Are Eastman Gibson Killers? | 2023 Eastman SB59/TV-RB Truetone Vintage Redburst

[@Trog]

It takes a bit to get used to the slight differences, but it plays very well! What do you think about the Eastman Solid Body Line Up? 🍭Have your New Guitar Featured on the Show! NGD: troglysguitarshow.com/ngd/ 🟢My Website: www.troglysguitarshow.com 🔴Reverb: tidd.ly/4aFiyhC 🐕 Private Help Sessions: troglysguitarshow.com/help-appraisals/

[@7hePatrik]

Maybach Lester 59 next time. It interests me how they are😊

[@misteress3840]

@@Trog interested in the d’ambrossio line of original designs

[@PNWJEEPER01]

I was an Eastman dealer back when the sb59's first came out. Aside from the price, what made me want to sell these guitars were a few things: 1. Eastman used all solid woods for everything at that point; no lam's anywhere. Not even in the 335 type guitars. 2. their luthiers are actually violin makers who also build guitars. 3. All finishes were nitro or shelac violin rub back then. 4. They make great sounding instruments. I started out carrying their acoustic line (was also a Martin and Fender dealer at the time) and was so impressed with them next to other guitars in my inventory that I decided to move into the electrics as well. Are they Gibsons? No. Are they kind of their own thing? Yes. Are they the biggest bang for buck in a Gibson style guitar? I think so.

[@IAmTheIsland]

@@PNWJEEPER01 I think the kind of their own thing is key, they sound like Eastmans. Same way a PRS 594 sounds like a PRS and not exactly an R9. They are so a similar thing, but in their own way.

[@StreetPreacherr]

These are probably a great option as long as you plan to KEEP IT... I assume 'Eastman's' probably don't command nearly as healthy RESALE values as Gibson... And at over $2K they're not exactly a bargain import option. And I got a chuckle about the idea that they switched from traditional NITRO finishes due to environmental concerns... Because China is so well known for their respect to the environment! lol

[@the_hippykiller22]

@@StreetPreacherr Here in Europe the resale value is not bad, same for Maybach. Not as good as Gibson for sure but they do hold their value decently because nowadays more people know how fantastic they are. And if you find one used it's just fantastic value. I don't love the shape and upper fret access of the SB59 otherwise I'd own one. I do have an E20SS, their interpretation of a J45 I got used for 850e used with one or two dings. And holy shit it's incredible, especially at that price!

[@strawsparky33]

@PNWJEEPER01 Gibson 335s historically used 3 piece lams for tops lol.

[@PNWJEEPER01]

@@strawsparky33 Tell me something I don't know...

[@Mikey__R]

People tend to mistake "where it's made" for "how it's made."

[@lespaulranger]

isn't that important? why support a totalitarian regime hell bent on besting us vs supporting workers from your own country?

[@CraigularjJoeWoodworks]

Fair . According to rob chapman made in china is a loaded question because each city produces different quality… some factories are really good

[@misteress3840]

Made by luthiers not factory like Gibson USA. More like Gib custom shop. I have an Eastman Romeo LA and it’s my favorite guitar

[@Informed104]

Uh... Nope

[@dennishickey7194]

It's made in a country where basic human rights are not recognized.

[@georgeoh-well8116]

Regardless of country of origin and politics, I respect the skill and craftsmanship of a company that can produce a range of high quality instruments in a manner not dissimilar to the Gibson company of the 1950's.

[@bryancollins6796]

I've played a 59/V. Those are the varnish finishes as they do on their violins. Lollar Imperials on it were great. Very high quality, light, and great tone.

[@IAmTheIsland]

A few points: 1. Eastman used to use a single acting, Gibson style truss rod but moved to the double acting one seen here used on many of their own designs in 2023. 2. For this about same price, you can get a hand rubbed varnish finish, the sb59/v which is their most premium version. That’s something that most folks don’t offer, it’s similar to a French polish 3. The Lollar Imperial in these are a custom wind for Eastman, only available to them, so the branding helps. 4. They used ebony as these models came out around 2017/2018 when rosewood had legal issues. The prototypes had rosewood fretboards. 5. The Trutone Finish is similar to what Dana Bourgeois uses and they collab on the Touchstone Series of his acoustic guitars. 6. Eastman necks vary a lot. Due to the hand finishing. There isn’t like an 50s run be a 60s run but I’ve felt ones that were almost slim taper all the way to early 20s R7/R8, and then there are ones that are more V vs. more full C profile. Really have to get them in your hand to compare.

[@TonefulPraise]

It’s 100% difference, the varnish is what they use when they finish their violins and cellos and hang rubbed, Truetone is a poly made in conjunction with Burgeios

[@IAmTheIsland]

@@nvlddmkm1282 Specs on the website aren’t up to date. You can call Eastman CS to confirm. The varnish is also not the same as trutone with just aging. The varnish is a hand rubbed shellac French polish style finish that they don’t ship in summer months due to heat rash from cases, so they made the TV which won’t do that. The TV You a poly base with a top finish that feel like VOS-ish.

[@The9thChord]

Proud 2020 SB/56 Goldtop owner here. For 2k CAD, it's really great. Lollars, Gotoh Hardware, CTS pots, bone nut, ebony fingerboard, and 8 pounds flat.

[@beatmasterbossy]

"Handmade" is another word for imperfect when rushed. But really, unless it's a fine violin or hollowbody archtop... that kind of fine craftsmanship is not really necessary for these guitars. They just need to be made well

[@YW86-de5yz]

Craftsmanship on that fretboard and on those frets looks DOPE.

[@cenesq]

I used to have a stable full of Gibsons. Then I acquired an Eastman SB59/v. And that was followed by several more /v version (varnish finish) Eastmans, solid body, semi-hollow (335 type), and hollow (330 type). And guess what? They all beat out my Gibsons (Standard, Custom, Junior, 330, 335). And now I have no Gibsons because they absolutely do not stand up to the quality, playability, tone, and feel of Eastman. I don't care where they're made... they absolutely are better instruments all the way around.

[@phillipfabiano4997]

Doesn't the serial number 1275 indicate a 2017 model?

[@very5ick112]

my brother has a gibson les paul custom silverburst 1987 he paid 700 for i cannot find a deal like that so i do not play a guitar life sucks but at least i have 20,000 cash and he has nothing

[@jgsintx1402]

@@phillipfabiano4997 No. Per the Eastman website the SB59/ 57/ 56 models don't follow the traditional S/N date scheme for some reason. I own several from across many years and they all have the 1275 prefix but are defiantly from different years.

[@barnaclestval]

I bought my 1st Eastman in 2019 a single cut Varnish. I loved it so much I bought an SB 59 Tobacco Burst in 2020. Both guitars I bought of Reverb for $1100. Talk about bang for the buck!

[@bzerob7362]

That's all I would pay for one of these new, no nitro ones, too. You can find 2019 new era Gibson standards for under two grand any day.

[@Tom-in8jz]

I have 3 . Sb59 gb , T484, and . E10 00ss/v the best . Skip gibson

[@bzerob7362]

@Tom-in8jz Play the shit out of them cheers!.. much luck selling them

[@Cystemx]

I have a sb59v and its the best les paul ive ever played and I own a custom shop les paul , eastmens are amazing

[@onlyguitars]

Same for me. My 59v is outstanding.

[@LucasHaneman]

Absolutely! I don’t have a Gibson to compare it to, but I got mine a few months ago and it’s been nothing but reliable in gigging/recording situations. Stays in tune forever, and it’s so resonant/well balanced. The weight and Lollars aren’t so bad either :-)

[@francoissorin8373]

I agree with you. Same for me and since i've got the SB 59V, my Gibson Les Paul Custom from the Custom Shop stay in its case. I'm seriously thinking about to sell it.

[@metrhino]

I have an Eastman Lp and acoustic. The former is on a par with custom shop, the latter is Taylor standard. They both play and sound great. At least try them…

[@r.a.dalton6603]

I'm a Gibson guy as well but I do like the Eastman guitars that have the "V" or varnish finish. It's their version of an aged guitar and I really enjoy mine.

[@TylerJohnstonGuitar]

Eastman are making the best guitars coming out of China by a wide margin. However, I still wouldn’t want to pay Gibson prices for one. Or for a Gibson.

[@martyshwaartz971]

Facts

[@rbae]

​@@nvlddmkm1282chinese wages are not even close to the same though regardless

[@IAmTheIsland]

⁠@@rbaeThere are points to be made there, but Eastman is also not sweatshop labor and are an authentically owned Chinese company vs. western exploitation of Chinese labor. Along with that, it’s not like Gibson is really lining the pockets of their employees with 6500 regular R9s and 20K Brazilian Murphy Labs when they are heavily owned by private equity.

[@IAmTheIsland]

@@SwidrygajlowArek$1850 new SB59 goes for shout 1100-1250 used. That’s about 60% of the new street price. Looks like a Gibson 50s standard is about 2800 new and used ones are liars at about $1800 on the low end in good shape, which is like 65% of new. Not dramatically different, and if resale value is the focus. Used is the way to go regardless of brand.

[@strawsparky33]

Ive never seen a used Gibson LP standard go for under 2.2k. Ever.​@IAmTheIsland

[@JAL-cc8jd]

I've bought 8 new Gibson USA guitars (5 LP's and 3 SG's), a Heritage H-150 Standard, and 2 new Eastmans (a T484 and an SB59) this year. They are all fantastic instruments. I've never played a Gibson Custom Shop guitar, but I can say the Eastmans are every bit as nice as Gibson USA and Heritage (at least Standard, I don't have experience with their Custom Core models). I love them all for different reasons. If I could only have 1 guitar, it would be my Gibson gold top. If I could have 2, the 2nd might be the Eastman SB59. It really is that good.

[@grahamnunn8998]

I own an Eastman Mandolin and Acoustic and looking at their semis today. Very good construction and a lot of instrument for the money. I have a Lester already but that is very impressive, I like their variations.

[@spyderlogan4992]

So he complains that the Eastman COA is too large to fit into the pocket of the case. As soon as I heard that extreme nitpicking, I knew where this 'review' was going...

[@MHCretin]

Yeah the fix was in for sure. It's just snarky complaining based on nothing but being a Gibson fanboy. I say that as someone that loves (some) Gibsons and this channel

[@briandevitt6903]

I have an Eastman T486 which I got fot 1250E a couple of years back. It is a flawless guitar and plays like a dream.

[@xchops8278]

I got one a few years back as well and love mine. Definitely scratched that 335 itch.

[@MarkEdward-bl6cr]

I would go for a Tokai made in Japan if I was gonna go that route !

[@216trixie]

I have an '80s tokai SG standard it is amazing!

[@andrewbrookes2485]

Tokai, Edwards , Navigator, FGN - Japanese builds are soo good

[@onlyguitars]

I had a Tokai Japanese model, with my Eastman at some point. It was the entry level Tokai MIJ. Is a great guitar, but the Eastman was bbetter in that everything felt more premium and used nicer woods and electronics and hardware. BUT QC was amazing. The 2nd level Tokai LP I think would be more coparable, since they use nicer hardware, electornics and woods as well. You can't go wrong with either though.

[@rethinktone]

That would be more akin to a gibson standard large production. The eastmans are hand crafted, small batch, they are more comparable to a custom shop. You really should play one and hear it first. They are putting lollars in these things.

[@Arthagnou]

Japan doesnt send Pyntanol to the US, advantage Japan

[@TELarkin61]

I have one of their LP double-cut, single P-90 models. My first and lasting impress was and is that it oozes quality. I say that with 50 years of experience, owning multiple Gibsons (including the Custom Shop). A great guitar is a great guitar, regardless of who made it or where it comes from.

[@elvee7851]

I thought it sounded great - maybe not as warm as a Gibson though.

[@dandjurdjevicplus1]

The “slightly off” look is actually far more attractive imho: the cutaway is gorgeous, lower bout is beautiful and the headstock is lovely. Overall, it looks more attractive to me than the Gibson - full stop. I don’t look at it as a Gibson copy: it’s got its own look (a nicer one). If you want a Gibson, get one. I don’t have any particular liking for the Gibson LP design so I approach this design purely objectively. And it looks awesome to me.

[@123pap]

Should do a sound demo between that and a Gibson

[@dangeorge809]

A proud owner of a SB59/V-GB Gold Burst with Antique (violin) Varnish here. Had mine for three years, bought it when that model was half the price of a Gibson Standard. Between the violin varnish, the very tasteful and subtle relic job, and the Lollar Imperials, I just couldn't justify buying anything else. Plus it's so much lighter than a Gibson, which certainly helps my back as I get older. I bought it from a store that is also a Gibson and Fender dealer, and the guy that sold it to me said he preferred that to a Gibson Custom Shop that would cost over four times as much as what I paid for the Eastman. Also bought one of their acoustic 12-string jumbo acoustics last year, and can't fault it. While some people swear by Gibsons, I myself can't see the difference in quality to price ratio to justify looking at the GIbson. I could take the price of a Custom Shop (which is A$12,000 or thereabouts here), and buy a SB-59V at its much higher current price (now approaching A$4,000), and then get a damn good amp and a full rack of boutique pedals and still have money left over. Way better bang for buck, especially if the name on the headstock doesn't mean a whole lot to you. Pretty sure my next guitar will be an Eastman as well, probably one of their ES-style guitars.

[@stuckinchaselandia6427]

Why compare to a custom shop one. Compare it to a standard.

[@jw_au]

I think most people do that because these guitars are hand made like custom shop guitars, no CNC machines at Eastman…

[@Dyl-ki7sm]

@@jw_auWrong. They started incorporating CNC machines in 2017.

[@boechlerguitarsandrepair]

​@@Dyl-ki7sm Gibson Custom Shop uses CNC now as well

[@Richard_Lush]

I agree. Not a good comparison

[@zaccarter3801]

@@boechlerguitarsandrepairyeah I think a lot of people get too caught up on CNCs anyways. You can see how a lot of custom shops use them. It just vaguely gets the carve. Just changes a block of wood to the shape of a guitar neck and body. Still TONS to do to the wood before combining the neck to the body and doing finishes.

[@yourguitarist]

The R9 is for collecting. The SB59 is for actual gigging(performing).

[@hksoundpro]

I've been the proud owner of an Eastman AR910CE for several years now. All solid wood. Crazy attention to detail. Multi-laminate binding made from flame maple and ebony, everywhere! Neck, headstock, body, finger rest. Even the F holes! The multi laminated neck construction is a a work of art. The dimensions of the top carve must be seen to be believed. And the tone is gorgeous. Punchy, articulate, and satisfying from the first note to the last. I've been a professional guitar & amp tech for over 30 years, and this instrument easily surpasses others that sell for 3-5 times the price. If you are a brand purist, it's not the guitar for you. If you're able to take Eastman guitars on their merits, you will be pleased.

[@EdibleBetty]

Very cool! The body shape/dimensions remind me a bit of a DeArmond M66. Thanks for the NGD purchase, always fun to see other brands sprinkled in amongst all the Gibsons.

[@CustomTele52RI]

I love my ES-330 style Eastman T64/TV-T Thinline Hollowbody with hand-rubbed violin-style varnish AND Lollar P90's. That and my '63 Danocaster double cut are the two best electric guitars I've owned in nearly 50 years. I also like my 2021 Gibson Les Paul Standard 50's but not with the same enthusiasm. I've owned a '75 American Standard Strat and the Fender Custom Shop Eric Johnson model, too. The Danocaster blows them away - with NO Fender parts in it! 🥳

[@patzguitarz]

I'm debating on getting one of the following - current LP Standard plain top 50s, Eastman 57 or 59, and Heritage Custom Core H150. I'm looking at black, so the flamed maple top really isn't a factor. My issue with Gibson is that I can't any less than 9 lbs. Almost all of the Eastmans and Heritages are in the 8.5 range. I'm leaning hard toward Heritage.

[@LucasHaneman]

I own an Eastman SB 59/V in black, and briefly owned an SB 57 in black before hand. Both amazing guitars. Both around 8 pounds, maybe hair more, definitely under 8.5 pounds though. I’m a full-time musician. I gig and record a great deal, and both guitars were extremely resonant and stayed in tune like a dream. To me, these are the most important factors, regardless of what the headstocks says. Both guitars were great and it’s purely personal preference between the two. I prefer the feeling of a single bound guitar in my lap if I’m teaching or practising for a long period of time, so this is what made me move the SB 57 on in favour of the 59/V. I also really like the varnish finish on the 59/V. I gigged the SB 59/V a few times this summer, and honestly barely had to tune it in one case. I tuned it before the gig, packed it in my gig bag, brought it to the show, played the entire show, then brought it home and just had to tweak it slightly to get it back in tune after all the transport/playing. It’s one of my best guitars when it comes to sympathetic feedback and all the things we want electric guitars to do in live situations. Anyhow, all this to say, give one a try if you can.

[@MrJohnnyDistortion]

Did you mention the neck width and thickness measurements at the 1st & 12th frets in comparison to the Gibson measurements?

[@TonyValdivieso]

Oh hey! That looks like the cases they used for the old Parker acoustic series! Have a P8E from that run. The way the case ages is kinda interesting-the suede-like texture (and brown color) seems to fade away to become more of a soft, dark leather.

[@telecatsermaster]

If i wanted a gibson killer id buy a heritage…. But they are as expensive

[@33cattt49]

The violin varnish and pickups on the Eastman are awesome , love heritage tho.

[@IAmTheIsland]

Heritage Custom Core h-150 is like $2000 less than an R9. Used they are 2200-3000, crazy value for their custom shop line

[@carlodelavera9735]

@@IAmTheIslandI was gonna say, I’ve seen them at music stores and online for around 2k, used

[@IAmTheIsland]

@@carlodelavera9735 Yeah, the regular h-150 seems to be like 1500-2000 used and the custom core, which feels like a nice step up, is not a ton more.

[@33cattt49]

@@IAmTheIsland agreed , if it’s about you on stage play an Eastman or a heritage, if it’s about what you own play the Gibson. I love Gibson but they get things right then get too big for their britches then go under like every other decade. I’ve halted my Gibson purchases since they fired Randall Smith. On to Heritage and Eastman

[@503punxoioioi9]

I'd be interested to see a review of the ES-style Eastman guitars. Saw 1 or 2 at our local Guitar Centers.

[@ericsanders7880]

I have 2 Gibsons and 4 Eastmans. I love all my children equally! My new SB56/TV matte tiger amber with soapbar P90's is utter perfection and melts my heart just gazing at it!

[@mouthbreathers2592]

Speaking as a player, not a collector here-Given that my Gibson USA looks like it was built by a toddler and QC’ed by a tween, while the Eastman looks hand built by luthiers, I prefer my Eastman when I need to use a big boy guitar. You should try a Novo next.

[@Wargasm54]

So you picked up a Gibson guitar that looks like “it was built by a toddler” and you still bought it? 😂 Gibson bashers crack me up. I particularly like this Gibson basher: “I bought four Gibson’s and they all sucked worse than my Epiphone “ 😂. Yeah, so you bought one, and it sucked so bad you bought 3 more. Clown shoes

[@Turtlehands]

I know I hate having to return a guitar. Especially when you're paying top price. I'm a lefty so I have to buy them sight unseen sometimes.

[@misteress3840]

My Eastman Romeo LA is my favorite guitar

[@stephanschoondermark8923]

@@misteress3840 Mine too

[@midwaymonster30]

I own both. Eastman are FANTASTIC....but different.

[@Kyush4]

The extra removal of wood on the cavities is so smart, they could had done a Prophecy type of cutaway to allow for better fret access though.

[@jimmyjoe1871]

I have a R9 that I love. I also have an Eastman SB 55 Junior on the way. Saw one online I couldn’t pass up. Gorgeous instruments regardless of origin.

[@DannyRedCheeks]

Hamer Studio or archtop…the 80s and early 90s USA made models best any Les Paul I’ve owned or played

[@IAmTheIsland]

Yea, but Hamer is gone now over 10 years abs their prices would be Gibson CS level if they were still in business.

[@hkguitar1984]

Big Thank You Eric. Congrats on your new guitar, I've read nothing but good about Eastman guitars. Love the finish on your Eastman, beautiful

[@bigmikeyz0071]

They are awesome guitars with top notch craftsmanship. I always wanted a 54’ Les Paul Custom reissue. Eastman did a very limited run of their take on a 54’ LP custom. They’re known as LTD models. It’s done in their lightly aged varnish finish with a flamed maple top hiding under the ebony finish which isn’t traditional for a custom. It has Duncan custom shop staple/p90 pickups that sound fantastic. Eastman has their own unique designs as well their version of vintage designs.

[@QuincyJamesMusic]

They play pretty well. I used to have an SB59 in Antique Varnish back in 2020 and it was an incredible value with one of a kind aging. But at the end of the day it isn’t a Gibson and for some that’s either a good or bad thing haha.

[@jcstrain73]

i have no experience with eastman electrics, but i have a few different varieties of their acoustics (e6om, e10d, and ac630bd) and can vouch for those. they are obviously derived from certain guitars but they have their own twists. the e10d is clearly inspired by the d18 but with the adirondack top makes a difference and also it's voiced differently from a d18--it sounds sort of more boutique, for better or worse. i love my hd-28 but i also love those eastmans.

[@georgem5589]

Just got an Eastman SB55/TV (LP Jr. type guitar). It's so perfect, I want to marry it! Custom shop quality for sure.

[@shaunw9270]

I liked their T58V which was similar to a Gretsch with TV Jones pickups and a USA Bigsby. The "violin" hand lacquered finish was beautiful. Wish I had bought one when I had the money.

[@Knownman4118]

Bro, have you ever thought about doing a bi monthly/monthly law suit series? I think that would be so cool and interesting. Old tokai, burny, Ibanez, etc axes..... also if you use this idea I expect a great deal on my first ever, long longed for, explorer from you 😊

[@joermnyc]

Got me confused with Eastwood... I was tempted to try out their clones of the old Charvel Surfcasters as I used to have an original 12-string one of those.

[@cycadaacolyte6349]

There is plenty of competition outside the US for Gibson clones, in the US the used market really keeps Gibson on top. My best find was a $300 1993 Gibson LesPaul Studio in gloss black with an ebony fingerboard. The used market doesnt make Gibson money day to day but it does passively keep competition out of the market.

[@thespatch]

That bump in the finish near the binding would drive me nuts. It takes away the main reason I would consider an Eastman over a Gibson, which is reportedly better QC in the details.

[@onlyguitars]

Seems like a rare occurrence. I’ve had 3 Eastman’s and never had issues like that.

[@fronthorse]

It's the other way around.

[@johnx474]

I have this exact model. Absolutely love it. The pickups are extremely articulate. Neck is not to big or small. Setup on mine was great straight out of the box.

[@drakett145]

Kind of like larrinve’e Baker T. Custom shop level at the standard price. Except larrinvee are made in the USA. I get the idea get a standard of the real thing or take a chance for something slightly different but special. The Baker T is fantastic by the way as long as you don’t mind the name and head stock.

[@SaltyGeneral]

I have an Eastman SB59. I have also owned and currently own many Gibson LPs. Let me tell you...the Eastman SB59 is top notch. Mine has an ebony fretboard, Seymour Duncan 59 pickups, bone nut, Gotoh tuners, and bridge. Eastman has been around a very long time. They have historically produced orchestral intrumemts. They are NOT cheap Chinese junk.

[@lanatrzczka]

I really enjoyed this video. As someone with three Les Pauls from Studio to Investment, a PRS, and a few Fenders, and a Squire, I have to say that in my experience the setup is what makes a guitar. I can setup kinda ok, but a few bucks spent at a luthier MAKES A HUGE DIFFERENCE. The $700 Studio after a pro setup can feel and sound better than the $4k that didn't get the same treatment. Same with a Squire. Les Paul Standards are way over-priced, and so are the Eastrman offerings. Unless you're looking for ROI, pretty much any electric is amazing after a pro setup.

[@jubei7259]

Totally agree. A good guitar tech can turn an underwhelming playing guitar into a fantastic instrument. I always send any new guitar I come across to the same guy. For me, it's well worth the investment.

[@MrLespaul2000]

I have the SB55 V/SB( Junior) and all I can say is what a great guitar. It's well built and there are no issues with it whatsoever. The Lollar dog ear P90 sounds immense through my Victory amp. Love the show, cheers from the UK :)

[@RealistVision]

I glad that you broadened your horizons and explored eastman because they truly make exceptional guitars. You said that the eastman is not as good as the custom shop. However how does the eastman compare to a standard gibson?

[@frankenstein4106]

I've owned an Eastman SB59/V LP, and SB55DC/V LP Jr, and a T486 Semi Hollow. All were great playing and and sounding guitars, but I eventually sold them and got Gibson or Heritage guitars. I still own an Eastman acoustic which looks plays and sounds great!

[@romerome87]

Eastmans are made in CHINA. Cheap / exploratory labour and god knows where they get their woods. They don't play by fair regulatory standards and get rewarded with our money while copying American classics. There's no values or integrity in this. They only matter because they are cheap. Save for more time and get the real deal while supporting western companies? If you want the best bang for your buck... find a luthier to hand built you the guitar of your dreams and support his growth. In my country - Portugal - a luthier can make a Les Paul type guitar with all that you want (woods, bindings, inlays, electronics, measures, neck shape, weight, etc) for 2000€.

[@TripleThreat2405]

I played a couple of Eastman at CME, right after playing a custom shop R-9. The neck doesn’t have the same Gibson feel but the build quality impressed me and I’d take it over a new Standard if I was buying a new instrument to gig with. Finish didn’t feel like poly. A used SB59 at around $1,200 would be a great buy.

[@boe466]

I have a "335" from Eastman. I wanted to buy the Gibson version originally, but every single one I tried had one or two really bad QC issues. On the other hand the Eastman was flawless. With the ebony fretboard and the perfect semi-spherical fret ends it felt more like the Collings ones than the Gibsons I tried that day. I installed Lollar low winds and now it also sounds the part. (Mine came without lollars, but with nitro).

[@normanjohnson712]

I have a Eastman T486 guitar that plays and sounds awesome. The T486 is Eastman's 335 style guitar which comes with Seymour Duncan Jazz and 59 pickups. I would pick the Eastman over any of the Epiphones and many Gibson as well.

[@TheStrings61]

I was looking at Les Paul’s for months and months. I didn’t connect with any of them, tried many models. I played the Eastman purchased it right away. It’s a fantastic guitar. I highly recommend them.

[@silverfishla]

I would say that the Eastman is like a Les Paul and a Hofner Club guitar hybrid, as far as design.

[@sakidickerson]

The way this put a smile on my face!

[@Atlantean-1980]

I have an Eastman Juliet , a top quality axe. Quirky design, it’s one of Eastmans first attempt at their own design next to the Romeo guitar they also craft. I also like the new diambrossio range , which is made in the USA I believe? Great guitars and prices …at the moment. If the USA side out grows the Chinese side then we will have another Gibson on our hands.. The guitars will get pricier i imagine because of labour costs

[@Kaisermb1]

I own two and there isnt a thing I’d change about either of them. Very well made.

[@bflo5210]

Love my Eastman! The lollar pickups are awesome!

[@HoiPolloi]

My main acoustic is an Eastman that I purchased in 2011. Really great quality instruments.

[@paultrombetta]

Was considering one. But it doesn't seem to have a lot of depth or punch. Kinda semi-hollow sounding. Especially the neck pup

[@onlyguitars]

I would say that’s part of a vibe of the lollars. Are great pickups but are kind of polite and balanced and clear. I swap mine for Heritage 225 pickups, (very similar to the Custombuckers) And this are more aggressive, have more bite to it, more rock, which is what I wanted. More that Tele on steroids thing. Both are are great but depends what you are looking for. I will put the lollars in another guitar cos are great. But in an Lp I kind of like or expect that more bite in it.

[@TheGalilee416]

This is why I love this show. Honest objective pros and cons. I’m a Gibson loyalist, but I’m really impressed with this guitar

[@robert-wr6md]

Most detailed review so far, very good.

[@57stratkat]

As I'm sure you're aware, ebony fretboards are used on Les Paul customs and many players prefer ebony to rosewood. It has a sharper attack, a smoother feel, better highs, and is more durable over time. It's an upgrade from rosewood. It's all Madagascar ebony since african black ebony is endangered and protected.

[@GeorgeVaaeth-kc9wc]

That's a really good clean sound. Sounds awesome.

[@TechnicallyNotSteve]

Fyi on the Eastman pickguard, I modified a Gibson Guard to fit and it improves the look dramatically! It was simple.

[@cybertrophic]

Oh, they still do the nitro finishes, you need to pick the right one of the range, as they offer polyurethane lacquered models too.

[@adamswanson8216]

No doubt there are differences. It certainly took me a minute or two to get used to the changes. However, the guitar is phenomenal. I have a couple of them solid body and one of the varnished finish T 59V which is their semi hollow 335 comparison all have Lawler pick ups and I love all three truly, and I have less into them than I have Into my Gibson 335 so no doubt a bargain and I gig with them all the time leaving the Gibson’s at home. These are great guitars and I would not be surprised to see them sell Gibson because of the price point and they offer the look eventually Gibson is not going to be able to survive on the state of 59 and I also think that the music industry is getting tougher and tougher people are going to want to spend less on guitars, I think we will see a trend even greater than we have so far people buying used gear personally I’ve been selling more and used guitars than ever and getting more less than work. I’m not even encouraging people to buy new guitars if I can get them used that’s what I do better to buy a better guitar that’s broken in my opinion either way thanks for the demo. Glad to see you. Did this just hadn’t seen it before. 1:31

[@badtonestudio]

Nice sounding/looking guitar! Hope the owner loves it, and thanks for sharing it with us.

[@bryandraughn9830]

Just watch the Eastman factory tour and you will see true craftsman at work.

[@onlyguitars]

I've been a fan of Eastman for ages now. 1- I would really suggest you to try an SB59/v , the anitque varnish finish. That one is very nice. They do little of them now cos is very time consuming. But feels awesome on the hand, I love mine. I had the Truetone gloss before nd the Antique varnish makes it feel for me more premium and nicer for sure. 2- The truss rod access, mine is an Early 2002 Antique varnish, and the truss rod access is just like a regular gibson. For some reaosn they changed it later, and looks weird for sure. But they didnt do it like that before so you know. 3- I had a CS R8 Gibson, a 2009 Gibsoon LP Traditional, a Heritage H150 Aritsan aged and my current Eastman SB59/v. The best were the R8 and the Eastman. The Heritage was in between, close though, and last the usa gibson. I still like the Gibsobn USA, and would be happy with any of them, but the Eastman and CS just were another thing. Since I like the eastman and the CS the same, I kept the Eastman and sold everything else cos I really am happy with just 1 LP guitar. Never missed them. I just swap pickups on the Eastman, not because the lollars were bad, on the ontrary, very good pickups. Just are a bit polite to what I wanted. Are very clear and balanced, but I wanted something with more girth, nd something like the cusotmbuckers gives that. I put some Heritage 225 pickups I got for cheap that are same vibe as the Custombuckers, nd damn! yeah, those things rock, and now my Eastman is perfect for my taste hehe. Now has more that tele on steroids thing. 4- My Eastman had 0 QC issues, no details at all. And for me This Eastman are superior instruments than the USA Gibsons for sure. On the same level as Gibson CS, or PRS as Quality. You may prefer the Gibson USA for sure, cos are not the same guitar, the Eastman is its own thing, but it is a superior quality instrument no doubt. 5- In my personal experience never had issues with the heel joint myself. I played between heritage, gibson and eastman and never notice something weird in that aspect. 6- when I play my Core PRS or USA schecter and then I play the Eastman, the Eastman feels in the same league. When I play my Gibson sg standard 2021 (that feels similar in quality as various Gibson Les paul USA I played in the past) they are solid but not in the PRs or schecter level. The quality of the wood and the QC details and fee on the hand yeah, is not comparable. Gibson USA is what like PRs S2 is, where you notice they cut costs.

[@SteveStalock]

I've owned a few Eastmans and can attest they are very well built and a great value. I traded a T486 this past year and I miss it. It was a good trade and glad I made it, but who says I can't keep adding to my collection? I'll probably add a T486 back next year.

[@TommySG1]

I own five Gibson’s, so I obviously like the brand but I can honestly say I’ve never heard or seen a negative write up or demo on Eastman. Also, the fact that they use Ebony on their fretboards amongst other nice features I’d probably like one just as much if not even more. I do my best to buy American stuff however the companies like Eastman make it harder and harder hah…..

[@SamFugarino]

I really like Eastman Mandolins. They are very well made. I'd love to have one of their guitars.

[@Brian-rq8hi]

I have an Eastman sb59/v, a sb54/v ltd and a 2021 gibson custom shop 1957 gold top, dark back with a 59 carmalita neck profile. The gibson is for sale, the eastmans are absolutely not for sale.

[@johnm3152]

Great Mick Taylor stones riff - time for a garage trio

[@robertfoster1339]

I have an Eastman DC 55 and I love it

[@fretboardfatfingers8774]

Not liking the shape or the carve. Sounds good tho, and your saying playability is comfortable are also key factors. In the end, I'd by a Gibson USA production Trad Pro and get a few more features. I have a hard time believing they'll hold their resale value like the real deals do. Check back on reverb 2 yrs from now. I'll bet there'll be plenty to choose from at the $1200 -$1400 price range

[@blueshurler]

I don't think comparing it to a custom shop offering is fair considering the price difference. But I have both Gibson's and Eastman's and I would say that the Eastman's definitely stand up to the standard line Gibsons for Less money. Nothing compares to my R6 but one of the reasons I paid up for that is because the standard 50s Les Paul with p90s, I just couldn't find one that I liked. Same for the 50s Les Paul's. I have an Eastman t-64 with Bigsby on the way and I'm pretty confident that it's going to blow any new ES330 out of the water for a lot less money.

[@jonnyf9049]

That solder work is great👌

[@MyMotherTheCar]

Been hearing a lot about these. The quality is there and they certainly know what Les Paul players want. I don't think that one sounds particularly special but I'd love to try one anyway.

[@robpolk4469]

I prefer the Eastman SB cut over the Gibson LP cut, feels better on my knee, and with weight distribution. Beyond that, unsure why Gibson can’t offer a more stripped down finish that is less glossy and more aged (just less chrome really) hardware without sacrificing quality is beyond me. The porous finishes on like the juniors or the faded series just aren’t doing it for me. Face it, the V finishes are sick and age beautifully. Ruggedness meets refinement.

[@jubei7259]

I reckon those Lollar pups sounded pretty damn good tbh (to my ears at least). It looks like if a Gretsch & a LP had a baby lol

[@markjamesmeli2520]

Very cool introduction to the brand name. With the recent death of jazz guitarist John Pisano, I had read of his working with this brand name. So, I had seen and heard demos of their Jazz/semi hollow models. They sure sounded sweet. Your demo here is a very good rock/practical review.

[@len21966]

Navigator is by far the closest (maybe better) than any Les Paul out there. But they are very expensive.

[@bmkrocky]

I have a Eastman plug in acoustic guitar and I think it is fantastic

[@Morningstar_Actual]

I actually was in a music shop the other day and played a couple Eastman 335/355 copies. They play pretty nice and sound good, apparently the models I was playing came with antiquities in it however, if I’m paying what Eastman is asking, I’m going for a used Gibson. I’m actually more of a fender guy myself so I don’t have a dog in the fight really

[@romerome87]

Good! Someone here with good sense! Eastmans are made in CHINA. Cheap / exploratory labour and god knows where they get their woods. They don't play by fair regulatory standards and get rewarded with our money while copying American classics. There's no values or integrity in this. They only matter because they are cheap. Save for more time and get the real deal while supporting western companies? If you want the best bang for your buck... find a luthier to hand built you the guitar of your dreams and support his growth. In my country - Portugal - a luthier can make a Les Paul type guitar with all that you want (woods, bindings, inlays, electronics, measures, neck shape, weight, etc) for 2000€.

[@darwinsaye]

When I first heard of Eastman guitars it was a little confusing, because there is also Eastwood guitars, a Canadian company that makes recreations of vintage guitars like Airlines, Mosrites, Tiescos and Ampegs. I remember once scrolling through an Eastman site (thinking it was Eastwood) and wondering where all their more interesting models went, 😂

[@Kahuna54]

I would like to see a review/comparison with a Burny with the sustainer option.

[@ethanhitchcock5431]

Good enough for Rock'n'Roll ! Thanks Trogness !

[@jimmyjames2022]

Gorgeous Eastman with no nibs (yay), MOP, ebony and Lollars! Nice catch Eric! PRS can do popular, consistently great quality, "foreign" made SE guitars in Korea / Indonesia with consistent QC/QA. Eastman is a Chinese domestic owned manufacturer that shows China has no problem with good QC given it's priority in the manufacturing process. I'd buy an Eastman if I could find one used as good a deal as the used Gibsons I find and buy.

[@michaelknight4041]

Yea it bothers me a bit when things are off just a bit like that lol. Especially the cutaway , that overly rounded shape just wont let my eyes pass. Having said all that i got a Heritage h150 and once i got used to its little differences that bothered me at first it turned out to be the best LP type ive ever had.

[@Kahuna54]

I got a big surprise from GC, I bought a Custom Shop SG 3 pu from the Agusta store and used the 48 months no interest financing. A little over a week ago I got $430 in store credit from the points on the credit card and I used it to get a PreOwned Epiphone Nighthawk Custom ReIssue that only cost me $50 for tax and shipping! So stoked!

[@bukwok]

i like nighthawk, cool guitar ,i like the small body, light and comfortable to me, i think gibson and epiphone stop making them, hope gibson one day bring nighthawk back.

[@jonathanhudak2059]

That's awesome congrats!! I had a Gibson Nighthawk back in the late 90s and early 2000s was a pretty cool guitar sometimes I wish I would've kept it. 2 pu model sunburst. Enjoy your two great purchases. Which SG do you have?

[@SierraAppa]

I am definitely a fan of Eastman. I have two acoustics ( equivalent D18 and D28) and two electrics (archtop and 14’ 335). I love everything about Eastmans. But if I was to summarize….its you get a lot for your money. Thanks for the video. Actually helped me move towards the Eastman Les Paul style guitar. Cheers