Epiphone Excellente Review

[@thekycoffeebean]

Randy , You are one Blessed man !

[@randysrhythm]

Hard to put this into words, but you are looking at the poster child for "deserve has nothing to do with it" :). Of course you said nothing about deserve, but just in case someone was wondering... However, I completely agree with you, I am. Now, if I can maintain that attitude when the chips are down, we'll be able to say something about character.

[@thekycoffeebean]

@@randysrhythm I am sure you will !

[@cksongwriter8216]

The Masterbilt Excellente has been on my bucket list for a while, now. The Masterbilt line is phenomenal! Great video, Randy!!

[@randysrhythm]

Thank you Ms Caroline! Always great hearing from you. Hope you are doing well my friend.

[@ronhurt9482]

You are so correct about epiphone. I have the excellente , hummingbird , frontier,j200 and two slash j45 I love them all . The Excellente by far is the best. I fell if it was made here in the states it would be a $6000.00 or more guitar. I am just learning to play I love my Epiphones !! Thanks sharing

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Ron, you’re just learning to play and already have the same illness of guitar acquisition syndrome 😂. Thanks for the comment here. I hope you get a chance to check out the channel. I target those that are new to fingerstyle and if you recently started playing, we’d love to have you on the channel, brother man 👍🏻

[@michaelenosmusic]

I am making a plan to get not only the Excellente but also its Maple backed cousin the Frontier.. sometime in 2023. Beautiful guitars. Heartbreakers. And I agree on the immediate string change too

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Michael, what a great comment, brother man. I have been looking at the Frontier, if for no other reason that Epiphone is where it originated. I'm going to be interested in your opinion on the Frontier. Any chance you'll let me know?

[@michaelenosmusic]

@Randy's Rhythm you bet.. just got to find them and buy them first. 🤣 I only have 1 guitar right now. An Epiphone Masterbuilt DR500MCE. It's about 10 years old. Another stunner and sounds great too. And this is coming from someone who for a while was a Martin man.

[@michaelenosmusic]

@Randy's Rhythm you can hear me in action on my YT page. The song The Muse is one that features my Epiphone.

[@randysrhythm]

@@michaelenosmusic I'll go take a peek at it and really appreciate you pointing me to it. I'm sure you've got a new sub here 👍

[@michaelenosmusic]

@Randy's Rhythm much appreciated sir.. feedback and comments there also appreciated. Have a safe, warm and blessed holiday.

[@fedoff2190]

Great review. I was just about to get the Hummingbird, but now I think I will go for the Excellente!

[@randysrhythm]

Appreciate the flowers. The IBG Hummingbird is a fantastic guitar and I’ll never get rid of mine, but the Excellente is a piece of history, crafted better than the original. Had I been in a position of having to choose, I’d have also chosen the Excellente. I fear my next choice will be between another guitar, or my wife. I’ll let you know how that turns out 🤔.

[@andysfishingandflytyingcha2310]

@randysrhythm 🤣🤣🤣 l think we all know how that'll turn out. "Happy wife, happy life". One of the most truthful sayings ever! I've just got Jimmy Page's "The Rain song" up to scratch again and just played it on my Excellente. It made it so much easier than any other acoustic l've tried it on.

[@spaghettistef]

By the look of it, it could be the guitar of my dreams! Great review, great guitar!

[@randysrhythm]

After several months of having it, I haven’t changed my mind one bit. Appreciate the comment.

[@SibeDad]

Thanks for the review. I have had one on order here in Canada since January. It is caught up in the supply chain and now expected for end of May. I have an inspired by Gibson J200 that is a great guitar, really looking forward to this Excellente!

[@randysrhythm]

I waited on mine for a while too. As you would expect, well worth the wait. Thanks for sharing.

[@HayesTech]

Great video and I would mind adding that one too my collection. My Recording King was from Sweetwater too and it was at up perfectly.

[@randysrhythm]

Thanks Hayes! It’s certainly a great guitar. I’m with you on Sweetwater, if I’m ordering online. They know how to take care of their customers.

[@Wobbz9413]

Hey Randy.. I just bought an Epi Masterbilt Frontier second hand a couple of days ago. It's in mint, as new condition, and aside from the weight, its a very nice guitar. I payed $800 Australian, which is less than half retail. Im so happy with it, and the maple tone is so nice. Cheers.

[@randysrhythm]

That’s good to hear, Mark. I think if you look up weight in the dictionary, Masterbilt comes up as the meaning 😂. That said, I’ve been looking at bothe the USA made and Masterbilt Frontier as my next guitar. I’ll be shopping for one or both in a few months. I assume you’ll do a video soon, showcasing it?

[@stevendegoodmojosmet4034]

Again a warm sounding guitar, warm mids lovely highs and good bass. killer guitar sir. greatings from Steven Good Mojo De Smet Belgium.

[@randysrhythm]

Hey there, brother man Steven! Great observations and always good to see your smiling face. Belgium’s always welcome, brother man 👍🏻

[@dwightlilly4208]

Concur Randy, my radio station orders from Sweetwater for the very same reason. Oh, and I followed your Reverb comments to this video. Great job. I own the Hummingbird by Epiphone and love it.

[@randysrhythm]

You’re too kind, Dwight. Greatly appreciate the trail info that led you here and certainly hope to see again. I always appreciate this kind of input. Also, much appreciate the compliment.

[@old33farm-mattmoore8]

I picked up a demo of these from Sweetwater. What a great guitar! It is an amazing guitar.

[@randysrhythm]

Appreciate the feedback Matt. You are always welcome at our fire here brother man!

[@drewkingson]

hope to pick mine up this afternoon - thank you

[@randysrhythm]

Great!

[@richfiryn]

Randy i got mine 2 weeks ago after waiting 6 months for it to get delivered to Sweetwater. To say it was worth the wait would be a gross understatement. Far exceeds my expectations in every regard and I know that with playing this will only get better as it opens up. Cheers, good review.

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Rich, as you can tell from my video, I couldn’t agree more. Not to mention the fact that Sweetwater ensures that the guitar is flawless. I love the feel, tone and inspiration I get from playing it. Also, thanks for the feedback, and for subscribing 👍🏻.

[@stormengine3261]

Does it come with a case? I'm waiting on them to restock and I want to get one

[@richfiryn]

@@stormengine3261 no that is an additional expense. And well worth getting the Epiphone dreadnaught case.

[@randysrhythm]

@@stormengine3261 Hi, it does not come with a case as part of that price. It puzzles me as to why they just don't up the price a bit and include one, considering the quality of the guitar, but they don't (welcome to "squeeze a turnip day" at Epiphone). If you add one, you should be able to get a better deal than if you pick one up later. I did that and don't regret it.

[@stormengine3261]

Would that be the EDread case with the brown trim and grey interior? I bought one for my Epiphone hummingbird studio I got recently. It's a good Guitar for 500$

[@52goldtop]

Randy, this guitar is absolutely stunning and you make it sound absolutely lovely my friend! Chomping at the bit for one of these beauties, I recently picked up an Epiphone inspired by Gibson J45 - the Slash edition with the fatter neck and Lr Baggs p/u, completely exceeded my expectations man… just a lovely instrument and what a feel! Thanks for making these vids for us and doing this review + the lovely jams as always brother!

[@randysrhythm]

Thank you brother man 52! I’ve played your Slash version and it’s extremely impressive. It has the 16” radius fretboard, which is pretty friendly to fingerstyle. Thanks as always, brother man 👍🏻

[@52goldtop]

@@randysrhythmthat’s right! I completely forgot about the radius, it does feel great. Only 2nd day with her but I’m having fun where I can whole dog watching :) have a great weekend and hope you’re doing swell my friend

[@erinpatricia4]

Hi Randy . I just got an excellente. Its such a great guitar. Its my favorite guitar ive ever had. I actually sent back my faded gibson j45 and got this as a replacement. Thanks for your great reviews.

[@randysrhythm]

😁 It is one impressive instrument, right? It’s really hard to communicate to folks just exactly what you’re holding, Ms Erin. You are most welcome and I’m beyond pleased that you see the value, historically and craftsmanship 👍🏻

[@shred5]

I played one of these a few weeks ago, it was a very nice guitar. The guitar that really got my attention was the Epiphone Masterbuild Frontier. The high notes were a bit muted but I really liked how it sounded playing chords down the neck. Nice playing.

[@randysrhythm]

Thanks brother man! I think the Masterbilt Frontier is a much better choice. It is made in the Epiphone custom shop, whereas the Texan was made in China. The Indonesian folks seem to have much better oversight/QC. Appreciate the comment and hope to see you again soon 👍🏻

[@shred5]

@@randysrhythm I had the inspired by Texan. I've played a few masterbuilt Texans before, and never found them to be too different, that probably explains why. Now I generally prefer the US made ones over any Gibsons with a similar body shape.

[@Colt_Funky]

My Texan Masterbilt is made in Indonesia. Perfect craftsmanship. Stands next to my Excellente. Perfect couple.

[@shred5]

@@Colt_FunkyI honestly like the Masterbuilts as much or better than many Gibsons. The Texan and Excellente hold their sound up the neck better than most Gibsons. The Frontier didn't so much, but still better than almost all of the 50 or so Dove's I've played.

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Colt, yes sir and I stand corrected. I found out recently that there’s a Masterbilt Texan and a China made Texan. It certainly doesn’t surprise me that yours is a great example 👍🏻

[@paulgeorgia8013]

Great review, Randy. You may have seen my glowing review of my Excellente, and I remain thrilled with it. Based on this, I excitedly bought the Epi J200. Although the craftsmanship is similarly good, the sound is very disappointing, I’m sorry to say.

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Paul, yes sir, I saw both reviews. The 200 is the only one with seriously opposing reviews. The Hummingbird & 45 have about a 98% “I love it” review stat, best I can tell. It surprised me to see this with the IBG 200 since Jamey Johnson plays one on stage. My guess is that he EQ’s it for sound and just loves the way it handles, maybe? Like you, for my money, the Excellente is beyond killer and going up in price. I can also tell you that the IBG Hummingbird is equally a killer sounding/playing guitar. I would have paid a minimum of $2K for either of those guitars, and not regretted it one bit 👍🏻.

[@paulgeorgia8013]

@@randysrhythm Hi Randy, I agree, the Excellente is a massive value, and I’m so convinced they will appreciate, I bought a second one. The Hummingbird is also awesome, but I have a Gibson one as well as a Dove. I really wanted the J200 to be a ‘gig’ worthy guitar for me, but even plugged in, it just doesn’t sound that great. I use the Excellente for many of my shows. Again, yours is a great review.

[@randysrhythm]

@@paulgeorgia8013 Always great to hear your perspective/opinions, Paul. Glad we connected, sir!

[@paulgeorgia8013]

@@randysrhythm you might like my Fouke Lap Steel video. That thing is cool!

[@DavidSilk1956]

Nice review mate - well done! Looks and sounds like an excellent instrument. Regards, Dave

[@randysrhythm]

Very kind of you to drop over and take a peek David, and also appreciate the kind words. It's an honor to have you here!

[@susanroycroft89]

Hi Randy, Don here from Hamilton NZ on my Wife's Tablet, yes I agree, I played one yesterday wow It sounded Magnificent, Very Martin sounding, keep it up

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Don, great to have you here and very much appreciate your input, sir. You are welcome on the channel anytime 👍🏻

[@Tonetwisters]

I have an early '60s Epiphone catalog with all those old Epi acoustics in it. Pretty cool.

[@randysrhythm]

Yes sir, I love these and very happy they started building them again and doing it in the custom shop, so to speak. You’ve got some great memories with that catalog 👍🏻.

[@bryanbaskett4010]

Ovankal aka Bubinga aka African Rosewood. I have a 1974 Japanese Morris W-18 (which is a Martin D-28 spot on knock off with x bracing) which is Ovankal, and sounds AMAZING.

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Brian, appreciate the explanation of Ovankal. I had no idea it was in the Rosewood family, but it makes sense, since the original Excellente was Rosewood. Much appreciated, sir!

[@mrk1839]

I was thinking of spending a grand or less and was looking at the Epiphone Texan until I saw your video. Its more than the Texan but the value looks to be amazing - Just got me to subscribe to your channel

[@randysrhythm]

It is for sure Mark. I own the Texan and the Excellente. They’re not even on the same planet. Great choice and thanks for the sub, sir!

[@bronzesnake7004]

There's just 40 Excellentes coming into all of Canada and I ordered one a couple of weeks back through my small town music shop, which is family owned and operated over 40 years, and it will be in any day, and I feel like a school boy on Christmas eve!! I just happened to ask "Connors" if they could find one for me at the exact right time, and when they called their dealer, they were just taking orders on a run of Master Built Epiphones, and nobody had ordered one of the Excellentes at the time! They're $1,700 here!! 40 in the whole country and I got one!!! And people say there's no God!! ")) Thank you Lord! The first song I write with this awesome instrument will be for the Lord!! Thanks for the review, I'm about to sub and I'm getting ready to go through your videos! Jack ~'()'~ Canada

[@randysrhythm]

Well, brother, someone that recognizes where every good gift and every perfect gift comes from, is certainly welcome at my fire anytime. The Excellente may not be in the category of a "perfect gift" but it most certainly is a good one! Very great story, sir. 40, eh? That doesn't surprise me. I recently found out that the Masterbuilt line, as well as the IBG line, are made by one luthier (each) that sees the process through all the way to the end. I did not know that before, but I'm not surprised. The quality is off the charts on the IBG acoustics (reproduction of Gibson's iconic guitars) and that extends to the Excellente. They deserve every good thing that can come their way, IMO. Thanks for the sub and the feedback. I know you'll enjoy it as much as I have. My best to you and yours.

[@randysrhythm]

By the way, just noticed your interest in brother Chuck Missler. I’m looking forward to meeting that brother when we get home 👍🏻

[@bronzesnake7004]

@@randysrhythm You and I both brother!! Jack ~'()'~

[@WysteriaGuitar]

Just got mine yesterday and you are right - wonderful guitar especially for the price. Only issue with mine is the pickguard lifting up just a bit at the back part of the soundhole closest to the bridge. I can have my luthier remedy that!

[@randysrhythm]

Hey Pete! Glad it got to you. I had heard a few folks say their pickguard lifted, but don't think I mentioned that because I have mine out right now and it still is not lifting. The one thing QC can't see as it goes out the door is if the final touches were correct, hiding under something, such as a pickguard, truss rod cover, etc.. Hate to hear that, but at least it's a fairly easy cure and I am very pleased to hear yours came in. Now, all you have to do is be willing to part with it long enough for them to fix that :). Good luck with that one!

[@randysrhythm]

One other thing Pete, I just talked to Sweetwater to make sure they get a magnifying glass out on that pickguard, because of what you just told me. They'll make sure it is secured properly going forward. Appreciate you bringing this up.

[@WysteriaGuitar]

@@randysrhythm I got mine from zZounds Randy so that may explain it... :) Sweetwater still did not have them in stock and I just could not wait. Otherthan the pickguard lift, which I heard was a common problem with this and actually lots of Gibsons, she's perfect!

[@randysrhythm]

@@WysteriaGuitar Understood.. I did get with Sweetwater earlier today (so they don't get bit with this like zZ did) to make sure the techs are looking for this before they ship any more of them. Now that you've brought this up, Gibson does have a bit of that reputation on pickguards.

[@WysteriaGuitar]

@@randysrhythm Good idea, save the next person from that hopefully.

[@Joey.Darkwoods-Studio]

Great review and playing Randy! Thanks for sharing this.

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Joey, much appreciated and you’re welcome, brother man 👍🏻 Don’t be a stranger

[@jeffreyminor4701]

I have the Hummingbird 12 and the Excellente just ordered the Frontier love me some IBG guitars.

[@randysrhythm]

Hey Jeffrey, we are on the same page for sure. They are doing some great things. I very much appreciate the feedback.

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Jeffrey, just curious if you got the Frontier in yet? I'm interested in what you think of it.

[@paulhendershott667]

Great review Randy! Can't believe you don't have 20k subs yet! Soon I'm sure... 😃 I feel like I should pick one up because they'll be at $1500 in a year and I'll be beating myself up! It's a bit too loud and booming for my Tiny house these days, so I guess I'll stick with my Martin 000-15M with it's soft and sweet sound for now. Plus my wife threatened divorce if I bought just one more! I agree with Sweetwater setups - they did an amazing job installing the Presys system and dialing in my exact setup requests on my Les Paul and the Martin. Keep the great videos coming!

[@randysrhythm]

Very kind of you to say, Paul. Don’t take her too seriously, mine has been threatening me for the last 6 or 7 guitars 🤔. She’s still here 😁. All kidding aside, your comment made me smile and the compliment goes a long way, sir. My best to you and yours and hope to hear from you again soon.

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Paul, thought I'd come back and let you know that it has now hit $1,300.00 and no case. I think you were right 👍

[@paulhendershott667]

@@randysrhythm Thanks for the update Randy! 😊👍👍

[@USNAVDC]

To my ears, maybe it's the recording, but the Hummingbird IBG has a sweeter tone; but both of those guitars are totally beautiful! Your videos are outstanding! I love the laugh tracks too! 🙂 The sound of the Excellente was much better in the second part of the video....the first part, the sound was a little distorted? I love Sweetwater too....but I get scared looking at more guitars. 😞

[@randysrhythm]

Hi TM, great observations. The sound may be a bit distorted in this one. It took me several videos to settle on a distance/volume. I’m really loving both of them since removing the neck relief from the Excellente. I really appreciate hearing your thoughts, my friend. Oh, and yes, I start shaking every time I go into the Sweetwater app too 👍🏻

[@cbailey089]

this is very helpful... the bass response while strumming sounds amazing, but it also sounds very clear when finger picking. i am looking at an excellente or a yamaha fgx5... this may have swayed my opinion :)

[@randysrhythm]

Appreciate the kind comments Charlie! Glad it helped.

[@raymondreeder3274]

I have already purchased the j45 and hummingbird ibg's.. fantastic guitars.. I'm getting the excellante from gc mostly because of the outstanding credit rate they give you same as cash for up to 48 mo😮.. fantastic review thank you

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Raymond, I now have the 45 and Hummingbird as well. If I only had 3 guitars in my life, these would be it! Same as cash is impossible to beat. Thank you for the kind words, brother man 👍🏻

[@JohnnyRebKy]

I’m a Martin guy but if I was after a Gibson tone and couldn’t afford the Gibson then I’d definitely take a look at these. But I like the loud booming growl of a Martin HD28. The Gibson sound is more balanced and smooth and not so loud. Martins can be hard to sing over if you don’t have a big loud voice. Gibsons/epiphone are much easier to sing with. I think for the money the Solid epiphones and Alvarez guitars can’t be beat. The Alvarez BG “ bluegrass” models are solid and very Martin in their sound. The epiphone gets the Gibson sound very well Edit: just wanna add…you can buy a new Martin D16 Special at guitar center for 1800. It’s basically a HD28 with a satin finish and without the fancy trim. Made in Nazareth PA. They are fantastic! Anybody that wants a HD28 and can’t swing 3500 bucks will definitely be happy with a 16 special. Same wood, same bracing, made in USA.

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Johnny, that was a great analysis and I really appreciate it, brother man. I own a few Martins and love them. That said, I've really always been a lover of the Gibson sound, even when i was just a youngster. I guess that is what surprised me with these Epiphones that are built in the custom shop, as they are very close to the Gibson sound and surprisingly so. At any rate, great input Johnny and really appreciate you taking the time to provide this input for others to see. You're welcome here anytime, sir 👍

[@austinsandefer649]

Thank you randy. Excellent review, of the excellent a...👍👍

[@randysrhythm]

Thanks Austin, very kind of you to say. I also appreciate you stopping in and visiting my humble abode 👍🏻.

[@davidadkins2563]

I enjoy your honest reviews. Have a question for you.. out of all the masterbilt which in your opinion is the best? And second question..are masterbilt and inspired by Gibson the same? I’m torn between the excellente, the j200 or the hummingbird. Of course masterbilt..thanks again. Enjoy your channel

[@randysrhythm]

Hi David, while the Masterbilt and the Inspired by lines are both made in the custom shop, the Inspired by Gibson line up are completely spec’d by the Gibson Engineers from Bozeman and my guess is they were at that Sammick factory overseeing the process. So, what I can tell you is that the IBG Hummingbird is, in my opinion, the best sounding guitar they’ve produced since their days before Gibson. I love my Excellente and it sounds great. That said, my Hummingbird is one of the most amazing guitars that I’ve ever heard/played. I actually did a follow up video on it a week or so ago, where I talk about how much that guitar impresses me. Great questions 👍🏻 To the best Masterbilt question, the Excellente, hands down.

[@markhansen8078]

Have you noticed the Excellente is getting better as you use it? It might be just me but I swear it is sounding better as it ages a bit and is played.

[@randysrhythm]

This beast does nothing but improve in sound quality, so yes sir Mr. Mark, I think it does just that. I haven't put my Martin Retro 12's on it yet, but I think I will over the weekend. I think that's going to open it up even more.

[@markhansen8078]

@@randysrhythm It is good to get some confirmation that it is happening and not just in my head. This guitar seems to be getting better. I still have the original strings on it. I have some John Pearse 600L strings to put on it when I decide to change the strings. Thanks for the sanity check. MH

[@jakepfeiffer8396]

I just very happily ordered this beauty. I wanted to get it from Sweetwater, but unfortunately they weren’t available. Also background on musicians friend, guitar center, American music supply… anywhere I went. Luckily, zZounds had them. I was nervous thinking I’d get an email explaining their lag of details on it not being available. However, the shipping tracking came through instead. 🙏 Get one until they’re gone!!

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Jake, I am very pleased to hear that you found one! This guitar is an icon amongst guitars and I will treasure mine for the rest of my life. Appreciate you catching my channel and stopping in long enough to provide us with meaningful information.

[@stathkon]

I own one since summer. Sometimes i think that overall is better than my Gibson j 200. And that's very strange, because i bought it for 900 euros!

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Kostas, you got yours before things began to skyrocket in price, so congratulations on that. I have to agree about the playability as well. I am absolutely shocked at what’s coming out of Epiphone these days. Very much appreciate you stopping in and always wish the very best for you. Hope to see you again on the channel!

[@stathkon]

@@randysrhythm greetings from Greece! I am shocked too! Don't you agree that excellente is perfect balanced, having great bass, midles and highs?

[@randysrhythm]

Couldn’t agree more, kind sir. Glad to have you here all the way from Greece, my friend. It’s about as balanced of a guitar that I’ve ever owned. You are just waking up and I’m about to go to bed here in Texas. I’ve been in your neck of the world a few times over the years and the folks in that area were always kind to me, as are you. Stay safe and greatly appreciate the feedback.

[@jameshill2015]

Randy, l have both, l don't think l would say the Excellente is ABOVE the Hummingbird.. they have distinctly different tones.. both are amazing guitars, they are both needed to play every song ever written!😂 The two really do cover a huge area of music! There are things l like more about one than the other and vise versa.. between the new Epiphone Masterbuilt's and IBG line are all anyone could ever need for an acoustic, l will say they are to the heavy side, l think my LP Standard weighs less the the Excellente!! It's quite a piece of work! Love your playing! Wish you were my neighbor!

[@randysrhythm]

Hi James, after playing both for a while now, I think you’ve nailed it! If you end up in Texas, fire me an email over.

[@jefferyclark351]

Hey Randy ! Hope you are dry and warm today . If you could just keep one of these ? Epiphone hummingbird ibg or Epiphone excellente ibg / witch one

[@randysrhythm]

Hey Jeff, I think I’d die if I had to make that choice, for real. I seriously love both of them. The thing you have to ask yourself is this; What’s most important to you, the nostalgia of the Excellente where the quality is better than the original and has more of that Rosewood sound, or are you a fan of the Mahogany back and sides with the Hummingbird, which gives a bit more warmer, punchy sound. I do believe that is what separates them. Perhaps now you can see why it is so hard to say. They are both just killer. It depends on your preference, from what I’ve described above. Just FYI, I just left a guitar store a few minutes ago where I played the Epiphone IBG J-45. Brother man, I was impressed 👍🏻

[@guitarhack007]

You are putting me in trouble; now I can not decide: Hummingbird once restock of age natural or wait for a restock of the Masterbilt Excellente on Sweetwater.

[@randysrhythm]

Hi David, I would have taken on a 2nd job to get both 😂. That said, I get your dilemma, brother man. Here’s what I’ll say, if you’re going to play it every single day, then I get the IBG Hummingbird. If you only plan to play it for primarily special occasions, then it’s the Excellente, in my opinion. The Hummingbird is a work horse that sounds incredible to my ears. But, don’t do this to yourself, get both and don’t eat for 6 months 👍🏻

[@tripull3]

The mid tones sound kinda like a D18 Nice review 👍

[@randysrhythm]

Appreciate the feedback and also the thumbs up. If a D18 is in there anywhere, that’s a compliment.

[@danohanlon8316]

What’s the opinion on a 1968 Epiphone FT-112 Bard? (And what’s it worth?)

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Dan, those were built in Kalamazoo, so depending upon condition, good to mint, I’d say $1,500 to $3,000. Appreciate the question.

[@andysfishingandflytyingcha2310]

Hey Randy. My wife took me down to London for a Birthday trip last Thursday and the first place l stopped by was the Gibson Garage. I was interested to play as many Gibson acoustics as l could. The Epiphones were all hidden away downstairs. 😂 I played seven J45's and man they were all awful, very dull, quiet, totally uninspiring. The only one that came close yo my Epi 1942 banner J45 was their top of the range made with rosewood side and backs. That one had a little more top but l did not hear one harmonic overtones out of any of them. I then tried two JS200's. I was excited to play one as l'd never played a JS200 before. What a terrible disappointment. I expected a huge bright loud strumming machine but it was again, quiet, very dull and had no tone going for it at all. I wondered if l was remembering my Epi Banner J45 and Excellente with "rose tinted ears" so as soon as l got home l got them out and the difference was astounding. The Epi's were amazing, inspirational guitars. I will never buy a Gibson acoustic without playing them first but l would not have taken home any of the ones l tried at the UK's premier Gibson outlet. That's so dissapointing. Gibson are gonna lose sales undoubtedly to the Epi IBG acoustics. Hope you're well my friend. Keep picking. Take care.

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Andy, that’s one nice wife you have there 😂. It’s an interesting story about Gibson. Back in the 60’s a luthier named Stuart Mossman quit working for them because of their mass production ways. He thought they were not paying close enough attention to detail, so he left and started Mossman Guitars in Winfield, Kansas. I own one and it is unbelievable. Mine is a 1975 Tennessee Flat Top. He’s long since passed, but what a legacy he left behind. Yes sir, I’m afraid we’re living in a mass production world now. If you want something special, you probably have to go to their custom shop. You might get lucky with the regular factory, but that doesn’t happen as frequently as it used to. Great to hear you spent that day playing guitars, brother man 👍🏻

[@jefferyclark351]

I’ve have noticed on mind that the bridge is two different peace’s . It has a 1/8 inch peace of wood glued to top of bridge . Just wondering if yours is the same .

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Jeffrey, I restrung, oiled the fretboard and bridge today, all of this after reading your comment. The bridge on mine is one piece, and I used an auxiliary light to be sure.

[@jefferyclark351]

@@randysrhythm thanks for the quick come back. You know I oiled the bridge the other day when I changed the strings . That seam around the bridge is probably just oil that has darken it and it just looks like a seam after oiling it. Don’t really care if it’s 10 peace’s. It just sounds so good . It’s has a different sound from my Martin’s . Thanks again. I’am kind of wondering how long the honey moon is going to last between this epiphone and me

[@randysrhythm]

@@jefferyclark351 I told my wife just 10 minutes ago that I don’t think that day will come 👍🏻. Great conversation and hope you check out the rest of the channel. You’re the kind of KZbinr I want on my team. Interaction is what it’s all about Jeffrey.

[@jefferyclark351]

@@randysrhythm I hear you! I’ll be a Texas boy out of ROCKDALE/ 60 miles north of Austin

[@randysrhythm]

@@jefferyclark351 I actually spent some time periodically at Sandow 😁. Fire off an email when you get a chance and we’ll visit: [e-mail]

[@user-xd7rc9mj3x]

The new management ar Gibson brands has been absolutely reviving all of their brands. My guess is that Epiphone is going to be outselling Gibson and contribute more overall profit. Not only that, but cut the air supply of other companies. nice to see the brand strategy executed well.

[@randysrhythm]

I couldn’t agree more, brother man 👍🏻

[@nilsaduran9683]

What a beauty enjoy!

[@stevendegoodmojosmet4034]

Lots of bass.. but the sound is stable.. I would love to play them ..

[@randysrhythm]

If you ever get a chance, pick one up and play it. These had great efforts put into the building process 👍🏻

[@mattymacneil9265]

Would have been nice to hear it I can read up on the specs of a guitar

[@randysrhythm]

Appreciate the input 👍🏻

[@johnwashburn3793]

Randy, I have a question about the Epiphone. Do they have the same truss rod style as Gibson? (With a nut on the rod.) I have found that the "throat" is weakened and have had a 2nd hand electric Epiphone which had a repaired neck break. I gave it to my nephew to play in his church youth worship group.

[@johnwashburn3793]

I have been leary of Gibson for this reason.

[@randysrhythm]

@@johnwashburn3793 I'm going straight to Gibson on this one John. I have a contact there. I'll let you know. I'd pull the cover and look, but that doesn't completely answer your question, so I'd rather get the full details before responding.

[@johnwashburn3793]

@@randysrhythm Please don't go to any trouble on my account. I was just curious.

[@randysrhythm]

@@johnwashburn3793 No trouble at all. You now have me needing that answer 👍🏻.

[@randysrhythm]

Hi John, just wanted to let you know I'll be at the Gibson Bozeman plant in a few weeks and I'll talk to the engineers while I'm there. I'll be back with some deep dive details, and this question is on that list. I'm also planning to get it confirmed that one luthier is assigned to each Masterbuilt/IBG produced.

[@mpojr]

beautiful guitar.Randy would you review Yamaha transAcoustic l been playing for 50 yrs and the Yamaha transacoustic is the best Acoustic guitar l have ever played hands down.

[@randysrhythm]

Hey Mack, Thank you sir. I’ve heard of the transacoustic, but never played one. I’ll see if I can find one locally and pick it up. Stay tuned and hopefully I can do that. That’s quite a great promo coming from someone that experienced. You have my attention.

[@sparks1656]

@@randysrhythm Try the Yamaha LLTA version. Their solid wood version.

[@randysrhythm]

@sparks1656 I’ll check it out, Debi 👍🏻

[@vincentlussier8264]

Fabulous sounding for a grand. And a Gibson built in Montana IS about six grand !

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Vincent, I couldn’t agree more. Very much appreciate the visit and the comment 👍🏻

[@swimpsmagbayao9513]

That's a pretty good looking neck

[@randysrhythm]

Hey Swimps, yes sir, that neck was beyond cool. I thought the very same thing. It does take just a bit to get used to it, but what a work of art. Great to see you and always appreciate your thoughts, brother man 👍

[@sgc9165]

Halló thanks a lot wonderful reviews, Can you bring clases how to play country like you? Your are awesome, Between this excellente and the bird what you decide if you can buy only one ? Thanks a lot

[@randysrhythm]

Thanks for the kind words. Which one if only one? For day to day playing, at this point, the IBG Hummingbird. The Excellente is incredible, so it is a tough call.

[@panayotiscanellopoulos8696]

Ovangkol is a tree of "Rosewood" family.... In terms of sound is something between Brazilian and Indian ones, but cheeper (up to now)....

[@randysrhythm]

Hey brother man, hope the wildfires aren’t dealing you too much misery in Greece. After making this video, I did search that out. It explains why they used it, since the original ones were Rosewood. Appreciate you setting that straight in the comments. Always great to see you here 👍🏻

[@panayotiscanellopoulos8696]

​@@randysrhythm The case of wildfires in Greece is constant for years now.... great disasters....Me, personally I live in Athens and doesn't affect me directly but..our moral generally is too low as Greeks...anyway..... Generally, the Indian rosewood gives this "boomy" sound character, which Brazilian doesn't... is flatter.... Mahogany wood gives more "straight forward" miidle-high tones which are very useful for solos and finger-picking....Ovagkol gives a sound between Cocobolo and Brazilian rosewood one....and has great mass density, which gives stability.... My humble opinion....and sorry for writing too long....and my intermediate English 🙂

[@randysrhythm]

@@panayotiscanellopoulos8696 never apologize for that, as it gives insight to others on here that read the comments, brother man 👍🏻 Your comments are always a pleasure.

[@LetArtsLive]

Is it really hard to push down the strings? I mean I know acoustic guitars are always harder but mine it will rip your fingers off because the strings have to be so high cuz of the neck

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Dan, no sir, it isn't. If yours is, then it likely needs a slight neck adjustment. I did a very slight neck adjustment on my IBG Hummingbird and it solved all of its ills. My Excellente is like fretting butter, just as my Hummingbird is. At any rate, you might give that a shot and see if it corrects the issue.

[@anthonyholder4490]

🌑🌑🌑 Pleeze, RANDY, gimme your Guitar ,,, 🤓🌑🌑🌑

[@randysrhythm]

I’m sure you are a worthy candidate, Tony, but every time I try to make it leave my house, it refuses to leave. I’m afraid she loves me too much 😂

[@anthonyholder4490]

You should whisper in her ear that I'll love her madly too 😆😝☺️😇

[@moitoieuxnous1648]

Secondly if i can advice.. this isnt how you mic guitar... 14th fret... a pen size mic. And a other one on the sound hole. A large mic diagran.. willgive you that boomy... muddy sound you got it here. I coukd make this guitare 20x clearer and better sounding.

[@randysrhythm]

Thanks for the information and advice.

[@stopUkrainewar666]

what is the price point ?

[@randysrhythm]

The price now stands at $1,300.00 USD. That does not include taxes, or a case. I would think that when you add those items in, you’ll be sitting at around $1,500.00, perhaps a bit more. It seems the price is on the rise.

[@jakepfeiffer8396]

Does it come with a case?

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Jake, no sir, it does not. By the way, they did that to control the sale price, which I think is a mistake. A guitar that is sold without a case, in my opinion, communicates a bad message about the quality of the guitar. That would be a wrong assumption here. Welcome to modern day price controls. I bought the SKB case for it, but I don’t recommend it. SKB cases are a bit clumsy to me. I ended up putting it in an Epiphone dread case, which seemed much more fitting, in every sense of the word.

[@jakepfeiffer8396]

I share your sentiment on the case not being included and that in this guitar it’s a minor deterrent from purchasing a beauty. Originally, I was going to finally get a Gibson Songwriter. But by the time I was able to afford it, these Epiphone IBG guitars came out. I test drove all of them, along side Gibson’s versions and I got to say I just can’t justify $2,000-$4,000 of a increase for an American made Gibson. Thank God, I waited! I’m ordering my Excellente with the Epiphone case today!! 😊 Side note: I bet these don’t stay around long, I would advise anyone to snag one while you can. It’s very rare to find this exceptional value in this much quality and craftsmanship. In fact, I would go as far as to say this is the first!

[@randysrhythm]

@@jakepfeiffer8396 I could not agree more! I don’t believe they’ll continue the IBGs, or the Excellente, for the very reasons you state. Very pleased you stopped into my humble abode Jake.

[@randysrhythm]

@@jakepfeiffer8396 I could not agree more! I don’t believe they’ll continue the IBGs, or the Excellente, for the very reasons you state. Very pleased you stopped into my humble abode Jake.

[@dougfenhaus9845]

Lyle whitedove 1968 ?

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Doug, I’m afraid I didn’t get the reference. Would you mind expounding a bit more. I can tell that you thought I would get it, unless you’re referring to the Lyle guitar as a alternative?

[@christopherpage9859]

Um,...the price of this on Sweetwater is $1,299.00!!!

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Christopher, it’s does appear to be on the rise. It’s not just Sweetwater. I looked on Reverb and that seems to be the new price. Thanks for the head’s up 👍🏻.

[@tedbelmont]

Price has gone nuts. They were £799 in uk when they came out. Now up to £1200!!

[@twohandsandaradio]

But do you like it? 😃😀

[@randysrhythm]

Hilarious!! Love a sense of humor brother man.

[@yetivanmarshall1473]

A Loretta Lynn guitar? So it's a girl's guitar 😂. Thx for the review, it does sound nice.

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Yeti, well, let’s call it a big girl’s guitar! I love a good sense of humor 👍🏻

[@markhansen8078]

I have one on order from sweetwater.

[@randysrhythm]

Great Mark! This thing is an icon amongst Epiphone's history. I think it's better built than the originals were, back in the 70's. My best to you and thanks for coming to see us.

[@markhansen8078]

@@randysrhythm You are welcome Sir. TY for the review. I had some reservations about ovangkol tone woods. I have two Epiphones.... DR400MCE, Peter Frampton Texan. Both are spruce and mahogany solid wood guitars. NIce instruments. Epiphone is doing some exciting things with guitars. I particularly like the Masterbilt line.

[@randysrhythm]

@@markhansen8078 I'm right there with you!

[@markhansen8078]

@@randysrhythm Mine is on its' way to my house. I am eager to get it in my hands.

[@randysrhythm]

@@markhansen8078 great! Keep me posted please.

[@LetArtsLive]

There is a man that lives in Batavia New York named Steve krupner he plays guitar and he looks just like you almost

[@randysrhythm]

That poor, poor man! Tell ole Steve I said howdy 👍

[@LetArtsLive]

And I like that guitar I also like the hummingbird my friend had one from the '60s it was really nice

[@jefferyclark351]

Yamaha has had these 5 peace glued together necks for 7 years and thT thing sounds dead / no soul

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Jeffrey, you mean the Yamaha sounds dead? I was unaware they had one. Thanks for letting me know.

[@Wobbz9413]

Have the 5 piece neck on my two LL16s and there is no WAY they sound dead! Randy, you've heard my LL16D on my channel and for a phone sample, no WAY it sounds dead! New strings may help.

[@jamesdonalfaulkner]

The LL16D IS superb...

[@fourocker]

Way way back Epiphone produce premium guitars, much superior to Gibson until Gibson put in a hostile takeover on them and then commenced to dictate everything to them to ensure they were hamstrung enough that Gibson guitars appeared to be better, I'm really enjoying that this is going on with Epiphone at the moment, Gibson is so overpriced it's a joke, BTW Guild are doing great things like this too at the moment.

[@randysrhythm]

Great addition to the thread and 100% accurate! I need to revisit Guild. I’ve played one or two over the years, but never owned one. Thanks for mentioning that and thanks for coming by and contributing.

[@fourocker]

@@randysrhythm the Guild D140 from the Westerly collection is a perfect example akin to what you have demonstrated here, I started to check them as there is a used one in mint condition for sale a couple of hours travel from me.

[@randysrhythm]

@@fourocker please let me know if you get it.

[@tyroneshoelace4872]

These ars now at $1,300.00 + a case, so, not a budget guitar.

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Tyrone, appreciate the update on that. I figured it was just a matter of time. Thanks again, brother man 👍🏻

[@tyroneshoelace4872]

@@randysrhythm Sure thing. And it seems that these guitars are not discounted anywhere, so you're paying full list.

[@jbgoodjbgood6851]

braces bulky completely unplayable.low E if you try lower axion buzzed.unplayable

[@randysrhythm]

Hate that you had that experience. I ordered mine from Sweetwater and I instructed them on how I wanted to receive it. It arrived perfectly. The one thing I can say is that if you're buying sight unseen, it's better to do it through someone like Sweetwater, a trusted arm in this business. The bracing in mine was a bit thicker than I'd see in a Gibson, but I expected that. However, I wouldn't say bulky. Appreciate the feedback.

[@jbgoodjbgood6851]

@@randysrhythmthe biggest instrument makers in my coudry spend 20 saddles try to make the suggested action for acoustic 080'-050' and fail.my family is 2nt Generation Musicians i don't know if you have eny profits from Sweetwater they are many Sweetwater wordwide.problem is not from where you buy im 100% sure epi repeat the construction mistake from 1963-1970.remarkable accessories A solid Sitka spruce top e.t.c but unplayable with 12-53 Strings looks huge same time in other as martin takamini looks fine.strange...

[@randysrhythm]

@@jbgoodjbgood6851 We’ll just have to agree to disagree here. I am in no way affiliated with Sweetwater. My Excellente arrived as good as any Gibson I’ve ever owned. For reference, I’ve owned the Gibson J-45 Standard, Gibson J-45 Regal, Gibson J200 Parlor and one 1957 Gibson Les Paul. My Excellente plays as good as any of the acoustics I just listed, the one electric excluded of course. I’m not sure you watched the whole video to begin with, or you would already know that I am not getting paid by Gibson, Epiphone or Sweetwater. I specifically stated that in the video. I’ve had a guitar in my hands for 55 years, and have a bit of experience with guitar builds. Thanks for your input, but couldn’t disagree more. Respectfully, Randy

[@alexanderwindsor4371]

Awsome guitar quit going to Gibson....you will ruin a good thing

[@randysrhythm]

Hi Alexander, I think I understand what you are saying here. Yes sir, the Epiphone custom shop is turning out some quality guitars 👍🏻. I’ll check out your channel as well. Thanks for stopping in and sharing your thoughts.

[@randyrandle399]

crapiphone

[@randysrhythm]

I like a man of few words 😂. Appreciate the input 👍🏻