’t control the guitars like you can. It is like watching some fight movie, a master using a stick can easily beat up bunch of guys using weapons. So, the conclusion is, for amateurs, try to get a nice guitar to learn is very important, otherwise it just makes the learning more difficult.

[@williamtm1965]

Great! I will wait for few months until these start appearing on the secondary market for 40-50% off these high new prices.

[@rocktorrocks]

Agreed! I bought the $1300 Epiphone Bonamassa ES-335… couldn’t get anyone to offer more that $700 for it in mint condition used. I learned my lesson. Doesn’t matter how great the specs and upgrades are…it’s a made in China import guitar that does not feel like a Gibson. Few will pay over $1K for one & these will not hold their value well. Great guitars but they’re only worth it if you buy used.

[@devlinedwards7543]

People who have them won’t sell them trust me I’d never sell mine

[@williamtm1965]

@@devlinedwards7543 Sooner or later people sell everything. You can have your dream guitar today and tomorrow you interests change and you want something else. There will be plenty of these Epiphones for sale, just like with prior releases.

[@damienstoysandbeyond8063]

That's not going to happen bud. These are much more desirable than a typical Epiphone. Sure they will be cheaper used just like a Gibson. That huge price drop isn't going to happen though. So don't hold your breath.

[@damienstoysandbeyond8063]

​@@rocktorrocksI don't know what the hell your talking about. The signature models hold their value and some appreciate. These new epiphones with custom shop specs and the gibson headstock are much much more desirable and will not depreciate like a typical Epiphone.

[@mr3klax]

These Inspired by Gibson Custom Les Paul Custom have been in back order for quite some time now at my online retailer. Just placed my order today (my second IGC LP Custom and my 6th Epiphone Les Paul). I was told that the October and November shipments are already sold. Wow!

[@RC-xi1xb]

I have a bunch of both! From the Classic Gibson in a no burst color, and my 1969 Gibson LP Deluxe with the mini buckers, which sounds great to me. I've owned that guitar since 1973! I loved Barry Bailey (from Atlanta Rhythm Section), and how he played. Same reason Jeff Carlisi (lead guitar player) for .38 Special, said he bought a Gold Top Deluxe since Barry Baily played one. Mine is greenish color Gold Top and a lot of finish checking with a lot of color rubbed off where the arm rest. I have a few Epi's too..... I change the pickups out with Lollar Imperials or Fralin Pure PAF's. Change the current caps to a Bumblebee Cap and better pots with the 2 wire system. Sounds great and will stand up to a Gibson. Just my opinion and every guitar will be different than the other guitars. I make a few guitars about just every month, my own design.... All humbuckers, from Lollar or Fralins. Their great sounding pups! Recently upgraded the pickups in my son's Epi's LP with the 59 Seymour Dunkin's and a new two wire setup and bumblebee .022 caps and it rips up better than one of my Gibson all Walnut guitar (which she wails too). Don't bash Epiphone, there is a reason that Gibson bought them out....,. Different strokes for different folks.

[@moestafo3632]

Bro... MONO? Really!? I alway's plug in HiFi studio headphones for the actual playing demo in any video, you scared me there man. I was like NOOO!!! I hope it's just the detachable mini xlr to 1/8" cable I'm using. Then back it up 5 sec to you talking, clear stereo. Is the playing demo coming through in anyone else's right ear only?

[@MoeVanprick]

The Gibson burst buckers and Epiphone pro buckers are made the same exact same way Same exact materials and wiring same exact same techniques..

[@AJC-jo3ds]

The 1959 Epi went from $799 to $1,299 in less than 2 years…they are not worth $1,299!! They were barely worth $799

[@SpaceFox93]

That VOS finish looks terrible in my opinion. Satin looks good on certain Gibson models, but not the Les Paul Standard. If they decide to revert back to high gloss, I'd be more than happy to buy one of those guitars.

[@AD4M1873]

I’ve been wanting a black Les Paul custom for a while, can’t afford a Gibson Les Paul custom so I was looking to get a made in Japan tokai les Paul custom. Now that Epiphone have released these, I think I’m going to get the epiphone

[@claytonjones705]

I actually think I’m going to get one as well!

[@DROPTUNED]

Get the tokai, way better guitar...

[@AD4M1873]

@@DROPTUNED also a bit more expensive and a LOT more difficult to get, especially one with the Gibson headstock

[@drippinglass]

I just got the white one as I already have a ‘95 LPC. It’s a great guitar that I recommend.

[@mr3klax]

@@drippinglassI also just got the Alpine White. And I’m super happy. While I already have a Korean-made 2012 LP Custom Black Beauty, these new IBGC Epiphones are just so good that I’m going to get the Ebony version as well.

[@6819Richard]

The Epiphone headstock is horrific. If they switched their std range over to match Gibson they would sell boat loads because they are good guitars.

[@JP-rc2er]

I have the 59 epiphone dark age limited edition can you compare it side by side. I can’t reason to purchase this model and spend 1,200. Thanks.

[@mikepj1025]

I bought one of these new 59 Les Paul, an es355 and just got a 57 JS-200 acoustic. They are worth EVERY penny. Once they are set up to your specific preferences, you are set. No need for anything swapped or changed. Incredible IMO.

[@MountainMusicExchange]

Totally agree!! Thanks for watching!

[@daviddalziel884]

I just got a 2019 Classic for the price of one of these . Great condition Burstbucker 61T and 61 R , rosewood neck , Grover locking tuners , nitro finish , push pull pots . If I sold it on I’d like to think I’d get decent money for it compared to the Epiphone. The VOS finish on the Epiphone is cheap looking for me and if I was going to get an Epiphone Les Paul I’d look at the first generation 59 ones which are much less expensive and have decent Burstbucker pickups on board .

[@ahoneyman]

I have the previous version. The changes in the new version dont really justify the new price tag.

[@J_Braz_]

According to Sweetwater the 59 has custom buckers and the Custom has the 490/498 pickups. Also the custom has grover tuners and the 59 has Epiphone deluxe vintage tuners. Both are the same price.

[@mr3klax]

For me, between these 2 IBG Epiphones, the LP Custom offers more value at $1299. Don’t get me wrong, the Les Paul in cherry sunburst is my all-time favorite guitar. But the materials used and the attention to details that went with the LP Custom won me over. As for the Gibson version, the Alpine White is $300 more expensive than the Ebony version. That is why I got FIRST the Epiphone Alpine White. Visually, that guitar is just breathtaking. Since I got it, not a day has gone by that I wouldn’t open the case and just look at it. It is perfect. For me. I thank the top management at Gibson for finally letting Epiphone shine. And ‘un-clipping’ its wings and letting it fly. The time has come. Signed, proud owner of 10 Epiphone guitars since 2013.

[@claytonjones705]

Hey there! Guy in the video here! I actually ended up getting an IGC black custom!

[@stricknine8623]

​@@mr3klax What "attention to detail" is greater by comparison on the Epiphones LP Custom ? Is there a spec difference that you are deeming objectively better ?

[@mr3klax]

@@stricknine8623 Not a whole lot but significant nonetheless. Like the LP Custom comes with Ebony fingerboard, real MOP headstock inlays and fretboard block inlays and Gibson 490R/498T and gloss finish just like its Gibson Custom Shop counterpart. Whereas, the Epi LP Standard has Indian Laurel fingerboard instead of Rosewood. While the real MOP trapezoid inlays are undoubtedly nice but it’s not correct since Gibson’s has acrylic inlays. The finish is matte called VOS (Vintage Original Sheen). Gibson’s finish is VOS (Vintage Original Spec) - semigloss/semi satin. As regards the pickups, there are many iterations of the original Gibson PAF. Many are saying that the Custombuckers are the closest in sound to the original PAF. So I guess, that would be subjective and personal. Honestly, I would have bought one of these Standards if only I can get past the Indian Laurel fingerboard. ADDENDUM: I know I wanted to get one more, initially I thought about the IGC Ebony LP Custom, but with all the rave reviews the IGC 1959 ES-355 was getting, I got that one in Ebony instead. My first ever semi-hollow. The Ebony LP Custom can wait a little bit.

[@mr3klax]

@@claytonjones705 Hello! What do you mean by “Guy in the video here”?

[@Someone-lc6dc]

How do those pickups compare to the ones on the Greeny in the middle position? (I know those are out of phase) I kinda dislike how thin the Greeny sounds.

[@AtlanteanGuitarist]

if only they put fret nibs on and actually used gibson style pickup rings with the correct screw spacing...i would be tempted. but at these prices im better off buying a used gibson standard ,trad, or classic...imho

[@TypeoS]

My question is are epiphone going to start putting the gibson style headstock on all of their models coming out in the future.

[@LeopoldShitzalot]

Hope not because the Kalamazoo headstock is epiphones headstock not that Gibson Headstock

[@kriswhite91]

No. Just on inspired by Gibson models

[@andrewbecker3700]

Your all wrong. The Kalamazoo headstock will continue to be the headstock on ALL models except the customshop collabs. Why can't anybody listen? Epiphone has already explained all of this.

[@LeopoldShitzalot]

@@kriswhite91 yeah the custom shop like what was said

[@claytonjones705]

I would imagine that if you want the Gibson style “open book” headstock, it’s gonna cost ya lol Yeah. Kalamazoo headstock for the standard series for the foreseeable future. Which is cool. It’s a good looking design.

[@pauljohnson3686]

The black one looks stunning without the pickguard removed. Billy Duffy of the Cult plays one and its always looked better without that guard screwed on.

[@jaimexdxd]

My only problem with these is that I don't see how the custom is the same price. It seems, aside from the fretboard, every spec is the same or worse? I'm looking to get one or the other and I wanted a custom, but the 59 just seems better overall.

[@Crackshot729]

How about the long-neck tenon, one piece neck, Gibson pickups, Ebony fretboard (Laurel on the '59) and the headstock. Do a little homework.

[@jaimexdxd]

@@Crackshot729 the 59 has all of those? What? Did you watch the video?

[@ahiwalter9153]

the custom has some really nice historically accurate specs, ebony fretboard, 2 piece body, one piece neck, no custombuckers but I think the gold covers would add to the price of those

[@mr3klax]

For me, between these 2 IGC Epiphones, the LP Custom offers more value at $1299. Don’t get me wrong, the Les Paul in cherry sunburst is my all-time favorite guitar. But the materials used and the attention to details (ie, fully bound-front & back, multi-ply binding, mahogany with a maple cap, long neck tenon, one-piece neck, Grover 18:1 tuners, MOP block fretboard inlays, gold hardware, high-gloss piano finish, etc) that went with the LP Custom won me over. I mean for me, that oversized bound Gibson style open-book headstock with MOP Epiphone logo and the split diamond inlay on an Epiphone is like “Hell freezing over”. I never thought I would see that. As for the Gibson version, the Alpine White is $300 more expensive than the Ebony version. That is why I got FIRST (key word: first, meaning not the last) the Epiphone Alpine White. Visually, that guitar is just breathtaking. Since I got it, not a day would go by that I wouldn’t open the case and just look at it. It is perfect. For me. I thank the top management at Gibson for finally letting Epiphone shine. And ‘un-clipping’ its wings and letting it fly. The time has come. Signed, proud owner of 10 Epiphone guitars since 2013.

[@BlueberryStinkFinger62]

All these guitar content creators are now and have been repeating themselves over and over again it seems no matter who it is all of do are doing damn near the same exact reviews not said differently presentations are the same same BS opinions very little facts and truth leaving important things out you name it it's happening it's not hard to see why guitar channels aren't growing anymore I mean how many times will someone research what a content creator is claiming just to find out its all BS then you have the subscribers to these channels who just plain lie through their teeth and when you catch them right away your a troll or off your meds you know the same old tired replies..I think it's better to just research yourself that's what a computer is for..

[@sergeyv4908]

Yeah/ Nothing changes through last 14 years - same guitars, same words, same licks, same bla-bla-bla. Only one thing changes is prices rising.

[@Clayton-t5i]

I have 2 -regular '59 Epi Les Pauls and 2 new Greeny's, I used Novus 2 and hand rubbed the entire top on them all, and now they do look very close to a Gibson Custom Shop VOS. I did a section at a time, put Novus 2 on an entire area, sparingly, I spread it with my fingers, a thin covering, then I used a clean guitar cloth or a T-shirt cut up into to roughly 8 inch squares, hand rubbed until it semi glossed, It's hard work , but now I'll do it to my next '59 which will be one of these.

[@martinlahaie6012]

Whats Novus?

[@Clayton-t5i]

@@martinlahaie6012 It's a fine scratch remover

[@pauljohnson3686]

The 59 might look better... But you should not have to do this on a guitar at this price point... The 59 is ok but its let down by the clay coloured laurel fretboard.. I tried one but it felt too uneven and rough for me.. It looked way too light and cheap looking as opposed to dark rosewood . They really nailed it on custom though.. using ebony and mother of pearl inlays..

[@mr3klax]

@@pauljohnson3686Exactly my thoughts. I hope they come up with a Rosewood version or an Ebony. For now, it’s Custom for me.

[@Clayton-t5i]

@@martinlahaie6012 it's a fine plastic scratch remover, red and white bottle, look it up ,just google "Novus 2", and it will come up

[@MrRidleyDog]

When did a Gibson Les Paul Custom ever have bridge posts like that? Why didn't they use the small posts like on the other models?

[@stricknine8623]

If anyone doesnt already know,..It is important that people understand that a wood veneer is a REAL piece of thin cut wood. Epiphone uses a plain solid maple cap and uses the wood veneer cut taken from the more esthetically pleasing flamed maple lumber. The visual from a wood veneer looks no different than the piece of lumber it was cut from. The thickness is irrelevant.

[@FrankBuyers...guitarista-iu3zg]

Gibson uses veneer on their es 335 and 339 and the headstocks and the backs of there Gibson Les Paul standard

[@timwhite5562]

Let me start this by saying I'm 100% with your opinion if these. With that out of the way, I questions these pickups being the same pickups as the Custom Shop or not. I say this because if you look online for "Gibson Custombuckers," i always find two different sets, one that's $220-ish and the other is $450+. These are different stores, both will be carried at Swearwater, Musicians friend, etc. Sometimes the cheaper ones are labeled "Custombuckers" and the more expensive "Custom Custombuckers," but there's nothing in their descriptions that mark them different, and when i look for "custom Custombuckers" it just brings me to Custombuckers.🤷 With that said, I'm gassing over the ES355. A sub-$1500 335-ish copy that actually uses poplar in the laminate instead of just maple, a one-piece long-tenon neck (Gibson USA ,in a highly questionable decision, went back to short tenons after a decade or so), American pickups, switchcraft jacks, etc.? It's a no brainer. Usually just getting something with a one piece neck and maple/poplar body is going to get you into the $2500+ price range. You'd have to go to a Heritage to get that, almost everything else will not have those features. The case is great. The VOS is a letdown. With i love satin finish nitro because it's thinner. I don't like the eggshell feel to this. Ill definitely polish the front and sides to get a somewhat smoother feel. I do like the idea of having it on the neck though.

[@joshuamcmichael4121]

Should be rosewood for that amount of money. Laurel for anything maybe under $800

[@FrankBuyers...guitarista-iu3zg]

Maybe you should research Laurel and Pau Farrell woods before you open your mouth..

[@CraigBourke]

I just got the Epi custom shop with the koa “top.” At first I whined & sniveled that the “top” is actually just a veneer on a maple cap on mahogany. I love the guitar. Playing it for a bit, now im really diggin’ it. I think 🤔 im going to get the black epi IBG custom shop too. They’re beautiful guitars, they play great, and they sound awesome. Im playing through a quilter, and clean these guitars sound really nice. As im writing I just talked myself into getting the IBG custom shop in black….Thanks for video !

[@billydworrell8259]

That KOA look is awesome!!!

[@CraigBourke]

@@billydworrell8259 yea dude, it’s really a nice guitar 🎸, and for $700 plus free shipping, I dig it more & more every day. I’m probably going to get the black custom shop inspired by Gib, as well. For $1200, plus a nice hard case, I don’t see a negative. Lots of ppl ragging in them that there’s no resale value, headstock, pups 🐶 bla bla bla. It’s a beautiful guitar, the appointments are nice, good woods, ebony fretboard, I think it looks great. Probably gonna get it next month. Other option is to pay Gib $7k for essentially the same guitar but with Gibson on the headstock, which likely nobody else will ever see. What do think 🤔 about it?

[@billydworrell8259]

@user-wo2rc3bf4x My thoughts are the same as yours. The case is cool in an of itself, an Ebony fretboard is indeed SWEET . I have 3 EPIPHONES with Indian Laurel fb. 1 Ebony on my EPIPHONE LP Modern and 1 rosewood on my Gibson LP Studio Plus. All feel fine and work well, I ll give the nod to the Ebony and Rosewood as a better touch n feel. If your born in the USA?? and have worked your whole life, you know we want a quality product at a quality price , to get a bargain on it is even better, yet not always obtainable. No matter what the cost of anything we pursue or purchase, we ask ourselves 1 question, Is it worth it to me???

[@MountainMusicExchange]

Thank you for watching! Clay got the black IBC Custom as well!!

[@robpodd8665]

With fret nibs Epiphone gonna sell em’for $1699 probably.

[@yhbfghyfdhtyu]

USD 1299 No match to Japan Lespaul under USD 1000 so LOL

[@derekclacton]

1:52 You can get in the guitar case? This I must see!

[@claytonjones705]

If I thought I could even come close to making it work, I’d try LOL. Thanks for watching and I hope you enjoyed!

[@kenmh7357]

Just bought an Alex Lifeson Epiphone Les Paul. Amazing!

[@blakebowles6625]

any fret buzzing?

[@claytonjones705]

None on the example I played in the video. None on the custom either. I ended up getting a black custom, BTW. Hope this helps and thanks for watching!

[@blakebowles6625]

@@claytonjones705 very much so! Debating this vs a Gibson studio. Might go with the Epi

[@jeremymiller6933]

I will speak for the Custom. I have a white 2022 Epiphone LP Custom that I bought for $649. (Just 3 days before it would've gone to $699 lol) If I wanted to buy a case, add $150. If I wanted to add 490/498 Gibson pickups, add $300. That would bring me to $1100. So, for another $100, I get a maple cap, mother of pearl inlays, switchcraft parts and a nicer headstock. If I had paid $799 for a 2023, then it would be $1250 just for the case and pickups meaning that I am already $50 over this newer one. Normally, I would never spend $1200+ on an Epiphone, but all things considered, this one might be worth it. Whether or not I trade my white one for the upgraded one, it's certainly possible, but I have my doubts. I am a fan of the 490/498, but my Gibson has those already. :) I had a 2021 Epiphone 59 Outfit. I honestly did not think much of it. I traded it for another Epiphone LP Custom as Guitar Center had their Silverburst's on sale at $200 off. I still don't love the rimburst paint scheme, but I like the "antique" finish even less and don't want to pay another $800 just because it has Adam Jones' name on it. It was easily the right decision for me, so I will have to play one of these newer ones before I can make any judgments. Putting the Custombuckers in was a good move in my opinion as I am just not a fan of the Burstbuckers. A gloss over the maple cap veneer would be even sweeter.

[@johnnydorsey650]

Can you get it with open face pickups

[@구성환-j7y]

left side volume malfunction

[@BlueberryStinkFinger62]

Gibson also uses AAA Flamed Maple veneer tops on the Gibson ES 339 ES 335 front and back and headstock and backs of the Gibson standard Les Pauls .. epiphone has been using Canadian maple caps since 2020...

[@dionj.pierre]

You don't know what you're talking about. Why do so many users on these videos feel the need to denigrate GLPs to lift up Epiphone? You don't ever see the opposite happening. If you like your Epiphone, just leave it at that. On a positive note: this is the best Epiphone Les Paul I've ever seen.

[@postoffice146]

Some guitars also have a thin cap and some have a thick veneer.

[@BlueberryStinkFinger62]

​@@postoffice146the epiphone models with the Kalamazoo headstocks have 3/4" Canadian maple caps that's not thin and the veneer on top of the maple caps are AAA grade not cheap and it's the same exact veneer GIBSON uses on their ES 335..ES 339 and headstocks and backs of their Les Paul standards.

[@jconner3891]

Gibson don’t use veneer.

[@jconner3891]

Caps

[@BlueberryStinkFinger62]

On another levels? yea the overpriced and overrated level the Gibson customs are not any better than the epiphone pro buckers or Gibson burst buckers

[@hq72hotmale]

Just a different sound in the end depends on your preferences

[@jconner3891]

I’m sorry but that is crazy. I’ve had both I rock a Gibson modern now.

[@damienstoysandbeyond8063]

You have absolutely no clue what you are talking about! You obviously have never played or owned a Gibson Custom shop. These Epiphones are killer too amd worth every penny. To say there's no difference is just ignorant.

[@BlueberryStinkFinger62]

I'll say it again the Epiphone Pro buckers and Gibson burst buckers sound just as good as the Gibson custom buckers and both the pro buckers and burst buckers are highly acclaimed pickups..

[@partyxplays]

Maybe install Seymour Duncan 59's or alnico Ii pickups, They will sound great on this.

[@kennyblackbird5674]

You gave that guitar too much credit!😅 Gibson Les Pauls are two inches in the body Epiphone Pauls is 1.94... no beuno.

[@thekycoffeebean]

Still it comes down to $1300. for a import Epiphone. Now do not get me wrong I am a Epi fanboy but the price jump in Epiphone or Gibson in general jumped to fast. It will catch on as long as financing is there ,,,,, BUT Man they are Prettttttty !

[@samright4661]

😢😢more! I Phone cost more and Galaxy S23 cost more but please keep crying like a little baby tho

[@thekycoffeebean]

@@samright4661 Are these guitars going to hold their value over time ? They may look like a Gibson but they are still a high priced Epiphone.

[@samright4661]

@@thekycoffeebean Do you buy guitars to sell or play? You act they cost 3000 $ A smart phone cost more

[@Coolbeans1492]

Well i mean go look at the prices for an MIM fender jaguar, jazzmaster, or strat and then take in they dont have usa made pickups nor a hardshell case while the custom comes with all of that plus ebony and mother of pearl. In its market segment its pretty hard to beat actually. These arent your typical cheap epiphone its an entirely different offering.

[@ivanex12]

those models are going to be a limited run?

[@scottdavidson6066]

No.

[@mr3klax]

Not exactly. A Limited Edition has a finite number of guitars (ie, 50, 100, 500, 1000 etc). These new IBGC while not a Limited run and not regular models either will be discontinued at some point.

[@jackhurt4702]

Looks and sounds awesome, it’s a must see in person looks as good as it sounds, awesome guitar just love it and with the new head stock

[@spyrosdedes3145]

is it worth to buy one of these if i have an EPI LP standard with seymour duncan pickups ? TIA

[@claytonjones705]

Hey there! Guy in the video here. Depends on what you’re aiming for. Is your current Epi a standard? Does it play and sound the way you want? Are you like me, and a huge Gibson nerd without Gibson nerd money? Lol If you want the closest thing to a Gibson without that crazy price tag, then yes. Getting one of these is the ticket. If you’re happy with your current guitar and the way it plays/feels/sounds then your mileage may vary.

[@spyrosdedes3145]

@@claytonjones705 thnx for your input m8! Yes i have a 2010 standard with slash's signature alnico II pickups in it and grover tuners , sound is acceptable for the money i paied. I was wondering if the custom shop worth it construction wise. i mean if it is the same materials and built quality as the standard one but just "looks cooler" and has better electronics then i better save for a gibson standard for 1 more year than spend 1300 now ...

[@claytonjones705]

This version of the Epi custom does have the one piece neck, and a maple top, which the less expensive version doesn’t have. It’s spec’d almost exactly to the spec of the Gibson Custom shop version. This one also has the 50s rounded profile. But that being said, a Gibson will still feel like a Gibson. This version of the epi just feels more like a Gibson than others (to me at least) if that makes sense.

[@SevenOf9-Seven]

Only les paul I like is a white custom. Absolutely hate bursts, they are so common and uncouth

[@BlueberryStinkFinger62]

My 2021 Epiphone modern figured Sgs have a 3/4" Canadian maple caps with AAA flamed maple veneer on top of the maple cap..with ebony fretboards CTS Electronics the whole works mine were a limited run now recently discontinued and on sale what's left of them also the have the real Kalamazoo epiphone headstocks up in value they will go as time goes on

[@booshting3520]

People want Gibson headstock on Gibson designs, not the Kays catalogue headstock that you seem to prefer.

[@hq72hotmale]

One thing surprises me that no one seems to question is this the original 59 as we all know it was brought to Epiphone to produce back before Gibson released the original and to be totally straight you cant guarantee what that headstock would have looked like because it was never released fullstop the last and only 59 reissue off the original Gibson Guitar ever released was the last Epiphone 59 with the limited edition control cavity disc so the only true interpretation is that guitar and that did not sport the Gibson headstock as in the beginning of it were made by Epiphone it would not have had it either back then so it's ok to want the new headstock guitar but there is no point claiming it's the original Epiphone design as it clearly is not if you really think about it the last limited Epiphone is probably closer to what they would have released but with old growth forest wood nitro finishes hand wired older electronics real nickle parts etc etc I bought the last model Epiphone released and I'am.super happy with it essp the top I got it would have been the guitar Epiphone used to advertise the model it is that good though these custom buckers in the new model do sound great so there is one advantage I may buy one around end off year sales when bargains appear but the headstock itself is not a game changer for me as I say if you lust for it that bad buy a Gibson and allow Epiphone to have its own identity the last headstock on Epiphone's first 59 I like alot it's more in tune with its correct original DNA not Gibson's it' has its own open book identity without copying Gibson's

[@6806goats1]

Don’t want to be negative on these, they look cool. Still made in China, pick another country. Just as well buy crap from Russia. Headstock still looks weak to me. If they installed splints made of a harder wood that could help. Just watched a couple repair videos on how it was done, not much meat up there. Thicker neck doesn’t look like it’s thicker in that area. Roasted maple seems to be a thing in other brands and looks damn nice. Buying USA takes care of my first gripe, they know how to fix the second issue as well. Make it happen Captain.

[@trevor4533]

Agreed. They would probably be better received if they outsourced the production of the IbG's to Indonesia or South Korea.

[@enlightened-ze3zs]

Fuck the pickups..im throwing in emgs..thats the premium we're paying for. Epiphone headstocks are embarrassing

[@red89strat]

USA Gibsons can be had for this much. Why does epi work with China…at all??? Keep in mind what your saying by purchasing one.

[@ParagonGarage]

Much rather have my japanese Burnys and Grecos than one of these

[@newmancorey]

what's with the satin finishes? and the back of the flame top looks really cheap.

[@MIGUELANGELOROSA]

You are all crazy playing those prices, who cares if the headstock os " historicly correct", in what way is that going to make you play better...?!!!! These guys are just looking to sales, they Will say anything!!!

[@JJ-ze6vb]

Calm down grandpa.

[@BITESIZEJONES]

Chinese crap that looks good

[@ahighervibe4086]

You’re ignorant. I own an2022 IBG SG and it is an exceptional guitar, and these IBG axes are anything but crap! People used to say the exact same thing about Japanese guitars… then Same about the Korean guitars… and now it’s the Chinese guitars. That USED TO BE TRUE. No more… they’ve hones their pricessss and luthiers and now (at least the Epi IBG axes) are EXCELLENT! in some cases they’re better than Gibson USA construction. People are So quick to condemn things they know SO little about!

[@pauljohnson3686]

China is the new USA

[@Ken-yg4um]

Epiphone shame on you for not giving this guitar a rosewood fretboard...

[@BlueberryStinkFinger62]

Go research laural and Pau Ferro Woods then come back and tell us all what you read about them..I already know the answer..and it's not cheap

[@b.tee.2600]

Hey guys don’t get excited because they still play like an epiphone, yeah they upgraded the pickups and they should have been doing the open book headstock all along! But at the end of the day it’s still an epiphone with NO resale value and it doesn’t play like a Gibson

[@LeopoldShitzalot]

Resale value will be little to none because of the Gibson Headstock it's not epiphones headstock its not the epiphone Kalamazoo headstocks epiphone collectors won't go near them and I'm one of them the epiphone customs.. modern figured and up with the Kalamazoo headstock will have fantastic resale value..the epiphones with this Gibson headstock will not

[@petealvarez1476]

The majority of people buy guitars to play them. I have a $5000 Gibson Custom Shop that is my main Guitar. Not looking for museum pieces. And the Epiphone headstock is hideous.

[@LeopoldShitzalot]

@@petealvarez1476 no not the majority of people I'm a epiphone collector and that Gibson Headstock has ruined any future value it's not epiphones headstock the Kalamazoo headstock is epiphones so if you buy the ones with Gibson Headstock plan on keeping them the ones that will eventually rise in value are the epiphones with the Kalamazoo headstocks

[@BlueberryStinkFinger62]

All my guitars have the cites perments and I know what I'm talking about

[@777Lateralus]

@@LeopoldShitzalotwhat the hell are you talking about? Besides vintage epis, and the elitist series, none of them hold much value.

[@BlueberryStinkFinger62]

​@@777Lateralusjust keep quiet I'm trying to explain you know zero about Epiphones and what modern Epiphones actually have value just another moronic know it all who knows absolutely nothing about epiphone it shows in your comments..oh the 2019 epiphone exclusive deluxe limited run Sg in Honey burst color are collectors Epiphone Sgs.. bought one off of reverb paid $650.00 for and seen it at $700.00 and $500.00 this is 2024 buddy the days of Self opinionated bullsh is over .. today people want facts not speculation not assuming and not lying they want the truth..take care

[@devlinedwards7543]

It’s actually not venir it is a real top

[@claytonjones705]

Correct! The top is a genuine maple top, only the flame is veneer. My apologies for not clarifying that in the video. Thanks a ton for watching!

[@johnnyguitar-uu3zr]

Hi , on the custom why is there a Fret Inlay on the first fret ??

[@claytonjones705]

If I had to guess I would say it’s added flair, maybe? The Gibson version has the MOP 1st fret Inlay as well.

[@hq72hotmale]

Cant help.but think whats next old growth forest stash off wood suddenly just found lighter coloured pick up rings dimpled controll knobs lead soldered joints with aging its just going to get more correct with each year released cost you more so where does it all end if they trully wanted you to own the right guitar why not just release the correct version off the guitar to begin with and no it would not have a Gibson headstock as it was.never released before the last epiphone 59 or even in 1959