Gibson vs Epiphone Side By Side-TV Yellow Les Paul Special-Which One Do I Buy?

[@Gaslight.Guitar]

My brain tells me to buy Epiphone but my heart wants a Gibson.

[@airtimedesign]

Great comment! I love that!

[@rubbinman]

My wallet always screams Epiphone

[@glennsophie3235]

Gibson warranty only applies to the country of sale as I learnt to my cost.

[@Guitarwizza1]

I have the Epiphone. It stays in tune well, fret work is well done also. I will change the pickups though, not because they’re bad but I don’t like any of my guitars with humming. I have many other guitars that I play more. So I got this because I didn’t have a guitar with P-90’s. So if this won’t be your go to guitar, get the Epiphone you won’t be disappointed, you can always change the pickups. Everything else on the guitar is GOLD 😉.

[@voided76]

@@Guitarwizza1 P90's have a noise man. Unless you go to firebird mini-buckers in P90 sized pickup covers the noise is just the noise. The tone is great though. Granted I bought a 2020 Epiphone LP Modern with the buckers. I'm strongly considering an SG/LP with p90's as a backup/niche.

[@Sammywhat]

THANK YOU for the "acoustic" comparison. I don't think anyone knows how important this is when comparing guitars. Excellent video! Thank you, kindly!!

[@Durathakai]

What the hell is important about acoustic testing an electric?

[@Sammywhat]

@@Durathakai Well, have you ever played a really resonant electric solid body guitar? I take it you haven't. Or you haven't the understanding between a dead, lifeless piece of wood, versus a vibrant, sonorous offering. Play a few electric guitars unplugged. See if you can understand what I'm saying. Some of us "feel" the resonating of the wood acoustically. Even at high amplified volumes. That resonance can make all the difference in the world as to whether a guitar is a real player or just a piece of lifeless wood with strings on it. It's also one of the reasons people will pay a boatload of money for a custom shop build. They typically come with better wood. I hope that enlightens you my friend.

[@braddietzmusic2429]

Did the two guitars have the same brand, model, and thickness strings?

[@th-pl3nx]

​@@Sammywhat "Sonorous"??? "Feel"??? Wow. Emotional descriptions that have absolutely no affect on an electromagnetic field.

[@Sammywhat]

@@th-pl3nx 😂😂 I know, silly words. All I'm trying to say, and poorly at that, is that the air that is pushed by the vibrations and resonance from a piece of steel or wood actually has a great deal of influence to the resulting tones one interprets in our brains electronically. Some may disagree. I feel sorry for them sort of. Lifeless guitars are the bane of a player. If you can sustain a note, for a time, without electronics, that instrument will be far more "lively" and "enjoyable" to play rather than something without that "feel." It's a debate I'm willing to argue. However, it's better with beers and some high-end guitars lying about for reference. 🎸Cheers my good man! 🍻

[@EvanGtr7]

This is exactly how guitar reviews should be done and what he said resonated so much. I never plug a guitar in when I first play it. If it doesn’t speak to me acoustically then I lose interest in plugging it in. This was really well produced on all levels. I actually like the slightly more chimney compressed sound of the epiphone which is good since mine arrives tomorrow. I have a number of gibsons and epiphones including and Epiphone 339 pro and SG pro. I like the single coil tap options on them and the necks and frets were perfect. The old epiphone headstocks on some of the epiphones were the biggest negative on the guitar. If the headstock doesn’t fit I just can’t play it ( the biggest problem with all the super strat makers out there). The new headstocks are a marked improvement in overall aesthetics. Again, great job.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Evan! I appreciate the compliment! Please leave me a comment about you new Epi. I'm sure you'll love it!

[@EvanGtr7]

Brooks Reid got it from Chicago music exchange and came in perfect order. They actually seemed to have inspected it. Only problem I found is there is a truss rod buzz. The truss rod must be sitting weird right at the headstock. Have to decide if I want to try a quick fix or send it back. Otherwise really enjoy it. Nice beefy neck. And the color is more of a tweed amp color which I really like. A lot of the pictures make it look really yellow but it’s more of a tan yellow. Overall great guitar especially it I can fix that buzz.

[@airtimedesign]

@@EvanGtr7 Does the neck look like there is enough relief? Hopefully it's just a matter adjusting the truss rod tension.

[@billkarmetsky4003]

My God, Brooks! You have a voice for radio! What a great presentation!

[@airtimedesign]

Add a face for radio too!

[@coopergoss350]

@@airtimedesign hahahahaha

[@createlovehappy]

Best most thorough side by side comparison I’ve ever watched. Great work here.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you so much for taking the time to comment and the compliment! I appreciate it and please subscribe!

[@avjake]

You can pick up the Gibson pickups for $119 each and get closer with the Epiphone, but the resonance of the Gibson wood and the aura of the genuine Gibson branded item can't be matched. Excellent, detailed and meaningful comparison video. Nice job!

[@RGMDG]

Nice review. Just picked up a used 2020 Les Paul Special for $1200. I am really liking it. Love the P90 pickups..

[@airtimedesign]

Glad you enjoyed the review Robert and congrats on the new used LPS. I'm planning more reviews, please subscribe! Thanks

[@voiceofexperience]

To these old ears, the Epiphone definitely sounds more "vintage" and the Gibson more "modern". I prefer the former, but I realise this is a matter of personal taste. I was really surprised at how different these 2 guitars sounded, considering how similar they are in other respects. Thank you for your comprehensive review.

[@DSAbbottstudio]

Nice job on the review. I've been playing Gibsons since 1964, have several and just bought the TV Yellow Special. That being said I have noticed the upgrade in quality in the Epiphone line. You won't go wrong with the new Epiphones, especially as an instrument you can grow into. You can always buy the more expensive instruments later if you feel the need.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Doug! Please subscribe

[@slimturnpike]

I'd get an Epiphone except I hate poly finishes. Deal killer for me

[@Ineedahandle75]

In conclusion, labour costs are much higher in the USA than in Asia.

[@Felix-so8ez]

This is one of the best guitar reviews i've ever seen. Keep it up!

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Felix, please subscribe more on the way!

[@airtimedesign]

Felix, I see you already did! Thank you!

[@TheMidnightModder]

@@airtimedesign I noticed that too. I've never seen one that's so unique and high quality! It would take a Very long comment to sum it all up so I'll just say the simpler parts. The history! A lot of great close up shots A lot of great information Quality opinions You played the guitars unplugged!! Your Own Unique Style Just keep it up and you're set!!!

[@airtimedesign]

@@TheMidnightModder Thank you so much, I appreciate it!

[@mjolnircarlssen4211]

Incredible review. You’ve created the best review format. The Gibson had a little..and I mean little…bit more mid-range and a little bit fuller sound. The Epiphone was just a little bit more treble-y…. You just sold a lot of both of these for both Epiphone and Gibson.

[@bradproctor6499]

I bought the epiphone sg special in Pelham blue. After setting up/ conditioning the neck and replacing the strings it's become outstanding. I'm blown away by the value for my $400. A friend gave me a case and now I'm set with a great instrument to learn and rock out with

[@airtimedesign]

Awesome! Congrats!

[@derekhand7904]

That’s a nice guitar I’m jealous

[@Cudi-wp5wh]

Has anybody noticed that the Epiphone has a weirdly messed up string space? Check the High E being almost on the edge of the fretboard while having huge space towards the B string. At first I thought it was the cameras angle but I saw it throughout the whole video. I would have shipped it back as you‘d have to either get a new nut thats cut right or change the tailpiece.

[@MykelObvious]

Would love to see a full electronics swap between these guitars to see if that is the major difference between the two or not!!!

[@CastlesMadeOf...]

Totally. I bet the difference is negligible. Someone out there must have done a vid on the Epi with upgraded pups..

[@fritzherrmann762]

Epi has 500 potentiometers

[@OldTownGuitars]

Played both at a shop today, and the pickups we’re a big difference. The Gibsons had more punch and clarity. The Epis were “flatter” sounding, if that makes sense.

[@michaelsablan8772]

Aloha Brooks, you have a very pleasant voice….like a DJ or Hollywood narrator. Your video presentations are professionally done. Mahalo nui loa for sharing!

[@TonyMartin-xg1rd]

Excellent review my man. I recently bought the Epiphone and it’s exactly as you said, great quality and looks almost as good as the Gibson, but the pickups and solid finish are what lets it down. Mine sounds exactly like the one in your vid both acoustically and plugged in. Still, I’m happy enough just to swap out the pickups for something better. I got mine for 265 English pounds 2nd hand off eBay, but it was practically brand new and still in its original packaging. New set of pickups about £140 and that’s some guitar for not much money right there. Thanks again mate - cool vid 👍🏼

[@mikepj1025]

Best comparison I’ve seen yet. Outstanding video man. Thanks so much.

[@airtimedesign]

Thanks Mike, I appreciate you taking the time to comment!

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Mike for the compliment and taking time to comment. I appreciate it!

[@tonetoner8789]

This is easily the best guitar review I’ve ever watched. I was rather surprised by the acoustic comparison, the Gibson was much better to my ears.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you so much for saying that! I appreciate it. Please subscribe.

[@tonytribble2977]

Could the strings have something to do with it ? I’ve heard that Epi strings are not good quality & most recommend changing them as soon as you receive the guitar. New quality strings make a difference !

[@stephentool1316]

@@tonytribble2977 I'm surprised no one from the video replied. It kept me from subscribing.

[@jazzguitarneophyte-christo7988]

This by far the BEST rview guitar comparison I've seen! Thanks to you, I am now on my way to purchase an Epiphone Special! Yes, the Gibson has more ump and you can't beat an awesome laquer finish but as a hobyist who performs in my room with now crowds, the Epi is a clear choice! You have a new subscriber!

[@jeffreywinter2450]

Outstanding review. Thank you. I do not gig and at this point in my life (I'm 64) I am happy to do a little work and change out pickups, pots, jacks, and hardware. I have a 2006 Epiphone '57 Reissue LP Junior. The fret work is excellent, as is the fit and finish. For me the nitro finish on the Gibson is better quality than Epi's polyurethane, but not a big enough difference to pay the higher price. I'm more likely to purchase the 2020 Epiphone version at this point. I've had four Gibsons in the past year and sold them all. They're great investments, but the practical side is playability and value. For recreational playing the Epiphone checks all the boxes without the premium price tag.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Jeffery! And nobody is gigging much anymore for the time being until the world is a little safer again. Hopefully soon! All the best.

[@jonathanhandsmusic]

Jeffrey Winter You should get one! I did, and it's giving me a ton of inspiration to rock,turn up, and get in touch with my inner child of the sixties. It's a lot of fun, getting me out of Strat rut, and I older than you!

[@kevennorcross1017]

So true just switch out pick ups. They already have 500 k pots. I own a epi les Paul ultra put a set Seymore dunken pearly gates in it sounds and plays amazing. I'll never get rid of it.

[@brianjohnston4124]

I really like the attention you pay to your picking technique. Subscribed.

[@7dano523]

I got my Tv Epiphone other day. Sounds fantastic love it

[@anthonymaggs]

Wow so informative. Thank you for spending your time creating this gem of a video. Subscribed and liked ✌️

[@sambleach]

This is probably the best comparison video ever made between 2 guitars in the whole KZbin, thanks a lot for your contribution and your work, you have a new follower :) Speaking about the guitars I just bought the Epiphone Les Paul Special TV Yellow last week (after waitings for months) and I have to say it's reaaaally impressive. I have a nice small collections of guitars including 2 Gibsons, Fujigen, Japanese Fenders... and honestly as you said this "cheap" Epi is 95% as good as a Gibson. In my case I just wanted to have a good P90's guitar and for 349 UK pounds and I have a great one. I would really like to try the Gibson though seems pretty impossible in this pandemic times. Thanks again for your video, I was looking forward to something like this

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Samuel! That means a lot and I appreciate you taking the time to comment.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Samuel!

[@jonathanhandsmusic]

Samuel Olivares Altazco I totally agree with you. This is the best compare and contrast video on KZbin. It really is. He covers both guitars in a very detailed and interesting way.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Samuel for the tremendous compliment! Congrats on your new Epi!

[@chavista94]

This was a really good put together review loved it 😎

[@federicovalverde2192]

This is hands down the best guitar comparison on KZbin. Love how you emphasize on the guitars acoustically. I have an Epiphone Les Paul Standard 50's Goldtop from the inspired by Gibson series and I absolutely love it. I don't even really want to change the pickups to be honest, they are pretty good. Also, I don't feel as insecure when taking it to a gig as it is not as expensive as a Gibson one, however I take really good care of it. I am considering buying an Epiphone SG or a TV Special and save some money but still enjoy some quality instruments.

[@airtimedesign]

Well Thank you Federico, you made my day! I was on the fence until I plugged both guitars in. The Gibson pickups just sounded better. With a pickup upgrade I would have been very happy with the Epi. Thanks for the compliment and please subscribe!

[@julienferran9028]

Yeah you should ! Ahah I have an epi sg special, the pelham blue one, awesome guitar! (Ànd I have gibsons too, a lp junior and an sg junior) the epi is just so cool to play with, p90 are just fine, don’t need to change sounds good as is !

[@federicovalverde2192]

@@julienferran9028 Awesome! I recently tried one from a friend and it was great! His came with a bit of faulty wiring, but nothing we can’t fix so im definitely coping a SG in Pelham blue like yours!

[@meinhendl]

no doubt , for me the Gibson sounds better . on my floor there is box with an Epiphone Tv-Yellow i have to unpack !😁 good comparison with Porsche and Kia . honestly , so it is !

[@backspin6698]

Great review. This is how comparisons reviews should be done. Thank you.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you, I appreciate it. I'm really grateful for all the positive comments! Please subscribe I'm working on another review now.

[@Paspa1801]

This video got recommended to me because I watch a lot of guitar videos and I'm so glad I watched it. It was a great review and comparison and it was nice to learn some of the history. I have subscribed and can't wait for more of these comparison type reviews (if you did one with the epiphone junior vs the gibson junior I would be thrilled) Good job man!

[@airtimedesign]

Hello Paspa, Thank you and I'm glad you enjoyed my review. Please thank your friend for recommending it. I would like to do more side by side comparisons with similar models and that's in the works. Since I'm just starting I don't have manufactures sending me product to review, so it's a little harder to get my hands on the guitars I'd like to review. I am just finishing up on a review of my Squire CV Tele which I'll post soon. Hopefully I be able to do more side by side comparisons with the help from all the amazing people who have subscribed and posted to the channel. Thank you for taking the time to comment. I appreciate it!

[@patrickt4095]

One of the best comparison videos I've ever seen. Great job!

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Patrick! Please subscribe.

[@davidharding200]

Another great review. I bought the Epiphone and the build quality, fit and finish is outstanding. The sound is excellent. My only criticism is the colour is not quite what it could be. It may be true to tv yellow but it’s a little more brown- yellow than yellow. But beyond that it’s an absolutely brilliant guitar. And that’s before I factor in the price. The analogy I employ, slightly different from your ratio of 4:1 is I can (and have bought) 4 different Epiphones (LP, LP special. Firebird and SG for the price of a Gibson LP standard. That’s a no brainer for me.

[@airtimedesign]

Yeah it's a crazy good deal for the money! Thanks for the compliment and glad you're enjoying your 4 guitars! Happy New Year David!

[@andygogocomics]

This video just popped up in my algorithm. KZbin did something right! Excellent in depth review and comparison.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you for your compliment! This is my first KZbin review and I am amazed at the all the positive comments I have received! I plan on doing more so if you enjoyed it please pass it on and is you would like to subscribe I would really appreciate it!

[@airtimedesign]

Nevermind I see you already did subscribe! Thank you!

[@andygogocomics]

@@airtimedesign Hey no prob. You did a great job making me want one of these tv yellow bad girls. Great history, loved you're style! You sound just as good as anyone with 500k subs. Gonna share this to my brother and some friends sometime this year. 😄

[@airtimedesign]

@@andygogocomics Thanks for sharing the video!

[@brendanwalsh108]

I fairly recently bought the Epiphone and I like it. The quality of its finish was good overall although I did have to do some fret adjustment as a couple of them were sitting high and I like a low action. For the money though you really can't go wrong. I actually like the Epiphone logo as it reminds me of the Beatles.

[@tallisrocktube]

Yeah I found the epiphone guitar were not setup but that maybe the only difference between the two..in reality the guitar stores should be setting up all the guitars they sell.I had to bring my rather expensive Gretsch back to the store to have it adjusted.

[@stevebrusseau3301]

I picked up the Gibson les paul special in tv yellow today to add to my collection . And maybe I am a brand name snob but I feel good playing Gibsons and they do put a big fat smile on my face, I have had epiphones and sold every one but have kept all my Gibson guitars. I enjoyed your video.

[@leatherdardoretromovil6779]

Amazing job here! ,only 100% likes ,I watch it like 3 or 4 times ,thanks for the work and your time on this one

[@PaisleyPatchouli]

Are they both set necks?

[@marcospintor1333]

Yes

[@Chasescot993]

Fantastic review. As always, at the end of the day......... it’s night. You can have an excellent guitar or an excellent guitar.......

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you! and you are right! Where is the Chase band based?

[@thedaways]

Brilliant explanation of these two wonderful guitars. Let me add a plus one in praise of your narration. Edit didn't realize i'd watched this video watched it again and saw i'd commented so i deleted the comment I just made and subbed too.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you so much! I appreciate it!

[@ayeapprove]

3:06 only a true gibson smells like vanilla when it's in it's case. That's how you can actually tell it's a real one. Nitro doesn't smell like that on it's own.

[@gerryjamesedwards1227]

Nitro on its own smells more like pear-drops.

[@ryanfulldark2775]

That’s right! Mine is from 2012 and still has that sweet smell

[@danschepper6255]

That’s exactly what my buddies les Paul smelled like. I always wanted to smell it lol

[@jimmyparris9892]

Hmm, Well don't tell my Fender AVRI '52 Tele that.

[@bobaldo2339]

My cheap Martin acoustic smells like vanilla, and has for 5 years. I assume that is artificial.

[@teetoetay]

Awesome presentation, Brooks. Great detailed comparison.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Bobby! I appreciate you commenting ! And coming from one of the most talented people I know, that means a lot!

[@delagreenpicti2022]

The Epiphone looks sounds great for the money 💰 Strings weren’t spaced correctly on that one you demonstrated . I’ll hold out for the Gibson It’s where my heart is ♥️♠️😎

[@savage3960]

I bought the Epiphone , 17:20 no regrets . It was everything you said it was. I cant believe the quality of this guitar.

[@zippy61]

Stellar review sir! Very, very well done. I also believe in the placebo effect. If in someone’s mind they feel more personally connected to one or the other for even the slightest difference whether that is the finish, pickups or even the logo then that’s the one you should buy. With many stores offering payment plans most everyone can fit the Gibson into their budget if that is the one your heart wants. Now you should get a Custom shop Special and compare to yours. Without going to the trouble I think the result would be the same. “Maybe” 5% better but ya never know. Thanks again ..

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Green River Jones! I appreciate the kind words! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

[@gregperkins7723]

I watch guitar review videos all the time. My pet peeve; guys that use a "review" to show off their best licks. This is a FANTASTIC review!!!! You have set a higher bar man. Totally pro. Unfortunately I wanted you to say the epiphone was the best choice but hey! I can't have everything! Thanks!

[@tommurphy3188]

I had the Epi les Paul Junior and it sounded great, until I played the Gibson That being said the cost difference is painful

[@user-jb4um9tl8d]

I have both the Gibson & Epi models. Plain truth: the Epi (stock), bury's the Gibby. Period! I run it straight into a Marshall HW Plexi 100 head and 2 4/12 bottoms w/ 25W greenbacks. Leslie West is looking down with a big smile!

[@saransoon1304]

Great review! I agree that Gibson sounds a little better to my ears. But I don't think we can use Kia vs Porsche as a comparison. I don't think Kias have 95% performance of Porsches. I don't think we can find a product that is 95% performance/quality of the other at only 25% of the price. I think if you don't show the head stocks or close up finish, more people might think that Epiphone sounds better. The eyes might influence the ears in this case too. Thanks for a great review.

[@airtimedesign]

Hey Saran, yeah the Kia Porche comparison is a little further apart than the Epi and Gibson. I guess it depends on the model of the Kia and Porche! It's true the finish has a lot to do with the Gibson. If the Epi had the same finish I don't think Gibson would sell as many TV Yellow LPS. Thank you for the compliment! I appreciate it.

[@rooster4906]

Saran,yes True, because they are very similar guitars, ok of course there are differences, but today everything is solved with an amplifier and pedals, in the end there is only one thing left and that is really the right thing and that is a guitarist, are you a master or not, does anyone think that top guitarists would be bad if they played epiphons, no, no, of course not, does anyone think that at a concert of say rolling stones where 50,000 people realize the difference that Keith or Ronnie plays Epiphon or some other cheaper guitar, not of course not to, everything would be exactly the same, but these guys God give them health have some guitars very very long and just love them, and in the end they are the ones who decide what and how to play, these rock n roll legends have enough money yes I can, but it's not a problem if you're a beginner playing epiphone is top, of course you can buy a top gibson, but that does not mean you are a top or good guitarist, the ego is what everyone should suppress

[@dragoonphotography5847]

As someone who has owned both Epiphone and Gibson versions of the same model, I can say that they are not 95% similar. Maybe 25% if you get a really good example of an Epi. The Epiphone feels like a toy version of the Gibson. Yes, they are both guitars and of the same general shape, that’s where the similarity ends. A good comparison is a handmade wooden Louisville Slugger versus a plastic wiffle ball bat from the dollar store. Yes they are both bath but there’s a reason major league baseball doesn’t use plastic toy bats.

[@drippinglass]

The cars don’t look anything like each other. Having said that… I got the Gibson.

[@celestelongway7315]

Such a great Tv yellow LP comparison! Great job and thank you! Super well done!

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Celeste! Please subscribe!

[@danthedem]

I bought the Epiphone one, I cannot recommend it highly enough! For $400, it is a lot of guitar! It gives great tone at a reasonable price. Epiphone, like Gibson, have been making a great comeback since the new management/ownership (I also bought a Gibson Les Paul Std '50's in 2019, as well as an Epiphone Joe Bonamassa LP Custom "Black Beauty" this year). All 3 of the guitars I have bought from Gibson/Epiphone over the past two years, are amazing, and I don't regret buying a single one. Good luck with your guitar! I suspect it will provide that happiness and as well as the smiles you alluded to.

[@ibberman]

Now $450

[@danthedem]

@@ibberman still a steal. Although I’m selling/trading mine.

[@danthedem]

@@ibberman it’s a great guitar but the neck, for me, is a bit too big.

[@drippinglass]

Now $499. I got the Gibson discounted for $1500.

[@alanst.4417]

Now this is a great comparison! Made with attention to detail, your personal experiences and opinion that us potential buyers can benefit from. Congratulations on a job well done!

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Alan, I glad you enjoyed the video and yes it's a lot of work but I have had so many positive comments it's great! Please subscribe to see more of my reviews.

[@alanst.4417]

@@airtimedesign I will 😉

[@SRV2013]

The new Gibsons are worth it. They are solid and play well--almost as good as a Fender.

[@airtimedesign]

Hey Mark, thank you for the comment and I've got a review of the Fender Squire CV Tele I'm finishing up now. If you enjoyed it please subscribe Thanks!

[@michaelmcclelland2896]

😮

[@jonathanhudak2059]

Ha! Better than Fender! :-)

[@alexandergriggs9934]

Hahaha

[@davidwright9550]

On of the best videos I have seen like this Brooks. You covered it all so well, and so perfectly. Thanks for your time and knowledge. Now which one do I buy???? I am much like you with the "Gibson" name & guitar. I also have a few Epiphones and love them. This is a tough choice. 5% difference is tough! Porsche/Kia comp was perfect!

[@MrJimlen]

the epi is great however the Gibson wins, its more resonant, it has more of a midrange, and its more throaty, i do love the epi and have no problem spending 400 on it

[@jimistheman9732]

That Epi has a _serious_ string spacing problem with the G and upper-E. Look at the video at 10:30. I've see this often with Epi wraparound/lightning bolt tailpieces. I always replace with an intonatable bridge anyway (so it would not deter me buying the Epi), but it's an issue that should have been mentioned.

[@descendingforth]

For the price you can't beat the Epiphone. You almost couldn't tell them apart if it wasn't for the headstock or color. They are so similar in quality it's unbelievable.

[@BOTiTTE]

Amazing video. Did not expect this to be done so well!

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Botitte, I appreciate it ! Glad you enjoyed the review and please subscribe to see more of my reviews.

[@kobayashimaruaikiken]

The D and G strings spacing in the Epiphone seems weird.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you for your comment and I appreciate you watching the video! I did not notice anything awkward about the spacing on the Epiphone. But I did not measure it or get into that kind of detail. For me it's just about how it feels and plays and I thought the setup was pretty good right out of the box. I do think that it's always a good idea to have a guitar tech or luthier fine tune everything but on the Epiphone that might cost you more than the guitar!

[@mc495150]

You mean at 11:55?

[@carlbaumeister3439]

Good eye! Someone pointed it out at 10:24 & you can see the difference more clearly in that shot.

[@sharkey9]

That's just a bit slided on the tailpiece. It's perfectly fine at the nut.

[@jackwalker8829]

Kudos Brooks! This should be the blueprint for which all guitar comparisons adhere to.

[@robertbaker3126]

Buy the Epiphone and spend the rest of the money on a better amplifier

[@kalkidasofficial]

Get a Helix!

[@AuntAlnico4]

@@kalkidasofficial he said a better Amplifier, not a digital copy.

[@jonathanhandsmusic]

Yes RB, you're right. If all things being equal, the Epi is almost as nice as the Gibson,and for sure, the P90s are just fine, then the only thing left to do is get a good amp. I actually have one of these new Specials,I had to buy it after seeing so many good reviews. The only thing I didn't like was the lightening bar. I fixed it by getting a Tone Pros one piece bar bridge. Now the intonation is just about perfect... I am impressed by this guitar, and I'm not easily impressed anymore. Sure, if I had an extra $1500, I'd get the Gibson too. But I don't.

[@briano.5746]

Right on! 😁👍

[@Qacool]

YES

[@ryanfulldark2775]

Make more of these! Absolutely killer review

[@airtimedesign]

Thanks Ryan, I'm working on another review.

[@ryanfulldark2775]

@@airtimedesign Your have the right stuff to be a superstar. I especially love the lack of pretentiousness in your style. Many other reviewers eventually fall down that rabbit hole. Keep it up, I eagerly await the next!

[@airtimedesign]

@@ryanfulldark2775 I have no aspirations for being any kind of a star but you've made my day, thanks!

[@MrBighairyass]

I find this guy sounds like Rick Beato...

[@airtimedesign]

Wow! Thank you and I'm a big fan of Rick.

[@brin57]

I had to do a double check to make sure it wasn't Rick!

[@5ZeroNiner]

Came here to say the same thing! lol

[@UlissesMartins]

This is a very good review congratulations 👏🏼. I recently bought this Epiphone LP special and I'm very happy with the guitar is very resonant and sounds beautiful. The guitar is beautiful and amazingly very well built. I only had to file the frets edges because they were very badly finished from factory and the knobs were falling off but it was fixed with paper tape over the pots rod's. I love this guitar. I have two Gibson's LP ( 2018 Tribute and a Junior DC 2019) and this one are not inferior.

[@dougmorato]

You really give me that feeling of grabbing one of that Epiphone Les Paul Special. 😔 Such a great video! Thanks!!

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Douglas I appreciate that you took the time to leave a comment. All the best!

[@ampgent]

Really nice job on the video! Very professional. Subscribed!

[@airtimedesign]

Thanks Brian!

[@gpdude22]

10:24 Chibiphone string spacing on the left.

[@TheOdieD3]

That was a very clear comparison. You put some good work into this. Thanks!

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Oris! I'm glad you enjoyed it and appreciate you taking the time to comment. Please subscribe!

[@brandonburdick7820]

Gibson is definitely meatier, Epiphone sounds thinner.

[@michaelaiello9525]

Fantastic review! I definitely want the Gibby; what will I end up with? We’ll see..

[@gabrieltoneguitars9365]

I bought a Gibson and, it is the best guitar I ever owned. However the Epiphone arrives tomorrow... I ll let you know.

[@gabrieltoneguitars9365]

The Gibson was 10 times more than the Epiphone .However it was NOT 10 times better.. Maybe it was twice as good. The Gibson was a guitar for a pro player while the Epiphone would please any hobbyist

[@rrmb4739]

Any updates?

[@gabrieltoneguitars9365]

@@rrmb4739 Epiphone Still sucks really bad

[@jSIN99]

Late to the party/show but I just have to say, this was probably one if not the best comparison video I have seen. Top notich. It's just too bad that Im still undecided on which one to get!

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Jason, I appreciate the compliment. Please subscribe to see my other reviews!

[@michaelweiss9219]

I bought one of the Epiphones, for the 400 bucks I thought it was definetly worth the money although it felt kind of plastic with the heavy poly finish and the Indian laurel fingerboard felt like plastic. It sounded really good the pickups were great. I sold it on craigslist for what I paid, it just wasn't up to my usual standard being a Gibson player. Overall, worth the money.

[@dreamlifter2701]

Really great honest and unbiased evaluation. Well done!

[@arnolddealiii4259]

Congratulations on the Gibson Les Paul Special! It’s a great choice! I have been playing for 21 years and been down the entire spectrum of cheap and higher end guitars. Gibson have done a good job improving their quality over the last 3 years and Epiphone I used to cringe to the ideal of playing those stiff action guitars. I think Fender changed it all for everybody. In the 80’s Fender raised the bar (post cbs buy out) and made high quality guitar in Mexico, Japan, and America. Squire have consistently put out quality guitars since their induction. The success of Squire was killing Gibson/Epiphone. Gibson to me had no choice but to up their game. I now believe I would go for a Epiphone. In you’re amazing shootout I would have chose the Epiphone. From my standpoint I buy and sell often and guitars generally have a high turnover rate at my house. Ultimately I like cheap guitars I can mod and neither of these guitars sounded like a 50’s Junior. Both sounded good but I would have gutted these guitars and loaded up as nice set of pickups and a prewired harness from RS Guitarworks. It’s just what I do. I would have more in electronics than the Epiphone and I would be comfortable with that.

[@airtimedesign]

Thanks Arnold for the compliment! It's great that we have so many inexpensive options. I also have a review of the Squier CV Telecaster if you want to take a look. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZKVhouGqKhqbNk

[@arnolddealiii4259]

@@airtimedesign sure I’ll check it out! I just got a Squire CV 60’s Thinline I love it! I’ve got some lower back pain and I attributed it from playing 10 pound guitars! This ones only 5 pounds 10 ounces!

[@airtimedesign]

@@arnolddealiii4259 Nice! that's definitely easier on your back! So I guess you had a non-weight relieved Les Paul before this?

[@arnolddealiii4259]

@@airtimedesign I’ve had a Les Paul Classic that had the 7 holes under the maple cap that was about 9.5-10 pounds, Les Paul Studio plus top that weighted about 9 pounds, a DC Les Paul Special faded finish studio model, a Epiphone Les Paul Studio that was a boat anchor, a Les Paul Traditional Pro v1. The heaviest guitar I’ve owned was a Fender Baja Telecaster weighing in at 10 pounds 8 ounces! Sold it to buy the Squire, and couldn’t be happier! I won’t touch a guitar over 7 pounds anymore.

[@airtimedesign]

@@arnolddealiii4259 I sent back a MIM Telecaster that was also too heavy. I don't know the weight but it just didn't make any sense. I never thought a Telecaster could weigh that much!

[@thrumbolax2851]

Excellent review - fair, clear, precise and easy to understand - thank you.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you so much Thrum! Please subscribe!

[@bensteward8937]

I would rather buy 4 Epiphones. That special is about £400 and for the same price you could get 4 very different Epiphones. Some with p90s, some humbuckers. SGs, Les Pauls, hollowbodys. Maybe something with a trem system. So for 1 Gibson Les Paul Special you could get a nice, versatile collection of Epiphones which arent very far off the Gibson veriant

[@kerpoise]

This is exactly what I did. A Epi Les Paul TV Yellow Special, A Epi ES-339, and a Epi Inspired By Gibson Hummingbird. £1500 in total.

[@kerpoise]

I then put in some nicer handwound p90s, and it sounds as good as the Gibsons I've had before. Actually different, and a little better for how I play. £500 in total, including some Les Paul strings, and some Dunlop 75 picks that give such a rich vintage tone.

[@bushcry1]

@@kerpoise Great you could confirm it closer to a Gibson with a change of P90s set.

[@sixstringcity3931]

Did that. Kept the Epiphones. Still bought a Gibson and a Dangelico

[@drippinglass]

So you could have 4 guitars that aren’t the real thing… or one that is.

[@myotheraccount2]

That's an outstanding video 👍 They sound pretty much the same unplugged 😮

[@Q3ToPBuZz]

Gibsons only sound better when you stare at the headstock.

[@slowhandblues187]

Yeah. They also FEEL better. People forget what you are paying for: where it is made, wood selection, pickups and electronics. You can buy a less expensive guitar, do a lot of upgrades to make it sound better, but the FEEL in most instances will not be as good.

[@afarrar3]

wow, this was a heck of a review! Thanks for sharing your in-depth insights!

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it. Please check my other reviews on my channel and subscribe!

[@sneifert1968]

It's all in the set up. If you don't like the electronics in the Epiphone, upgrade. Still a better value IMO

[@modestoney1577]

Not really. Yes, electronics may be the most obvious difference, still wood selection, lacquer, etc. should not be underestimated.

[@iggyflop3777]

@@modestoney1577 wood selection ? It's a myth, a mahogany piece is just a mahogany piece with the same density! Put the same pickups on the both, and sound the same.

[@modestoney1577]

@@iggyflop3777 well, i have played enough guitars in my life to know that it is not a myth. Different acoustic peculiarities do translate to the amplified sound. Though some may argue that the impact is to small to make a difference to them, or they don´t notice it at all. I owned a lot of guitars and played identical models (same pickups, same hardware, same sort of wood) and yet there was a noticeable difference between some of them. Some pieces of wood can sound dead and hardly resonate, almost have an "dampening" effect. Of course that is something you are more prone to notice with a clean and "delicate" sound and way of playing and an amp that is able to project nuances. For a lot (most?) styles and occasions those differences won´t be noticed, as an extreme example: if you play in loud band through a distorted amp it most probably won´t play a role.

[@Roosterscoope]

Only a Gibson is good enough

[@iggyflop3777]

@@modestoney1577 how lucky, you were able to compare the resonance of guitars that have the same necks, the same bodies, the same pickups, the same pickup heights, the same bridges, the same strings with the same age, the same electronics, the same lacq, and of course the guitars have all the same age. A mahogany has the same structure as another mahogany and nothing can resist vibrations. Some pieces of wood take longer than others to reach their vibratory performance.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Excellent comparison. Concise, educational, to the point. Excellent job. 👍

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Paul! Please subscribe!

[@user-zd8vg1nl5g]

Aesthetically they’re the same, but those Gibson p90’s.. wow

[@matthewwatts87]

The poly is much different to the nitro also. Poly - no grain, nitro - grain

[@pttrent123]

Great review, considering both of these, thanks!

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you Peter, Please subscribe to see more of my reviews!

[@SapsuckerFan1]

Amazing how marketing shapes our perceptions.

[@mikeyohe4750]

Very good and thorough review! Thanks. 👍👍

[@neyshil2895]

"which one do I buy?" As if one doesn't cost 1200 bucks more than the other lmao

[@jackhobson-dupont6975]

Wow, what a great review. Really smart, well thought-out. You covered all the bases. Nice job.

[@airtimedesign]

Thanks Jack Hobson-Dupont! I appreciate the compliment, Please subscribe!

[@iggyflop3777]

"epiphone upgrade the quality in 2019" false, the quality was already there long before 2019. See the epiphone les paul 1960 tribute plus. You are just reading an article !!

[@airtimedesign]

You are right that Epiphone has had excellent quality for some time. The change in the headstock and the new "Inspried By Gibson" series was what I was trying to point out. Thank you for your comment!

[@airtimedesign]

@@creamwobbly For sure the neck profiles are very close now. I did not put a gauge on it but if I was blindfolded I could not tell the difference.

[@iggyflop3777]

I have a epiphone les paul 1960 tribute plus, stock with : groover locking tuners, long neck tenon, gibson classic 57 and 57+ pickups, carved hard maple top, mallory capacitor, pot CTS, push pull pickups serie and parallel, no body chamber, fretboard perfect, lutherie perfect. Is there a Gibson with all of its features? If yes, what's the price ?

[@tylerangle1990]

My Custom Shop R8 didn't come with a strap and yet this standard model does?

[@airtimedesign]

Yes and actually it's a pretty nice strap!

[@mortwally3510]

I think I’ll buy a telecaster🎸🎼

[@kennyblackbird5674]

The frets are the major flaws on some Epiphone guitars. My finger tips get sore playing on some Epiphone guitars whereas it's a pleasure to play on Gibson guitars. I absolutely love my 2021 Epiphone Lucille guitar! I give a 6 out of 10 as far as the frets are

[@RobertToth1217]

Guitars are like Jewelry. Sure, I could spend $400 on an Epi and it functions all the same, but I paid for the Gibson because its the real deal. Not only is it nicer, but it has the wow factor. I can impress my friends and family. "Oh, its a real Gibson!" instead of "Oh, its the Epiphone knockoff". Is it logical? Not really, but if I have the money, I'd get the Gibson every time.

[@airtimedesign]

Hi Robert thank you for the comment. Coming from a guy who bought the Gibson I have to agree although IMHO the Epiphone is no slouch. It's really close and had the finish been the same or the sound a little closer I would have gone home with the Epi.

[@jeremywooldridge5537]

Lol at the I can impress my friends and family. People concerned about that usually lack in the actual playing department and buy trophy guitars to keep around to impress people. I own Gibsons and Epiphones and never once did "oh this will impress people" pop into my head. Go buy another really nice watch to go with your really nice guitar you probably can't play.

[@RobertToth1217]

@@jeremywooldridge5537 Haha relax dude, its not worth getting so angry over. If you want to share some of your work, I can share mine and we can see who plays better. At minimum I think you'd find I know my way around the neck. But seriously, chill.

[@timmotel5804]

9/2023: Excellent Review. I bought a new Fender Ultra HSS Stratocaster last year. I've been a drummer since 1964 when I was 12 years old and a bit of a guitar player. I do love "Nice Toys". I also bought a Fender Twin Reverb TM and later a Fender 65' Super Reverb RI. I've wanted a Super Reverb many years now. This is my 3rd Strat and I love it. However, I really like and want the Gibson, as I don't own one and haven't yet. Thank you, because I was trying to convince myself to buy the Epiphone, but, I will soon buy the Gibson. I just have to figure out how to do this without my wife killing me in my sleep. Best Regards

[@Baghdadbatterymusic]

The Gibson sounds quite a bit better both acoustically and plugged into an amp. Sure, you could buy 4 Epiphones for that price, but a Gibson won't lose 40%+ of it's value after a few years. In terms of longevity, I think the higher build quality and better components will outlast the Epiphone. I, and many others, have had epiphones where the frets have worn quickly. Definitely an important factor in making a decision, since a fret job will cost about as much as the whole Epiphone guitar. Not a dig on the Epi at all, for the price it's very hard to beat. But those who swap guitars often as well as those who intend to play the crap out of it for many years would probably be better off with a Gibson. I imagine a 20 year old gibson played 2 hours a day will feel considerably better than a 20 year old epiphone played the same amount of time. I suppose time will tell since Epi has stepped their game up lately. I know for sure that as a short term purchase that I'd plan to flip after a few years, as well as something I plan to use for life, I'd feel alot better getting the Gibson

[@Rafael-zl4vu]

fret work will cost the price of one epi? look, it's hard to believe, it´s a super normal thing that you need to do every year in your guitar. if the place you usually do that is that price, you should buy the tools and do it for yourself but i think you can find places waaay less expensives .

[@Baghdadbatterymusic]

@@Rafael-zl4vu You're right. I was thinking more along the lines of it costing as much as a used Epiphone, $200-300 for a full, well done, fret job

[@Rafael-zl4vu]

@@Baghdadbatterymusic that's still very expensive, I just picked my guitar with the luthier for a fret job and it costed to me less than 50$ you should do it yourself

[@Baghdadbatterymusic]

@@Rafael-zl4vu A full refret for $50? damn who is your luthier!?

[@Rafael-zl4vu]

@@Baghdadbatterymusic fret job! Not a refret. You don't need to do a refret jut because it's sharp ou anything like that.

[@nuthinfancy78]

Great review and comparison. I’m going with the Epiphone. I want a tube amp also and don’t want to refi the house to buy a guitar and amp! They are both beautiful, great sounding guitars!

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you BoccaRocka! Please subscribe!

[@erickallan78]

Naaaaah, Gibson Schmibson!!!! EPIPHONE ANY DAY OF THE WEEK!!!!!

[@See_Sharp]

Great review! I think I would be happy with the Yamaha Revstar, I'm in Asia anyways.

[@airtimedesign]

Thank you See Sharp! I appreciate the compliment. Please subscribe for more reviews.

[@imCurveee]

Would I be alone in saying the Epiphone sounded better?

[@airtimedesign]

Sound is so subjective and finding the right sound is personal. Also if the Epi was setup and the pickups were adjusted I'm sure that would have changed the sound a bit. All up to you which one is better sounding!

[@michaelyolch79]

GREAT video! I agreed with everything up until the "5% difference." There is nothing "wrong" with the Epiphone. I own a couple that I love! (339 and 335) But people need to seriously understand that the Gibson is substantially better in every single way from top to bottom: Wood selection, electronics/switches/pups/fit/finish/fret work/manufacturing time, etc. And above all, a real American Gibson has majorly skilled Gibson craftspeople spending serious amounts of time building each guitar by hand...far more time than their overseas counterparts, at least. If you want a guitar that sounds and plays pretty decent without breaking the bank, get an Epiphone. Great! Rock on! For a LIFETIME, legendary, iconic, instrument that sounds and plays exactly as it should that is handmade by serious craftsmen with all premium parts, buy the Gibson. It's very much like playing a Mexican Telecaster then playing the American Professional. Not even close. Every single thing considered, I'd say the Gibson is more like 30-40% better than an Epiphone in most cases.

[@alanhembra2565]

Always try Epiphone before you buy Gibson.

[@Rich_the_Pack]

Thanks a lot for these comparisons 👍🏻

[@airtimedesign]

My pleasure Rich and thank you for commenting. If you haven't already please subscribe!