Gibson vs Epiphone Les Paul Custom Ebony

DISCLAIMER: This is not a sponsored video. The guitar was given to me by its owner for a review. It is a honest review and represents my personal opinion about this guitar.
The 2022 Inspired by Gibson Epiphone Les Paul Custom Ebony seems like a great deal on paper but it is even better in person especially when you compare it to the Custom Shop Gibson Les Paul Custom Ebony that it is trying to replicate. I was pleasantly surprised by the build quality and the recorded sound. In this video I compare both guitar’s construction, sound and playability. The Epiphone is a perfect platform for upgrades, the Gibson is practically flawless. Which one you choose it is up to you, both are amazing on different levels.
0:00 Intro
2:09 The Les Paul Custom
4:45 Gibson vs Epiphone Differences
11:38 Guess - Epiphone or Gibson?
12:03 The Specs
13:45 The Pickups
15:35 Bridge & Tailpiece
16:28 Body & Neck
22:08 Neck Dimensions
24:28 The Back & Neck
27:40 The Weight
27:54 Tone Demo
38:34 Pros and Cons
42:56 Should you buy the Epiphone
Radoslav Marinchev Instagram: @story_of_the_blues
Facebook: / georgevguitars
Instagram: / georgevarbanov
Gear used to record this video:
Amp: Diezel VH-4 120W Head
Cab: Diezel 2x12 Vintage 30 Rear Loaded
Mic: Shure SM57, Audio-Technica AT2035
Interface: M-Audio 192/4
Camera: Sony A6400 with Sigma 30mm F1.4 and Iphone 13 Pro Max
Stands: Athletic stand for cab microphone
#gibson #epiphone #lespaul

[@antonyivanov9024]

Which one from the two? Both. If you get the Epiphone, you will always crave for the Gibson headstock. But if you are a gigging musician who doesn't play at the Wembley stadium, just get the Epi and change the pick ups to your preference. Nobody from the audience will notice the difference in the sound, besides the few bedroom guitar players (like me). Nice video, btw.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thank you, well said about the gigging musicians, my point exactly. 🤘🏻

[@devinsinderwitcz9134]

Yeah sorry not sorry, I'm not a name chaser and the least of my concerns is the headstock. Hands down I'll take the Epi and still be able to afford the same appointments as the Gibson. It's the same as owning a pair of Nike's. There's no way in hell you're going to get 6x the value in your sound either.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

@@devinsinderwitcz9134 The Epi is amazing

[@omgdisfunny4852]

Basically : are you a snob who is bad with his financial decisions, or do you want a good instrument that's actually worth what it costs

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

@@omgdisfunny4852 I have 4 Gibson LP Customs 😳🖤

[@markpell8979]

After carefully watching the entire video, I have to say this was one of the most objective, honest and openminded comparisons of these guitars that I've ever seen. Your comments about using an Epiphone over a Gibson for playing out in gigs or jams were spot-on. I'm not scared to take my Epiphones out of the house into potentially risky situations, and sound- and appearance-wise they hold their own and most of our listeners would not notice or care about the subjective differences that we notice as players.

[@losthwy]

Being objective is not desirable in a review, comparison or a head to head which is what this video is titled and what it is about. The reviewer clearly states a preference and explains his reasons, he even brings in expertise for a second opinion and another perspective. This video is excellent but it is NOT objective and not meant to be.

[@keithfreeman4015]

This is one of the best videos I’ve ever seen on guitars. EVER. Bravo.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thank you 🤟🏻

[@flrpitflrp1965]

I know it might be me. I love the new Epi headstock better the the previous one, except on the customs. For some reason with the binding on the older headstock it looks cooler to me

[@BlueberryStinkFinger62]

It not a new headstock it's the original Epiphone designed headstock

[@merope100]

Great comparison! I have an ebony epiphone les paul custom. It has the wilkinson tuners. I was surprised because the epiphone website says they are grover. Good to hear they are still of similar quality!

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yeah, don't worry the Wilkinsons are great.

[@earthling273]

Great video! I recently got the Epiphone LP Custom as well and I love that guitar. One thing that you mentioned is that the Epi has a maple top but Epiphone's website doesn't mention that. I thought it as mahogany only.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

It is mahogany only, but I needed proof. I reviewed the Alpine White as well. In that video it is clearly visible that the top is mahogany.

[@deonchase3167]

I bought my 2007 Epiphone Les Paul Custom used from a reputable store for $400. Then I replaced the pickups (Suhr Thornbucker Alnico 4’s with split coils), the pots, wires, three-way switch, input jack, nut, bridge and tail piece, and purchased an Epiphone Les Paul case. All for under $700... installed. Now it's a great guitar for $1200 all in.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thats exactly what I would do 🤘🏻

[@werewolflover8636]

And how much is it worth now even after you did so much to it? About $300.

[@chrisreed869]

let’s see new ones are 800 dollars used around six

[@ces69]

I recently bought the Burny 57 Black Beauty version with 3 pickups a solid mahogany body like the original Customs, and a Bigsby, great guitar! Has the correct headstock, Grover tuners and accurate small post bridge! Had planned to do a number of upgrades but the guitar plays and sounds so damn good I haven’t got around to it!

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

I am going to review a 89-90 Burny in Alpine White this week, and compare it to an Alpine White Custom Gibson👀

[@ces69]

@@GeorgeVGuitars Nice, I’ll be sure to catch it!

[@MarkLysaght]

Since buying my Epi Custom a few months ago, I've watched a number of review and comparison videos, yours is hands down the best I've seen, and congratulations on that! 😊 I bought the Epiphone version second-hand ( in great condition!) for €550 and was blown away with the quality. I have two Gibson Les Paul Standards (50s and 60s models, also bought second-hand) so for an outlay of around €3,550 in total I have THREE quality LPs for far less than the price of a Gibson Les Paul Custom. If I owned the real thing I'd be far too worried about it getting damaged or stolen.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thank you! Yeah the Gibby Custom could be an overkill for a lot of gigs. You got soke great guitars there.

[@lukaszpiasecki]

I have the koa one. It’s flawless. I just changed the tuners to locking one’s just because of preference. Pickups are good, get punch when using a tubescreamer. Anyways, you have a great channel. Best reviews of guitars I have ever seen.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thank you! I love how the Koa looks 👀 I am going to review one as soon as possible

[@skottmuncey1529]

I purchased the Epiphone Koa limited edition a couple months ago. I agree beautiful guitar. I have always played Charvel and Jackson. I Have always wanted a Les Paul but $$. Epiphone has came along way the last few years. The limited LP’s like ours comes with Grovers, great pick- ups etc. Anyway I sure do not regret buying it.

[@PACK-ge5gu]

My 2023 has Grovers 😊

[@SDH2023]

Great video comparison. I’m happily going for the Epiphone, but in Alpine White. And will immediately swap the tuners for locking keystone style.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

I will do the Alpine white sometime next week. Stay tuned 👀

[@AHOY_MATEY]

Awesome video. super thorough! Thank you!

[@msaintpc]

Excellent review and comparison!👍

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

🤘🏻

[@CookieShreds]

Great video and nice Sylosis riffs! I got strong urge to buy this Epi! If i bought Epi what would you suggest to most needed/ best bang for buck upgrades to make it as close to elite instrument as possible (aside from initial setup and fret levelling at tech) ?

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Swap the bridge and right away for tone pros, schaller or grover. New nut and fret leveling.

[@krystalmesh]

I absolutely love mine. Even more so when you consider I'm a lefty, and never would have expected this to be offered in a left handed version. I already have the black and the white is on order. Excellent video and fantastic comparison.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Nice! I'm gonna review the white one as well in a few days 👀

[@nastyriffs]

I have this Epiphone LP. It’s amazing to play and it’s my go to guitar. I took it to my local independent guitar store for a set up and they absolutely loved it!

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yeah they are great guitars 🤘🏻

[@nastyriffs]

@@GeorgeVGuitars I also very much appreciate the Sylosis demo!

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

@@nastyriffs 🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@yetigoosecreature8682]

nice in-depth side-by-side review :)

[@mboyer68]

I pre ordered the Sweetwater viper blue LP custom yesterday. Nickel hardware, I already have a quilt top with gold hardware so I was happy to see that. No clue when it's supposed to ship though?

[@Worklikeyoushouldbe]

Great review! My Viper blue Epiphone should be here in a day or so. I never thought it would be on par with a real Gibson, i couldn't be happier!

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Enjoy!

[@MarshallAmpMan]

This comparison is by far the best on KZbin. Have you done the Paul Reed Smith core singlecut vs the S2 series? Please do if you haven't. Thanks for posting!

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thank you. I haven't done any PRS guitars but I plan to. Thank you for the idea!

[@dave.F0X]

Excellent video. Very informative.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thank you! :>

[@LottimusMaximus]

Amazing video!!! After watching I feel like some minor EQ work on the amp you could make these sound even closer.

[@sparemers8380]

Opening riff sylosis already loving this video

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

🤘🏻

[@alexisromero9569]

Great video, I just have a doubt because in some sources I have seen that the Epiphone didn’t have the maple top, but what’s the truth then? Is it only in some cases (year producción)? Hope you Can guide me

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

It doesnt have the maple top. The Matt Heafy Custom has it

[@CunningStuntsGoFast]

semi unrelated aging question here , i got a gibson standard heney burst , bought it new in 2017 . when it ages will the flame also disapear slightly ? or will the whole guitar just lose the reddish colour as i saw someone saying that red die in flame will resolve first due to exposure to uv ?

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Not sure, check out aged reissues or examples from the 50s. Its gonna take quite some time tho, 2017 is relatively new.

[@jarlaiti]

Very very good review! Best and very thorough ever comparison. That pickup position difference was new info for me. If epiphone would make LP Custom with thicker neck shape, I would seriously consider buying one, I just cant stand slim taper neck profile with my big hand. I have epi Joe Bonamassa Amos Flying V and that has very nice thick 50’s neck that I really like.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yeah I suppose you prefer the 50s necks. 🤘🏻

[@Usasuperpower]

Not to mention the poly finish that I love that is on the epiphone.

[@Dr.Jekyll]

Excellent video! Well done.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thank you Dr Jekyll, I wonder what Hyde thinks about it 👀

[@jeremymiller6933]

As much as I love a Gibson Les Paul Custom, I went with an Epiphone and am pretty happy with it, especially for getting at the $649 MSRP instead of $729 USD. Is it better than the Gibson? Nope. Does the superior material and craftsmanship justify the additional $5k? (White and Silverburst are $5.5k; Ebony is $5k) Nope. If you can afford the Gibson, more power to you. IMO, the Gibson version really shines on the clean tone on the neck pickup with some jazz-like fingerpicking on a tube amp like a Fender Reverb. I've wondered if it has to do with the drilled holes for the weight relief. As far as touring/professional musicians, their amps and effects will really take away any of the differences in sound between the two and you can always replace the pickups in an Epiphone to actual Gibson 490/498's, 59's, etc. or quality aftermarket brands like Seymour Duncan, EMG, etc. Even change the pots/switches if need be. Still come out significantly cheaper than a Gibson if you need and/or choose to modify it. If the headstock is that important to you, ok. That's your preference and there is nothing wrong with that. If you're looking to buy your first Gibson however, please do yourself a favor and play it in person first. They all cost the same, but are not made the same. Some are great out of the box, some need a lot of work (Extra $$$ to spend on top of a very high premium to begin with just to make it playable) and the QC isn't very consistent. More so for the USA line than the Custom Shop, but still. Play it first. There's nothing better than owning a good one. Owning a dud is gut wrenching. Overall, this is an excellent and thorough comparison video between the two guitars.

[@barrykinard6096]

I can agree with that 100%, A friend had a new Gibson Studio in the 90's...what a slug, that thing was a hunk of junk, no way would I have dropped over a grand (90's money) for that anchor....I had an Ibanez $300.00 max, played and sounded 100% better. That's why I was reluctant to get a Gibson, and opted for the Epi...would I like to have a Gibson Custom?, just because?...well of course....would I go buy one as a struggling musician...He** no!

[@jeremymiller6933]

@@barrykinard6096 My lone remaining Gibson is a 97 Studio that I've had since May 1998. After a little bit of love with a truss rod adjustment, intonation, etc. done by a professional, it is like playing a different guitar. It plays and sounds considerably better than any of my Epiphones. It does still need a new nut... That's the double edged sword. The "better" guitar needed more money put into it for a setup. But, now it is clearly the best one of my collection. I think the price was $899.99 at the time. Now they're around $1500. It would be a much harder sell now for me.

[@stevegarcia1796]

Undoubtedly the best review yet to date, Excellent !!! 🇺🇲😎🎸🇺🇲

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed 🇺🇸🦅🇺🇸🤘🏻

[@Swlabr61]

I still love playing my Epiphone LP Custom I got a few months ago, but now it's starting to fall apart? 😮 One of the tone knobs has come off. And now I just discovered that the jack is loose. How are the knobs kept in place, with a glue? How can I tighten up the jack, I would have to remove the square-shaped plate it's on?

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Just pull the pot cap. Yea insvrew the jack playe. I would just replace it, the stock one is crap

[@axiaxaren]

First difference is the price, and second the Nashville bridge with the head screws more easy to reach. For metal there's no other differences. If you want a music tool buy whatever is on your budget (+ case cost for the epi). If your are a collector and you have the money...

[@diegopojmaevich2008]

te felicito , es la mejor comparación que he visto, y coincido en tus conclusiones, el audio es terriblemente parecido en la grabación , se que en vivo en la habitación y tocandolas , se nota la diferencia y sin enchufar la resonancia es muy diferente, yo poseo una custom shop black del 2007 y me compraría esa epiphone también , para tocar en show en pub y se escucharia fantastica, es mas hoy en día llevo a los pub una epiphone genesis de 1980 y soy feliz con su sonido (ahunque aca las diferencias son mucho menores con la custom, casi imperceptible) pero no corro el riesgo que me roben la custom shop, muchas gracias por el video , excelente

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

I am glad u like it 🤘🏻

[@kurtjohnson6969]

I had an old Epiphone Genesis years ago. I agree it was great.

[@pskully57]

I have the Bonnamossa Epiphone black beauty, and it’s amazing. I especially love the “Peter Green” out of phase pickup setting. The expensive guitars are for the studio. I have a Chibson Gold Top Les Paul, and no one knows the difference live. The only guitar I demanded that had to be American was my telecaster.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

I have to review one of those

[@robertsoulier4736]

Completely agree on the Tele part. There is a big difference going from USA and MIM models. I actually bought (for giggles) a Chapman tele style ax, and even after set up, pu change, etc... I still dislike it. Main issue I have is because the tuners are on the bottom side of the headstock and difficult to tune on the fly. But I have a hard time pulling my 69' original Fender tele from the case in fear of bumping something with it. I do like the epiphone LP models though.

[@pskully57]

@@robertsoulier4736 I have a custom shop tele, I’ve played it for a couple of live shows, but mainly reserve for studio use.

[@Oilid]

Great complete video. 👍

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thank you 👍

[@maxxawesome7412]

Just bought a 2023 Ebony Epiphone Les Paul Custom. Fresh out of the box and tuned, it’s got a good bit of fret buzz at a few different strings/frets. I have done nothing but tune it. No professional set up. But my other guitars don’t have this problem and I haven’t really done set ups on them. Is that normal to have fret buzz on a new guitar out of the box (a few high/low frets when testing with a straight edge)? You mention getting a set-up, does that fix fret buzz if I found a few uneven frets rocking with a straight edge? Trying to decide on keeping or returning the guitar. Thanks!

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yep that is pretty usual. Even if you return it the next one might be the same. Best give it to a guitar tech for fret levelling.

[@maxxawesome7412]

@@GeorgeVGuitars thanks for the quick reply. I’ll see what they say

[@dbullcutter]

Very good review and honest comparison. 👍 Thank you. Even the old Epiphone LP Custom had already a great playability, but not comparable with the Gibson LP Custom and with the former entry level models by Gibson (such LP Studio Worn) either. Nevertheless Epiphone's quality has been improved over the years, so the guitars of this brand are nowadays a great value: not only "good for the money", but more for the money.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thanks for watching! 🤘🏻

[@dbullcutter]

@@GeorgeVGuitars You're welcome.

[@markstoddard1141]

Great video. Thank you sir. Well done.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@zitfril]

Amazing deep review, it would be nice to compare with the Schecter Solo II and the Eastman SB59V/B.

[@Okraknife]

I have a Gibson LP Custom and I ordered an Epiphone LP custom that I will be picking up today. I expect the poly finish will be better on the Epiphone but the woodwork and frets will be better on the Gibson.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Poly and Nitro are two different things. There is no way that the Epi has anything better than the Gibson. You probably mean that you prefer Poly as a personal choice.

[@molotulo8808]

I Bought my first electric guitar on 03/21/23 at 63 years old. Yes, I bought the Epiphone in silver burst. I paid $799 at Guitar Center. I like going to guitar center, it is a fun place to shop. I am a keyboardist and have10 different keyboard. I also have a Ibanex AEG70 acoustic electric and am also leased. I am pleased with this guitar (so I'll see how it holds out and maybe buy another electric, but I want to buy two more keyboards. Later. Good video..

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

That goes to show its never too late to start playing electric. Good choice the Silverburst. I will try to review on e of them soon. Keep on Rocking, Molo! 🤟🏻

[@currenlee6696]

i bought a epi around 2007 built in korea, change to les paul burstbucker 3, push pull pot , bigsby and 50's wiring. now sound better than stock

[@edwardbelcher8612]

I bought this exact Epi when they came out in 2020, Fantastic guitar and as close to a Gibson Custom as you can get without going broke. Hard to beat it for the price and it is a jack of all trades.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Exactly

[@barrykinard6096]

I bought this Epi about 6 months ago, I honestly can not imaging the Gibson being any better in any category...this Epi is a beast...paired up with my Boss Katana, it is a force to be reckoned with...I'd stand toe to toe with a Gibson any day.

[@edwardbelcher8612]

@@barrykinard6096 same setup here, with a Katana MkII head and a 2x12 cab.

[@johngee4306]

Correct. I played for years on an older all mahogany Epiphone les Paul Standard with Gibson 490/498 pick ups. It looked stunning with its picture perfect flame top (albeit only a veneer) but it played and sounded amazing.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

@@johngee4306 Yeah the standards are amazing. Interesting combination, a Standard with the Custom pickups. I got to give it a try.

[@noodlesiis]

Great Video.. Could some kind sole advise me on an amp and a pedal for the Epiphone here please.. I would only use it at home, Sound wise i’m a fan of Mark Knophler, Jimmy Page and Gilmour and luv Rock and Indie.. Thanks for helping me to decide to go for the Epiphone..

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Check out the VOX an Orange modelling for around 300$

[@noodlesiis]

@@GeorgeVGuitars Thanks mate..

[@mboyer68]

You can buy 9 Epiphone LPC 's for the price of one Gibson LPC. Believe me, I love Gibson and would absolutely prefer one, but after tax, the Gibson is $7990. Way too much for my income!

[@keramika007]

Thank You for the real honest a looong review. Amazing, really

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Glad u like it 🤘🏻

[@unclefungus7395]

the epiphone is such an awesome guitar, can’t decide between this and the goldtop. also the epiphone les paul custom has an all mahogany body no maple cap!

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yes I have confirmed the no maple cap thing in my white LP custom review

[@s.i.s.t.m]

Последното нещо, което очаквах да чуя в това демо беше Sylosis! Благодаря за якото видео!!

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Еее как бе, Джош е бивш ползвател на черен Custom, даже е в клипа на Empyreal. Thank you, thank you радвам се, че те кефи.

[@ravenmichauk9412]

Thankyou, this was very interesting

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Glad you liked it 🤘🏻

[@keithp8521]

I have that epiphone 2022 and i have a 78 les paul custom. The epi is nice but needs some work. My 78 plays like the day I bought it used.

[@stefandimz8191]

Hello fellow Bulgarian. I own an Epi Les Paul Modern and I must say the probuckers are holding their own, not a bad set of pickups. Generally not a fan of 498t and 490r for anything metal related though. Anyways great comparison - just subscribed and looking forward to your next video! Cheers.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

😳🤟🏻

[@pakodegites]

If you could it would be nice to put together comparison of epi custom, epi wino custom and gibson custom. For me the main diference in sound is in pickups. Betwen epi wino custom bridge sound and gibson custom bridge sound is no diference. Your comparisons are the best I've seen on yt. Go on.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Maybe sometime in the future. Good idea

[@donthewatcher]

great review and playing, I got a 2020 Epi LP custom alpine, i put gibson gold 490r/498t P/u's in it to make it like the gibson model i also have a 2017 Epi LP Custom coil taps with Seymor duncan P-Rails both sound great for hard metal. Probuckers are just a bit muddy for my taste, But they are functional . i do have Burstbuckers in my other Les Pauls And 335

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

The 490/498 must be nice in the Epi 🤘🏻

[@joemarchione97]

My first impression is that Epi has more mid range in the Probucker 3.

[@aysick]

If you don't mind, what pedals/effects are you using? at around 31:04

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thats the guitar straight into channel 3 of the Diezel VH4 head

[@aysick]

@@GeorgeVGuitarsOh wow, that’s insane! Thanks so much!

[@harmonic3350]

Great comparison sir. Of all my guitars, my Korea built '98 black Epiphone LP Deluxe gets the most play. Gold is wearing off as usual and I might replace the tuners one day but shes plays like butter and all around solid as a rock.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

The Korean ones especially from the 90s are pretty well made guitars. You hold on to that LP Deluxe!

[@Bronco2Cj]

@@GeorgeVGuitars Any idea if the Gibson can be crafted for a lefty? I'm left and cannot play right handed.. I tried but it just didn't work out.

[@detthoff]

Hi. Thanks for the video ❤️. I own several Les Pauls both Gibson and Epiphone. I’ve noticed one more difference between the newer Epiphones and the Gibsons in their shapes. The Epiphone has a rounder less pointy single-cut horn then the Gibsons. Gibson has a more pointy horn which in my opinion looks a bit better. At least on my customshop 59 and an older standard from the early 90s. 👍

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

True

[@JoeAyala528]

Thank You for such a thorough and informative review! I’m a Lefty and I am going to order a Ebony colored one. Since you’ve played it already. What I would like to do Right away is change the hardware including P/U’s to nickel or chrome. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you Again.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

See what exactly would fit from the brands Gotoh, TonePros, Schaller

[@JoeAyala528]

@@GeorgeVGuitars Awesome! Man very much appreciated!! Thanks again!!!

[@KarlssonnsKlister]

Wilkinsons on my 22 Epiphone Custom. Feels just like Grovers.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yep, they are absolutely identical

[@stingylizard]

Hell yes! We added Gibson pups to our black Epi Custom...then sold the Gibson faded 2018 Les Paul. Salute!

[@avv.carminealdocatacchio3276]

Good job. Great video. Which is the difference between the Epiphone Les Paul Custom and the Epiphone Les Paul Custom Pro?

[@davidgordon7673]

I think that the main difference (maybe the only difference, but I'm not certain) is that the Custom Pro has coil-splitting capacity and the "regular" Custom doesn't.

[@avv.carminealdocatacchio3276]

@@davidgordon7673 ok thanks

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

I havent tried a Custom Pro. Which one exactly are you referring to? Do you have a link?

[@davidgordon7673]

@@GeorgeVGuitars Hi. I think they stopped making the Custom Pro a few years ago (when they started the "Inspired by Gibson" line). Here is a link to InTheBlues' review on YT: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aWXUq3iMfa5_qLM Cheers, GeorgeV. I really dig your reviews of Epiphones.

[@jaywill530]

Excellent Comparison !!... I have the Epiphone but I installed the Fishman Fluance Pick Ups and I LOVE THEM !!! ... basically I made it the Epi Prophecy model. I worked the neck and frets a little and it plays like a dream and it's drop dead gorgeous. I have both the Gibson and Epiphone Les Paul Classic ebony. Now that I have seen your video, I'm going to put them under the magnifying glass and check out the detailed differences. GREAT VIDEO !!

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

I would love to compare the classics too. Soon 👀

[@johnmoua235]

Whatever gets you playing is the only factor…I love Gibsons but can’t justify the price difference…especially with the new inspired by Gibson epi stuff. They are great for playing at home and studio. I love both.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yeah the Epis are great

[@BenderOfStrings]

Have you had a chance to check out the "blackback" Epi custom with the bone/cream colored top and black back? That one IMO is absolutely sharp! Also, is it just me or are these budget guitars so "stupidly" close in quality now to their more expensive counterparts that unless you care about collecting/resale value, there's just no reason to spend the extra $$$?

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

I definitely got to try one of those black back. I will look for one.

[@joey-zr8lt]

I have a 2021 Epiphone Custom Koa Les Paul a real Koa Top graph tech nut and no sharp edges it's perfect

[@Cherry_Sunburst]

EXCELLENT...Thanks a lot!

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

🤟🏻

[@diegopojmaevich2008]

añado una experiencia, hace unos años tomé una les paul epiphone standard del año 2010 de un amigo, y le coloque, toda la electronica gibson "original" , que venía en un kit, con pickups 490R y 498t, como viene la custom shop black que poseo 2007 , y la guitarra mejoró muchisimo en el clean , el brillo, pero al enchufar la custom shop , la diferencia seguia siendo grande, en dinamica , cuerpo etc etc, en este caso de tu video las diferencias se notan mucho menos , casi dificil de percibir, será que mejoraron la madera de estas epiphone custom ?

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yeah the materials are improved

[@diegopojmaevich2008]

@@GeorgeVGuitars Gracias , que buena noticia

[@msaintpc]

One of the best videos on the Tube.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thank you 🤘🏻🔥

[@hankramos8663]

Both will get the job done. It all depends on what you can afford and the importance you place on resale value.

[@andrewalbu]

Great review :) subscribed :) This place looks familiar, is it in Sofia?

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yep Music Division Mini. Have we met 👀

[@andrewalbu]

@@GeorgeVGuitars yeah 🙂 I bought guitar bridge a couple of months ago there😀

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

@@andrewalbu Ah yeah, I remember. Come by again sometime 🍺

[@danielmarquez9902]

I dont understand why no one notices that the cutaway is deeper (reach almost the 22 fret on real gibson) than epiphone (barely pass far than 21 fret). It is a "on purpose nerf" to the playability to the epiphone compared to the gibson, as they can do the exact shape, just in Asia with cheaper woods (as it is), for the same cost, but they prefer to generate this gap in capabilities of the guitar. Also this generates a difference in body shape that makes the epiphone less "desireable", because some people that loves real les pauls realizes that is something odd in shape, even if they don't know what's wrong. For me is so noticeable that it bother me so much i can't consider getting an epiphone just for this. Worth mentioning that also the left part of the body is less round or fluid, but at least they do it now closer to originals than a few years ago, since they changed the headstock to the newer one.

[@afxtwinreverb]

I never got why some les paul looked weird and then another ones looked better, like more rounded body, I thought it was the angle of the picture but thanks for this information.

[@Swlabr61]

Just recently, I took delivery of a 2023 Ebony Epiphone Les Paul Custom. It came with Grover tuners and as you know, now costs $799. I've been playing it practically every day and I love it. I always wished I could have an Ebony Gibson Les Paul Custom, but could not afford the price. Several months ago another guitar player told me I could not go wrong with the new Epiphone LP Customs. I had no idea Epiphone had created a new "Inspired by Gibson" LP Custom. I went to stores and tried them out and watched numerous video reviews of them here on KZbin. This video from George V has to be the best, and most thorough review I've seen of the guitar and was definitely an influence on my decision to buy it. I knew Epiphone had made LP Customs for years, but I was never that enthused about them until I heard about the "Inspired by Gibson" series. Even though this video points out the guitar is made of a lower grade Mahogany wood, that did not dampen my enthusiasm for it (I've also seen that it's all mahogany with no maple). And I do not mind having pearloid block inlays instead of mother-of-pearl. I'm primarily a drummer, so maybe my ears are untrained, but I could not tell any difference between the pickups on the Gibson and the Epiphone. Mine came with Gibson strings, which felt quite different from what I'm used to, but of course, those can - and will - be changed. Out of the box, I noticed there was no buzzing from the strings, and the neck is pretty straight. I thought there was supposed to be a bit of a curve to necks, or is that personal preference? This video states their guitar did not have a set up, and I'm wondering, even though mine plays well, is a set up still recommended?

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

I am glad I could help you with your choice. The Epi Custom is great value for the money. Yes I recommend you bring it to a proper guitar tech as soon as possible.

[@sparkyguitar0058]

I built my 97 L P studio after the custom. Bought it used with 496/500 pups. Changed pots to CTS 500K and used Garrett cloth wiring in a 50's style. 011 caps, Switchcraft switch and jack. Then on top used Kluson locking tuners, Tusc XL nut, Tonespro locking bridge ,alum tailpiece. Now after a few yrs of working this guitar the wear and tear look some what cool in 1 way and pretty disgusting in another.

[@jaythornhill]

Thank you for a very interesting video. I see people claiming they sound identical. No they don't. The Epi has a tighter low end, while the Gibson has a looser low end, but has a bit more top, esp. on the neck pickup. The Epi may have slightly higher output. However, I'm not sure the small difference justifies dishing out another 4200 $ for the Gibson, for the sound alone. If anything, I think the Epi sounds better than the Gibson, for the high gain, chugging stuff. The Gibson of course excels in the neck pickup bluesy moments.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

🤘🏻

[@rbae]

It could be just through their audio device though. If they're listening without headphones from a phone speaker or using low quality headphones/speakers, they probably can't tell the difference

[@IndyRockStar]

I bought the Epiphone Les Paul Custom and fell in love with it. As often is the case, if/when I buy an Epiphone it just makes me inescapably want the Gibson version. I bought a Gibson CS LP Custom. I loved everything about the guitar except the 490/498 pick ups. In my opinion those pickups are far too harsh, sharp, and my bridge pickup squealed while palm muting under moderate gain. I ended up scoring a pair of Gibson pickups out of a Murphy Lap '68 reissue. I put those pick ups in LP Custom and OMG. I'm now convinced I have the Best LP ever made. I only own Gibson Custom Shop guitars and some of the others is significantly more expensive and fancy, but my LP Custom with the '68 RI pickups is by far the Best guitar I've ever owned.

[@steffkeirn5017]

Is this your personal collection or do you work in some guitar store in Sofia?

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

That is Music Division in Sofia. My personal guitars also have videos but are not on this wall.

[@lordvincentrandles4610]

Has the Gibson custom shop been plekd? I've heard that all the current one's have been, but I think you mentioned that yours is a bit older I believe. Is that the case?

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Its 2019 year model. Should be plekd.

[@Pete_Harris]

Great video. The Gibson does sound a bit more meatier and mid focused which I personally like. I'd get the Epiphone and replace the pickups with the Gibson's pickups or similar.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

That would be coll

[@beamifrend]

I'd love to hear both guitars with the pickups switched for comparison. It could be the Gibson's build and materials that are contributing to the richer tone, so don't be surprised if the 490/498's don't sound quite the same in the Epi.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

@@beamifrend Definitely. Wood and construction matter

[@donthewatcher8835]

i have a Epi LP custom alpine 2020 with the larger diamond . it has gold (gibson)490r/498t pickups in it ,CTS mallory , switchcraft ebony fretboard, to make it like a proper gibson i also have a 2017 Epi LP custom ebony with( seymor duncan) P-rails in it to take advantage of the coil taps, it really growls , just like a gibson ,it has cts mallory ,and switchcraft, rosewood, i made both customs as sweet as the gibson versions, Without the price tag Excellent review George....

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Thank you. Nice upgrades u got there.

[@regnum2760]

Omg this riff at 38:13! Are there any tabs?

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Nah, but it is pretty easy to see what he is doing. Just rewind and try, and use your ears 👂🏻👀

[@finaljesus]

i absolutely love this video thank you for the comparison between the 2 of them i don’t like Epiphone but thess are a lot better then the crappy ones they used to sell before with the old ugly headstock i would buy one of these now but my first choice would be an Epiphone japan made guitar with the correct headstock they are out there i would buy one of these before before i buy the ones you have in this video although this is an excellent review thank you very much

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yeah I have to try the Japanese ones. Also check out Edwards 👀

[@jinpnp]

sir epiphone les paul custom vs sire l7 you are choice? plz thank you

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

I havent tried Sire but the L7 model seems comparable to the Epi LP Standard, not the Custom.

[@angus.f.kendal1544]

Awesome🎸Nice Comparo👍👽🌾

[@damianrjames]

Problem with the gibbo is that after shelling out €4000 I’d still want new BKP pups and ABM brass bridge and aluminium stop bar, so that’s another €600 on top of the axe… I reckon I’d go epi then mod to my heart’s content . Gibson only offering ebony on 4 grand customs is a shocker imo..

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

If you ate willing to pay 4000$ another 600$ shouldn't bother you that much.

[@jonathanalx17]

I notice that you have a esp/ltd kh demonolygy hanging in the wall on some of your video. Are planning to review that guitar in the future? Thank's

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yeah I have to do it soon actually. You have a good eye 👀

[@jonathanalx17]

@@GeorgeVGuitars Cool, can't wait for that video. I always curious the full specs on the esp/ltd kh model (especially the extra thin u neck) Anyway Thanks and keep it up 🙌. Your video is always informative and entertaining 👏

[@joythemountisland]

Maybe you should consider this : 1. Different horn/single cut body shape, the Epi is shallower, the Gibson has deeper cut. Gibson patent reason maybe 2. Different fretboard length, the core is longer, does it affect to the neck pickup tone? 3. Different headstock angle 4. Different neck joint construction, I see this in Epiphone factory tour

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

True

[@joythemountisland]

@@GeorgeVGuitars hopefully the next video, another Epi & the core version comparison

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

@@joythemountisland Core version?

[@joythemountisland]

@@GeorgeVGuitars the Gibson

[@zombies418]

Another subtle thing I’m noticing is that the body on the epiphone looks a little different than the Gibson. Like it’s the same shape but they don’t use the same template. To me the horn on the epiphone looks fat where as the Gibson horn looks much more pointy and defined

[@aureliusandthespiral]

Yep, you are spot on. They both have a slightly different body, mostly the horn shape and the top carve is substantially different too

[@zombies418]

@@aureliusandthespiral I thought so. The devils in the details between Gibson and Epiphone.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yep alight differences like the pickups and bridge spacing.

[@spaceriot23]

Man got the taste for Sylosis riffs

[@merlovelasquez3249]

Hi George,, how check how old is my Gibson les Paul custom ??

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Gibson or epiphone? Give me the serial number or send me pictures in instagram. The link is in my channel home page

[@Jakkuba]

Sylosis at the start was a nice surprise c:

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Fun riff 🤘🏻😳

[@shredddead5603]

The both still need Seymour Duncan’s so for the money I’d just go with the epi

[@x2xx3x4YT]

Also notice the space between the bridge-pickup and the bridge.... i can stuck a finger in this gap on my €piphone while i can't on my Gibson.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yep, exactly

[@zorecati]

I see the difference but how do you quantify it into that difference in price? I can't. 500 to 5000, I just don't get it.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

For me it is a no-brainer, Gibson all the way.

[@Zoso981]

I owned the Epiphone Les Paul Custom in Alpine White. I liked it a lot, but then I bought the Epiphone Les Paul Custom Adam Jones (Veil of Bees). It's easily the best Epiphone I've ever owned.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yeah the Veil looks amazing. Hopefully I will review one.

[@valeriocorv]

Me too, I just bought "The Berseker". I'm in love with it

[@94SexyStang]

I have Gibson and Epiphone......the difference is mostly material rarity.....You won't lose a dime on a Gibson, they are effortless to Trade or Sell, almost like Gold or Silver.....and that's important for some people who get bored, and Buy and Sell often. Epiphone is a great guitar, and you can score them cheap used....but the negative is they don't retain much value....a $700 guitar is generally going to bring around Half of that....when someone Buys an Epiphone, they want it Cheap, the buyer has the leverage......when you're selling a Gibson, the seller usually has the leverage.

[@KarlssonnsKlister]

Best guitar review channel on youtube.

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Awwww 🖤

[@chrisreed869]

great breakdown thus already most likely: I was under the impression that there is no maple cap on the Epiphone

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yeah there isnt

[@kgot7436]

Absolutely nothing that would make me buy a Gibson over Epiphone. Don't get me wrong, I love Gibson Les Pauls, but for price versus function, I will always buy Epiphone.

[@hughnguyen1772]

Whatever makes you happy. People who can afford the Gibson would spend money for the Gibson though.

[@erickaufmancustomguitars1351]

And do, for the tonal reasons you can hear immediately. But the feel is what matters. And you can't do that on a video.

[@heatgrimm8664]

You’re missing out. Greatly.

[@shantanuc835]

One other difference is the gibson has a deeper cutaway at the horn. Excellent vid btw

[@GeorgeVGuitars]

Yeah it does, thank you :>

[@diyoss2612]

i genuinely cannot hear the difference and with the 4.5 grand difference I'm going to buy the epiphone one. Thank you so much for the video. Helped the decision a lot!