Guitar-View.com Gibson ES-335 vs. Epiphone Sheraton II

[@TravDag]

They blew the lighting budget when they bought the Gibson.

[@sammoon6046]

hahaha this is gold

[@bbosla]

Oh yeah.. Epi bought Gb actually.. GB is way too expensive for it's quality

[@SlimDavenport]

Brilliant comment.

[@arthurc1971]

😂

[@blueberryfieldsss]

hahahah this is priceless

[@spoonido]

Paid $250 for my 1987 Sheraton in 2012. It's paid for itself many, many times over. The Gibson would have taken a lot longer to just break even. Wonderful guitar, the Sheraton. Possibly my favorite electric guitar ever.

[@fredcastellano7089]

i own a '97 Korean made Epi Sheraton and it's a killer guitar.

[@goldenape1373]

Fred Castellano I literally just ordered mine yesterday from reverb. ‘97 left handed. I can’t wait.

[@skinnykarlos710]

Fred Castellano Yeah, I've got one from the '90's and it's just as you say "killer". Fantastic neck, beautiful binding and finish and a sound that just has me wanting to play that guitar whenever I want humbuckers. It's the one I go for before the les Paul or the SG. Those Koreans and Japanese make great instruments.

[@thejazzman4260]

Me as well 2002 also Korea. Superguitar. Buying a Gibson instead is just for the brandname on the headstock!!

[@guitymon]

I appreciate the video, but as a viewing (and owner of a Sheraton), it would be much more practical to hear each tone setting played back-to-back, 335 then Sheraton, rather than an entire sequence of settings played back-to-back. Much easier to hear the difference between each tone setting.

[@glenrappold5393]

Completely agree!

[@thejazzman4260]

I had the oppurtunaty to test them both for a long time. To speak with Tommy Emmanuel: it is not the guitar. It is YOU.

[@lordundhimself1310]

Indeed

[@carpballet]

Ya. What in the world was the dude thinking. Unbelievable.

[@fouramhq]

The difference in sound is inconsequential. There are so many variables to consider. The amp. The pick. The hand. The finger pressure on the strings. The minor variances are only heard by the players. The audience is there for the music...not the specs. Nobody comes to the show with an oscilloscope. If it makes good music...if the music affects the audience.....if it stirs emotion...then it works.

[@jameshalbrook34]

fouramhq You may have just blown my mind. I never thought of it like that before

[@sammoon6046]

+fouramhq very poetic i like

[@bencousins4687]

+fouramhq Hey I always take an oscilloscope to gigs

[@fouramhq]

Ben Cousins Haha!! Me too, and sometimes I drag the gas chromatograph along too...just to cover all the bases!! You can't beat a good sine wave!!

[@trazomimozart]

fouramhq Totally true! Remember Noel Gallagher playing a Sheraton in Knebworth in front of 250k people? Bíblical gig, awesome sound and nobody ever said "Meh... But the man plays Epis". Defend yourself with what you get!

[@jmsbk12345]

Yeah absolutely, the Sheraton wins outright, magnificent guitar.

[@hammondsphoto]

90% of it is the romance of the Gibson brand. I've had both Sheraton and a 335 Custom. The latter did sound (moderately) better with better pickups and a more open resonance sound (which I assumed to be the woods) but with SD Seth Lovers, Tone pros bridge and top quality wiring the Sheraton sounded even better than the Gibson. And I'd sooner gig a £250 used Sheraton in pubs and dive bars than have some £2000 axe go missing - indeed, my Gibson 335 became 'under the bed' fodder, which is why I moved it on.

[@gutbucket260]

Hell, I'd rather save my money on either and hang out in pubs and dive bars. Beer me, and carry on amongst yourselves.

[@enlightenedchristian3183]

@@gutbucket260 Hear 👂

[@bendiksen50]

Two great guitars! The Gibson ES 335 looks great and has a wonderful sound. However it's amazing to hear the similarity between the Epi and the Gibson. I have a Sheraton myself, and it's an instrument of high quality. The neck is first class. If I had a lot of money I would go for the Gibson. Until then I'm satisfied with the Sheraton.

[@warrendemartini6533]

Send the Gibson back so u can pay your light bill...lol

[@quinker6569]

Have owned 4 Gibbo 335s including a custom shop 1959, finally got a 1995 Sheraton and knew I was home, it's all about the particular instrument that we know we will find...one day. :)

[@FLIGHTCOMPANY]

I just don't hear the $1,500 price difference...

[@JerAtoZ]

Mark Batarina

[@HannibalsSoul]

Mark Batarina, the Epiphone one has a little more bass sound.

[@emanuelirarrazabalgonzalez7070]

Hannibal BlackSoul has a little muddy sound

[@HannibalsSoul]

For my it's a bass sound, i have the Epiphone, and sounds beautiful to me *-*

[@johndillard7625]

Mark Batarina If you can't hear a difference, then why pay the difference?

[@divineflashes]

Love the jazz tones. I've been looking for a video that demonstrates the versatility of both instruments and this one definitely wins!

[@brianburridge6109]

To Tioga Fretworks: Apparently you are value and collector based. This video I believe is meant for those of us that still believe that a a great guitar is based on its sound not its future value. Please continue to buy all the name brand stuff you want in hopes to make money later while the rest of us invest in quality sound and enjoy making music.

[@honeydutch7776]

I just got a Sheraton II and am very happy with it. I understand what people mean when they say "It's not a Gibson"... but unless you're on tour and pumping out records heard by millions (or super rich), it's hard to justify a huge purchase when the Sheraton is such a good guitar.

[@FreshBagelz]

I got my Sheraton II used a couple months ago at guitar center for $400. Checked the serial number and it is made in Korea! It plays amazingly, probably better than the newer chinese ones, and I got it half the price!

[@Rickholly74]

I am never swayed by the "my guitar will be worth so much more in 10 years" argument because I don't you buy guitars as an investment, I buy them to take out and play them. Both of these guitars sound great. If you want to invest there are better options but if financial considerations are in play here, paying four to five times more for the same look, feel and sound makes no sense. You can go out and buy one Gibson ES-335 for a $3,000.00 or put $2500.00 in a 401K and buy a $500.00 Epiphone ES-335 or Sheraton. In 10 years I'll bet the 401K is worth more than the Gibson and you'll still own a nice Epiphone guitar. If you took option one and bought the Gibson ES-335 in 10 years you'd have to sell it to get the money you "invested". You have less money and no guitar. I still have my 1973 Gibson Les Paul because it's a great guitar not because it's become more valuable than when I bought it in 1975. I keep it because it sounds good but my 2013 Epiphone Les Paul 1960 Tribute sounds equally great. The Epiphone Les Paul 1960 Tribute guitars have all real Gibson hardware (Grover locking tuners, real Gibson 57 classic pups, Switchcraft switch, Mallory tone caps and CTS pots) with a full maple cap and solid mahogany body. If money is no object great, buy a Gibson they are excellent guitars. In my opinion the smart money is an Epiphone but to each his own.

[@quinxx12]

Obviously a lot of spent money gives many people a good feeling, like the instrument is only a jewel if they also summoned quite a bit in the instrument. I guess, it also gives them a feeling of being eminent.. However it's only a headthing. But if it helps them to play better, why not ;) I just play for like 2 years now and I started with a cheap Ibanez and getting better works fine with it. If you play guitar for a living I can understand such a big investement but there are so many noobs out there where an expensive guitar is such a waste. If the quality of the instrument doesn't fit the skill of the player, so that the potential not even can be used, there is something wrong.

[@compulsor5853]

quinxx12 agreed

[@timthomas9785]

I think less than 1% of any guitar goes up in price or even holds it original price , at least that is what i see when i search used guitars or any instrument for that matter.

[@vanillacreem816]

Rickholly74- Amen bro, best post on this video- I agree 100%. Sheraton is a beautiful sounding guitar. you can have just as much playing enjoyment with that Sheraton and save that 3k you would have spent on a Gibson.

[@agilebenton5763]

Love my Sheraton II. It's a great guitar by any and every measure. Mine is a 2009 MIK model. I love the 335's a ton, but not the price. :)

[@Swordfish848]

Great guitar playing. I think the Gibson sounds better, but not being able to afford a Gibson, I'll stick with my Epi ES 335 pro. I have a few expensive guitars and there's isn't enough difference in sound to me to justify paying the extra $2400. Even when I've added expensive pickups there isn't that much improvement in tone. It's easier to tell tonal difference in acoustic guitars. But electrics are just laminated woods with microphones and once the volume is turned slightly past the threshold level, you can't differentiate tone anyway. It's a poor carpenter who blames his tools. If you find something that's easy to play and stays in tune, that's good enough. Thanks for an interesting demo.

[@fredcastellano7089]

just replaced all the caps, pots, and selector switch in my '97 Sheraton. installed a pair of Stew-Mac Parson Street Alnico II pickups. Man, does she spound sweet!!!

[@taikoking1]

Very good comparison. One of the best on Youtue. Well done. Nice playing as well.

[@MitellProductions]

both of these guitars deserve a couple more stops of light! I find it hard to believe anyone would put out a product video this underexposed.

[@harringtonbenton334]

It's actually very smart as you can watch the video but not immediately tell which guitar is being played.

[@mgourmet]

I own a Sheraton and love it. It's very possible that an accomplished, professional musician would be able to discern meaningful differences between the two models. However, in the hands of an amateur like myself, the Sheraton is everything you'd want - and more. Exceptional tone, exquisite fit and finish. For $599 new, and $400 - $500 (I paid $425 three years ago) for a used one in very good condition, the Sheraton seems like a no-brainer to me.

[@mrj335]

Recently I owned a Larry Carlton 335 costing $2500. A real beauty. Having said that I wasnt in love with the neck profile, felt it had a heavy feel. However recently I bought an Epiphone Sheriton II and I cant see $2000 in the difference!!!! It does exactly what I want. Warm tones and slightly over driven tone from the bridge pickup. The neck is perfect and resembles a Gibson 175 that I had. So the Epiphone is a keeper.

[@darylwinn2702]

I've had a 335 and I now have a Gibson BB King Lucille and also a Epiphone Sheraton. IMO the Sheraton sounds and plays every bit as good as the Gibsons plus its a heck of a lot cheaper. I also have 2 Epiphone Les Pauls and I will say the same for them. A guitar doesn't have to say Gibson on the headstock to be a good instrument.

[@benallmark9671]

Exactly, and it’s nice to hear too. I was just say to someone that in 100 years from now the Epiphone’s will be on par with Gibson in the eye of the beholder.

[@rjarcusa]

I've been on the fence about changing the pickups on my Sheraton II to Gibson Burst buckers. But, I love the tonal quality of the Alnico II pickups. They're just not as hot as the Burstbuckers. Technically, I could just turn my amp up and be done with it. Then, turn back down for my Gibson guitars.

[@JDHolland420]

I have a 20 yr old Sheraton II that sounds amazing, probably b/c right after buying it I put in SD pickups - a pearly gates on the bridge and a SH2 on the neck. The guy who set it up and did the work said he played it for hours after finishing the job because it was so damn good! He's a jazz player who'd been playing Gibson for years and had never given the Sheraton much thought. So, if you like the look/feel of the Sheraton but are concerned about quailty of sound just do what I did and you still save at least $1500 :)

[@Rikitocker]

I did this a few years back between the Gibson and Epiphone and like others, the law of diminishing returns told me to buy the Sheraton II ... which I did and still have ... great guitar. The main difference was simply hardware and harness, the Epi is a great guitar.

[@chuckhubb]

To quote the great Lightnin Hopkins "The Sheraton went and out did the 335". Good enough for me!

[@tylergavin4757]

+Charles Hubbard That was back when Epiphone guitars were made in the Gibson factory by Gibson employees lol.

[@randysnewbiebluesrockguita7782]

I am getting ready to order a Sheraton 2 pro. I am getting the wine red ( my stable is almost all black and I need a change). I have played both the 335 and the Sheraton and for the price difference there is no question which guitar a person on a moderate income should choose. Of course the Gibson may have a better pitch range in the tests I have seen, but these differences are just about unnoticeable even to the trained ear, and for around a grand or more in price difference for the Gibson I am going with the Epiphone. I currently have two other Epiphones, an LP custom Pro and an ej335 acoustic electric. Both of these guitars are top notch guitars and sound great so I am looking forward to getting the Sheraton from American Music.

[@Kapybaraaa]

Randy Tyson is it reliable to buy new guitars online and if so what sites have good reputation?

[@randysnewbiebluesrockguita7782]

I have bought several guitars from American Music supply online and have never had a problem with any of them. Quite a few other guitar players I know have also used American, and have all been happy with their site and the fact that they have free shipping to most places in the U.S. . The guitars are all set up nicely and are always in perfect shape when I have received them. They also have discounts on scratch and dent guitars that are usually not scratched or dented in any way that you can see or tell. There is also a site called Sweet water that sells the same inventory as American and I have heard good things about them too. I hope this helped.

[@prwpt]

Had a friend who played in my garage band in the 60s who had a Gibson ES-335 with a trapeze tailpiece. That guitar was wonderful. In the late sixties he traded it for a Les Paul, and was so disappointed that a screw came loose in his brain, his life spun out of control, and to this day he sits in dark basement corners stammering and sighing. Lesson: Beware of trading great guitars. You'll end up harrowed by banshees!

[@randysnewbiebluesrockguita7782]

I got my Sheraton 2 pro and it is like a dream to play!! I recommend this guitar to any player who wants a nice guitar that won't break the bank.

[@Okokokiokokoki]

im getting an epiphone sheraton II, i just love the way it looks

[@mlmr11]

I can't get passionate about a debate between two brands owned by the same corporation.

[@docpearson]

Question please. On the Sheraton II were you using the beautiful sounding Alnico “Classic Humbuckers” the Koreans use to put in or the harsher sounding burstbuckers the Chinese are now putting in?

[@sethalewis6]

At 2 different points in the video I closed my eyes and I could not tell when he switched guitars. I'm no guitar tone expert and I haven't been playing for 20+ years, but these guitars sound very similar. They are not EXACTLY the same, but very close.

[@russjalichandra5491]

Gibson is of course a better guitar. But you won't be a better player by just using a Gibson. And if you think you can sound better using a Gibson, that's just in your head.

[@bpverdia]

that is the truth

[@sworgan1]

is it how can you tell? I've been to the factory nothing special there

[@lorenvguitar614]

Gibson I don't really feel is worth the price tag. No one ever came up to me after a show and said wow that was great, it would have been amazing on a Gibson. The specs are pretty much the same.

[@quantametric]

Gibson get a big meh from me. Never played one that was deserved more than a 'meh'

[@Shred_The_Weapon]

One of the things which I tried conveying to a fellow guitarist in the late 2000 is how a punk might be able to afford the best equipment, but a true musician will work with what he/she’s got. In this context, a punk might have a 335, but a real musician will settle on a Sheraton if that is all he/she can afford.

[@SimonBrereton1]

When the guy is doing the comparison solo with the backing track you can hear how much thinner the sound is on the Epiphone, and much clearer/less distorted on the Gibson. I also hear a weird, unpleasing attack sound right after he plays some notes on the Epiphone.

[@benperry490]

I think it's the pick ups on the epi are not the same quality as the 335 that can be easily fixed with $250 and you save about $2500 off the Gibson's price

[@mrj335]

You have good hearing!

[@mrj335]

@潘卓Pan_Cho Entertaining reply funny. You may be right. However when I read his appraisel I said to myself g this guy has keen hearing!! Which is possible but guys with this quality of hearing are far and few between. I had a 335 which I wasn't using so I decided to sell for €1750 and I bought a MIK Epiphone Sheraton ii and it is equally as good. However love the comments.

[@davekana8388]

Nice, thanks for the Sheraton vs. ES335! How would an Epi Dot do I wonder?

[@compulsor5853]

Regarding Epi Dot: very nice value, but I just traded it in after playing a Sheraton once; the difference is that obvious, that fast. Instantly feel the quality, the neck is far superior. Build quality, balance of the instrument, tangible difference in tolerances, finishes, hardware, pickups; it's worth the extra $$$. You can find clean used Sheratons, with case, often 'vintage' Korean builds, for similar to msrp of a brand new Dot, with no case. I own several Fenders, Gibsons etc., so I don't consider myself biased to a brand or line; if it's good it's good. Finally: step up from Dot to Sheraton: well worth it, but from Sheraton to Gibson ES, not unless you're genuinely a pro player, gigging 3/4 of the year. Rest of the 335 buyers: either money's no object, they're a collector, or its purely a vanity purchase. No bedroom player can legitimately justify spending several thousand dollars to listen thorough headphones on Garage band.

[@compulsor5853]

Regarding Epi Dot: very nice value, but I just traded it in after playing a Sheraton once; the difference is that obvious, that fast. Instantly feel the quality, the neck is far superior. Build quality, balance of the instrument, tangible difference in tolerances, finishes, hardware, pickups; it's worth the extra $$$. You can find clean used Sheratons, with case, often 'vintage' Korean builds, for similar to msrp of a brand new Dot, with no case. I own several Fenders, Gibsons etc., so I don't consider myself biased to a brand or line; if it's good it's good. Finally: step up from Dot to Sheraton: well worth it, but from Sheraton to Gibson ES, not unless you're genuinely a pro player, gigging 3/4 of the year. Rest of the 335 buyers: either money's no object, they're a collector, or its purely a vanity purchase. No bedroom player can legitimately justify spending several thousand dollars to listen thorough headphones on Garage band.

[@davekana8388]

Thanks, How about an Epi Emperor? I think I have in mind a Korean version of one of these, Dave

[@magooinlalouisian]

@@davekana8388 I bought am Chicago Blue Emperor Swingster a couple of years ago. Very nice. I was give a ' 64 Gibson Johnny Smith by a family member last year. Ole Johnny (cost $1000 new in '64) kicks the Emperors ass but it should. Not fair comparing Kalamazoo built to Indonesia built. Just saying I have a friend that is a Grammy nominated and Grammy winning guitarist and songwriter that bought a "Blak & Blu" Casino after playing one of his students guitar.

[@vincesun3463]

Theres folks who would like the Dot ! The Sheraton is a decked out Dot with a maple/ walnut neck instead of mahogany. The coil tap gives a lot of choice, and makes it a guitar that can play anywhere.Dollar for dollar, pound for pound id take the Sheraton !

[@harringtonbenton334]

Stupid comment. I own both. A Sheraton is not just a "decked out dot". But maybe to a dummy it is?

[@michaelgregory1373]

Very helpful comparison - thanks! If you ever get the time and energy, I would love to hear another in which the tone control is up a lot higher through the jazz parts, and the solo parts are edited together so the same settings between guitars come back-to-back. This demo is very helpful tho. I can really hear the difference even with the extreme tone setting. The Epi sounds clearer, smaller, more focused - overall better for jazz - and I get the impression that it speaks faster. Does it feel that way playing it? Do you attribute that to the neck material and construction? Do they have identical electronics?

[@gregoryrea7071]

It sounded like the epi's volume or tone wasn't all the way up

[@Holonomics]

I have a Black Sheraton II and absolutely love it. I am not particularly good so I could never manage to play to a point where there would be a difference between the two. I also use overdrive and wah so I guess at that point maybe you can be like Oasis and just stick with the Epiphone. This is a really interesting comparison though.

[@Philtration]

This is one of the most depressing guitar videos ever made.

[@andybroadhead38]

Totally agree with you. It's like the dude who's playing lost his inner musician somewhere along the line (maybe it died!) and replaced it with the guitar obsessed tone-nerd who just repeatedly strums the same jazz chords on dozens of different guitars...just to check the sound differences! There's no feeling in this video and I think the lack of light reflects that. Depressing!

[@TheBlackzat]

Unfortunately, I agree. Dark, somber and cold

[@brianmobley1720]

The Sheraton hands down! and this is why Gibson is going broke!

[@ricardostube]

this is what all gear comparison videos should be like!

[@blueslsd]

Really good demo, thank you. Not enough difference I can hear to warrant the extra cash, but it will go up in value, but then I buy guitars to play, so will be the EPI for me. Many thanks

[@joe44850]

A really good comparison video, though why the heck is it so dark? Was that deliberate?? Anyway, compare 1:30 (Gibson) to 2:40, the differences are barely perceptible, but you will hear a little more tone out of the Gibson, especially on the lower strings. I would rate the Gibson 4 stars, the Eppy 3.5.

[@Neil-Aspinall]

Some smooth sounds going on down here. Last bit reminded me of the Dirty Harry sound track.

[@spoonido]

Last year I bought a beautiful 1987 Sheraton for $250. No way I'm letting that baby go.

[@TheMightyGreenEagle]

Kind of late, but here is my advice: Try to find a Sheraton from the early nineties, made by Samick, a very fine Korean manufacturer. You can tell a Samick guitar because the serial number starts with an S. Then change out the pickups and wiring for something better, like Seymour Duncan '59's. This will give you a really nice guitar for about $700. Not as good as an ES335, but a very good instrument for the price.

[@TheMightyGreenEagle]

I have a '93 Samick Sheraton, with Seymour Duncan '59 pickups and upgraded wiring. It cost me about $700 total, and is a great guitar. I take it with me on the road (I'm in the film production business) and play it with pleasure. On the other hand, I also have a '60's ES335. In real life the ES is a magic guitar. Through the cheapest amp, its tone stuns people, and it just plays great. Don't think these two guitars are comparable until you have played them both and heard the truth.

[@orlandoCF1]

It's a matter of personal opinion. I love Gibson ES 335's but the Sheraton is a great guitar and is even a more consistent buy as far as quality is concerned. I would personally buy the Sheraton. Would be nice to own a 335 but if the Epi sounds better to my ears and plays better thats what I would choose.

[@JWCFB]

Play that thing man. It won't break!

[@nightliferboy]

The sound is awesome.In wich genere would place the jazzy part?If it is jazz what kind of jazz is it?I like very much that genere and i would like to learn it.

[@sega62s]

pick ups are the original ones in the Epiphone? Usually changing em will give you more gain, more frequencies more harmonics More tone ine two words

[@will30x]

Both beautiful, just differents

[@karltopdollar]

I prefer my 97' Tobacco Sheraton to a modern Gibson 335 It has a slightly wider fretboard beautiful inlays and nice rosewood, I have grown accustom to the Epi Pickups I would only do a swap because of monetary value

[@lilvfr400boy]

The epiphone sounded great to be honest, I know it lacks that little bit the Gibson has though as does every side my side between the two brands but I'd still buy the Sheraton over the gibbo in this comparison any day

[@ChuckNorrisCutsMyLaw]

I've made that mistake too, and judging how low the resale value is on Epiphones I'm sure a lot of other people have also made the same mistake, I can't even get any interest for a mint Epiphone Les Paul with a case for $250 on Craig's List, and guitar shops aren't interested in them because they can't unload the ones they already have

[@lincland3867]

Snake Plissken No one wants the Les Pauls compared to the semi-hollow bodies. They LPs are good guitars, maybe they just made too many of them.

[@josvandegruiter5686]

Seeing this video, it's hard to tell the difference. But I own a Sheraton II and a Gibson ES335 and the difference is huge. The Gibson is really much better. Maybe I'm just lucky that the lutier had a great day making my guitar.

[@Mistergibsonsg1]

In IMHO. With Gibson like all companies, it's hit or miss. Back in the day, there was a customer satisfaction that companies used to strive for. Quality was paramount. Nowadays, mass production has taking over. I got lucky with my 04 gibson sg standard. I was made on a Wednesday not on a friday or monday.LOL> It stays in perfect tune.And it bends like butter. That's what I was paying for.

[@chasehicks5097]

Something about the Epi stood out a little. I guess the tone differentiated more than in the Gibson. Although an Epi will "never live up" to Gibson guitars. -.- I don't care what anyone says, I'd chose the Epi in this scenario. The only thing I don't like about the Sheraton is that the head is so large.

[@bobm1915]

I would have liked some sort of supportive description. Aside from that the guitars sound similar. As you would expect. I currently have a Gibson es335. The build quality is really good. Gibson QC has been questioned for several years but my experience is that the current production is solid. Big knock on the 335 is the cost. But take a look at the second hand marked. They hold value unlike just about anything else. Epi guitars are a great value. If you are not a full time 335 guy they can scratch that itch.

[@darylw4600]

Why don't you turn the lights out so we can see the guitars better?

[@paullarnce2167]

There is a big difference. Thank you very much.

[@monkymonk6]

I too have a Korean made Epiphone Sheraton with Gibson 57's in it, and it sounds awesome. Am not going to get on the comparison thing with this, but I like my Epi a great deal and will keep it in my collection.

[@TheMightyGreenEagle]

I'm not sure I agree. I also own a '93 Samick Sheraton, with Seymour Duncan '59 pickups and totally upgraded wiring, which I think is a great guitar for the money. But I also have a '60's ES335, and that guitar is magic. Plugged into the crummiest amp, it blows people away with its tone, and it is just a treat to play. I doubt that very many people are listening to this video through studio monitors, but I have to tell you, in real life, the ES is just a magic guitar.

[@TTBlueMetal]

I just played an Epi 335 Sheraton II, and right after a Gibson ES335 with the non lacquered body and neck. The Epi was surprisingly nice, very nice. Natural wood lacquered finish. And it had very nice Groover tuners, which the Gibson did not. The Gibson had updated Klusons that a much better than I remember them to be from years ago. The Gibson sounded better, and played a tad smoother. The sound was more present Still the Epi was VERY nice.

[@philipbrister]

My advice is buy the epiphone and some lollar pickups and a wiring kit. Take it to a shop to have the pickups installed and a set up performed. You'll end up with a better looking and better sounding guitar.

[@juanfarnito]

Philip Brister I currently use my 1992 sheraton in that way (with lollar pick ups and other tings) after that i never needed a gibson s - 335. .... My sheraton it's amazing by the way .. in my own opinion i recomend a 100% a 90's sheraton .. I do not know how a current sheraton sounds at live .. but the video is realy explicit about the sound so i can imagine anything similar as my guitar

[@hammondsphoto]

+Michel van Essen Does it? Mine had the usual Epiphone muddy-sounding humbuckers.

[@hammondsphoto]

+Philip Brister Epi pickups always sound muddy to me and any good aftermarket ones really bring the instruments to life. But equally important I think is a Tonepros or other good upgrade bridge - really makes them sing and sustain.

[@hammondsphoto]

+Michel van Essen Yes, there may well have been the odd 'special' with Gibson pickups and the Elitists were pretty high end Japanese models that seemed like the higher end Ibanez and Yamaha 335-types in terms of feel and quality. Not sure why they discontinued them as they were a great halfway house between cheap Epiphones and crazy-money Gibsons.

[@snapdragon6084]

That's exactly why they were discontinued. The Elitist models (I own an Elitist Sheraton) were cannibalizing Gibson sales due to their high quality. I **love** my Elitist Sheraton!

[@s4e2m]

I've played on both of them and if you've equalize well your amp you'll have two sounds pretty close. The Sheraton just sound a bit more fatter with more bass cause of the pickups but as you you can change it (for it was Gibson classic 57' and super 57') and you will have a fucking good guitar, I' ve changed tuners too just for the design ^^. About the built, Sheraton was an original model from the Epiphone brand so they pay more intention to the well built of this guitar contrary to the copy series of gibson as dot 335 or 339 who sound well but not as good as the original :On the Sheraton you have a pretty cool slim neck, beautiful headstock, a pretty good rosewood frett board (good feeling when you touch it). If you want something which sounds like gibson for a low price (not so low but ...^^) take it, it will never disapoint you in any way! I've played on stage with it on Marshall amplicators and it just sounded magic !

[@vanillacreem816]

Thanks for posting your comments on the Sheraton. I just got back into playing after years away from it and just bought a Sheraton Pro II. And believe me, for someone who is not a professional musician, the $700 I shelled out for it ain't cheap ( for me at least) so its nice to read reviews from professional, experienced musicians who give the Sheraton a thumbs up. Thanks!

[@rsaathoff]

I wonder how they would do head to head with the same pickups and wiring?

[@noblemonyei288]

I put Gibson 57 pickups and got an set up with my Sheraton II maing does it play and sound sweet. The build details on the Gibson probably make it worth the money. If money were not an issue I would own a Gibson.

[@Origxn]

Is that a song at 3:34? Very nice chords

[@quagga88]

An often overlooked consideration is that the body shape and dimensions differ slightly. The Sheraton is a tad bigger and feels different (better to me) than the Dot. I thought I was nuts when I first noticed this, but eventually verified this fact. Ergonomics could potentially play a role in the choice. Feel for yourself.

[@Rickholly74]

I have had a Sheraton for a long time.It is really a nice all round guitar.I don't currently own an ES-335 but I had one a number of years back and for me the Sheraton sounds very similar.Because I play often (2-3 times a week) in a variety of different rooms and situations, I often need different guitars so I have to use my head and buy what works rather than what's flashy or impresses other people.If you can afford a Gibson get one.If not buy Sheraton.The same goes for an Epiphone Les Paul.

[@lest201]

can someone please tell me what he was playing from 3:35 to 4:08? sounds awesome

[@voornaamachternaam1415]

is there an epiphone on the market with a wider nut like the gibson has?

[@mrj335]

Really excellent comparison. Thoughtful. Thank you.

[@Asly65]

ES335 is a legend but i think some guitars nowadays sounds equal or better like the Duesenberg Fullerton CC

[@ZorglubMagnus]

Why are people so mean. You played beautifully and showed the difference in sound between the guitars. Ignore the jealous ones out there.

[@Yakushev15]

Bought a Sheraton II, swapped the pickups for Gibson '57s. Major improvement. Also got a Fender Strat ADLX and a Gibson LP, so I know that money is a quality mark. But a good Gibson 335 is sooo much more expensive than the Epi. Will keep the Epi for tone and playability - top notch, not missing the Gibbie for a single second. Definately choose Sheraton before Dot. OK, headstock is a bit over the top and causes the guitar to feel slightly un-balanced. Can easily be compensated though.

[@strategery22]

Christopher, that's how he gets that dark tone (by playing in the dark) ;-)

[@gabe4u22]

All I can hear is a slight resonance difference. Slightly more compressed sound on the Gibson. But if that's not what you're going for, the sheridan is more well rounded. The Sheridan can suit about 80% of players in regards to tone and price. BANG FOR YOUR BUCK!!

[@randallpaul6559]

I had the originals from the 60's and to tell you the truth my 66 dot was nice but the playability wasn't as good as they are today. I am a bit of a guitar snob having collected since the 50's, I have go to the music stores to check out these Epi's and I am blown away at how they can produce a guitar like this but then again they are being made at a state of the art factory. So for any comment on sound get the right amp and yo will note the difference I prefer the Hot Rod Duville 2x12

[@zeebon100]

If you played the Epiphone for a gig in front of 2000 people, I bet not one of them would go home and complain about the guitar they just heard. Well Martha, I do believe I noticed a certain lack of woodiness in Jean-Pierre's guitar tonight... get real, these are things WE care about because we play guitar. The bearing on the world just outside of our bubble is ego-burstingly small.

[@gutbucket260]

Most people in the crowd wouldn't know a 335 from a telecaster. Even more so with alcohol imbibing and hooch floating about.

[@askethom04]

the es 335 sounds like what i thought an electric guitar should sound as i grew up... thanks to the back to the future scene. ;)

[@bossamood6536]

To my ears and if I had to buy either one then the Gibson has the edge tone wise for me, but it is a fine distinction, to the point of coming down to how much your budget is I guess?

[@RileyReneau]

The Sheraton just amazes me with sound quality.... playability is almost always a huge notice in the differences between setting Gibson apart from their cheaper counterpart: Epiphone.. just pick em and you'll know so all you who are stuck on Epiphone dont ever pick up a Gibson... it'll change something in you ... you'll lose that ignorant bliss.. I know I use to have it. I lost it to a 335 too

[@drjohncarter1962]

Yes, there is a difference between the Epiphone and the Gibson, but considering a new Sheraton costs about £450-£500 and a new 335 costs about £2,500 is there that much discernible difference in sound? My experience with Gibson and Epiphone is that they play and feel very different but overall my guess is that for most working musicians the Epiphone makes a near enough sound to a 335 and the average audience are almost certainly not going to know the difference

[@guyyute]

So basically the quality of sound is completely identical?

[@mattclark379]

Can we turn down the lights a little bit please

[@mikep8074]

ugh... I completely agree with you about musicians should be able to play any instrument, and you're also right about Gibson being completely overpriced, but most ppl don't buy a Gibson just for the brand name. they buy it because Gibson's sound different than any guitar. Especially the ES335. I'm personally a fender guy but I'm not about to go buy myself a Squire. Point being that "real musicians" can't put a price on sound... With that said, the Sheraton is still fxcking awesome.

[@ehhhwhatsupdock]

Absolutely! Great GREAT quality! May need a setup though... they state "Setup and inspected in the U.S." no wonder mine was so out of whack in it's intonation. Other than that, one of the best guitars I've owned!

[@gamma2816]

Can someone make some form of tab or sheet or tell me the chords of the 2:59 part please! That was Beautiful and I´d like to develop that into something longer with a similar style. :)

[@GUIGUI139]

They are almost identical. The 335 with case costs about 3000.00. The Sheraton II with case costs about 700.00. Let's also for the sake of getting as close to tone as possible say that a wiring harness is about 150.00 bucks (on eBay) and 2 classic 57 Pups from Gibson is about 320.00. Lets say you also don't know how to install this mess. Will cost you about 200 bucks for an install. SOOO.. for about 1370, maybe round up to 1400.00 you can have in my opinion 90% of the guitar for less than half the money. Sheraton ALL THE WAY!!

[@blueslsd]

This is excatly what I did with a Tokai Gold top, played it in the shop was an outstanding player, £290.00, then added Bare knuckle Emerald pickups and gibson controls plus coil tap £350.00. now have a superb les paul.

[@isorozco511]

How come eastman is never in these comparisons I have one and it's great

[@craigising]

Test drove a bunch of semi-hollow bodies a couple of weeks ago in the Epi Dot/Casino/Sheraton range. Picked up an Eastman (way over my budget) for fun and BOY did it set the bar high. It just felt like a virtuoso instrument. Superior quality in every single aspect compared to the Epis and, yes, even the Gibsons.

[@MrTartlet]

Sheraton clan! I'll be joining it next month! =)

[@rsaathoff]

@DavisThe8th Also the Mahognay vs mapole neck makes a difference. I have some nice Anico II pickups in my Epi Sheri and it is pretty nice. Actually my cheapest guitar but it continues to be my number one over other Gibson and Fender Guitars I have. I just love the feel of it and it plays so easily. Mine is a 1993 Korean Made one. I think this makes a difference than the current models.

[@Juul096]

somebody give this guy an award

[@acledfloyd]

Is that because of the pickups (because those can be replaced), or is it the actual guitar?

[@ElBrooklyn1]

I’d say the 335 comes out ahead by a wide margin. In every setting, It’s warmer, richer, deeper and more evenly balanced. But that’s only part of the equation. What does it feel like to play the instrument? Is the Sheraton as smooth and comfortable to play? Because if it is, a new set of pickups would go a long way toward getting the same sound. And that would still be about half the price of the 335. It’s true nobody but a player will notice the difference, but it’s YOUR sound. You’re the one who lives with it inside and out. So you have to decide whether it’s worth it to you. But if you can’t afford it, don’t worry. It’s not going to stop you from writing and performing great music. As for me, I’ve got a MIJ Casino and three other guitars. So I can’t see laying out the big dollars for a part-time guitar. I just want something that gives me a bit more growl than the P90s. A stock Sheraton should do the trick, and have about 60-70 percent of the tone quality. If I have to spend $200 more to get 80-90 percent of the tone, that’d probably be worth it too.

[@bartni]

@LucasPinarbasi Are You sure Slash plays Epi? There is a Slash Signature Epiphone and maybe you can see Slash playing it for advertising, but he usues Gibson in the studio and on stage.