Epiphone ES-335 vs: Gretsch G2622 - Guild Starfire 1 - Squire CV Starcaster - Hofner Verythin

At long last 'part two' of the series where I present alternatives to the ubiquitous es-335. This time we include original reissues from Gretsch, Hofner, Guild, and Fender... will any of these beauties tempt you away from the everyman choice??
Search for Hofner Verythin on Reverb: reverb.grsm.io/verythin
Hofner Verythin Review: • Hofner Verythin - Affo...
Search for Gretsch G2622 on Reverb: reverb.grsm.io/gretschg2622
Gretsch G2622 Review: • Gretsch G2622 Streamli...
Search for Squier CV Starcaster on Reverb: reverb.grsm.io/starcaster1873
Squier CV Starcaster Review: • Squier Classic Vibe St...
Search for Guild Starfire 1 on Reverb: reverb.grsm.io/guildstarfire5546
Guild Starfire Review: • Guild Starfire 1 DC - ...
Search for Epiphone ES335 on Reverb: reverb.grsm.io/epiphonees335
Epiphone ES335 Upgrade Series: • Epiphone ES-335 - Revi...
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Time stamps:
00:00 play in and coming up
01:18 what's happening today
02:44 the line-up
05:32 Epiphone ES-335
08:33 Gretsch G2622
09:41 Guild Starfire 1
10:35 Hofner Verythin
11:55 Squier CV Starcaster
13:43 let's compare the weights
15:00 feeling & unplugged sounds
21:07 today's rig
21:55 let's start playing something
22:32 neck profiles & measurements
23:07 let's carry on playing something
25:19 what just happened
26:21 what do I think of them
33:07 final words on the matter
35:17 play out jam
Signal Chain Info:
TC Polytune / Boss CS3
Drive Pedals (when on): Soul Food / Big Muff
Boss DD7 / Boss RC5 Looper
Amp: Fender Princeton 65 Reverb Tweed 1 x 12
Mics AKG C414 & SM57
Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 into Protools
I AM NOT AN EXPERT. Some things I do know and some things I don't know but think I know and sometimes I say things that are not entirely correct. Once I have said things it's too late to correct them so please check any 'so called facts' with an adult, google, wikipedia, or someone else that knows.
We run this channel to provide therapy for our gear addiction and for an excuse to buy more. Please like and subscribe and keep coming back to watch our films if you would like to support the channel!
#es335 #guitar #guitaraddict #theguitaristas #guitarist #guitarporn #gretsch #starcaster #hofner

[@theguitaristas]

Correction: The ES-335 was of course first released by Gibson in 1958 and not 1960 as I repeatedly stated. Sorry!

[@jltrem]

Was about to fact check you, Colin, on your repetition of the 1960 debut date, but you beat me to it. I ought to know, I was around in 1958. Granted, I was six years old, but I was around.

[@richardlynch5632]

Thinking that this style of ES335 with the shortened pickguard and less rounded "Mickey Mouse Ears" of the '58 started in' 60...So technically you could be right😁👍 Not sure which year the dot neck came out...? Great content Colin😎👍 😎👍❤🖖 Love Brother

[@theguitaristas]

@@richardlynch5632 Thanks man... appreciated the heads up! 😎👍

[@gregmock6808]

The one you have as well as me is the 58 model...the 60s models went with the small block inlays and I think a thinner neck than the 58. I love mine but have to replace the output jack...it keeps coming loose...think I could fix it with a locking washer

[@2WAL-]

Wait , then what about Marty Mcfly in 1955 😂😂😂😂😂

[@danieli.9252]

Why do I watch these videos, knowing I’m going to want a guitar I don’t need? I watch because I enjoy your playing, and I really enjoy the way you talk about guitars. You have a good energy and it’s nice that you put it out into the world.

[@RJ_Groot]

It's a nice way to ease into the day. I share your sentiments.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man that's appreciated! 😁🙏

[@msaintpc]

Yep, it's pleasing to see a person who actually knows and loves guitars.

[@MakeAllThingsBeautiful]

i know the fella has lots of interesting things to talk about and could help me decide on a guitar, but he just faffs about not getting to important relevant information like his opinion, ideally an opinion about something he really likes and hopefully for lots of reasons, but, i'll never know i tried a few minutes at the beginning and then jumped forward and then gave up sorry

[@redneckmetalhead1931]

Same

[@drewrutberg5393]

I love this guy. He plays great. He had a wonderful demeanor and I always lean something from his videos

[@chicagoblues81]

You have become my go to for a wide array of information. Thank you for all the time and effort you put into these videos. Us blokes across the pond dig you sir!

[@archiefury]

I really appreciate your videos as they are so informative and helpful. You provide a superb service for guitarists who want an unbiased view before making their purchase. Thanks.

[@dorianmoon]

Yet another enjoyable & informative treat! I have orbited the sun 65 times & have never come across "ubiquitous". I have now googled & have been enlightened. Cheers Colin.

[@theguitaristas]

🤣👍 Excellent... I used that word several times for effect!

[@xiehu43]

Lovely! Thanks for putting this together. What I found really neat was the "memorable Hofner solo" moment. Great stuff! Peace.

[@jamessutherington3471]

Got to say Colin I’m an avid watcher of your channel and always look forward to 12.00 on Fridays! I remember the mods you done on that epiphone 335 and now it sounds amazing! ❤

[@jfiery]

I understand what you're saying completely. During the week I find myself wondering what he's going to put out Friday morning and I'm eagerly awaiting it when I wake up.

[@jamesbaynton1881]

Cool, this time last year I was choosing between these, and fell in love with the Hofner Verythin in a local shop. Now I've played it for a year and still happy. It looks so understated next to the others that are too blingy for me.

[@jronguitars9107]

Keep going with your videos. They are much appreciated. It’s great having honest opinions rather than just positives without pointing out things that aren’t so good. We can tell that you’re as passionate about guitars as we all are.

[@simonplimbley5778]

Mate really look forward to the videos at the end of the week so thanks for making the effort. You never let us down with your input and observations/comments. Would love to have a video on how as an older player (me too) & how you have developed over the years … like the point about bar chords with the Hofner, using the thumb due to the neck. I still have lessons and on occasions go back to doing the odd exam … always looking for inspiration. Keep up good work Colin & all the best… if you weren’t so far South it be great to see you at a gig mate👍🎸

[@pauljohnson7412]

Great review! Appreciate your thoroughness and detail. Good chops, too! Thanks

[@laurifinlandia]

i have grown fond of your videos, they are informative, they are openly opinionated, but most of all they are very relaxing; you have a comfortable and benevolent air about you, and it translates well as you create content. keep it up!

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for the support it's appreciated! 😁🙏

[@leedouglasmusic]

The best guitar channel on youtube!! Ordered my Verythin last night! Thanks to this and the individual review. Cheers!

[@NickHumphrey_music]

I only discovered your videos recently, but I am so hooked on them! You are the only person doing detailed dives into each guitar you present and include difficult to find info in a down-to-earth, enjoyable way. Please keep making more videos so that for each guitar I shouldn't buy, I can find out every detail about it here! Best regards!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Nick, glad you found us man thanks for the support! 😁👍

[@stratsw]

Colin, thanks again for another great video, it’s always a pleasure watching and learning your opinion on guitar, your relaxed honest way of expressing your thoughts and feelings on the guitars you review refreshing and always entertaining. I always smile when you say to skip forward if we don’t have enough time, I’m sure there are not many who do that, the time you give goes so quickly and I for one could watch for much longer! Thanks again buddy, you are much appreciated. Chris

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Chris that's appreciated! 😁🙏

[@thomasbarr5940]

Love your vids ..refreshingly honest and I learn so much listening to your take on things...well done on a great channel

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Thomas!

[@RobVespa]

Thanks for the commentary and playing. I recently purchased my first Gretsch, a streamliner with a Bigsby. Couldn't pass up the deal. Can't wait for it to arrive. All the best.

[@aitken1965]

Your playing on this video is particularly fun and tasteful! You’ve gotten great tones out of each of those guitars. I have the Epi IG ES335 in Cherry and a G2622 with Fidelisonic P90s, and my mate has the CV Starcaster. (I’m a bit envious of that Starcaster to be honest) I particularly enjoyed this review. Thank you 😊

[@oldmanzen6682]

Very nice comparison video. Thanks. I love ‘em all, but that Gretsch is gorgeous.

[@darwinsaye]

Excellent comparison! Thanks for finding and including a Verythin! I had mentioned it to you after part one. 🙂

[@theguitaristas]

😁👍👍

[@alledzebu1975]

Thanks! I've been waiting a long time for this one :)

[@craigpetterson3962]

Great Start to the weekend Colin. 👍🏻

[@WilliamLuley]

What a great job of comparing three "ES335" style guitars! Thanks for your personal responses to each of them. I am currently looking for a semi-hollow body electric and this video definitely steered me toward the Gretch G2622. I was also considering the Guild Starfire I DC, but for about $200 less in the U.S., I think I will be very happy with the Gretsch. I currently have a Gretsch solid body G2215 P90 Streamliner electric and am pleased with the quality so I'm hoping the 2622 will be of equal quality. I'll be watching your videos again. Very helpful and easy to understand.

[@WilliamLuley]

correction ... Actually five different styles, not just three. So much the better! Thanks!

[@moorecreativearts2544]

Great episode. I’ve got an Eart 335, that’s a great satin sunburst with hand-rounded stainless steel frets. Been really impressed with it. < $400 though I’m thinking of switching from humbuckers to a P90s

[@scaredypicker]

Great reviews mate! Very thorough and professional 👍 came to this because I was interested in the Squier, but ended up thinking the Gretsch is one I have to try now too! Earned a subscriber 🙂

[@Steve-B1965]

Once again another terrifyingly honest comparison. I enjoyed it immensely although it must be hard to distinguish between the feel, look and personal opinion. I have the epi inspired by I love it although I do hope to do a similar upgrade to the ones you did. Well everything except the wiring loom I still wake up in cold sweat thinking about that episode. Im off to become a patron. Enjoyed that although my coffee went cold about half way through.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Steve 😁👍

[@rshack4927]

@kiteflyer101 "I do hope to do a similar upgrade to the ones you did." The damn thing is that most of the 335's improvement came from fresh strings... which is either good news if (like me) you don't have endless money, or bad news if (like me) you have unreasonable urges to do stuff to your guitars. The cost/benefit ratio was way higher for strings than for anything else... and while there surely was improvement throughout, it seemed as though the more spendy the improvement the more marginal its benefit was. I'm still not sure whether that makes me glad or sad ;-)

[@DIGITAL7Media]

I love that you said the Grestch is in one word "CREATIVE" Mine always brings stuff out of me that I didnt know I had. Its very very inspiring.

[@jefftucker201]

Brilliant Comparison Vid Colin, nice one! all the best mate.

[@bradleyhajost7161]

Thank you for your helpful insights. I’m a huge fan of my highly customized custom WARMOTH necked FENDER Starcaster. I swapped out the 335 style string snapping bar-stop tailpiece with a DUISENBERG vibrato tailpiece.

[@estenray6685]

I have an Epiphone Riviera and a Harley Benton H35 Lemon Drop. i love both guitars though they sound very different as the Riviera has 3 P90’s and a Bigsby. While the H35 Lemon Drop had dual coil splitting Humbuckers! Colin I’ve been really enjoying your video presentation’s for a bit more than a year now. I have to admit your definitely one of my favorites when it comes to obsessing over guitars! Your playing and sense of humor is simply a joy to witness and your knowledge never fails to educate and entertain! Thanks for all of it!!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers mate! 👍

[@danielanderson4472]

First time seeing yiur channel! How!? Anyway love your relaxed manner and humility and lack of ego. Now this IS the sort of video I could watch with a cuppa!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man glad you found us! 😁👍

[@marcozarattini1854]

Great as always Colin...l wait patiently every Friday to pass about an hour listening and watching always interesting things👍👍👍...by the way my 1992just retourned from the luthier with perfect fretwork(not necessary a re-fret luckyly),perfect set up,Just in time for our 29th december gig...She now plays as She played 30years ago when She was fresh from factory...l am the happiest man on Earth...it's Just incredible the Joy and happyness a guitar can give you...as always Cheers from Italy 🤣👍👍👍🎸🎸🎸❤️❤️❤️

[@theguitaristas]

Great news Marco! 👍👍

[@buzzburb1]

So glad you like the Starcaster Col, I have the Classic vibe tobacco burst, it sounds amazing the neck is so fast and smooth , great blues vibe, I love the classic vibe range also own cv 60`s custom shop Telecaster and 60`s cv Strat, all superb build quality and sound , cheers Col another enjoyable half hour or so, oh and the Epiphone Pelham Blue SG special as arrived back un harmed and is back on the wall

[@robertc5387]

I just discovered your videos and really enjoyed this - thanks very much. I’ve recently been researching Gretsch guitars myself, and have been particularly impressed with the Electromatic series. They seem to have a great tone and are still unbelievably affordable. It would be great to see you do a video on one of these down the road. Thanks again.

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Robert, there's a review of the Electromatic G5230T here not eh channel so check that out... great guitars!!

[@gianthonour]

Great video, really enjoyed the series... More! 😀👏 I'm definitely a 335 lover ❤ The Riviera in part one was probably my 2nd fave

[@whittlad]

I really liked the Starcaster and to be honest i love most semi/hollow body guitars and I own two or three. I just like the different tones and look of the guitars. With these models being at the cheaper end of the market, they are perfect for modding👌👍

[@MaTTheWish]

The starcaster has been really great for me, they are running a great sale right now.

[@davelewis4215]

We have a couple of versions My favourite is the Sire Larry Carlton.They have a new version with P90s which I’m looking forward to trying in the new year👍

[@JMK571]

Great video, as always, Colin! I've been waiting for this video for some time and I'm glad it is finally here. As I've said before in your comments, I'm not a 335 fan, but I own (and LOVE) an Epiphone ES339. It's the same shape as the 335, but sized similarly to a Les Paul. It sounds great, plays great, and in my opinion, the smaller shape makes it something that I would (and have) played live. I think that my 339 is the best sounding guitar I own!!

[@mrmarleay396]

Interesting to read your comment. I was looking to buy myself a retirement guitar - a friend who's a luthier and was in band where he was the songwriter and singer - recommended that I not get the 339 as he did not like them... Different strokes for different folks. I ended up getting the Joe Bonamassa 1962 335 just because it was more or less a Gibson (hardware and pickups all the same) and the limited edition factor - for whatever that is worth.

[@potwms99]

I have had a Gretsch G2622 for a couple of years. I agree with your assessment. It's a great guitar for the money, but it needs a pup and wiring upgrade along with some locking tuners. I'll get around to upgrading it one of these days. I've been watching your channel for a while now. Keep up the good work!

[@bassyey]

Time to practice my arpeggios while watching this video. This channel is great. I'll add another comment after this video. My main guitar is that Epiphone ES--335, but in flamed-maple top blueberry burst BUT, I'm already looking forward to a Starcaster, only because it has 25.5 inch scale.

[@danlewis-leaver8247]

Love your video mate, open and honest.

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

I was searching for a Gretsch 335 style in 2020 and came across an Epi 335 pro that was virtually unplayed so…I pulled the trigger. Its a fine guitar and I feel lucky to have yet in the four years since, not a week goes by without a ponder as to why I did not wait for the Gretsch version. I feel another new guitar day coming soon. Thanks for the video.

[@hod8931]

Thanks for the comparison! I have a Gretch single cutaway, a D'angelico premiere and a custon shop 61 es335. I like all 3. Had a Ibanez semi hollwbody that i loved too. Just bought a Epiphone les paul custom because of your review. Much better quality than they used to put out. I've already changed the pups to dimarzzio's but the stock humbuckers sounded decent too.

[@theguitaristas]

😁👍 What colour did you get??

[@bigmikeyz0071]

I think my es335 is the first guitar that I bought purely based on looks. Ever since I first saw the Cream Goodbye concert I fell hard for Clapton’s cherry es335 and I eventually got one but it’s a dot. I also love the versatility of a 335 as well. My first hollow body is a 60’s Silvertone 1446 with the factory Gibson mini humbuckers and a bigsby. Both get played a lot and both are my go to guitars for noodling around the house because I find acoustic guitars uncomfortable. It’s always nice finding a quality instrument at an affordable price but sometimes you just have to scratch that itch lol. Either way I have no regrets buying my es335 and as always another great video in the books keep up the good work Colin!

[@roswellminard9350]

In reference to the Squier Starcaster: "I'll play this over a 335 any day of the week." That's a BOLD statement my man! Now you've got me considering giving one a shot - especially at that price. Excellent rundown, thank you!

[@JasperJames0912]

Absolutely subscribed, fantastic video, keep it up!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers mate!

[@TheRealChetManley]

The Gretsch is my favorite of this bunch. I’m probably going to buy one after watching this. You’re right, everyone needs a 335 style guitar in their collection.

[@theguitaristas]

😎👍👍

[@MattBaker-zd8nq]

I have the 3 humbucker model 2627t it’s a great guitar

[@jimmyjames2022]

Thanks for your arm bruise sacrifice! My very first electric was a pretty 70s Framus 335 clone, then downsized to a 60s Tele Thinline, then settled on playing on solid bodies solely. I have enough tones to keep me occupied with the various full, mini and Firebird humbuckers and the many single coils in a solid body to add to the tonal complexity with a giant empty air bellows underneath the pickups. But I agree that semi/hollows sure are pretty looking and a covetous thing.

[@larrykendrick8095]

Excellent show! I have the Starcaster in the same finish. I do love Squiers, and they are affordable. I like the copies they do of older Fender models, the Starcaster, and the Squier VI, a copy of the Bass VI.

[@LGuitarB]

I've said it before, but I'll say it again: one of the reasons that I like watching this channel so much is the easy pace; often videos like these will have all the natural pauses between sentences cut out to just compress it in as little time as possible, but that makes for very tiring and intensive listening. This is just GREAT relaxing time at a Friday night!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers mate, i always think it's a little bit like music... the gaps between the notes are equally as important! 😁👍

[@LGuitarB]

@@theguitaristas Exactly!

[@ericwarrington6650]

Again great work man 🤘... being a small guy I've always gravitated to strats sgs and lps as they fit my size and I prefer the tones and feel.. when I pulled the trigger on a semi hollow in 2020 I went es 339 Epiphone inspired by Gibson line .. classic sunburst..I absolutely love it.. fantastic guitar. for about 700 -750 w epi hard case it punches way above it's weight

[@mitchellferre1652]

Nice playing ! I love this channel what a wonderful comparison

[@richardlynch5632]

The tones of a sweet 335 type guitar with blues/rock is unlike any other 😉👍 Great video Colin 😃👍 😎👍❤🖖 Love Brother

[@John-hi2yi]

Great video Colin as usual, tried a few 335’s and there big, landed a 339 and was stunned with the feel and sound.

[@chrislabar22]

Are there giant differences, in your opinion, between the 335 and 339?

[@John-hi2yi]

The body on the 339 is smaller and in my humble opinion, more comfortable.

[@randallcl9925]

I bought the Gretsch G2622 WS (like yours) as my first Gretsch and first semi-hollow. Love it, fantastic for the money, especially like the flawless fit and finish, the neck is great and I love the master volume control and the output jack down on the guitar side (instead of on the top). Liked it so much I bought the 2019 G2622T-P90 and like it even more! P-90s rock!

[@LucaLindemann]

... another great video! When You play, You reminds me JJ Cale a lot... Wonderful touch, nice phrasing and perfect pauses timing... 👍👍👍👍

[@theguitaristas]

😊🙏

[@victorbeebe8372]

Mahalo again Colin! Great video and information. And playing.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man! 😎👍

[@nellayema2455]

Another great vid! I have a '97 Sheraton that I've had for about 15 years. It's a great looking and solidly built Koren made guitar. The original pups were so microphonic that I could actually hear myself speaking through them. I replaced them with older Epi '57 pups which sound OK, but the plan is to install some Duncan '59 pups in it that I have. I also have some metric Tone Pros hardware to install on it. I don't play it much, but hauled it out the other day and quite enjoyed it.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Allen, those older Korean Sheraton's are great guitars 👍👍

[@brentbeltz8968]

Lucky enough to have 8 of these hollow to semi hollow - Epiphone, gibson and Eastman. I really only like 5 of them but they all look perfect hanging on the wall! Throw on the vinyl copy of Claptons’ “Nothing But The Blues” crank up the ‘65 Deluxe Reverb - and I’m there man! Great video. Love the slide work too! Cheers Colin.

[@stephenfigueira2269]

I had been wanting a semi hollow for a while but every time I’d check out models, the necks felt so clunky compared to a standard electric. I ended up getting the squire classic vibe starcaster and it blew all others out of the water in terms of playability in my opinion. Feels just like a strat neck. Couldn’t be happier!

[@donthewatcher8835]

hey Colin Glad you kept something 335 ish, i just got a JB Epi 62 335 , im excited this is my third JB epiphone with burstbuckers cheers from Playa Del Rey california

[@BobPerrone]

My first quality guitar was a 64 335 which my Dad bought for me in 1969. At that point he figured I was sticking with playing since I had continued lessons for about 7 years at that point. Alas, the guitar was stolen after a gig, but other than the sentimental value I felt the same way about it as you do. Great reviews my friend, I just may pick up a Starcaster after this.

[@USTTRM]

Hello sir! Great show as always. I just got the Joe B. 335 and it is a wonderful piece of work. Really an outlier. Cheers!

[@brentbeltz8968]

Fully agree! I lucked in to the signature fretboard model to go with my Lazarus. Truly a great set of guitars

[@theguitaristas]

Ooh have you!... is the review up yet?? I'm wondering what you will think of the maestro vibrola as they take a bit of getting used to and do sound different to stop bars imho. Great guitar though and I am a bit jealous... but not enough to shell out £1150. That may change by tomorrow though! 🤣 Cheers Mike have a great weekend 👍

[@brentbeltz8968]

So it has been really tough to choose a winner better the JB 335 and the Eastman. They both are excellent, so I have to say it’s a draw with each taking wins in different columns. I did take the arm off the Maestro. I don’t use it and it was very much in the way. No tuning stability issues on either. I think in a perfect world I would have a stop bar on both as the response is a little tighter on the Eastman. I’m not sure if this is down to playing 12s on both? So the tension is pretty high.

[@edwardbelcher8612]

Went through most of these contenders myself a couple of months ago and decided to get the Guild Starfire. For me it was three things that set it apart from others in the same price range. First was the thin and flat neck shape, second was the coil split pickups and thirdly I just thought it sounded better overall. The only thing I didn't like is the 11 gauge strings it came with, and on mine the G tuner sticks a little. The only thing I changed other than the strings was to lower the action just a little. The playability on it really reminds me of a 60's Hagstrom Viking I had back in the 80's.

[@timfaul1733]

So I’m one of those people that watched the entire 335 upgrade series, having a 2017 Epiphone 335 Pro. I bought it after someone replaced the original pups with Gibson 57 Classics and had the frets leveled and dressed. I always wanted to change out the wiring harness, but haven’t had reason to until my switch went out. So I dropped an RS Guitarworks harness in and while I was at it, replaced the bridge and tail piece with Faber components. You never know how it’s going to turn out, but the difference is definitely noticeable. Way more open and responsive. Is it worth it? Meh. Maybe. I’d love to have a Gibson, but this suits me fine. It’s a substantial improvement over stock. But the fun for me is in having a project to experiment with. I want to thank you, Colin, for the inspiration! It’s a journey for sure.

[@paolo4002]

101'ers ! Keys To Your Heart... One of my favourites.. favourites. Great vid. Really enjoyed it ! Cheers

[@theguitaristas]

😁👌

[@bradyazell]

I thought the Gretsch sounded the best too. I don't have a Gretsch, but I'm inching closer thanks to you. Another great Vid!

[@ToddTheJoker]

Well, I am biased because I own and love a Epiphone Inspired by Gibson red 335! But since I am a fan of your channel I will watch the whole thing, it's like hanging out with you for a while! Thanks Colin!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Todd, good to see you as always mate! 😁👍

[@floydthebarber9956]

First in and timely. I'm looking at these very guitars right now. Rock on mate!

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one... you win Floyd! 😁🏆

[@joehahn8817]

I'll still beat you to the "Like" button...😉😁

[@MattSwain1]

Definitely food for thought there as I’m considering a 335-style guitar as my next guitar. Maybe if I want to scratch the semi-hollow itch I look to do it with a smaller bodied guitar as most likely it will be played sat on the sofa. Of that lot I really liked the understated look of the Hofner

[@craigtrask1451]

Snagged a epiphone 335 figured too for $150 off a week ago. Very happy with it! However, your bridge/tailpiece episode has me wanting to swap those out.

[@Bobbagee]

I’ve been looking forward to this. I have loved 335’s ever since seeing Alvin Lee in the Woodstock movie. Over the years I’ve owned a Guild Starfire, an Epiphone Dot Studio and a Dearmond Starfire Special. Loved the Guild and Dearmond but never really bonded with the Dot, it was heavy, wouldn’t stay in tune and the finish had issues. The thing I noticed when listening to Colin play is that I really dug the sound of the Hofner and the Starfire, both really grabbed my attention (might just be because they sound substantially different from the other 3 which sounded similar to me). That works out for me since I recently picked up a Squier Starfire CV and have held on to an early 70’s Ovation Eclipse which has a Hofner body and either Hofner or Schaller single coil pickups. I’m glad to see that Colin liked the Starfire, even if it wasn’t his overall favorite. I wish the neck was a little chunkier but overall I really like mine.

[@Bobbagee]

Doh! I just noticed that I kept referring to the Squier as a Starfire when of course it is a Starcaster. So to clarify, I have the Ovation Eclipse which is sort of a Hofner with an Ovation neck and the Squier Starcaster. Love them both. If I was looking for another semi-hollow it would probably be the Gretsch. Happy New Year to one and all.

[@michaeldelisle3100]

Yeah, definitely review the ES339, especially the PRO with P90s. Maybe compare with Gretsch 2655 and 2657, both HB and P90. Cool stuff. And thanks for today's vid. I enjoy em all !!!

[@_rafael_b]

Hi Colin! Thanks for another great video. All of the guitars sounded really good. Those semi-hollow electrics are so versatile. I played my first show ever with a Korean made Epiphone Sheraton II in the 90's playing with lots of distortion and It handled it pretty well. It was also a great jazzer at the same time. I traded that guitar for a Telecaster that is now my favorite guitar that I own, but I still really miss that Epiphone two decades later. So much so that I'm tempted to try and track it down and make the current owner an offer. I'm not sure which of the ones you played were my favorite. Again, they all sounded pretty good. You've got great tone anyway and you make pretty much any guitar sound good. Btw, England looked great against Senegal! The French are going to be a much tougher test though. Again, best of luck tomorrow. I'll raise a toast to you one way or the other. Cheers Colin!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man!.... me tomorrow night is 😬🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🤞

[@agipandi4482]

God I love semi hollows so much. All of these really make me want another one.

[@stevegroves]

Really good video mate as always thanks! I picked up a secondhand Epi 335 in mint order for £200 pretty good for that money, BUT up against my smaller bodied Gretsch streamliner G2655T, I dont honestly think it cuts it. The Gretsch seems more versatile being a bit smaller it handles nicely and its got a Bigsby on it and bearing in mind new these two guitars are pretty close in price I would take the Gretsch all day. Something about its feel, the way it plays is just to me a nicer guitar all round with quality to match. Anways thanks for another great episode Colin Cheers!

[@wikolib6821]

Thanks Colin, you'e a big help and have a great sense of humor. Saw a Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster being played at at church today and it sparked my interest. Also demoed a Epi Casino worn today at GC and it was nice, pretty good build quality but it had slight intonation issues but more importantly it didn't want to stay in tune. The sales guy said "new strings". Was thinking about ordering a vintage sunburst. The local GC has both the Starcaster and the Gretsch G2262 Streamliner in stock, going to try them. Can't beat the prices on either. SW and MF have the Guild. I'm kind of intrigued with the Starcaster even though I think the headstock is a little goofy. If it feels and plays good I might grab it. Never though i'd consider a Squire. Can't beat the price 425 US.

[@EyecareBacklog1]

Fascinating. Great playing as always. Glad the Streamliner did so well, I have the fully hollow version, which doubles as an acoustic it sounds so good unplugged. The Hofner the best looking in my opinion - and I'd possibly swap my D'Angelico DC for it (the DC is a bit fancy-looking, which stops me picking it up as often).

[@stockholm1752]

I’m fortunate to have a Vox Virage DC. That Gretsch was my favorite here, though, and it’s very tempting. Love your channel, Colin. Thank you. And, oh - I finally subscribed.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man!

[@stockholm1752]

Update: I bought a Starcaster (Fender).

[@jamesmgreen15]

Interesting one again - good cross-section. Inclined to agree with your overall 335 take, albeit some people love them of course. I have one (good enough) well-known budget brand example. I got it because I felt I should have one even if I'm not sure why. It has a, "very good" setup but I seldom reach for it.....After this video, I think that's where my 335 experience will stay. I am a very basic classic rock/punk guy at heart (no great shakes). Super playing again, mate.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers James, its only when I'm actually making these film that I realise that maybe peer pressure does play such a big part in our guitar choices!

[@thelastperfectman4139]

I recently bought a Squire Starcaster. Really nice guitar. A great marriage of semi-hollow Gibson and Strat, with a fantastic mix of the styles. I had trouble for years picking out a new guitar; finally went with Starcaster precisely because it combined everything I liked into one guitar.

[@martinhenderson2376]

I bought the same Gretsch 2622,just before the 1st video,I agree it's a bit big but can be got used to. I didn't play it much either because I got a Michael Kelly 1953 type Tele with coil tapped Humbuckers, which I can't get away from playing. I probably have too many guitars bought over past 18 months, I 've never had a guitar with P-90s & was thinking of swapping some on to the Gretsch, which might happen in New Year now, thanks for the video, as always entertaining & informative

[@williamarthurfenton1496]

Yep, I have the Gretsch G2622 in exactly that colour. It's great but the electronics let it down, though the Broad'Trons have quite a nice tone that isn't quite a Filter'Tron but not like a typical humbucker either. Be a fantastic base to upgrade from.

[@Remsterdam]

I have an Epi 335 with pickups swapped for Gibson 57 classic and classic plus. I have the Gretsch with broadtrons swapped for high sensitivity filter trond. I find the gretsch is brighter cause of a deeper body and prob also the bigsby on mine. That’s why i use the Gretsch more for old sounds like rockabilly and the Epi more for rock but with a softer and rounder tone than a solid body. Great vid, thx again!

[@jasonmarchant1607]

A year ago I went to the LGS to buy a semi-hollow and had my eye on an Epiphone 335 and CV Starcaster in Sunburst and the minute I tried the two guitars I knew it was going to be the Starcaster. The offset shape just fit and it sounded great. Never really looked back tbh… play it all the time.

[@jamessutherington3471]

For the best sounding and looking is from part 1 and the epiphone riviera with mini humbuckers. Killer guitar 🎸 ❤

[@roywarriner8441]

For when you want a ES-335 but don't want an ES-335. The Riviera has it's own style.

[@elizabethireland6320]

appreciated your insights. .Im starting late, hoping to pass on something a little special and unique. Not one to follow the crowd for the crowds sake. Many have non comittal evaluations, yours opened my mind more than sway my mind. Very helpful !

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for the kind words Elizabeth it's appreciated 😊🙏 good luck with the 🎸journey!

[@andreapasillas5803]

Thanks for explaining to us across the pond what a quid is worth :)

[@theguitaristas]

😆👍

[@gerryloughran1676]

Another great straight up no bullsh1t review luv them all but never thought of the Fender that’s a wonderful sounding guitar… for the money it’s sounds like a keeper!

[@user-nh4pb1mh9e]

Thanks for your video. Deeply appreciate.

[@jfiery]

Gretsch have been putting out affordable and high quality outstanding guitars for at least a decade now and they never seem to get much love . I would love for The Guitaristas to prove that to everyone amd tackle some more Gretsch models in the new year. Colin does the best reviews on KZbin and always seems to come up with the best licks the highlight the strengths of each guitar he reviews. While I have a feeling he wouldn't love the broadtron pickups we've seen him take other affordable guitars and turn them into absolute monsters with new pickups so I hope he'll check out some of the electromatic series. I owned a Gretsch g5220 that I absolutely loved and Jade gray with a walnut fingerboard. I did not love the broadTron pickups so I put in real filtertrons and it was a truly wonderful guitar. Unfortunately I had to sell it in order to get my dream guitar which was a Gibson Les Paul but I still think about that guitar. And now I see they offer it in a burst called Bristol fog. Despite being in the States my best friend is a Brit and fellow veteran who happens to live in Bristol so I got a feeling that I'll be making a purchase in the next few months. I'd love to see Colin get his hands on one of those to get his opinion on it but in my opinion Gretsch is underappreciated and their guitars are spectacular. Well the electromatic and up anyway.

[@MattBaker-zd8nq]

I got a hold on a new streamliner 3 humbucker 2627 in white I had no clue they played that good I bought it on the spot

[@user-xw2it9ty5n]

Guild or the Hofner or both!

[@RonH-tf7gi]

Well said!!!

[@richardcooke452]

Great content, I have Gretsch 5622 and love it.

[@emil8446]

Enjoyed this. Of course for people who want a 335 but smaller, there’s the 339. On another note, I owned a 1965 Guild Starfire III back in the mid to late 60’s. I could only afford one guitar at a time back then so had to sell it to move on. I would give a lot to have it back. It was an awesome guitar.

[@MattBaker-zd8nq]

Buddy Guy had one for a while until it broke

[@jonathanhandsmusic]

I used to love 335 style guitars, but I’ve changed over the years. But I still have 3, two Ibanez, and an original starfire lll. I prefer a telecaster nowadays. Of the ones you reviewed here, I like the Hofner. The fatter neck suits me. I like the simplicity and the matte finish. You know, the Ibanez semis are pretty good overall but get a lower rung on the ladder for some reason. Great video as usual!

[@GUMONPS]

Wonderful set of videos. Try it with a Les Paul and Stratocaster! I’d love to see what you think of the other options for these other ubiquitous guitars.

[@janzahalka9096]

Two days ago, I ordered D'Angelico deluxe DC to be my ultimate 335, now I'm just praying you don't brake my heart with something considerably better and/or more affordable. Damn, this is going to be nail-biter for me, sir!

[@theguitaristas]

Whatever happens I hear they are excellent Jan! 🤣👍

[@waynewagner395]

Nice comparison and review. Sadly, my 335s are neglected too. My Casino is in disrepair because I tried changing out electronics 😄. I do have an Epi ES339 P90 Pro that I like. I just wish it was more resonant. Look forward to your content. Thanks!

[@theguitaristas]

did you watch my series on changing wiring and have similar problems?? 🤣

[@Robert_Bubba_Baker]

Thanks again on your honesty.

[@Yannplaysguitar]

I have been drawn to the starcaster since a long while. It is so quirky, yet it believe it sounds great!