Epiphone vs Gibson Les Paul Blindfold Challenge - The Closest Contest Yet!

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👆 Rob Chapman is comparing Gibson and Epiphone Blindfolded to see if there really is a noticeable difference once you take the looks and the headstock out of the equation! | tinyurl.com/2bmb6bq7
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The guitars (Left to Right):
Gibson USA 2019 Les Paul Standard In Trans Amber
Gibson Les Paul Custom 59 Reissue
Epiphone Les Paul Standard Pro In Mojave Fade
Gibson USA 2019 Les Paul Traditional In Heritage Cherry Sunburst
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⏰ Timestamps ⏰
» 0:00 Intro
» 2:30 The Challenge Begins!
» 12:20 Discussing Before the Reveal!
» 14:07 The Reveal
» 18:03 Comparing Them After The Reveal!
» 21:45 Thanks For Watching!
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#Andertons #gibson #epiphone

[@renatopaez1993]

The absolute madman editing these vids. Don’t let him go haha.

[@mrblank-zh1xy]

Double his salary.

[@timklebel879]

And the color grading is sick too

[@KK-jb1fy]

15:07 😂😂😂

[@Mephilis78]

Quite the mad lad

[@joepizzuto5614]

I disagree , I couldn't stand it

[@cihad735]

Rob: *makes mistake * "Ok this feels like an epiphone to me"

[@MobileDecay]

😂😂😂

[@weswright3187]

Cihad Ha! Yes.

[@tannerhoke]

My thoughts exactly! He was sounding roughest on that one.

[@AraAshjian777]

I agree!!! Call the Les Paul a Gibson. He couldn't even tell the difference. That's why I just bought a Epi Les Paul Pro. It's a beautiful playing guitar. Thanks guys!!!

[@zacrider8854]

I've got the epiphone simply because the gibson is too expensive for me and I luv it. and Rob said he thought the epiphone was a Gibson, says it all.

[@dethbyfatgoats7627]

What got me is he said it felt the same as a Gibson standard which is a 2,400 dollar guitar

[@AraAshjian777]

Me too.

[@jlow532]

Same. Got the Epiphone Lp special ii as a new player. Next one will be Epiphone lp standard. Boss

[@ObscuredByCloud]

Me too!

[@therangersinger]

@@jlow532 go with the Pro model. The pickups are a touch better.

[@Marcus-jg4jb]

You know what you guys should revisit for 2019? The 'gig for 500 quid' challenge, and see if it's still possible to do, how they compare to last time, etc.

[@calebhendrix4664]

Yesss!!!

[@zerohourdrift]

Dr.Banana nah there are plenty of tube amps available for cheap now as well

[@treyowens4944]

Yesss

[@addismanuify]

Or a sound like chappers and the captain for either 1000 or 1500 GBP each. Would be good fun.

[@Pauld62]

Second hand market is your friend. I get loads in and out that id never afford through trades/second hand.

[@MrTokyoJunkie]

This test isn't fair unless you plug Rob's nostrils! I distinctly remember him alluding to the fact that he could 'smell' a Gibson guitar.

[@zerohourdrift]

ElectricMania yea the cases have a certain smell to them. Though I suppose if you keep an epi in a Gibson case it’ll eventually smell the same

[@justyo96]

@@zerohourdrift I always thought it was the nitrocellulose lacquer that had the smell? I could be wrong though.

[@amirkhalid5449]

Apparently, Chappers can tell a nitro finish from poly just by smell.

[@gerryjamesedwards1227]

Slightly redolent of marzipan, I seem to remember.

[@whhitestallion]

Amir Khalid it’s a very obvious smell of you own a Gibson. It wreaks right out of the case

[@TheWinLlen]

This is my conclusion difference between gibson and epi: 3% on the sound, 5% on playability, and 92% is on pride. 92% makes u feel proud and rich because you are using an expesive guitar, but if you remove that pride, these two guitars are almost the same

[@therangersinger]

Yeah, you are right. Just bought an Epi after selling all my Gibson's a few years ago. It plays better, sounds just as good. And it actually stays in tune. I couldn't play my Gibson Les Paul traditional pro for more than a few minutes with it going out of tune. Even with locking tuners and installing a tusq nut. I was happier when I sold it. And I have been working on guitars for the last ten years. That last Les Paul just straight up pissed me off. I love the Epiphone. All I did was a quick set up for my personal taste and dress up the fret ends and it was ready to go.

[@CasperLD]

Epiphone have come a long way. Their Les Paul's from 20 years ago were crap. There was a big difference. Today they are virtually the same guitar. You are literally paying $2000+ more for the Gibson name and headstock.

[@jonv5489]

This comment is just ignorant. Everyone wants a guitar that attracts them, I have Epiphones, and I have a Gibson. I have a Gibson because I like the headstock, I like the history, and I like the some of the artists who use them. That’s not to say my Epiphone does not kick ass. I worked hard for my Gibson Les Paul and I earned it. So, just because you lack the ability to work towards a goal, does not mean you have the right to bash others who have achieved their goals.

[@jonv5489]

@Joe FigueroaThe only person who talked about blowing thier whole load was you.. It’s called Savings. Not everyone is careless with thier money. If you can’t buy at least two Gibsons, then generally you can't afford it. These are the words I live by… So no one is blowing their wholo load on anything…

[@cynicanal111]

@John Smith You're a fool if you think a guitar is a good investment. Gibsons "hold their value" because the same fifty boomers are selling them back and forth to each other. "Hey buddy, I got a '59 LP for sale for $10,000 wanna buy it? " "Sure do bud. Hey, I got a '58 for sale for $10,000, wanna buy it?" "Yep I do, these Gibsons sure do hold onto their value yep they do." As they get old and get out of the market, the value is going to crater, because the younger generations know that they're basically crap guitars. Terrible overly-tilted headstock that causes them to not hold tune, terrible neck joints that crack, bad fret work (the PLEK that they advertise so heavily is just a cost-cutting measure; cheaper to do the frets of a whole batch of guitars at once instead of doing them individually, taking into account the neck of each individual guitar to get it right), bad bridges (no locking studs, can't adjust individual saddle height, limited intonation range), weak necks that are prone to warping (one piece of cheap mahogany that isn't reinforced), fretboards made of fake wood (cardboard + glue on the "rosewood" models, plastic on the "ebony" models), and they don't even intonate correctly past the 16th fret (the fret spacing past 16 is too wide on Gibsons; why this has never been corrected is beyond me). The quality of Gibsons now is lower than that of a random Asian-made guitar on average, much less an actual high-end instrument (PRS, Suhr, Music Man, USA Jackson, Moser, Fender Custom Shop etc). Hell, even midrange American-built instruments like a Kiesel or Fender American Std. will blow away any Gibson built nowadays.

[@CallSignJammer]

If Epiphone matched the Gibson headstock shape their sales would more than double.

[@TheDatpussy]

And they have

[@oza8578]

Guess what!

[@kyleboren7372]

If Gibson matched the Epiphone headstock angle then the Gibson would stay in tune...

[@TimBarwell]

the Gibson sales would half that is the issue

[@martyshwaartz971]

I think its because if there are 400$ gibson les pauls people wouldn't buy the more expensive ones as much. A lot of the cost there is the brand.

[@cposey]

“I’m gonna throw this out there” *throws a “THIS”* I laughed so hard

[@stevestringer7351]

Good one. I am stealing this and using it elsewhere!

[@daiganzen7794]

I think Gibson should allow Epiphone to use the open book headstock but still be called Epiphone, they do this in Japan. Squire gets to use the fender headstock and nobody bats an eye at that.

[@ProSimex84]

or even use the original short epiphone headstock

[@taco067]

Daiganzen that my biggest issue with epiphone. The guitars may feel and sound great for the price, but Jesus that headstock is disgusting.

[@george1906]

Well the whole idea is there’s a difference between the guitars, that why when you buy the real deal e.g *A Real Les Paul*, you feel like you paid for to have that disgusting headstock off.

[@guitarocd9984]

Don't put a Gibson headstock on anything but a Gibson.

[@mishkatrahman20]

That’s something I really like about PRS. Hell the newer PRS SE models even have Paul’s signature with a tiny SE logo underneath

[@henriksofiedahl9134]

One has to remember that Les Paul's first attempt at the solid wood guitar, "The Log", was based on an Epiphone guitar. He even made it at the Epiphone factory. So what led to the Gibson Les Paul actually started as an Epiphone. For that reason alone, I think that Epiphone has some ownership in the Les Paul guitars, and should produce their own Les Pauls. -And I actually like the headstock.

[@davidg4536]

This is one of the smartest things I’ve heard said in a long time. Thx. I learned something. Should have more likes.

[@adamwatson6916]

@Gaming Authority the les pail shape was not created by epiphone . The only relation between the log and the les paul is the solid body concept and the log was not based on an epiphome . An epipone body was used to disguise the log . Which actually resembled a log . The les paul shape had nothing to do with epiphone and epiphone had no input or involvement in the creation of the log they simply allowed les to work on his project at the epiphone factory but they did help him design the guitar. It's a stretch to say epiphone has any sort of claim to the les paul design and should be allowed to make their own just because they allowed les to work on his guitar at their factory. If I invent something and a friend allows me to build a prototype in his garage should he get some of the credit and be allowed to build his own copy of my invention after it becomes successful and claim his is the real original because the prototype was built in his garage despite having no input on the design or the concept . It was gibson that les made the deal with to makes his concept a reality. They invested the money and worked with les on the design that would become the was paul epiphone had no involvement in the design of the lea paul or in the original concept. Allowing setj to work on the log on rhe epi factory does not give them any claim on the creation of the les paul

[@RichardWhite86]

Old comment I know, but this isn't accurate. The Log wasn't based on an Epiphone guitar, Les Paul made a prototype he called The Log and because he was an Epiphone customer and knew the owners they allowed him to use the factory for his idea. Epiphone as a company had no involvement, Les didn't use an existing Epiphone model for design inspiration, and the Les Paul design that we know and love today was Ted McCarthy's - at Gibson.

[@nikanj]

Nice insight. Although I don't think he's saying that he dislikes the headstock for any sort of aesthetic or practical reason. He's saying he can't deal with the branding. Like if Kia were to make a luxury car that was as good as a Mercedes by every metric it still wouldn't be as desirable just because of the badge on the bonnet. And he realises that's silly because if you can get over the prestige factor you can get a really phenomenal guitar for a great price.

[@aidangibbs5919]

Just wanna say that you guys are one of my favorite KZbin channels, I’m going through a rough patch at the moment and you guys just brighten my mood immensely and I’d like to thank you guys with all my heart and thank you for the many years of joy you’ve given me! Cheers!

[@davidwilliams6525]

Hope you are getting through your rough patch ok.

[@kristianhaverasmussen8558]

Hope you’re doing better! Cheers to you!

[@ManLike_T]

Hey Aidan! Hope you're doing well mate. 👍🏻

[@chuckery5177]

All love bro

[@amirkhalid5449]

Chappers, holding a Gibson '59 reissue: "This feels like an Epiphone to me." Hmm.

[@pandorasflame7742]

I've played the 59 RI. It's beyond disappointing, even with coil taps.

[@just.for.the.downshifts]

Probably why Gibson was going bankrupt.

[@TheProgGuy]

@@pandorasflame7742 that's a 2019 model, possibly made under the old CEO then? I know the new CEO stated that they used imitation bumblebee capacitors and cheap electronic components on the previous years of guitars.

[@zexuanqiao2441]

@@pandorasflame7742 wow, I need a coil split R9!!!

[@benbirch6425]

Colin Olsen none of the current for sale Gibson’s are Gibson’s released by the new ceo

[@jonthomas83]

SOOOO much sense being talked here about Epiphone Les Paul's. 100% agree that they should have Gibson headstock's.

[@roadogsc]

Just not the angle.

[@rogerblack3519]

Why not stop the wanking and be proud of the manufacturer. Live it for what it is. Too much guitar snobbery here.

[@blaue]

@@rogerblack3519 people go crazy for "Gibsons" and "Fenders" and all that great reputable stuff but kind of forget these "lower brands" can be put up to some of their quality standards - MAINLY Epiphone's Les Pauls/335s/SGs; and MAINLY for Gibson, I feel like it's the kind of brand you pay more for the name on the headstock rather than for the guitar itself. I find it ridiculous.

[@frannyliburd9866]

Guessing you dont have a gibson then, the timber alone of a gibson costs a lot more than the wood epiphone sources, up to AAAA grade solid carved maple tops over a veneer, commands a big premium. USA built products a.l.w.a.y.s cost more than from the far east, yankies need to put food on the table! so it is objectively obvious why a gibson costs more beyond the 'name on the headstock' I also think that the shape of the gibson headstock is intrinsically more attractive, if they were to swap I would say the same thing about epiphone . Maybe it's because I'm a lefty but the epiphones I tried felt cheap and plasticy due to the poly finish and never connected with me, my gibson i adore and treasure and have not looked back since buying. you cant make an opinion of these things online, you have to own them and experience them then you can form a clear judgement.

[@blaue]

@@frannyliburd9866 I have experienced both and frankly, they feel very similar. I dunno if I could tell a good Epiphone apart from a Gibson if you were to tell me to play one blindfolded.

[@siriusfun]

11:06 - "Ok this feels like an epiphone to me." LOL Meanwhile it's a custom - most expensive one there.

[@garyduncil9160]

Yes I can tell a The Gibson from the Epiphone.

[@guitarhero01234]

Can we all at least agree that a Gibson-shaped headstock with the Epiphone break angle would be the best?

[@nellayema2455]

The 70's Gibsons had a 14 degree head stock angle, and yet it is hard to find one without a repaired head stock.

[@michaeldalench8473]

the funny thing is is that Gibson bought out epephone in 1956 i believe it was that year so ipephone is a Gibson

[@racc00n_fezz]

@Nothing Noone and what makes you thing that

[@14lamnc1]

Gibson did that in the 1970's when they experimented with the Volutes and the 14 degree headstock

[@risksrewardsrelics51]

How about a Gibson with a scarf joint?

[@MC-xr1np]

In this episode, The Captain saves Gibson.

[@ethansena]

"Don't leave me here" - GoPro These edits are getting better and better.

[@stevedavis8329]

and then the "ffs" caption. brilliant!

[@TubetakerBHV]

The very least thing I care about when it comes to guitars is the shape of the headstock. A good guitar should sound and being playable. And long after that comes the look. I dont get it when people say "I dont buy an Epi because of the ugly headstock".

[@mboyer68]

I agree. I own an Epiphone LP and I really don't know the difference between the headstocks. It's not something I check off when guitar shopping. I love my guitar!

[@rodolfocornejo8524]

its called snobism

[@prestachuck2867]

I owned a Gibson SGJ 2014 Anniversary ed. Worst fretwork of any guitar I’ve laid hands on in my 35 years playing. Replaced it with a MIM Fender Strat. Now also own an Epiphone Les Paul Standard. It’s far and away a better instrument in every possible way than that SG ever was.

[@C_L_Thomas]

Good to hear Rob say that because I'm about to purchase the Epi. Fell in love with it as soon as I saw it. Thanks!

[@MrNeilfatmonkey]

I totally agree with the allowing Epihone to use the Gibson head stock design, but I really don’t mind them still saying epiphone. The Gibson open book headstock is synonymous with that shape of body.

[@brivington2011]

Good point!

[@TheTyler701]

Everyone pretty much agrees they should still say epiphone, but have the same shape. Same thing as Squire and Fender

[@gavburger]

By making Epiphone the "cheap" brand Gibson actually devalue the traditional Epiphone guitars like the Casino.

[@PJBonoVox]

But if they put Gibson on *everything*, there might be less value in having Gibson on your headstock. Bragging rights etc...

[@shaft9000]

It is up to the parent-company, not GIbson. Epiphone is owned by CMI, not Gibson!

[@daemonelectricity]

Not for as long as people know better. They don't devalue anything. The prices usually reflect a lot of what's going on in the build. Anyone who wants a Casino knows it's an outlier in the Epiphone line in that (I think) they are made in the USA. If they don't know, there are a number of things they are ignorant about that nobody should be concerned with.

[@yosemitesam4549]

I think Epiphone has been the cheap line so long that it wouldn't matter. It has been what 40 - 50 years that they have been the "cheap line"? It would take 40-50 more years for any change to take IMO.

[@kasakka]

@@PJBonoVox They kind of do that already with the very cheapest Gibson LP Tribute etc models and the abominations like the Dusk Tiger LP.

[@jinx0192]

Never had a problem with Epiphone guitars. They make some really nice stuff! The major difference between a good guitar and a bad one is usually fixed with a proper setup.

[@marshallbrooksmusic]

I haven't watched one of your videos in over a year. It feels like coming home again

[@thenotsoguitarguy9429]

I might be the rare bird here who actually prefers the Epiphone head stock. I'm perfectly fine with playing Epiphone guitars. I own two. Couldn't be happier with them. If I'm looking to buy an old (vintage) guitar, then I'd want a Gibson. If I'm looking to buy something new, then it will probably be an Epi. The head stock thing is not an issue for me.

[@williamsporing1500]

I’ve got 3 epiphones. Headstock shape is the LAST thing I consider when buying a guitar. As a bonus, it’s great fun to blow someone out of the water that’s playing a $5000 guitar with my epi lol

[@djjazzyjeff1232]

If you guys redid this video every week I'd still never get bored. The blindfold challenges are my favorite.

[@humstrumbangtwang]

Amazing how the 50s reissue custom shop ‘sounded the best obviously’ when he could see them.......but it wasn’t the case when blind! 🤑

[@RockG.o.d]

it feels like an epiphone. so I'm gonna go get an Epiphone for my next gutiar.

[@thomasnilsen2755]

The 50s reissue sounded the best in this video, also looks the best, too bad they didn't make him choose before taking off the blindfold, really unfortunate

[@jaybranches2733]

Yes! Thank you for recognising the incredible bias blind vs non blind. So funny how he LOOOOOVED the custom shop when he could see it with his own eyes. Blindfolded it "felt like an Epiphone" Too funny.

[@kenthhamner2641]

The Epi sounded “less” rich when direct comparison to the Gibsons. There’s a violin sound to good Gibsons Epis don’t seem to ever get. I like the newer headstock they have and they definitely getting better. In my experience with Gibsons after 14 years of owning them (5) they don’t all sound stellar as some guitar woods are just not as lively as others. But when you get a good one they are way above Epis sound wise. My opinion only.

[@kenthhamner2641]

Of the 3 Gibsons the Trad was the lesser in sound imo.

[@whayneneal]

Got myself an Epiphone today for my first guitar. Thanks for the insight.

[@telecasterhst69]

Congrats, amigo...I just did as well. I'm loving mine. And I got a hell of a deal on it.

[@GerryMoningkey]

cant wait to get an Epi for my first electric

[@myaliasmakaveli1]

Just bought my first electric guitar (I’m a drummer) I bought a Black Epiphone Special ll wish me luck

[@williamsporing1500]

You made a good choice….great guitar with gobs of money left to buy other gear

[@IrishWolf]

Lee is onto something with that idea. now that Gibson has Mark Agnesi under its belt anything could happen. all i know is that things at gibson are about to change for the best!

[@derekbells]

He's not making design changes just ideas for marketing

[@daviddalziel884]

Agnesi needs to make Gibsons more affordable. He's been getting his discounted for years. More products like the Slash Firebird needed.

[@Tensen01]

@@derekbells What do you think Marketing is? We are literally talking about a Marketing issue.

[@derekbells]

@@Tensen01 I would assume being director of brand experience is more about what type of marketing they do rather than actual instrument collaboration. I could be wrong, just seems like something they wouldn't ask him about.

[@CappyRev]

Anyone that thinks that the equivalent of an expensive vintage car salesman for guitars is going to single handedly turn Gibson around is delusional.

[@OhhLuffy]

you need to keep making these. these are my favorite guitar vids on youtube

[@RileyTech]

I feel like I need to buy guitars blindfolded

[@ThePseudoSapien]

I did exactly that a couple of months ago. I went to look at a Fender custom shop Tele, and came away with one of the new MIM player series models. Saved myself around £1500 👍

[@1-minslomo129]

true bro i compared 7 acoustic ...to buy one.........in last i choosed 2 and 2 diff people played them side by side than i choosed kaysen k c7 41 which is a chinese guitar still sounds better than fender yamaha acoustic

[@foxki6071]

There are a lot of reviews and comparing videos between Epiphone and Gibson on KZbin and I think you were the most honest! Thank you!

[@NotSosigRamsey]

Epiphone should use a Gibson headstock with Epiphone logo, but only on Lp’s Sg’s etc. And “real” epiphone models should just have an Epiphone headstock

[@calebheney302]

The Les Paul was originally Epiphone. Gibson turned his idea down so he went to Epiphone.

[@NotSosigRamsey]

Caleb Heney I Know the story but the Les Paul guitar is owned by Gibson and in my oppinion looks bewt with a Gibson headstock

[@calebheney302]

@@NotSosigRamsey i think the headstock is fine. People birching and saying rhey arent gonna buy a great guitar because of the headstock? Theyre the reason companies like gibson can make shit nowadays and make you give them your kidneys. Morons if you ask me.

[@NotSosigRamsey]

Caleb Heney I own 2 epiphones amd the headstock is fine.. but I would much more prefer the Gibson one

[@calebheney302]

@@NotSosigRamsey tje gibson headstock has more of an angle and less of a straight string pull though, thats why gibson is known for tuning issues.

[@hbert06]

I might be one of the few. But I actually like the epiphone headstock.

[@wolfgangsimons9183]

Me too, more than the gibson headstocks. When the sound is right, and the angle is better, why buy an overprized guitar that´s not so "good" as the affordable one? For bragging with the image? To prove you have enough money? To breake up the headstock? LOL!

[@julian4672]

Count me in

[@sanatprasad1594]

I agree. It does not have the heritage, but it looks better

[@MartinHopf]

So Do I. Iike the looks of the Gibson headstock and I like the Epiphone one too. For me they both are iconic for the respective brand.

[@alexandermorris9318]

I like the Gibson headstock better on LPs and SGs and I generally like the Epi headstock better on Semihollows. Interesting to me how the shape of the guitars can really match well or not imo

[@rabmbo]

I just bought an Epiphone Les Paul Custom Pro with this video being one of the deciding factors. I had it for 2 days and gigged it at the weekend ahead of my Gibson SG 70s tribute that I have been using at gigs for the last 3 or 4 years. I have to say I'm very impressed by the Epiphone LP.

[@mozilla2576]

Thanks! That was fun to watch.

[@noska6877]

It’s honestly insane the value you can get from affordable guitars nowadays where practically the only difference between an expensive and affordable guitar is a bit of aesthetic and the price tag

[@parksed24]

The cuts to Captain drinking are killing me haha

[@robertorlando555]

I really really love the idea of your branding idea's for the whole Gibson epiphone thing. Top notch and should be revisited by Gibson and Epiphone.

[@IcyMidnight]

The editing on these is just so fun :D

[@janisinisalo]

YES! YES! YES! A thousand times YES! The only problem with the Epiphone LP pros IS the headstock, it's such a mojokiller. I'd buy it any day with a different(read Gibson) headstock.

[@paultuerena]

Jani Sinisalo that’s a little pathetic really

[@janisinisalo]

@@paultuerena Says the man who liked Stevie T:s anti-bullying video. Aren't you a peach.

[@shaft9000]

Gibson = made in USA to (archaic, yet still considered) professional grade. Epiphone = Asian-made to a student grade. A simple distinction with a simple purpose. No need to lie about it. A good student makes the most of their starter guitar, saves up for a better guitar, and eventually gets one. Both headstocks are archaic designs that are susceptible to breaking and going out of tune in under two songs. The EPi may be a little better than the Gibson for breakage, actually. Love 'em, but a 70-yr old design is just that.

[@paultuerena]

Jani Sinisalo Are you American? Sorry I should have been clearer, I meant that as Guitarists the fact that something so trivial could bother us is pathetic, not you per se

[@crusefitzgerald]

"Also, I'm not autistic"... Rob Chapman - 2019

[@crusefitzgerald]

@Ben Hackett I don't believe they were trying to disparage people with autism in any way... There are a lot of people with autism who don't consider themselves disabled because they believe that has a negative connotation to and they believe it implies they cannot live full lives like other people. We have to recognize that codling people can be disrespectful as well. I wouldn't want people to feel like they can't make jokes around me because they think I'm not capable of taking a joke. That being said I understand there is a difference between making a joke and bullying someone and being disrespectful.

[@BlackCatBonz]

@Ben Hackett I don't think it was a cheap shot at all. People on the spectrum tend to be hyper aware of certain things... like sound, light and smell. It doesn't surprise me when I hear about other musicians, tradesmen, artists that have Asperger's; those traits tend to make them experts at what they do.

[@gideon-abelcole681]

Whomever edits these videos has the perfect amount of goofy without being over the top. Bravo

[@jimteffeteller6447]

As always, kick ass video boys.

[@Zack-si9qr]

when gibson embarrasses themselves epiphone has a degree of separation from that

[@konos-p8842]

100% with you on this one Cpt Lee. Instead of just chopping $1000.00 off each level of Gibson LPs, your standards, tributes, customs, etcs just to make them actually competitive in the market, this is a great idea. A lot of people want a Gibson LP standard, but won't get the epi because of the headstock and the name even though they really are comparable. I'd even go as far to say that the Epi customs are better than Gibson studios and w/e nonsense stripped down versions they have just to make a Gibson affordable, when they don't even come with the standard hardware and wood that Gibsons have

[@ryant3600]

I got the 60's Epi LP and I absolutely love it. I had a Gibson LP years back and swore I'd never get another LP style guitar again. I've always been a superstrat guy since the mid 80's. the 60's Epi I have now was a gift from my daughter and I can't put it down. Its incredible.

[@alexandrecamargochavita7702]

I have two Epiphone LP Pro and I like so much of them. This video made me save my money and give up selling my Epis to buy a Gibson.

[@TheGrandmaMoses]

Well, that's a wrap - the age-old debate is over for me. The guy with the best ears, the best blindfold results, among the most knowledge of guitar stuff says the midrange Epiphone sounds and feels indistinguishable from a Gibson 59 ReIssue. I had a feeling it would be like that, but hearing Rob say it just eases my mind. No need to save thousands of bucks just for a different headstock and brand name. Finally, it's time to let that monkey go. I own a high-end-ish Epiphone anniversary edition with those semi-new ProBucker pickups the Standard Pro in the video also features; and ever since they put those in, the Epiphone guitars sound better than their price would suggest.

[@kotymccallister5150]

The panning back and forth between the captain drinking tea and rob playing was the best part of the video. Add more humor like that lmao

[@darcypetersen1]

I agree with you 100% Leigh. Hit the nail on the head.

[@jukeboxjohnnie]

Really makes you think, didnt expect this.

[@Saltee]

who ever edited this.. deserves an award.

[@rowjimmy79]

Maybe I'm in the minority, but I love epiphone headstocks. They've used the same headstock on their LPs for decades and it's a hallmark of the brand. Personally, I'd rather have a unique epiphone than a gibson headstock with an epiphone logo slapped on.

[@DarwinAnunciacion]

Totally agree dude!

[@medaner1974]

So true!!! You accept the tradition as it is! And have an item part of history...

[@TheDilligan]

Gotta say, typically I just jump through your videos.. But when you do blindfold tests I watch the whole thing.

[@gerryloughran1676]

Great stuff ...hope Gibo listening !

[@Artcore103]

Keep Gibson Gibson and Epiphone Epiphone, but let the Epiphone have the same headstock.

[@gentlewolf1279]

Yes... I hate the Epi headstock

[@GageTheCannon]

Agreed. I like epiphone being its own brand with its history.

[@3745green]

This

[@xWILZTAx]

But then nobody would buy gibsons.

[@altrock86]

xWILZTAx people still buy fender even though squier has the same headstock. People would still buy Gibson.

[@jaysonmakesmusic]

Sounds like the amps aren’t mic’d up? Very roomy sounding. I like it though

[@qrxtra9397]

more realistic picture of the sounds if u ask me

[@tobix4374]

Nope. They are actually mic'd up. At least the bluesbreaker behind rob is (which they were using throughout the entire video).

[@stanislavmigra]

yes, room mic sound more realistic mostly.

[@riffsnreviews]

@@tobix4374 I think they've gone with a close mic+room mic setup for the last couple of videos, noticed this on the last tube amp shootout as well.

[@xWILZTAx]

Yeah must be blending room and close mic, might be more natural but but doesnt make for a good video.

[@Lozh1993]

Camera cutaways were gold 🤣🤣🤣

[@kotymccallister5150]

Also, rob. Love your 90s style vans.

[@vitorisaia]

Am I hearing the ambient mic? Or Rob and Cap mics? It doesn't sound like mic'ed amps

[@lukenicholsonoriginalmusic5475]

Yeah I ame looking for this comment. Maybe just lots of room mic mix on this one

[@vitorisaia]

@@lukenicholsonoriginalmusic5475 I quite like it

[@tobix4374]

Mic'd bluesbreaker behind rob.

[@KYDY]

It's very ring-y at a certain frequency, seems IMHO bad miking.

[@FairlyUnknown]

I prefer it

[@Oilid]

Captain, you're SO RIGHT about the guitar branding! The only thing that turns me down about Epiphone is the "strange" headstock design which I would never grow accustomed to it.

[@mikenaykki2173]

Love the show!👍👍😎

[@mmnj6963]

I have that same Epiphone, right down to the same finish. Love it!

[@larrybenigno4919]

I'm primarily a keyboardist that has played and owned nothing but Fender guitars. But I just picked up an Epi standard plustop pro for $300 including a soft case. This video confirms what I've felt ever since I bought it. I don't go by name, or where it was made. My MIM Strat sounds and plays every bit as good as my American Pro. When he thought the first two guitars were the same the video could have ended for me right there :-)

[@f2detaboada]

Yeah that not so sutble "did you hand me the same guitar?" did it for me as well. What better way to put to rest the brand magic.

[@GATvsGAT]

Totally agree with Lee’s concept at 16 min. Don’t see any reason why Gibson can’t just brand some Epis as Gibson

[@tomb8430]

Gibson doesn't want that. They know if they did that, Gibson would be overtaken by the Epiphone. I too wish my Epiphone had the Gibson headstock, but I'm smart enough to know that the difference in money is not worth the different in quality, or playability. Putting a Gibson headstock on the Epi would be business suicide for the Gibson brand.

[@thetruth1024]

@@tomb8430 Isn’t the Gibson Les Paul Tribute basically a high end Epiphone?

[@matteominuto230]

@@thetruth1024 I mean If you don't want binding, and you want a satin finish a tribute is the cheapest gibson you can get. But buying a tribute is the very definition of choosing a brand over a good product, not because the tributes are bad, but because you can literally buy an epiphone, equip it with top of the line hardware and Seymour Duncans and it'd still cost less than a tribute

[@nendokan]

Hey guys from Andertons. Greetings from Tasmania/Australia. I own to Les Paul copies and I have played a 74 Les Paul original owned by a college of mine. They are no different. The sound, feel, and body shape a practically the same. I like your suggestion Captain. Brilliant and nice playing by Mr .Chapman. All the best guys. From Gary.

[@wiseguy9202]

I actually agree with the business decision of making a budget Gibson outside of the US. Like MIM Fender. Entry level guitars keep people in business.

[@lazoo2000]

I have 5 Epiphone Les Paul's. I got so used to the Epiphone headstock that when I finally got a Gibson, it's headstock looked strange until I got used to it. So I think its really what we get used to.

[@AdrianMartinez-os5lq]

100%

[@martincollier5128]

This video confirms a Gibson les Paul is vastly overrated/overpriced

[@daveparsley6849]

incorrect. Dont be bitter because you are too cheap to obtain brilliance.

[@acegibson9533]

you could never buy one so don't worry about it.

[@thesacredwaffle2846]

Dave Parsley imagine being this much of an elitist.

[@jjs3890]

Absolutely! All about the status symbol.

[@bestplans9051]

I can afford both but chose the Epi having played both, the Gibson is not worth 4-5x the price. And actually got better quality build with the Epi as well. No neck to body cracks either and one of the Gibson's even had the nut set wrong with glue bubbles coming out the side. Not what I'd expect from a $2300 guitar.

[@MrSpeed-lt8gr]

I recently got the Epiphone Slash in Appetite Amber. I love playing that guitar so much.

[@ashleyjackson8538]

It’s good to have details that separate the different ranges .

[@derekglenbailey1811]

I love that rob referred to the people who prefer Gibson to be “ purists”. This is so true. They may sound a little different. But nobody is really out there denying that an epiphone feels and sounds good. You can always upgrade or change a few things. I look at it this way. I can’t outplay my epiphone, so I have no need for a Gibson. Hopefully that eventually changes. I play an epiphone on stage with a band and haven’t had a problem. I’m also not embarrassed. It’s beautiful and sounds good. 99 percent of people have no idea or don’t care.

[@d24isDURIAN]

It is what it's worth to you. Some people don't see a good reason to spend this much on. You can have practical or a materialistic view on it. For me, it meant I get to own a dream guitar and I know I've worked hard for it. Btw, it's definately the best playing guitar I've got in my collection.

[@derekglenbailey1811]

d24isDURIAN that’s awesome! I’m happy for you that you were able to get one and are happy with your purchase. I’m always happy to see American companies doing well. You made a good investment and it will retain value... my point is that it is a very close race and I’m happy with my epiphone. When I quit my job and play music full time. I’ll get a Gibson

[@jaybranches2733]

The Epiphpone not just "feels and sounds good" - in Rob's blindfolded opinion it felt like, and he was conviced it was an actual specific Gibson Les Paul he'd just played 2 hours prior. The quality of the Epiphone cannot be understated here. Sure the Gibson may last you longer, and making setup adjustments to it might be easier than an Epiphone - but off the shelf, to a professional guitarist, they play, feel and sound EXACTLY the same. Our opinions of made in China guitars need to be updated every year, as every year, they keep getting better.

[@kallum0919]

I would literally buy a epi les Paul with the Gibson headstock the second they change it, it's the one and only thing putting me off, Gibson losing my money and I'm sure thousands of others

[@RicardoRamosUinz]

For sure! Same here.

[@kallum0919]

That Gibson logo is so iconic, epi too don't get me wrong, but it's not even that, the shape just isn't pleaseing to look at, doesn't suit the les Paul shape at all

[@DRock1779]

The headstocks aren't even that different. Pointy corners? The bigger issue is the headstock angle and in that the epi is the better option

[@shaft9000]

omg people will suspect that I'm young impulsive and don't know how to save money if it says 'Epi' omg omg Bottom line - the Epi is a STUDENT-level/grade guitar. No need to get emotional about it, guys. If you're good at guitar you stick with it and save up for something to better suit your aptitude as soon as you can afford it.

[@taco067]

shaft9000 epiphone used to be a legitimate brand before Gibson turned it into “cheap Gibson”

[@samuel.langhorne.clemens]

Yes to Gibson headstocks/names for Les Paul, SG, etc.!

[@GCalvers]

I don't know why but watching this video was immensity relaxing. I imagine like ASMR or whatever. I loved the overall tone, which amp/pedals was chappers using?

[@DarwinStearns]

The birth of a new Anderton's video star - the underappreciated GoPro!

[@Simon_Rix]

The Gibson/Epiphone question is just as valid as ESP/LTD.

[@stephantubeman]

Nice, this was fun :)

[@eltongoncalves1961]

Very helpful video. You convinced me to get the Epiphone and save a lot of cash. Thanks!

[@sunlightking8643]

Interesting that the gibson reissue sounds the nicest in the end... while blindfolded it sound like an epiphone... just sayin'

[@tangotango256]

i thought it sounded thin and weak both times

[@prestachuck2867]

And that Epiphone had some serious attitude and character in it’s voice!

[@minkorrh]

Put a chibson in the lineup with different pickups.

[@8KilgoreTrout4]

Love these guys

[@LuisFonseca1]

That's a beautiful LP Standard!

[@guitarocd9984]

The Epiphone headstock is superior to the Gibson headstock. As far as the way they function. The Epiphone has less an angle and the strings pull straighter through the nut. Epiphones stay in tune.

[@daveparsley6849]

It's funny. I dont have any tuning issues with my 21 yr old LP Custom. Its a Gibson made in the USA. You go ahead and bang a gong for the Chinese.

[@guitarocd9984]

Has nothing to do with the Chinese. I'm talking about the headstock. Epiphone has been around for 70 years. And yes there are tricks to keep a Gibson in tune. but the headstock on a Gibson is challenging at best.

[@ResoBridge]

@@daveparsley6849 If you own a Gibson LP and don't have tuning issues with it, it means one of two things. Either you are very, very lucky, or you just don't notice it going out of tune. I repair guitars and repeatedly I have Gibson Les Pauls brought to me because they don't stay in tune. And remember that Epiphone is not a Chinese company, most of the profit from selling Epiphones flows into Gibsons US bank accounts. I have a Gibson Les Paul and an Epiphone Les Paul. I prefer the Epiphone, I even bought a pair of Epiphone Probuckers and put them in the Gibson Les Paul. It now sounds much better.

[@BollocksUtwat]

@@daveparsley6849 I've read exactly two comments by you and they both make you sound like a twit.

[@RPSchonherr]

Mine certainly does. It has Gibson tuners :) My WildKat, not so much, but i blame that on the Bixby not the Grover tuners because I had another LP with Grover tuners that stayed in tune very well until my wife knocked it over and broke the head stock off.

[@Nikoo033]

The best Epiphone LesPaul to compare Gibson Lespaul to is the Tribute Model which has Gibson 57 pickups in it apparently.

[@GiltleyRage]

They did it in Cheapest Gibson vs Most Expensive Epi episode and decided Gibson is better instrument cause it felt better. They should've done blindfold for this though.

[@jo_krach]

Gotta say, this Epiphany sounds beautiful in your hands Rob! Maybe you should think about buying it, just for the hell of it!

[@Santos-dp6yb]

Jimi Hendrix Monterey Strat in the background around 2:40? Lovely.

[@mrblank-zh1xy]

"That is a harmonically rich, vibrant sound."

[@taco067]

Gibson needs a “player” series like fender has

[@brianpublow329]

They had one in 2018. There's a Chappers and Captain video on it. Search for Cites Friendly Gibson.

[@taco067]

Brian Publow I meant like the new Fender MIM line

[@tylerl8934]

Godzilla SteelC yeah, the tribute series. American made Gibson without all the bells and whistles.

[@alep7358]

That’s literally an epiphone, just an FYI Gibson’s faded series and fusion series are cheaper USA made guitars than fenders American performer USA made guitars sooooo

[@taco067]

김재준 except for the fact that a lp studio costs more than an American professional strat

[@seriouslyyoujest1771]

Thank you!

[@jowyong6769]

Excellent point made by The Captain. Epiphone should make the guitars that they traditionally made and perhaps some modern or off-set versions of the Gibson line up. Like the Prochecy range, which is a great modern take on Gibson guitars, and maybe off-set versions of the SG and Explorer...

[@HUGEGUY405]

The subtitles for the small camera were hilarious

[@dinomra7771]

IMO I think they could change the name brand to Gibson (on Epiphone guitars) but keep the 12 degree angle on the the head stock not the 17 degree, for tuning stability, and lower chance of damage to the guitar.

[@alexandermorris9318]

It's always funny to me when people say that Rob must be faking or have some other reason why he can tell these minute sound differences. When you actively listen to this kind of thing ALL THE TIME for work, which for him both involves playing/recording as well as designing and running Chapman, this is exactly the kind of stuff you need to, and will, learn to tell apart. I can't, for sure, except rare instances (although I can often tell there's a difference) but I've definitely learned to tell the difference between certain sounds (like different compressors or qualities of audio) and you can absolutely learn this kind of thing.

[@derek-press]

I bought a Dot from China 6 months ago and from my 21 guitar collection it is the up there in the top 3 ,well made easy to play and total quality

[@matthewchittum3456]

I’m ok with my Epi. I have one identical to the one in this video, and it has the best feeling neck I’ve ever felt on an LP, and plays/sounds incredible for the money. Epi and Gibson are two different animals and that’s fine, but as a PRS enthusiast I really think Gibson’s prices need to come down a bit more.

[@caidenallerton1489]

was that an epiphone les paul standard 2019?

[@labhusky3]

Finally, a video showing some solid points on why Epiphone really isn't bad! Huge fan of Epiphone honestly. Bang for the buck? Some of the best guitars on the market.

[@thomasnilsen2755]

Well good bang for the buck, not nearly one of the best guitars on the market...

[@briankeith9584]

​@@thomasnilsen2755 Those lower end Gibsons are no where near the best guitars on the market either. Isn't that the point they just made?

[@Dragon_rls]

When I start getting paid $1M an hour plus to perform, I’ll buy even more Epiphones😂

[@stuff6183]

Suggestion for even better blindfold comparisons: Lee (blindfolded) plays the guitars and Rob (also blindfolded) provides commentary/guesses/etc. Love your vids keep ‘em coming🤟

[@jklavz]

Double-blind experiment.

I have a Gibson Les Paul Standard 1988. I brought it to the store and made comparaisons with other Les Paul, Gibsons and Epiphones, in a Mesa/Boogie threw my pedalboard. One of the biggest difference was I couldn't control the feedbacks on Epiphones the same way I do on my own LP. So I believe the pickups were much different, and maybe the woods used also influence the way the guitar feeds. My LP is the heaviest LP I ever hold but I can't tell what wood it's made. I don't have a memory for that, or maybe not curious enough... ;)