Epiphone ES-335 - Tailpiece Upgrade - Guitar Review and Upgrade Series - Part 2

[@janzahalka9096]

I was just watching the scredriver moments and mumbling "lower the neck pickup more, sink it, sink it all the way!" liiitle disappointed you did not go really deeper with it, I won't lie... 😅 Great video though, this is precisely my style of content m, thanks a lot!

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Jan... I was expecting this comment :)... so I did actually experiment with pickup heights more but cut most of it out as the film was so long! - So FYI we ended up with each pickup around 3mm on bass side and 2.5mm on treble. I tried lowering further but didn't see any obvious benefit so raised them back... but that's not saying that spending more time finding the sweet spot wouldn't pay dividends and I recommend everyone tries that as it costs nothing! Cheers man I shall pin this comment for all to benefit. Thanks for the kind words and support!

[@brutus6328]

Even Tomo Fujita (Berklee instructor) says if you want better tone, lower the pickups! Worked for me once and I'm a believer! All you lose is volume which you get back with a twist of a knob. Had an SG with issues, lowered the neck pickup and it was an unbelievable difference in clarity and articulation.

[@aitken1965]

@@brutus6328 agreed! Mine are nearly flush with the pickup rings.

[@alfgwahigain5544]

Me too. I think it's more common with single coils to tilt them, but I usually have my neck humbuckers higher on the treble side, and then reverse on the bridge pickup. Basically trying to brighten the neck and darken the bridge. There are limits to this, of course, but it works. None of my bridge humbuckers on any of my guitars are close to 3 mm on either side, they're usually pretty far away - buried, and then I work my way up from there.

[@rhykko77]

From my viewpoint (and decades of comparisons and alterations on guitars) I really think that you have, on this video, achieved some of the most rational and valid tone experiments and demonstrated them in an accurate, scientifically sound and musical manner. Kudos to you sir !

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man thanks for the kind words it’s appreciated! 😎🎸👍

[@dromoli]

Not just the experiment itself mate, but the whole filming, edition, sound are of exceptional quality. Well done once again. Thanks and we're looking forward to the next one.

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Diego thanks for the kind words and support... glad you are liking this stuff! 😎🎸👍

[@paulbullard4293]

Wonderful video .I am a es 335 guitarist and found that keeping the tailpiece tight as possible to the guitar body helps the sustain and tone I also added a string butler , the transformation was remarkable, keep the videos coming , I always look forward to them 👍👍👍

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Paul thanks for comment and support!

[@robertwillett4122]

What's up Paul, good Sir. You seem to know a bit about the tail piece and bridge. If you don't mind I have a question. I just picked up a es339, I enjoy it very much. One day as I was playing the B string started to sound like a sitar. It seemed like it was coming from the bridge. So instead of driving 30 miles(yes I'm an American, don't do metric system) I ordered a cheep roller bridge. I couldn't find a good brand name, but I got it anyways to see what would happen. To my surprise it enabled me to lower the strings just a little more then the stock bridge, and the noise was gone. I guess my question is should I get a better quality bridge. I mean I like how I got the action where I want it. But would it make much difference if I get a more quality bridge. I did notice that the roller bridge stays in tune much better. Help me out bro. Leave it alone or get a better name brand bridge. What would you do? I have a P.R.S. when things get serious, it's amazing. But the 339 I like for cleaner playing.

[@paulbullard4293]

@@robertwillett4122 hi robert if it plays well and sounds well I would leave it as it is usually if it sounds like a sitar it has something to do with the nut or the string is touching the back of the bridge or pick up . I would recommend Tone Pros stop tail and Bridge combination though as they made a big difference Tom my 335 good luck 🍀 with your decision

[@robertwillett4122]

@@paulbullard4293 Thank you Paul. I will get Tone Pro's.

[@Josh-wq2lr]

Great job. I have this same guitar and have been saying for years that it sounds off, woo likeness is spot on. Now I can fix that thank you! The work put in to this video and the way you have it broken down to “chapters” makes it a pleasure to go back and rewatch sections.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Josh... make sure you check out parts 4 and 5 as it may save you a lot of grief! :)

[@aitken1965]

I love watching these videos and then going back to my bone-stock Epi ES335 and appreciating everything about it, satisfied in the knowledge that modifications aren’t worth the time, effort, or money for a home player on a budget like me.

[@LGuitarB]

I really like the calm pace of these videos; no fast talking or edited out pauses between sentences

[@thatpeterboy]

Has to be my favourite Guitar channel on the tube....really great thank you :) What i like about this is trying different elements to make it sound better..not just because of change for changes sake and prepared to concede if the changes don't make a difference.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Pete that’s really nice to hear and your support is really appreciated! 👍☺️🎸

[@wallyh24]

Can’t believe your going to mess with the electronics on a semi hollow…you really go the distance for this show!…and I for one appreciate it!…keep cranking them out please…and another stellar jam…such awesome phrasing…

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man... yes I'm really looking forward to tackling that particular wiring installation in the name of entertainment! :) ... thanks for kind words and support as always!

[@MichaelFleming-qy5by]

I loved this series and found it very informative. I followed the advice here and upgraded the tailpiece on my old Dot. Very noticeable difference. Watching you walk us through it made its easy for me to follow and also showed me that it would have a positive impact after the effort.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Michael, glad it was helpful! 😎👍

[@johnwalsh3826]

Love this sh*t, another rabbit hole, fantastic channel don’t change anything ,can’t wait for the Christmas special, great idea to do the cheaper and easier upgrades first , keeps it in the real world for a lot of people, so well done there,

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers John!

[@KRE808]

Watched both part 1 and 2 today and have to say I'm so glad I found your channel. Love the honesty, and the humble self-deprecation. Can't wait to dig into some of the previous content, to say nothing of part 3. I'm just a beginner so what do I know but loved the outgoing jam as well.

[@theguitaristas]

Hey dude, thanks for the kind words! welcome to the channel, really glad you found us and hopefully you can pick up some tips to help you on your guitar adventure... these will definitely include 'what not to do' tips! :)

[@davidaustin6271]

Outstanding video! You've now bypassed Anderton's and even Stephen freaking Colbert as my favorite content provider. Please keep it coming and do not change from how you do what you do. Totally agree with returning '59 Epiphone originals, and hearing the monty's in the 335. Bring it on. Stellar video again here, kind Sir. So good.

[@theguitaristas]

Wow thanks David for those kind words that’s massively appreciated! ☺️... those guys set the bar that I will forever by trying to reach 🙌 so it’s great to hear people are enjoying my old nonsense! 😎👍🎸

[@kurtisslystne5250]

I'm 3 yrs late but it's still 'excellent geekery' cheers! From Southern California 😊

[@krustyoldude]

Having just discovered you just this evening, I wish to say that I am eager to see more. The "59" series was very enlightening. I must push the button on that one soon.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Christopher glad you found us! 😎👍🎸

[@reddove108]

I recently bought one of these in the gold finish. Changed stocks to Dunlop 9s, oiled the fretboard and made a minor adjustment to the truss rod. Most comfortable Epi neck I've experienced. And, as always, the videos are great. I enjoy the minutiae.

[@reddove108]

Been meaning to write that I took your advice and installed an aluminum stoptail piece on my 335. Made a great deal of difference (for the better). Thanks.

[@gustafrenstrom8549]

I think it sounds pretty good with those mods. the strings are the most important part of a guitar since you cant make any sound without them so the make the biggest difference.

[@AndreaAustoni]

Love the channel, the spoken bits, the nerdy stuff and the playing. Thank you for all the content!

[@theguitaristas]

My pleasure!

[@jkjustice36]

So far as of today 3/4/22, I have an Epiphone 2018 Es335 pro. I first got it in March 2018. I changed the tuning pegs to oval casino style ones. I changed the tones and volumes knobs to gold and silver hat knobs. Recently, I first changed the tail piece to gotoh one. Sound little better. Last week I changed the bridge to brass gotoh bridge... Wow! Unplugged sounds so much louder. I love it. Next week (if all the suff gets to me by then) I found some tradbucker V pick ups,(bridge and neck). I first herd them at guitar center in a les paul traditional V. They sounded like a tiger. I wanted that guitar. Now,I hope to get that sound out of my es335... I love your videos. Thank you for the ideas and suggestions.

[@garynorman5179]

As always interesting,educating and infectiously good.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks so much for the kind words and support!!

[@todd5275]

I didn't chime in a few weeks ago when Part 1 aired because I was so distracted I ended up having to watch it three or four times because The Monty's I ordered arrived and I replaced the 57 Classics that were in my guitar and installed an Emerson harness as well and I was noodling on the couch while trying to watch your video. The pick ups and harness have transformed that guitar. The Epi did sound rather flat, but it struck me that I didn't remember it sounding that way in the Anderton's review. I remembered cursing to myself that it's just another guitar that is not being offered in Lefty configuration. So I had to go back and watch that again too. And really I thought it sounded pretty good in that review. And at $749 Canadian vs $3799 for a Gibson it's a real bargain for righty players. Personally I don't think the scarf joint has any bearing, the running joke being all the best sounding bursts have had neck repairs. I am sure Kirk Hammet would agree, Greenie has had at least one. Specs here say they come with CTS pots like the "inspired by" Les Pauls so I am guessing the biggest change will come from the pick ups. Guess we'll see. I really enjoy your work. THX

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Todd, not forgetting the Andertons review I think they used a twin amp rig and quite a lot of toys whereas I try to do sound tests cleanish... and of course they are so good they could make a broom handle sound good! 🙌🙌 looking forward to the further upgrades!

[@monkeyfinger7949]

The reason Im watching your series is that I bought an Epiphone ES339 this weekend and I am going through exactly what you are doing here - trying to like it. I swapped the strings out with Slinkys and had the exact same result - the guitar got much brighter (not sure that I like it). Some of my takeaways here are: First, back in the day, guitarists only had 'classic 57's. to work with - they were not classic - they were all you could get. I read that some guys (like Clapton) used a treble booster to overcome the darkness of those pickups. It seems to me that people are buying 'period correct' reissues and are trying to use them in today's context. If you look at the history of the Marshall amp, it got brighter and brighter with every decade. So, I offer that: your ears are tuned to todays ice picky amps, and if you are like me, us older guitar players all have some high end hearing loss from years of abuse. What I'm saying is - the standard guitar is period correct. No problem modifying it to today's standard (brighter/more gain), but that somewhat defeats the rationale for buying a 60's reiussue? I am guilty of that too. I bought a Gibson 61 SG reissue and quickly swapped out the PAF's for higher gain pickups - because I don't live in the 60's any more.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, you make some excellent points there! 👌 I’m going to think on this… it needs further discussion for sure 👍 in meantime I hope you bond with the 339. Thanks for comment!

[@nellayema2455]

This is hands down the best guitar channel on YT, in my opinion. It's a lot of fun, and very informative as we come along as you experiment with different components while you chase your tone.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Nella! 🙏😎

[@stevehanham9266]

Very interesting so far. It's honestly only in the past couple of years that I've got into tinkering with guitars. It started when one of my sons bought an Epiphone SGLTD50. And quite frankly it sounded crap. So, I took the bull by the horns, stripped it all down, re crowned all of the frets, changed some of the wiring and hey presto, it sounded really great. Lucky really because I didn't really have a clue what I was doing. (KZbin a big help here). Done quite a few guitars since, so finding the series of videos very interesting indeed. Many thanks. Cheers. 😊😎🎸

[@Libra1059]

Excellent content and very interesting to an old guitar nerd like me!

[@johnny.musician]

Really enjoy this stuff. I’m just a poor ol’ pensioner so I can’t afford the ‘good’ gear and any way to bring a Lazarus thing to a cheaper guitar is fascinating as well as practical. Cheers, mate.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers John glad your liking this stuff! 😎🎸👍

[@cliveburgess4128]

Agree with you, headed in the right direction,look forward to the next one, thanks.

[@USTTRM]

Checking on the link indeed those parts are cheap as chips. Just in time for my HB 335 project! Great show as always sir!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Dude, it's amazing how much difference the hardware seems to make and I also have a couple of different bridges to try next week. Thanks for comment and stopping by!

[@jbharrop]

As someone who appreciates a good mod to improve the overall sounds and feel of a guitar (I recently upgraded my MiM Strat with Lindy Fralin Vintage Hot pups in a custom made 50s pickguard with all the CTS and Switchcraft gubbins), and currently being in the market for an Epi LP and 335, this series has been invaluable, and await the next instalment with baited breath - can't wait to see how the Monty 50's pots, wiring and pups affects the tone of this guitar. Keep up the great work and nerdery!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man will do! :)

[@ditchgator1]

Excellent data and analysis 😎👍 Am anxiously awaiting the bridge comparisons 😎👍 Can't thank you enough for the in depth investigation 😎👍 😎👍❤🖖 Love brother

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Richard!

[@ImLeuff]

Really interesting and quite nerdy video. Glad I could make it the whole 41 minutes through. Definitely still "wooly" but improved. The pickup and wiring change is going to be an interesting change, not least to see you try to fiddle around the f-holes to change them. Great channel, keep it up!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, well done there should be a prize for making it to the end I do tend to waffle on a bit!! Yes I'm looking forward to my first 'fail' video next week trying to install that wiring loom! :)

[@davidshepack2484]

I have this guitar. Your video helped me decide NOT to change the pickups. I want/need a humbucker guitar that plays CLEAN!!! (For recording and playing thru my Fender amps)

[@wpopopolo]

Amazing that you uploaded this today, I've been researching Faber parts to add to my 2020 Epi ES-335 over the last few days. Great video!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Kyle, thanks for the kind words! ... going to try out the bridges too next week so will be fun to find out what further difference they might make.

[@wpopopolo]

@@theguitaristas I put a Faber ABR-1 on my Gibson SG and it was a big improvement so, I could definitely imagine it helping the Epiphone!

[@DoctorJasonWilson]

This series is invaluable, Colin. I’ve gotten up to just the stage you get to in this video with my ES-335 Pro and it’s a different guitar. I don’t have a Gibson ES-335 to compare it with but it’s sounding as good as my 1970 Guild Starfire IV, which are usually favorably compared to the Gibson’s of that era. As you say in the video, a few simple changes can make a world of difference

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, yes I was amazed at the difference these changes made and although I do carry on for several more episodes you probably don't need to! 😆 Glad it was useful and thanks for watching! 😎👍

[@aitken1965]

I just bought this guitar today from Long & McQuade (Ontario Canada), and mine was very lively and bright right off the rack. I lowered the pickups a bit, especially the neck which was noticeably louder than the bridge, but now they sound more balanced. I'll beat on it for the next few months and then reassess!

[@davidkerr1971]

Great video, really enjoyed hearing your guitar come to life, you've got a great channel going, I really enjoy all your content, I'm thinking of putting the Faber tail piece on my Epi 59, Ive been really impressed by the difference it makes. Keep doing what you're doing man, the channel is rocking, had a wee jam with you at the end, thanks for sharing. Take care.

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one David!... Billy Gibbons inspired jam that was in case you couldn't tell! :) I'd be interested to see what you think of the change the TP59 makes on your '59 if you do it. Cheers dude thanks for the support and kind words!

[@henrikjensen3524]

My Epiphone 335 dot (2004) has a mahogany block.225 quid inc case .I agree re the front pickup and will adjust to see if it can be improved.Great guitar although a little heavy.

[@GuitarAtoZ1]

The tailpiece and strings really gave it a lift.. I'd say the meat and potato's of the transformation would be a lovely set of PAFs in there. Another great Vid keep them coming! 🤘🏻🎸

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Bryan... yes I think it does have to be the full Monty with this one so watch this space!

[@Sammywhat]

Once again, thank you for taking us along on the ride! Nice video editing, too! 🍻✌😁

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@brutus6328]

I'm stealing ALL of these classic quotes!..."I'm gonna comment......with a comment....in the comments section, cause it's for comments"......not a direct quote but good enough for me! Great vid as always! I LOVE the nerdy, geeky stuff!!! Lot's of fun and I look so forward to the next installment!

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for your comment! :) ... always appreciated.

[@andylane8815]

Took me a minute to find you. Glad you take time to run through all that stuff. I can't afford to myself so its cool to see. I am starting with just a shell basically. Last night I put a capo on to see what bad my nut was doing. It will sound better with a bone nut.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Andy, glad you found us! :)

[@andylane8815]

@@theguitaristas , cool, put new tuner's and Ernie Ball extra slinky on. Now it's a guitar. Finally sounds decent. I can show it now. Lol, happy Thanksgiving!

[@antonia4722]

I really like this style of Guitar nerdery! I could clearly hear the progression in quality between mods. I really enjoyed the jam at the end...lovely..Thanks! :o) xx

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Antonia! :)

[@rosey2578]

Such a British rocker approach to things, leave the hype and bull to the yanks ! Brilliant

[@JammyGit]

I like your unbiased opinion mate, it's rare on most other channels that really have a vested interest in the gear they're basically advertising. This video, and the other where you change for a lighter weight tailpiece really do make a mockery of the heavy 'high mass' bridges and tailpieces myth. It goes to show, don't believe something just because someone says it's true 👍

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, I think it’s important that I stay independent and don’t take money or free gear from the suppliers.... that’s the plan anyway! 😆👍

[@jeremywooldridge5537]

Interested to see how you like it after the pickups are swapped. Left mine stock since I liked the sound of them but can see how they wouldn't be for everyone. These reviews are awesome. Keep them coming!

[@taylor12elementvb]

As you had mentioned early in the vid was the difference in cost between the Epi vs the Gibson. In order for the price point to be reached with the Epi sacrifices had to be made regarding hardware, pickups etc. However, sounds like you are on the right track because there is a definite improvement in sound with the changes you made. Can't wait for the next instalment. Cheers from Canada.

[@andrefombertaux9211]

Am very glad to have come across your channel Thank you for your thoughtful and considered content

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Andre, glad you found us! 😎🎸👍

[@andrewjameswyng7919]

This is an Education to Me. Love it !!

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Andrew that's appreciated! :)

[@Rick_Cleland]

Very nice, I made a DIY ES-335 kit a while ago, doing the wiring was an absolute nightmare. There's a video on my channel of me staining / building it.

[@riff1964]

Your tone comparison charts are interesting. I would like to see a few overlays of different takes without ANY changes to assess how much variability there is in playing.

[@theguitaristas]

Oh... Sorry I didn't do that 🤦‍♂️😂

[@jeffro.]

I just came across you, and you're awesome! Love your playing, too, I like the way you edit it in & out. I thought that first adjustment, after the new strings, when you moved the pole pieces up a bit, made the strings more even in terms of the "hotness" of the p'ups. I can't wait to see the impact of the bridge & tailpiece. For myself, I just bought a Shecter Omen Extreme FR, and I understand what you mean about the "wooliness." I'm trying to figure out what changes I can make to fix that. But mine is the double-locking Floyd, so I can't easily just swap out the tail, lol! I do want to figure out a way to lock down the floating bridge, for those occasions when I don't need/want it, but it was something that I did want to have sometimes (w/o having to swap guitars). Anyway, keep up the good work! Love it!

[@theguitaristas]

Ah hello again Jeff, glad you found us and thanks for the kind words!... so its Schecter with FR you play, not that familiar with those systems to be honest but maybe someone here knows how to lock them? Or swapping guitars isn't a crazy idea as it gives you a fine excise to buy another? ;)

[@clovergrass9439]

New to the channel, I found it all interesting and I like the pace of the video, thanks! I've been thinking lately to pick one of these up to round out my (small) guitar collection.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for comment, glad you found us and enjoy this kind of stuff!

[@TRCOES]

Try some Lollar Low Wind Imperials for the 335 pickups. Made a huge improvement on my Gibson 335. I like to screw my pickups pretty low to get as much headroom as possible. You can counterbalance the loss of definition by screwing the pickup pole pieces higher. Also a bone nut can make a big difference in sound.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man... I've been picking up a lot of great info since I shot this last week so will definitely be following up with more on this subject. Thanks for support and contributing!

[@garyp5522]

I Don't Know if I am crazy but I thought the little adjusting you did to the pickups made a big difference. But most definitely in the jam at the end the guitar sounded much better. GREAT video as always.

[@theguitaristas]

I think you're right... I did end up lowering them a little bit (although I skipped that part) and raising the pole pieces to match the board and it definitely helped smooth it out. Thanks for comment and support!

[@birdman316]

great series mate! im a bit late to this party but glad i got stuck in! got me some sweet vanson "59" humbuckers(chromies) on the way for a nice project on my censtar LP clone....gonna "greeny-fy" the tone....peter is from the UK so i think its proper that the pups are also from the UK as well! on to watch part3 now....

[@steven_uk]

I like the idea of returning the Epiphone 59 Les Paul to stock, and using the Monty's pickups. The Epi Les Paul sounded great stock and using the Monty's as your regular replacement pickups maintains consistency in your video sound samples.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Stevo, it's tricky to decide but that's a very strong argument... good call!

[@chewiecovers]

Sounds like a great idea, montys pickups sound amazing, I was already contemplating a set for my tribute plus Les Paul and after hearing them in your demos I’m sold

[@jamesbattersby9454]

If you haven't already sold or installed the burstbuckers from the 59 in something else you could drop them in the 335 first to see hie much change that makes

[@theguitaristas]

@@jamesbattersby9454 Trouble is with the 335 wiring in pickups is not a simple task (as I found out this week when shooting part 3...) so I decided to go straight for boutique's and have invested in another set of Monty's PAF's for the 335 to go with the fancy wiring loom I have just installed. The burst buckers are now reserved for the Epiphone 50's Goldtop for when I compare with the Gibson. Watch this space for the results!

[@lpoolck17]

The before and after comparison at the end was excellently executed. I wonder how much the pickup adjustment has though.

[@scottdavidson6066]

Hey, The Guitaristas! Have you thought about doing any amplifier reviews? Specifically, If like to see reviews of affordable tube combo amps between about 15 & 30 watts. Anyway, just thought I'd drop the hint. I've been very much enjoying the guitar reviews! You play very nicely, too, by the way. It's so cool how you can loop a short chord progression and then so effortlessly solo over it. Very cool. Thanks for the content!!

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Scott, thanks for the kind words and support! Still not sure about amp reviews yet... it’s still early days and I’m finding out what you guys want to see so it’s good you mentioned it! I did mess around trying to film a comparison between Blues Jr, Supro Blues King, and AC10 when I started but needed to find a better way of doing it. Never say never! Cheers dude 😎🎸👍

[@scottdavidson6066]

@@theguitaristas Would love to see that if you get the time to throw it together! Looking forward to next week's episode.

[@victorbeebe8372]

I'm into the nerd stuff especially if I'm looking to buy one. Also if I need to do things to improve it. Cause the low cost justify improvements. Mahalo!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Victor, and on paper this one justifies spending a bit on if we can make it sing... its going well so fingers crossed!

[@DaringDan]

I'd be interested in what dropping two Gibson pickups in that thing would do to the sound. The savings would still be astounding and I bet it'd be really tough to tell this apart from a Gibson. Cheers.

[@steveroberts]

I don't know much about frequency changes, but I do know how a guitar sounds. You now have a fine sounding guitar aleady

[@PaulMcCaffreyfmac]

Your thinking with the Monty's PAFs could be spot on. I might have mentioned previously that while Monty's PAFs made my 2005 Les Paul Stahdard 15 or 20% better they improved my Tokai 335-a-like by 100 % A stupid note while I'm here. I like the knobs on this. Gibson put plain black top hats on almost everything non custom shop so if you're a fusspot like me you have to buy gold to go on a LP Junior and silver topped black for an SG Junior. Nice to see that guitar with silver tops from the off. Good work yet again :-)

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Paul, I am thinking it has to be a set of Monty's PAF's given your testimonial... that's it I am decided! That's assuming I don't break the guitar fitting this wiring loom which I am about to film... Anyway about the knobs, I was thinking that myself these style are way better than the plain ones. I am actually beginning to really like this guitar btw its coming alive! Cheers mate, off to do a bit of soldering and a lot of swearing....

[@PaulMcCaffreyfmac]

@@theguitaristas Are you going to film the swearing? I think you should 😁

[@theguitaristas]

I think it’s going to be difficult not to! 😂

[@apboutique2422]

Thanks for this series!! I recently got the Inspired By Gibson ES-335 and it's great! I agree with you that out of the box it can be iffy or even uninspiring. When I tried it at the store I could tell that they set it up with high action to hide the flaws in the fret work. So, on that note, if there's one thing that should be done right out of the box on these, it's fret leveling. I had 5 frets that needed to be leveled. After that I was able to get the action set exactly as my gibson les paul. Now with the frets sorted out, proper setup, but still with all stock parts, it's quickly becoming my favourite guitar!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, although most of the time these Epiphones are perfectly playable and (for my money) perfectly acceptable, I agree that a little fret work and setup can often push them over the line to fantastic guitars for the money.

[@apboutique2422]

@@theguitaristas you're absolutely correct on that - before the 335 I got the 2020 Les Paul Special TV yellow and the frets were actually perfect right out of the box. Epiphone has been doing a great job!

[@kkzooi]

on the tailpiece, there arent really any size differences when it comes to the stopbar. there is quite a weight difference though. but you can swap them without problems. just the inserts and the threads on the studs are different. i swapped the tailpieces on my epiphone les paul 1959 and my gibson sg tribute without problems. (i was curious about that myself.) obviously the bridge itself cannot be swapped between the 2 because of the size difference in the posts protruding though the holes on the bridge. edit: i think the epiphones are called locktone because the have inserts in the bridge and tailpiece to prevent them falling off when you take the strings off

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for that extra info, that's appreciated!

[@uv777gr]

I've never had a 335 either. Lots of super strats, les pauls and teles. I am thinking about picking one of these up precisely BECAUSE its different and unlike what I am used to. If the feel is decent, I figure I can work with it. Same thing happened with my first Les Paul after playing strats for years, took awhile to "like it".

[@azt3ca]

Very nice video series. In my experience, spending time and money into trying to make a guitar go from meh to great is pointless. After having made that mistake more than a few times I’ve learned to only do that on guitars that I think are well above average.

[@sjoepsjoep7293]

I love this stuff, i don’t allow myself to buy a Gibson. As feel I don’t play well enough, but the Epiphone always need something. Now i know what and how to do such things.

[@theguitaristas]

Thank you… yes you can do it yourself if you are patient! 😎👍

[@aperezdeal]

Sound decision, the Gibsons( in my experience) always need work too. I’m of a mind that if I have to put in the work either way that I’ll let my wallet have a say.

[@joshcarter617]

I’ve been itching to buy a 335 style guitar and I think I’m gonna have to go for this epiphone now and throw a better bridge and tailpiece on. And probably pickups too eventually.

[@robertgallagher2226]

Awesome! I have been considering this exact guitar right down to the colour. Thanks!

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Robert, hopefully I'm not putting you off!!

[@deadlegs187]

Get an epi dot! It's about 200 used

[@timaddison707]

Great channel just discovered you! keep up the good work.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Tim glad you found us! :)

[@billytorney6336]

Yeah i got a 335 & it just doesn't have it & granted it's a 500-600$ guitar but it just felt & sounded dead i didn't feel like putting any $$$ into it were it was an import guitar thx great show🎸🎸

[@geryhatrix]

I've been playing rock guitar since the latter 1960s in New Jersey/New York, USA. Been doing guitar, repair tech work since the 1980s. I own several Gibsons, Yamaha SG2000s (3 of them now), Epis, a Tele, 4 custom made Strats, Rickenbackers, and a myriad of other import brands. 3 guitars I think would interest you for reviews are: ***Harley Benton DC Junior - like a late 50s double cut Les Paul Junior in faded cherry ( unbelievably nice guitar and extremely affordable) ***Wolf WLP750 - Les Paul style in dark cherryburst. This guitar rivals any Gibson LP Standard/Custom that I've owned and at about $450, it is a super guitar. Weighs a bit, like an unchambered Gibson LP. ***Yamaha SG2000 - late 70s or early 80s version. A bit more pricey but this is a killer guitar!! Sincerely, Gery Hatrix Accentune Productions

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Gery, good to hear from you man and thanks for the suggestions! I love the old Yamaha SG's... it's John McGeoch from Magazine / Banshees etc!! Actually I remember now that my band's Bass player has a 70's 2000 and I should really wrestle that away from him... Thanks mate you have set my GAS off now!! ;)

[@geryhatrix]

@@theguitaristas Hi John, Thanks for the response! Did anyone ever mention the resemblance you have to Clapton? Your voice, accent and eyes in particular. Maybe you're a relative? Another tidbit - guitar amp-wise. I've been a Marshall, Hiwatt and Carlsbro (yes, I have 2 late 60s/early 70s Carlsbro model 100TC tube heads) user since 1972. All tube amps. Hard, classic rock and blues style playing. Around 2002-2003, the local music store I did repairs for brought in the Marshall MG50DFX and MG100DFX solid state combo amps. "Budget, Entry level" amps The "Marshall" tone they have hit me right away. I now have 2 of each and have gigged and recorded with them almost exclusively since then. I'm a bit picky about amp tones and love these amps. If you've never experienced them ( the first version - DFX, not the later CFX), I recommend them highly. Sincerely, Gery

[@theguitaristas]

@@geryhatrix A few people have mentioned this resemblance to EC... I wish some of his talent had rubbed off on me too! Cheers

[@gerryloughran1676]

Enjoyed the steps and the big change was the strings and the set up … would luv to see that guitar tail wrapped as break angle is steep .. if to do make sure the strings don’t touch the back of the bridge as long as you can get a piece of paper clearance that’s fine … you will not only get a different sound but a very different playing experience… also in the words of Joe Walsh a quarter turn is enough to dial a pickup in !

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Jerry, was thinking that a top wrap tone test needs to be done sometime so will incorporate that into a film...probably the next Les Paul upgrade. I wasn’t familiar with that Joe Walsh quote but good to know he’s the master! 😎🎸👍

[@GitarrenimNetz]

Very well done Video -very interesting - yes and always have good strings on your guitar!!

[@bronzesnake7004]

You've done it! This is now officially my favorite guitar channel!! HOW DARE YOU!! ") Jack ~'()'~ Canada

[@theguitaristas]

Excellent!... and you haven't even got to the part where I tie myself in knots with the wiring yet! 😂👍👍

[@tomrosa4248]

Great video! Thanks for posting this one. How about a comparison with between the Gretsch G2622T P90 Streamliner and this Epiphone 335? They are similar in design and close in price range. That Gretsch you reviewed sounded good and had great sustain.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Tom, I was thinking that but chalk and cheese really with the P90 and Bigsby on the Gretsch - so I think more of a level playing field needed to start with?.... hang on that means I may have a good excuse to by another guitar soon!!! :)

[@tomrosa4248]

@@theguitaristas Good point, I can see people bringing that up and commenting. I think that Gretsch sounded so good because the amp, pedals and your smooth soloing. I would like to see how close this 335 comes to the Gretsch in respect to gain and sustain. Have a great day!

[@carolinehaf21]

@@theguitaristas there are p90 centreblock gretsches that don't have bigsbys and have a V stop tail if you want to compare. They're usually cheaper than the bigsby ones as well. - larger size body: G2622-P90 STREAMLINER™ CENTER BLOCK DOUBLE-CUT P90 WITH V-STOPTAIL - smaller size body: G2655-P90 STREAMLINER™ CENTER BLOCK JR. DOUBLE-CUT P90 WITH V-STOPTAIL I got the smaller G2655T-P90 STREAMLINER™ CENTER BLOCK JR. DOUBLE-CUT with bigsby because of the mint metallic colour as there was no hard tail version in that colour and she was too pretty to pass up!! I should have her in the next couple of weeks! I have to decide if I'm going to change the bridge to a roller saddle or upgraded gotoh tunomatic or stay as is depending on how the tuning stability is with the bigsby as it will be my first one. Love these tips on set up and swapping hardware by the way. Invaluable for those of us who use recently gotten back into guitar buying due to these more affordable/improved quality Gretsch/Epiphone/Squier lower end models we would never had thought was possible 25 years ago when I started playing!

[@theguitaristas]

@@carolinehaf21 Hey Caroline! yes I think its just a matter of time before we get one of those lovely hardtail Gretsches in for a comparison 🤔...very cool guitars and the jr in metallic mint sounds killer! I reckon a roller bridge would be smart upgrade... would it need it? I'd say probably if you gonna whammy much. Thanks for the support and kind words btw... it's really appreciated! Hope you love that new guitar! 👍🎸

[@carolinehaf21]

@@theguitaristas Binged a ton of your videos today as it's been a few weeks since I've watched you... this series on whether or not to upgrade bridges, pickups etc is actually really useful because it's hard not to go berserk when these guitars are affordable! Probably a total PITA for you but we appreciate it!

[@minigmac1]

Great video sir!❤

[@cussy77]

Great video as usual would love too see one on the squire 60s classic vibe stratocaster take care

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Cussy... I expect I will get there eventually!

[@riadmiah3342]

I am curious to see you review an Epiphone Elite ES 335. I just picked one up and it pretty great. Would like to get your take on it.

[@che2335]

Definitely more highs the O scope is setting your channel apart with scientific precision.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks, yes it's good actually be able to see it come to life!... surely someone must have done that before though?? If not then remember you saw it here first folks!! :)

[@che2335]

@@theguitaristas Ive gotten more into review vids and back into playing since the covid hit us and I havent seen anyone else hit us w the analyzer. I dont watch everyone but besides you i do frequent Trogoly OlaEnglund Stay Metal Ray Agufish, Kyle Bull, Phil McKnight, Guitar Max and Darrell Braun. I prefer your and Darrell Brauns channels most. The slow down at work has afforded me more youtube time lol.

[@theguitaristas]

@@che2335 Wow thanks man, I feel very honoured to be mentioned in the same sentence as those guys! I hope that some good things have/will come out of the madness of the last year or so... for me it was actually plucking up the courage to re-launch this channel on my own due to having no-one else to play with! :) and for you hopefully it's worked out ok and at least you get spend more time with your guitars!

[@che2335]

@@theguitaristas yes we must keep looking for the bright spots thru the gloom of this and your content definitely helps us all. Thank you.

[@chunkydude51]

Love your site and watch it a lot, but, lol why no middle pickup selection ? I see this so much on reviews and it's a third of the sound test missing , keep up the great work.

[@theguitaristas]

Sometimes I do sometimes I don't... it's nice to leave the audience wanting more! 🤣 Cheers for supporting! 😎👍

[@jmledesma88]

Maybe try and raise the stop tailpiece a bit to reduce the breaking angle over the saddles. This helps with keeping in tune when you bend strings, reduces string tension and even keeps you from breaking strings more often.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, it's not snagging on the bridge so no problems there, but this does need looking at soon to see if there's a tonal or feel benefit for sure!

[@stephenkennaway9326]

Hi, the earlier 335s had a mahogany block but inspired ones get maple the same as gibson which is why the old versions sounded so bassy and muddy. So with decent p.u. s this should sound a lot closer to the gibson. great content vid keep it up cheers steve

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Steve thanks for the info and support! 👍😎🎸

[@content-appreciator]

A very very interesting deep dive into guitar geekdom.

[@henryhunter5026]

Some quite interesting stuff going on there. The improvement in tone with new strings was just what I’d have expected. However I was amazed the significant improvement in sound brought about by installing the aluminium tailpiece, it’s certainly something I’ll try on a couple of my less lively sounding guitars. I’m looking forward to hearing the difference the nylon bridge saddles make as I played an amazing sounding SG some years ago which had nylon saddles and I’ve wondered how much they contributed to the sound of that guitar.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Henry, watch this space!

[@stevesteve1965]

New wiring pots and caps and certainly unpotted low output pickups. Remarkable small changes tho, impressive.

[@catmoonmedia8223]

I have this same guitar. Of course I changed the strings.. easy and something any new guitar needs. Top wrapping on a stop rail piece can also help. I also adjusted the intonation which was way out.. easy again and something I do with a new guitar. Finally, I lowered the neck pickup, and the muddy sound was gone. Bridge pickup was okay but the idea of someone buying and Epiphone and immediately replacing hardware and electronics is a bit crazy.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers, yeah we’re definitely a bit crazy but only doing it in the name of fun and research! 😎🎸👍

[@catmoonmedia8223]

Your channel is very interesting and it’s fun to watch the experimental dives into searching for that thing called tone.

[@ToddTheJoker]

I was going to mention this in the first part but did not want to sound like a twat, because I am sure you already know this, but sometimes a little truss rod tweek makes a huge difference in the feel of the guitar. There, I said it and I am a twat. I am getting one of these guitars in a few months so I appreciate your videos! great work!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Todd, well done for finally coming out with it 😆👍 and I certainly don’t think your a twat... these are all good ideas!! I did actually give it a little tweak to add a bit of relief so entirely possible that’s added to things, either way after all these changes it’s definitely feeling and sounding better. Thanks for the comment and support! 😎🎸👍

[@ToddTheJoker]

@@theguitaristas haha thanks...glad to hear the guitar is better for all the work you put into it..I cant wait to get my own Epiphone 335. Looking forward to your Part 3!

[@curtahnlund3758]

Thanx, saw just the links…..Cheers👍

[@kenmh7357]

Great graphs!

[@MurphSA]

Thank you so much for another great video.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for watching!

[@NenoMaestro]

Thank you for your videos, you deserve more subs than this.. !!! I think others will discover you sooner or later :) ! For me this is like TOP GEAR FOR GUITARS xD

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Nemanja that’s appreciated! 😎🎸👍

[@clint4004]

Impressive how much difference those strings made..

[@theguitaristas]

I know.. that's a good little upgrade!

[@robertclinger7351]

And it sure got cold after the rain fell, not from the skies, but, from my eyes. Words from Billy Gibbons.

[@theguitaristas]

Yes you got it!! 🙌 nice one dude.. that will be in your head all day now I promise so enjoy... such a brilliant song eh?? 😎🎸👍

[@jeffro.]

Wow, dude, I could see the diffs with the spec analyzer! Or really did "wake it up," it cut out some of the bass & added treble, pushing it into the midrange. I think I'll try that with my guitar. On the subject of locking down my floating bridge, so far I haven't seen anything commercially available to do what I want, so I guess I'll have to make something. I just want to be able to slide a latch back & forth to lock & unlock it, the best way I can see to do that is from the back, where the springs are. Have you heard of anything new?

[@theguitaristas]

What do you play with springs at back a Strat?... a block of wood works but a bit tricky to unlock again! :)

[@SouthpawSatch]

I have an Epiphone 'Inspired by Gibson' LP Custom which has the same issue. The pickups have been upgraded but the tone is still somewhat muffled despite having a professional set up. I've come to conclusion it's the cheap tailpiece, bridge and posts so I've ordered some new Faber parts. I'm hoping this will help the guitar sound better

[@hiasderheld4039]

Which pickups did you install? Did the tailpiece change make much difference?

[@martguitar1]

Brilliant channel. However what is your post guitar signal chain ??? It's nonsense without that

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Martin, It’s in description box on this one.

[@ChristopherSibert]

"There'll be a jam at the end, if you get bored just skip to that..." Nope. I'm in it for the long haul.

[@Vidar.m]

I just ordered one, in vintage sunburst.. 😊

[@theguitaristas]

Check out todays video! 😁👍

[@Vidar.m]

@@theguitaristas awesome ! 👍👍 beautiful looking and sounding

[@malcolmsansom5026]

Great vid as always although I haven't got a clue what the graphs mean lol and great playing wish I could make mine sound like that