Gibson Is Just Better Than Epiphone..

[@RobertBakerGuitar]

Team Gibson ....Team Epiphone ...... or TEAM GUITAR .

[@WavyNinja]

TEAM GUITAR!

[@prairieschooner2599]

I'm actually Team Gretsch Duo Jet, for their unique tone and not so secretly, because Gibson LP is just plain beyond my budget. 😉👍

[@markbaum9615]

Team Yamaha..revstar

[@konradk9095]

Team Maybach. Take a Lester and you will get a LP with the quality of a Gibson Custom Shop for a really affordable price. 😊

[@AManCalledBiggles]

Team Guitar ✌️

[@jameslonglove]

With epiphone prices hitting $1300-$1800 now, my team is used Gibson. Find a nice used studio with the 490r/498t combo that they used in the customs for decades. I think epiphone is pricing themselves out of their own market.

[@Joey_McElroy]

I kinda wonder if Gibson is having Epiphone “break away” from that “beginner” guitar realm…for years now Epiphone has been viewed as a “budget” or “beginner” brand compared to Gibson…it seems like they “Epiphone” are trying to shed that title and move up to a more professional instrument…and I do agree…most people and me included won’t pay $1500 bucks for an Epiphone…I did once, but it was an 83 made in Japan Sheraton. So that was a different situation…I’m not doing that on a guitar made in China. Something else I’ve thought about is…how long China has been building guitars now? You probably have chinamen who have been building guitars at a factory for over two decades now…maybe that’s why Epiphone quality has also improved…when you do something every day, you tend to get better at it…I suppose that would apply to guitar building as well. Cheers! ❤

[@ithemba]

@@Joey_McElroy well they got cornered by the competition and absolutely creamstered. Epi was never good in doing *really* affordable buget, like 200 bucks. The 200 bucks starter packs with bolt on flat top LPs were always abominable trash. But there are a ton of far eastern guitars now that absolutely are capable of doing good guitars at that price. Plus Epi is pretty shit in getting their product into the few brick and mortar stores that still are there nowadays so the parents buying their kids beginners guitars usually don't get offered a Epi as a beginner guitar anymore. The market for Epis is adult beginners and or hobbyist players collecting guitars and wanting to "scratch that itch" - that's also the kind of market that still cares for all the dad rock boomer stuff. But people in that market absolutely have the expendable income to go above the critical beginners sub 500 bracket. So Epipone has dialed it up and expanded into the "mid priced" market of around a 1000 bucks instead of competing with the Harley Bentons, Fireflys, Jet Guitars and Vintages of the world (and loosing).

[@Dale-wb9lz]

It doesn't even matter anymore what guitar you use! With modelling amps and guitar tones like LP's or Strats etc. you can make any guitar sounds like these! Not only that but it's all relative really as you could pretty much do that just from twiddling knobs on your amp and EQ'ing and some effects as well.

[@Dale-wb9lz]

Chinese have been building guitars way longer than that! At least since the 60's lol. And they are better at it than USA makers these days! Cheap labor and High Quantity they can slash their prices compared to US guitars!

[@roberte03915]

They still have the same lineup of (really good) more affordable guitars that they had before they started releasing the more expensive ones. They just expanded into that mid-range price a little further with some higher end offerings. The cheaper ones have not gone away.

[@JamesSmith-uc8tk]

Since I don't have Gibson money, Epiphone it is.

[@zanzabar4ky7]

Get a mod collection from th demo shop. Th y cost less than higher end Epiphone and the garage people do great set ups before sending them out

[@LUZ-zv6pq]

That's the top and bottom of it.

[@Dale-wb9lz]

A few things to point out. 1) The newer Epiphones have the Gibson headstock now. 2) Gibson is overrated especially price wise. I once owned a used Gibson LP Studio and loved it...had it for 3-4 years. I sacrificed it to pay some bills and put food on table for my family. Since that time I learned that Epiphones are just as good really ..just much more affordable! I eventually played replaced the Gibson LP with an Epiphone LP that is beautiful with a brown Tobacco Sunburst and nice woodgrain with cream pickup retainers, poker chip, pickguard and nut! Had it for about 20 years now...never had a problem with it! Sounds, plays, looks and feels just like a Gibson LP. I have or had 4 Epiphones now (gave red E-SG Special to my son). And I'm thinking of replacing that Epiphone SG with a brand new one in Pelham Blue! I am 60 years old and have played guitar since I was 8 yrs. old so I've been around guitar for a lifetime! I used to perform at gigs and I've recorded many tracks w/ these guitars and the Epiphone bass I have in my arsenal! I also play and own drums, keyboards and bass. They are all budget priced instruments and because I didn't drop a boatload of cash on Gibsons, expensive Roland keys, and high end drums....I've been able to buy many more things for my studio that ARE needed items. I don't own anything expensive items in itself! I will dispense some Wisdom and knowledge for some of you guys out there. If you SUCK! on guitar....There's NOTHING that will SAVE YOU! Not even a Les Paul made of pure gold! On the other hand I have seen and heard myself someone play a complete POS guitar seemed unplayable...and they made it sound like the best instrument in the World! True Story!

[@thisguy2973]

Save a little more money and get a better guitar.

[@ChrisTopherBunnell]

Save the money and get a Wild Customs Guitars from France. They have Gibson beat, for about the same price, and very worth the investment.

[@metalraff]

“First thing, what’s on the headstock” That’s if the headstock is still attached. 😊

[@notonyourlife7939]

🤣🤣👍

[@MotownGuitarJoe]

Zing!!!! 🤣🤣🤣

[@adetheheat8657]

I bought a brand new les paul about 10 years ago. The headstock had snapped off !

[@khrys_maxwell]

While Epiphones can “sound as good as a Gibson” there is a major difference in how they feel compared to a Gibson. One is “fine Italian leather” while the other is pleather.

[@markn4526]

Well-said. Just handling each one will reveal the differences...especially if you're handling a Gibson Custom Shop model. They even smell different! To me, stepping up to a Gibson USA from an Epiphone is the same as stepping up to a Gibson Custom Shop from a Gibson USA. And I'm talking about their respective "standard models"...whatever that means. Don't get me wrong, Epiphones are fine guitars for what you're paying for them, but Gibson USA models are in a different price category and thus are in a different league. Custom Shop models are in a league above Gibson USA models. And I am sure there are examples of each which are outliers that could be stellar or dogs, but I'm not referring to those.

[@jaminpartanen9058]

A gibson is something I want someday. But it’s hard to justify spending the money for just slightly better than an Epiphone. I’m just a hobby player anyway 😂 someday I’ll buy one and see if I regret it or not lol

[@ProficientEnough]

I have had numerous Gibsons and Epiphones. The best bang for the buck is a used Gibson les paul special with the P90s. I have a GLP standard, and the special, and I feel the special is way more bang for the buck. You don't get the pretty maple cap, but those p90s rock. Plus a used one goes for around 1000 bucks.

[@jaminpartanen9058]

@@ProficientEnough have you played a special tribute? Those can be found for around $800 or so but I don’t know if they have the same feel as an actual special. Plus I don’t like tv yellow. The special tributes come in white and black

[@SimpleManGuitars1973]

@@jaminpartanen9058 I've got a Tobacco Burst Tribute Les Paul that I got from Sweetwater and I'd run into my house to grab it if it was on fire. I've also got a high end 335 that I love but I'd honestly have to say I love my "budget" Les Paul even more. I've got tons of videos of it on my channel if you want to hear what it sounds like. I HIGHHHHLY recommend the Les Paul Tributes!

[@tylerbrooks3998]

Also check out an early 90s LP Studio or the early 80s Studio Customs. Awesome guitars for the money.

[@AManCalledBiggles]

If buying a used Gibson or new Epiphone, for the price of the IBG range, I'd go used Gibson - That said, in my younger years when Epiphone rarely went above £500 new, Gibson was just plain out of reach even used!

[@sharkman4928]

I have about 12 Gibsons and at least 7 Epiphones.....all valid points from Robert Baker. I have some of the "Inspired by Gibson Custom Shop" Epiphones that are spectacular, other Epi's that are not so good. My Gibsons range from Melody Maker to R9, vintage to modern.....most are outstanding and are holding their resale value. For me, the Gibsons are made with better materials (woods especially) and from a collector standpoint, it is Gibson hands down. However, as far as playing/sound/and value, you can't go wrong with most $499.99 (new price) and up Epiphones.....you can find good deals on these on marketplace. Epiphones with Gibson pickups are awesome!

[@bobboitt3126]

A plus for the Epi is you don't have to worry so much "WHERE" you take it. 😂

[@rich-lf1bm]

Copy that! ​@@bobboitt3126

[@MrPhotonjockey]

Exactly

[@larsfocken3456]

I upgraded my Epi Les Paul Standard with Seymour Duncan PUs and it is a huge improvement. Just love it.

[@bryanherward4679]

played a friends MIJ Epiphone Elite 335 with Bigsby...he's a tech and set it up like butter...one of the best guitars I've ever played..

[@andrewbecker3700]

This topic always gets the weirdest comments from people. They'll often site some one off experience they've had, as proof positive it's the way to go? When in reality, the only players that insist on one or the other. Usually don't know the difference technically. I don't think it's accurate, to just group all Gibsons or Epiphones into one separate category. Now more than ever, it comes down to the specific model we're referring to. Many of them now have virtually the exact same specs. Sure there's always some minor differences. But the example you have, may not be balanced or weighted even close to the same as somebody else's. I'd encourage people to forget about the name on the headstock. And just remember. No two guitars of ANY manufacturer, are exactly the same playing or sounding. Don't take someone else's opinion as fact. Check them out for yourself, before making your personal decision. Peace!

[@landofahhs_1]

Man, I'm 74 do you want to know how many of those years I've heard THIS? Bet you don't! So I'll say first I've played Epiphone and owned Gibson. Your question only applies when a person is using Epiphone as a replacement for a Gibson or vice versa, otherwise these are simply two different manufacturers guitars. If you are a person that looks at the world as being much broader simply because of your choices, who doesn't like more variety? But if you compare everything based upon just one manufacturer, then your world of choices becomes much more narrow and LIMITED. I was raised to appreciate what a person has or what they can afford...your outlook affects this discussion...and you could spend your life analysing your answer. I'd rather play what I prefer at any given time and leave the debate to those who would rather nit-pick or spend their playing time judging rather than improving their playing. Lol To each their own I suppose.

[@aseniorwithmswhorides]

My biggest complaint with Gibson Les Paul guitars is the weight. I had a Gibson Les Paul Studio in Tobacco Burst. I loved everything about it except the weight. It made it where I didn't like to play it and eventually sold it. Now I have a Epiphone Les Paul Standard. While it is still heavy, it's lighter than the Studio was by 2 pounds.I guess having Gibson on the head stock wasn't enough for me to want to keep the Studio.

[@bldallas]

25 years ago, we had a couple toddlers rambunctious bouncing around our house. So all my good guitars went into their cases and I bought a brand new Epiphone Les Paul at Guitar Center for $150 out the door. I had to dicker with the sales guy for a half hour, it was listed for something like $250. Anyhow, I had to do a major tune up on it, but it played and sounded amazing afterwards. Now was it as good as one of my Gibsons or American Fenders, for that matter? Nope, but I wish I still had the damn thing, frankly.

[@0001111000220]

This goes for Squire vs Fender too! Play what inspires you! Nobody in the crowd gives a dang what’s on the headstock.

[@Dale-wb9lz]

This is very True! I am frugal and refuse to pay for something overrated and overpriced. Recently decided I wanted to buy a Tele after many years of being a Gibson or Epiphone guy. Anyway, saw the Fender prices and I'm like Nope! I settled for a $189. Squire Tele brand new that looks and plays great! Still has that classic sound I was looking for on all those old tunes I grew up hearing on the radio! Wanted the Beach boys guitar sound! Lol.

[@Dale-wb9lz]

Yes, the only people that notice what the name is on the headstock are "gear-snobs" looking for a reason to elevate themselves somehow by attempting to putting-down someone that doesn't have the "designer" name on it! Lol.

[@JosePineda-jn8jk]

@@Dale-wb9lzits interesting because I find that people I play with at shows who I assume are gear snobs based on their setup, almost seem more impressed by what I’m able to do with a cheap Squire and an *old* Carvin half stack. I’m never offended by that surprise lol 😆 more flattered I guess.

[@budgetguitarist]

I wouldn't say nobody. There will be three guitar players in the crowd judging you and your gear. You can pick them out easily because they'll have their arms crossed. The other 297 people will be dancing and having a good time. All kidding aside, I totally agree.

[@budgetguitarist]

@@JosePineda-jn8jk Old Carvin amps are for real

[@emendoz1]

I have both a Gibson Les Paul standard and an Epiphone Deluxe and although sometimes I think they both sound the same depending on the amp settings and pedals I think the Gibson is a bit chunkier both in weight and tone. I could be wrong.

[@truthteller1951]

I’ve had my $300 Epiphone LP for 13 years. Over the years I slowly upgraded electronics, tuners, bridge, pickups and put in a 6 way switch. My buddy’s can’t believe the tones I get outta it. It’s been my every day player and travels with me when I work out of town.

[@Doc92IDH]

The best guitar I've ever played was probably a Gibson Les Paul Modern Lite. I vividly remember how crazy comfortable it was, so light and quick. Grew attached to it in seconds, sounded just as good as anything in the £2k-plus range and felt so much better. Trouble is, my Epiphone Les Paul Ultra 2 was about £400 (a steal, as it turns out). It sounds outrageously good, satin finish on the neck, rosewood fretboard, neck pickup for getting acoustic sounds... Only issue I've ever had was the plastic jack plate breaking off: I got a custom brass plate made as a replacement that looks 1000% better, so even that ended up as a positive! Even at the full price of £550-650, could I justify paying another £400-700 on top of that for the Gibson instead, knowing how ridiculously good the Epi is for a mid-range guitar, and all the bells and whistles it comes with (namely the satin neck and the neck pickup)? Absolutely not. Hell, when it came to shelling out at that price range, I figured I'd get something noticeably different for exactly that reason, and ended up with a Schecter Hellraiser C7. Zero regrets.

[@Joey_McElroy]

I’ve got around 37 guitars and most all of them are Gibson…I’ve been playing for 25 years now…it takes time to build a collection lol. I also have 8 Epiphones. I absolutely love Epiphone and they have really stepped up in quality over the recent years…this isn’t the 90’s or early 2000’s junk they were putting out. Epiphone is making some of the best guitars they have ever made since being under the Gibson house. Well I do have a Epiphone Sheriton that is an 83 and made in Japan, that guitar is on another level. You can’t tell it’s an epiphone while playing it…it’s as good as any of my Gibsons. If given the option I’m always going to pick Gibson, and I have all price ranges and vintage to modern Gibsons, but I also love love love Epiphone. As a matter of fact I just ordered one of the new sparkle finish Epiphone flying V’s from Zzounds. It should be here on Tuesday. So you won’t find any hate from me. I love nitro on Gibson’s but after 5 minutes of playing an Epiphone I don’t even notice the Poly. Funny for all the trash people talk on Gibson and how much better their Epiphone is…oddly enough every single day, Americans clock in at Gibson and start their shift…somebody’s buying all the Gibsons that suck so bad 😂😂 strange. While everyone rags on Gibson I’m gonna go and enjoy both my Epiphones and Gibsons..just play your guitars fellow nerds 😂😂😂 love yall! ❤❤

[@Eliminator-rl9sn]

According to what I know, Slash did play a custom made Les Paul copy made by a luthier before he became an endorser of Gibson. Gibson prices are currently at a level making most of them out of reach for the average hobby musician. I own several Gibsons and Epis and found some differences between them, although not too big ones. If you put a set of good pickups into an Epi, it rocks excellent. I do also own a custom made LP Standard made by my local luthier and did so far not play any Gibson in the last twelve years being nearly as good as mine. It was back then somewhat at the price level of a custom shop Gibson. Today their prices have almost tripled. But their quality has not. Unfortunately. Nevertheless, I am team guitar. Playing anything sounding and playing good...

[@Tomekkplk]

I had a couple different epiphones over the years.. owned a Gibson SG "Bad Monkey" for a couple days before I returned it. (Didn't get down the the SG). Having had a taste of both sides.. I eventually bought an Epiphone LP Custom (inspired by Gibson Custom shop) with the Gibson headstock. It's 95% what a Gibson is and I paid a grand for it. A Gibson LP custom is well over $5k. I don't buy to sell I buy to play.

[@jrm2fla]

TEAM GUITAR… I sold a Gibson V2 that was cool and a very quality guitar, but I never bonded with it. Buying budget guitars, I can have a collection of guitars and basses with more variety than I could otherwise afford. I have a MIJ Strat that is great, MIM Jazz bass and Tele that I love; I also have “made in Asia” Squiers (a DuoSonic, a Jaguar, a Bass VI, a Squier tele permanently Nashville strung/tuned), Gretsches (one is a baritone), Xavieres, Harley Bentons (a JM copy, Rick bass copy and a 12 string Chickenbacker), a Grote thinline tele that has 5 strings and is permanently in “open G Keith” tuning, Epiphones (an LP, an SG, a 339 P90 pro and a Casino coupe), a Yamaha permanently in DADGAD tuning, and a Firefly tele with wide range pups and a trem… … all fun to play, all easy to mod without worrying about resale or damaging them (since I do the mods myself.) For me, it’s more about having a toy chest of axes, nothing I worry about getting stolen, lost, or broken. I’m not a pro. … I totally understand a pro or serious amateur with the chops to justify the purchase, (like my former pro brother and some talented friends) buying American made Gibson, Fender, Gretsch, Novo, etc. … It’s how it feels, plays and sounds TO YOU. BTW, I understand the “buy American” philosophy … but also consider that trade has always been global, the “free market” should theoretically help “everyone”… people talk about “Chinese slave labor” but I’d reckon the exploding guitar market over the years has helped RAISE the standard of living for workers in Mexico, China, Vietnam, Korea, and Indonesia… and these people make Damn good guitars!

[@robertaugustine5350]

I mod almost all my guitars. Fun to make them into something personal. I modded my 2004 LP (pickups, nut, bridge, knobs) and it’s now a complete rock monster. Stays in tune and just sounds amazing.

[@jhiggins95]

I went to a shop to try out amps the other day, and the guitar I grabbed to do that was a brand new Epiphone Les Paul Custom. There was no conscious decision in picking up that guitar, I’m just familiar with Les Paul’s and that one was within my reach. Man, that thing was so good, and I was very very impressed with it. It felt right, it sounded right, and it stayed in tune. I almost wish I’d gotten that instead of an amp. I think I’d take one of the Epiphone Custom’s over a Gibson Standard if they all feel like that.

[@robschaller9061]

While I was a sailor in the Navy I picked up a 1971 Les Paul deluxe in a pawn shop it didn't have a case and I paid $300.00 for it in 1982 It took my over 6 months to save that much back then I've had it ever since. Ive been obviously playing for decades but 2 years ago I bought an inspired by Gibson Hummingbird. I have several guitars and Epiphone makes really good guitars... and those guys that are saying my epi is better than a Gibson... great, I'm happy for you but you are comparing the perfect Epiphone that you own and ascribing YOUR guitar as representative of ALL Epiphone. I have friends who are pro's and I've played their squire's that are INCREDIBLE guitars... that's the 1 in a hundred squire. Compare a truly great Gibson and tell me that... The bottom line is that over time the Epiphone is not going to appreciate in value like the Gibson will. My 1971 Deluxe is worth 5 grand all day long. I could probably get more since it plays incredibly. No one with any common sense is going to part with that kind of money without playing it... its vintage but its not a collectors piece

[@negativeghostrdr]

Bottom line is that while a Gibson may sound slightly better to the trained ear. A slightly better tone doesn’t make up for the expensive price tag

[@cageliner]

I have 10 Gibsons, 5 were used, 2 were NOS, 2 that I bought new, and 1 demo. The most expensive was an NOS ES-235 that I paid full list for. I didn't pay full list for the new ones. I have one Epi, a used '07 '57 reissue Junior. It's OK, but eventually I bought a year old Gibson LP Junior. It's a lot better. The forum I'm on occasionally gets Epi owners say, "Get an Epiphone" as advice to someone who has specifically asked about Gibsons. Most everyone just rolls their eyes. BUT If you go into an Epi thread and mention Gibsons, the Epiphone Evangelists nearly have a stroke. Lots of Gibson owners have Epis, too, but just don't try to mention Gibson, because "an Epi is just as good" or "my Epi is better than any Gibson."

[@scaredypicker]

PRS are one of the only decent USA guitar builders worth the price tag these days. Gibson is at the bottom of the list - just trading off the nostalgia they still have with guitar players. You said it yourself, it’s a name on a headstock now and nothing more… Gotta look for early 2000s or earlier Gibsons to get anything that’s not got tooling marks all over it, sharp frets and finish imperfections.

[@EstebanVicenzi]

I've had only two LP's. One had an accident and is now mostly a memory. My current one is an Epi' Les Paul Standard plustop honeyburst. Mods: Seymour Duncan opencoil humbucker for the bridge and I took out the pickguard. Strings: GHS signature David Gilmour. The tuning that I use is: all strings half a step down and the 6th (lowest tone string) in D instead of E. Unfortunately, I need a new amp' with nice distortion (tubes only) since my current amp needs a Seymour Duncan pedal for distortion that is not built anymore.

[@Dagger_323]

The people who claim Epiphones are better than Gibsons are the people who don't have a Gibson. And I know, because I used to be one of those people.

[@MashaT22]

Did all of our heroes who found fame really only play Gibsons? I’m reminded of a certain Fab 4 that played Epiphones. A certain brother in Oasis whose name that rhymes with hole. I can go on and on. And no, they didn’t upgrade or swap parts. I don’t know. I’ve never played a Gibson. But I have often borrowed a completely stock Epiphone Les Paul Modern Figured that belongs to a friend - mind you, this model was once considered a top tier $799 guitar when it was released in 2020 that has now become a mid tier Epiphone at $699 in the last couple of years due to the release of all these models above $1000. I have yet to find a bad review on this model to date. I’ve seen people say it plays and sounds as good as some of their Gibson’s, even with Probucker 3’s. To me, it is the best electric guitar I’ve tried. I’ve tried a PRS SE that was upgraded with their $500 58/15 pickups - and it sounds and plays great, but the Epiphone sounds and plays much better with no mods. Now I’m not a pro player, but I’m experienced enough to know what a bad guitar is vs a good one. I have a hard time believing that a Gibson could feel much better than an Epiphone unless you’re getting one that’s truly worn in with rolled fingerboards - but the Epiphone is not at all uncomfortable to play and the edges will get some wear with use (or you can take a light handed file to it). And even if you want to say the pickups in a Gibson are better, are they really THAT much better? Again, the Epiphone sounds amazing, and so long as the pickups aren’t muddy or microphonic, tone shaping is subjective and mostly comes from an amp and pre-amp anyway (not to mention EQ and other pedals) so you can tweak to taste and get nearly identical tones ad a Gibson if you know how to dial it in. The teeny bit the Gibson pickups will be isn’t all that much better if at all, depending on what you’re trying to achieve from your sound. If made in America and what’s written on the headstock is important to someone, I can accept that. Occasionally the aesthetics may be better on a Gibson - such as using a figured maple top vs a veneer over a plain maple. But are those few things gonna make a Gibson worth thousands of dollars more? I don’t think so. Tons of professional musicians from all walks of life are using stock Epiphones today by choice for live and studio production. It’s like choosing to wear The Gap vs Old Navy. Same corporation and similar clothes, but most folks want to wear The Gap because it is supposed to be better. Put the clothes side by side. It’s not really that big a difference. I have stuff from Old Navy that’s still going strong 20 years after purchase, lol. 😂

[@roberte03915]

The Casinos the Beatles played were USA-made Epiphones, which even today are comparable in price to Gibsons (and in fact basically _were_ Gibsons, because they were designed and manufactured by Gibson at the Kalamazoo factory after Epiphone was purchased by Gibson).

[@blackgoldkushking420]

George Harrison had a 61 SG and a 335, he used as a replacement during one of the later tours.

[@blackgoldkushking420]

64 sg my mistake. and j 45s

[@bretspangler8717]

My favorite guitar is a hybrid Gibson Epiphone, my Korina Explorer with Burstbuckers; the sound is perfect. I also have a totally stock Epiphone Firebird with a very similar tone and growl, so I play both daily and try to mix in others when I feel sad for them sitting like orphans wanting to be played. I plan on getting the Gibson SG Standard '61 Translucent Teal. I have to get it on payments, but I am excited to get it. I have several Les Pauls and I don't particularly appreciate playing them, too heavy.

[@roberte03915]

The '61s are fantastic. They have those 60s Burstbuckers which, in my opinion, are some of the best that Gibson makes. Congrats!

[@benjamingilmore825]

I would donate an organ to get a lesson on the cool lick you did around 1:36-1:39. Thanks!!

[@brendanflaherty6696]

A few more things that could really be viewed as a plus OR a minus for the Epi crowd: 1. Neck variance: I don’t know how true this is of current production, but with so many models, factories, and year-over-year changes, combined with (generally) less stringent quality control, there can be huge variation in neck shape, dimensions, set angle, fingerboard radius, etc. Just my experience… I’ve had 3 Epi LPs, all Standard-level, produced at the same factory, all within 2 production years of each other… wildly different necks on all 3, all all three should have had the same “slim taper” pattern. That can cut either way, of course… maybe it’s a turn-off, as you don’t know what you’re going to get from guitar to guitar… or, maybe it increases the chances of you finding YOUR perfect neck. 2. Fret nibs (on Gibsons so equipped): wonderful if done perfectly, but a real PIA if not (or if things shift over time). And at refret time… OOF! 3. This is easily remedied… but on more recent production, I think I trust the Epi quick-connect electronics more than Gibson’s version. I have an SG with the latter, and they’re fine WHEN THEY WORK… but I’ve found them to be incredibly fragile. I don’t hear about that with Epi, so much.

[@kurtz1993]

And the angle of the headstock is shallower on the Epi's. To me, that's a plus 😅

[@AManCalledBiggles]

Brian from Silversun Pickups plays Epiphone despite the fact I'm pretty sure he could afford a couple of Gibsons, nowt wrong with Epiphone especially considering the price vs Gibson ✌️

[@Eelbackwards]

Greetings Robert, I wish you would have compared some of tonal differences of LPs with HBS, compared to P-90s, as well as some of the specs for both. The fact that newer Epis now feature a sculpted wood cap compared to earlier models being veneer, and the newer design of the headstop are two pros. Maybe some do not know that about the newer headstock being linked to the Gibson. That's all I am gonna say for those who may not. For me, the Gibson neck fits my hand, and I like the way they physically play and feel. Sonically, there are so many reasons; here are two! One is that when Eddie Van Halen wasn't happy with the sound of his Fender knock offs, he upgraded and forever played HBs the first of which he got from his Vintage Gibson Les Paul. Also, one of the best known Gibson players whose sound and melodic playing are so identifiable and synonymous with one of the most downloaded song in all of existence, (Don't Stop Believin') Neal Schon created it and many others in studio on a Gibson Les Paul fitted with one of the three first Floyd Rose tremolos ever. Like you, I like all kids of guitars. What's not to like? But, I'll always favor a Gibson which became my own standard by which all others are measured. I remember the day I got my first 1993 American Made Les Paul with a translucent blue Maple cap and trapezoidal inlays. It was a very good day! Rock on brother, and thanks for the vid. All the best from Hamilton, OH!

[@richardgillette5759]

I paid $1200 for my 1989 LP custom back in 1990. Adjusted for inflation that'd be about 3k. I could get 3k for it. GIbsons go up in value. If you buy one and don't like it you won't lose your money.

[@kingarthur1776]

I paid $600 for a new flying V with case in 1980..lol

[@jloch9312]

I have a Gibson LP studio and the Epiphone JJN Old Glory. I love them both. Nice to see the Old Glory as the featured Epiphone. I guess it's a keeper for you too!

[@zwastiunburzy3688]

I just bought an Epiphone Les Paul Ultra III. There is no Gibson available that has the range of features this guitar has. It's also finished beautifully, with a satin AAA flame maple sunburst top, a chambered body and a contoured back, an excellent mahogany satin finish neck (no sticking) a hidden Shadow piezo pickup in the final fret position that has it's own dedicated controls on the rear of the guitar, two amazing sounding Probucker pickups, two outputs which enables stereo applications, and a USB output so you can plug straight into a computer for ease of recording. And I believe that sunburst satin finish is superior to any Gibson finish that I've seen. All this for $600.

[@SFCUSA]

I would love to have a Gibson. But, in the end I would just paying for the name. Eddy made a partscaster and made history.

[@DutchVai]

THIS --------------> Eddy made a partscaster and made history. 🙏

[@i_chatoglou]

From my experience, cheap instruments can be great and inspiring, no doubt! But an expensive instrument, it's another thing, it feels way different.

[@kurtz1993]

Yeah. I'd be doing as Slash. Having a Luthier built me one for thst kind of money!

[@SubutaiTuul]

and brian may made a guitar out of literal scrap and he became a legend with it.

[@optimusminimus-v3d]

Absolutely, and the fact that Bob get's gifted stuff from Gibson is it any wonder on which side he comes down on?

[@R.I.PDanny]

I had a 2016 Gibson Les Paul faded. And I didn’t like it and was like yeahhh, I’ll never own a Gibson just not for me. Back in 2022 I went to my local Sam ash - rip and I found a SG Standard. I loved the neck on it and the way it played and sounded. I bought it and I understand why people like Gibson now. I just feel you gotta find the one that speaks to you.

[@marcohermans3207]

Team Guitar here. I don't give anything about decals anymore. For me a guitar has to play fine,sound fine,feel fine , and inspires me do pick it up more often and practice more. I'm also a Luthier and see a lot of new factory Gibsons on my bench for the last 2-3 years. They are not worth the price quality wise. A hardware upgrade brings a Epi in the same league. Gibson Murphy Lab instruments are another story..... They are pieces of art, handbuilt, and you definitly feel the difference between a Murphy Lab or a factory Gibson. Clapton, Moore, Peter Green, etc buyed a Gibson at some point in their carreer because they could afford them, but most of them started with some cheap knockoffs when they where not famous. Don't forget that fact.When you buy a Gibson you're buying the same brand your heros use/used , that's all. The quality back then was better. If I had to choose nowadays between a factory Gibson or a handbuilt guitar from a respectable local Luthier I would choose the latter.

[@gregketsdever7299]

Bought an Epiphone Custom a couple years ago and I love it. I went in looking at both Gibson and Epiphone because I wanted a Les Paul for sure. After playing both, I didn't think the Gibson was worth the 3X+ the price of the Epiphone. They both played fantastic and sounded great. I really couldn't hear much difference between the two. It wasn't until I visited the Gibson Garage in Nashville where I got to play some very high end guitars that I could really tell the difference....but those were $6K and up.

[@craven1927]

I used to work in a music store, we were a Gibson dealer so we carried both. Were Gibsons better? Yes. Were they THAT much better to justify the price? No. We sold way more Epiphones, the Gibsons all sat and collected dust. If you've got the money to spend, then a Gibson could be a good investment. But for your average working musician, a lot of people choose Epiphone for the quality vs cost.

[@jerrymorgan1752]

51 years old and worked my butt off for the guitars I have in my collection. I own Gibson, Jackson, Charvel, Taylor, G&L, B.C.Rich and a Paul Reed Smith wood library. It feels nice walking into a guitar store and not wanting anything. Keep up the great videos.

[@6stringcodger450]

I think you are making up a story! I've owned probably over 50 guitars, currently have a herd of 13 keepers including the usual suspects from Gibson, PRS and Fender and Martin etc. (even an Epiphone I just got plekd). If you can walk into a store and really not want something, you need to let some us know which 12 step program allowed you to achieve such a milestone!

[@jerrymorgan1752]

@@6stringcodger450 I’ve simply have been blessed to know what I want and most shops simply don’t have it. I played guitar the other day on a Les Paul swamp ash body with a maple neck and rosewood fretboard. Simply stunning. If I want a more dirty sound, I’ll go with my 2014 Gibson all wood with the 57 hum buckers in it. Only 150 made. If I play Def Leppard, I grab my Jackson PC1. I’m am no way trying to flex. I’m simply trying to say that I worked my ass off for these guitars.

[@StevenRoby]

I'm neither. I'm team Sire. I've got the S7, H7, T7TV, and L7V. Covers all the bases. And all 4 of them come in cheaper than one Gibson - which is similar to the point you made, Robert. My point is if you haven't tried a Sire, then check 'em out.

[@sleepdeep305]

Usually I like you a lot Rob, but this video just ain’t it. All of your arguments are basically “it’s good because it’s a Gibson” Sure, one of my heroes Slash plays Gibson, but that’s not gonna convince me when another one of my heroes, James Hetfield, plays much higher quality, and competitively priced ESP’s. Don’t encourage people to buy a guitar because of a logo on the headstock. Secondly, while the value in Gibsons may be retained far better than most Epis, instruments should not be judged based on how they hold value. How much money I’m gaining or losing in a future sale (that’s never gonna happen because I actually want to keep my guitars) does not affect tone or playability! It’s a crazy thought, I know. And third…people play Gibson because they want a Gibson. It’s not not about the best bridge or nicest pickups…it’s about having authentic Gibson hardware. That’s all they want. Every time Gibson tried something new, the market slapped them across the face and they paid the price for it. Even as far back as the V/Explorer experiments, they have a particular audience that expects a particular experience when they buy these guitars. I just really didn’t like how you defended Gibson in this video, you didn’t even try to defend them on account of them having superior playability or tone. Y’know…why we play in the first place! Maybe it’s because everyone’s right about them.

[@DarthBadger16]

Completely agree. Have you seen ONE youtuber praising Epiphones ? All of them are presenting and advertising Gibsons. I think the brand sales, it attracts. Now, my very good friend bought a Gibson because he wanted a Les Paul, the guitar had a hollow body, and it was around 1000 eur new. Not a bad deal. My Epi is much heavier than his Gibson and I paid 500 eur for it. But I am happy with the sound.

[@TimHuff5]

Hey Rob I am with you, I have vintage Gibsons, Epiphones, and Fenders, Custom shops of all of them, but each has its own vibe. You said something a while ago that really stuck with me, “The guitar should inspire you to play and play differently! I play my EVH much differently than my 61 Epi Casino, and different than my Custom Shop 58 LP, or my 57 Strat. I lean more towards USA built, but if I pick up a guitar and it inspires me, that will trump the headstock.

[@RockBassTv]

Rob, I had it all vintage Gibsons, modern one, Epis, still got a 81 Standard, 02 Classic, 95 Standard, some great ass Gibsons but my JJN Gold Glory Epi is a sick ass guitar and is holding up with the stall.

[@butcho7492]

I used to have an Epiphone Les Paul. I just got a 50s Les Paul Standard. IMO there is no comparison in the sound and quality. I would buy a used Gibson instead of a new Epiphone.

[@roberte03915]

They just feel better. I'm not knocking Epiphones. Epiphones are not _bad_ guitars, but Gibsons are better. There are plenty of people doing blind(folded) comparisons out there, and the Gibson will beat the Epiphone. I don't know why people get upset about it. It's like complaining because you're sure your Subaru WRX with a spoiler on it is just as good as a Porsche 911 GT3.

[@nevillegreg1]

I have a 2012 Gibson SG, it was the cheaper model not glossy and with the roasted maple fretboard given the restrictions of rosewood at the time came with Gibson 57 pickups. I also have the Epiphone Sheraton II and I tell you, almost everything about the Sheraton [including the looks of the gold hadware, finish] is superior than the Gibson. Don't I get me wrong, I really like my SG and those 57s are awsome. As Gibson does not make a Sheraton, suppose I have a reason to have the Epi instead of a Gibson 335.

[@belaci73]

30 years ago I dreamt about having a gibson guitar. Since then I had plenty of very similar ones like a lot of vintage v100, vintage afd, upgraded them: changed pickups, tuning pegs etc. These were really good in the end but with no “gibson” written in the headstock. Now i have 2 really gibson les pauls and i am happy with them knowing it has no really sense… so team gibson because of the feeling having my dream fulfilled. That is so simple.🙂

[@note4note858]

I like the value of the Gibson SGs and specials. All under 2k and they don't need mods. They are excellent. Prices get crazy after that though.

[@greendayray]

The biggest difference is the frets. Epiphone has never even tried to have similar frets to Gibson and it’s the one thing that makes it not feel like a Gibson. It just does not feel the same at all. At least Mexican Fenders are comparable to standard USA models in that department most of the time.

[@Pat-nl4wk]

Used-excellent condition was the description of my epi modern LP. Out of the box it looked new, no mods. 14 degree headstock, long neck tenon, great tones! Paid $525.00, they sell now for $700 retail.

[@dodgechargerfan]

Did you almost do a Landon Bailey? “…playing guitar, having fun..” When it comes down to it, if you need a guitar to do a gig, it comes down to which one does the job. Otherwise, yeah, all of the things that you WANT matter. No question. My best story for “whatever works for the gig” is actually about David Gogo, the blues rocker from Nanaimo, BC. He did a show in my city and had to rent an electric guitar (it was in the middle of his acoustic tour and was a one-off band gig). So, he went to the local guitar store and went down the rack of guitars, playing them all. He had a few parameters: no SG. No black guitars. Prefer a Gibson. He ended up with a black SG from Epiphone because it played and sounded the best of the bunch for what he had to do that night. It sounded great and he said it played great. I bought a Donner LP with a broken neck at a liquidation auction. I figured I would fix it and flip it. Yeah, I’m keeping it. For now, at least.

[@ianorourke6320]

I love my SG from epiphone, which was an original design by them. I played 6 Gibson SG in a guitar center and my Epiphone SG kicked their asses. The acoustics of the guitar jumped out.

[@chrisb8193]

I feel like when discussing Epiphone though there are 2 distinct categories: 1) the pre-2020 ones and 2) the post-2020 “inspired by Gibson” range. The older ones looked/felt/sounded cheap and HAD to be modded to make them good-to-great. The newer ones are probably about 85% as good as a Gibson for a fraction of the price.

[@ookookook]

Hi Robert - I'm trying to find a lighter guitar with a Floyd (or some locking trem) that has knobs away from the pickups like my Les Pauls but have the Les Paul bite to it as close as possible. Any suggestions?

[@robvee532]

It comes to one thing and it's all not money. Older guys like me (55) remember when a 60's or 70's SG was cheaper than buying a new Squire in the 80's. Yes, that is true! I had a bunch of SG's while I was in high school and post high school my favorite being a 66' all original one That my dad helped me buy in a local music store for $300 with an original case. To put that into perspective, a Squire Metal looking guitar was about $350 at that time (a friend of mine bought one at the same store where I bought my SG). 60's and 70's Fender were super cheap in the 80's as well and new guitars were wayyyy more expensive. I bought a 73' Les Paul custom for $300 and a 74' for $500, they were cheap when I got them but it was common to get them for that price (mid 90's) and I still own and play both of those to this day. I do own a newer Epiphone Korina V because being a lefty, I passed up lefty V's and explorers way back then because I didn't care for them for my playing style. The Epi's are really good but it's not a Gibson. Gibson had a certain feel and quality that Im just used to. Even the new Gibsons have it so I stick to what i know because i play a lot and want what I know. Epi's are really good and the we are lucky to have inexpensive guitars as good as those with many options available at your fingertips. As a lefty, I bought whatever was a lefty and luckily I really liked the older Gibsons, The Fenders needed al lot of work to make them good players, but when you got them right, they were unbeatable. The big difference is, Gibsons fell like they were hand made where as the Epiphones feel like they were made by a 3D printer. But it's what the player does with it that matters, the rest is just subjective. Whatever gets you to play and gets you where you need to go!

[@michaeldorrenbacher8977]

Sold my 64 CS Strat for buying a Gibson 335. Left the dealer with an Epiphone 335 with bigsby. For me, it played and sounded almost as good as the G- for 1/5 of the price. I was very disappointed from the Gibson for that price point.

[@Patrick-k8o6s]

The first question is have is whether a person can buying the guitar to use as a player or are you just a collector? If you are buying as a player then buy what you like and what you can afford.

[@JoseHenrique-xg1lp]

I played some Gibson Les Paul Studios and I hated... chunky, rough finish, didn't cut the mix. I would rather play my Epiphone Explorer at the time. Now I have a Gibson Explorer Studio and I don't regret it. It feels, plays and sounds just right

[@ryanschmitz2095]

You should compare the gibson to the fender telecaster

[@joeurbanowski321]

😂

[@richardwilliams-z3n]

Have 3 Les Paul's now with 3 previous. Have always been a Gibson fan, but also like PRS.

[@kingarthur1776]

Yep

[@jimilee459]

I got the gold top when I graduated from college a few years ago, I love it. I like the Epis with the Gibson headstock. Otherwise, I can’t get past that big ol Epi headstock.

[@joeporter4616]

I've got a Sixties Epiphone Les Paul. I liked the neck on that one and with some work no rough fret edges. Strip all the hardware, new pots, pick-up's, wires, tuners etc. I'm pretty happy with the end result. Yes I do own a Gibson Les Paul.

[@BullFrog96]

I went for a Gibson when I got my SG because I wanted USA made. I also much prefer the headstock shape of the Gibson headstock and I prefer Gibson neck shape over the Epiphone shape.

[@bnastali]

I had a guy offer to trade his Epiphone for my Gibson. I told him that was a lopsided offer for sure. Personally I want the real thing when the price is not out of sight.

[@Flyboymitchell0917]

You just can’t deny the quality put into the Gibsons. Anyone that has played one back to back will understand why the price is higher. Even from just the nitro finish you can tell. Paying even 1000 extra for a heirloom quality instrument is worth it IMHO

[@jshearer94]

I hate to say it, but for me, it’s a feeling. There’s an emotional reaction that takes place from owning and playing a Gibson Les Paul. I have other guitars that are better, all of my other guitars are lighter and get more playtime. But when I pick up the last Paul, there’s an emotional connection. I wanted one my whole life, and now this one’s mine! Nitro was a big deal for me as well, because I loved seeing my heroes play guitars that they beat up overtime. And mine is definitely showing some play wear.

[@johnnyguitar-uu3zr]

HI, Robert , Maybe you can help me ??? On my Fender Strat The High E and B string is not as Loud as the others I raised the pickups on the high side But No change ..any ideas ??? thanks ....I don't know what else to do , there is a Big difference in output compared to the G,D,A ,& low E....

[@johnmendez47]

Dream guitar "Gibson", reality guitar "Epiphone". Team any GUITAR!😆🤘

[@asifasgar6871]

Next year we wont even have epiphone money

[@ChroniclesOfASadPunk]

During my college years, I played multiple Epiphones. Some were definitely better than others. In recent years, I've moved up to Gibsons, and I couldn't be happier with this upgrade. I still think that Epiphone makes some quality guitars, especially since the regime change of 2019. However, being able to afford American-made guitars, I have to go with Team Gibson.

[@capedukewuhaha]

Fender Tone Master Pro FTW! Played around with the unit of my friend a few weeks ago. Added 3 polyphonic pitchshifters and 10 other pedals + amp + cab + split and still had a little DSP left and almost no latency! With Helix that's impossible - even with 2 lines and latency is noticable. If I'd have the money I'd switch to the Fender. Still wondering why almost no KZbinrs use it.

[@hughwilliams870]

The problem with Epi and really asian guitars are the parts. BUT I have redon Epi Pauls with all top end parts and pickups and there is just something about them that even after that they are not the same. Its hard to put your finger on it, maybe the fit and finish, you just know when your holding a USA guitar vs the over seas stuff. Just picking up off the stand you can tell. More solid feel and built. Most of the guitars now days play really good with minor set up. I just sold 6 guitars, that were great players and perfect for one Gibson Les Paul. So maybe its just to say you have a Gibson in your hands and they are harder to get and they make a statement. So who knows really. ITs just personnel preference sometimes and the pocket book too for sure.

[@JoeC-bz2ep]

The one guitar I regret getting rid of was my epiphone dot.

[@jonaskarlstrom4152]

I am about to mod my dot.

[@darrenchesterton6410]

I have both. 95 gibson studio and 2006 epiphone standard. My Gibson is 5 times the guitar that the Epi is. But the Gibson is from the really good time for them, non weight relief, pickups and killer and it stays in tune. Straight out rocker.

[@MrSatansnipper]

I first bought a epiphone les Paul studio. Swapped the pickups out. Iorngear tesla shark (slash) in the neck. Put a dirty torque (Jeff beck) in the bridge. Absolute killer sounding!! Later bought a Gibson les Paul tribute and end up putting the same pickups in as the epiphone. The Gibson my go too guitar. But when out giging both get played!! But if I had to choose between the two. I’d take the Gibson. As it feels a much better guitar. In terms of quality.

[@papablue3015]

I've got 3 Gibson's les pauls customs and 4 epiphone les pauls! Yep agree! But Gibson's are expensive! Thanks 🤘

[@JAL-cc8jd]

I had 4 Epiphones and really liked them. Just sold the last one of them. I have 8 Gibsons and I can’t see me ever getting rid of any of them. When you find a good one, they are truly special. My latest one is a new 2024 Studio and it is an incredible guitar and worth every bit of the $1,599 price (although I was able to get a little discount). I also have 2 Eastmans, which are incredible, and a Heritage, among others. I love a good guitar, regardless of brand, country of origin, etc., but I do try to buy American as much as possible.

[@jeramym9506]

I have two Gibsons and two epiphones. The epiphones get more playing time because they aren’t as precious. But they required a lot of work to setup correctly to get them playing like the gibsons.

[@Patrick-k8o6s]

I hate auto fill. Screwed up my first post. You were right about Epiphone not being a dream guitar. However, some of the notes Epiphones are using Gibson pickups and hardware. Inspired by Gibson Epiphones are so close. Not everyone can afford a Gibson. My problem is that the price difference when the quality difference has gotten so close. If you buy because of the name on the headstock it doesn’t really matter what the specs are because nothing will change your mind.

[@arustydodge2111]

ROBERT, truly love them both, but do lean toward GIBSON and USA made guitars. Started my journey in the ‘60’s. My Father 🙏 bought me a 1969 Kalamazoo made Epiphone Crestwood Custom in Polaris white, two Gibson mini humbuckers. Along with that a Gretsch 6150 amp, and a Baldwin case. All that was $350.00 back then. Still have and play, and believe it or not the Gretsch still has the original tubes!!!. Love your videos, and this one brought back some great memories! Thank you, ROBERT! ⭐️⭐️🙏💙⭐️⭐️

[@ottomattix86]

I have a an epi. Sg in pelham blue. For $600 canadian that's as good as it gets for me as far as this relic of a brand.

[@therealbrandohall]

I can’t knock Epiphone. Especially in recent years, the build quality has definitely improved in almost every way. As far as Epiphone vs. Gibson, I’m always going to be team Gibson. Aside from my love of the fact that Gibsons are Made in USA, there’s an intangible factor of the inspiration I feel by looking down at a Gibson headstone and seeing that logo. Epiphone today is largely for players that want a Gibson style experience without a Gibson price tag. Whether it’s budget constraints or wanting a workhorse they they aren’t afraid to get a little dinged up on the road, most people who play Epiphone Gibson-style guitars do so with money as a factor. However, so many people forget about Epiphone’s higher end and exclusive models, such as the Casino. Epiphone does Epiphone very well and guitars that are uniquely Epiphone are absolutely awesome and shouldn’t even be in the same conversation as being a budget friendly Gibson. So high end Epiphone exclusive vs Gibson is an entirely different conversation than something like Epiphone Les Paul vs Gibson Les Paul. (High end Epiphone vs Gibson would be a cool video!)

[@JoinHerArmy]

Water is wet, the sun is hot.

[@mychalsean]

I've owned a few gibson les Paul's, sg's, and flying v's, and they were pretty solid and weren't a mortgage payment when I bought them. I've owned 2 epiphones, one being a higher end les paul, and a dc pro which was maybe $300 cheaper. The dc pro was a solid guitar, and the les paul was terrible as far as action that I could never get right. The necks to both were very scratchy. Frets were ok on both. All that to say I went in unbiased and from my experience the gibsons were better out of the box. But again much cheaper at the time. I don't think the price point of having a gibson is worth it unless that's truly what you want. I say try them all and see what suits you. Also you can probably get a used gibson from somewhere like reverb for the price of a new epi.

[@leftymike5625]

I have an epiphone Sheraton and a Gibson es 345. They both feel and sound great. I did put new pups in the epi though.

[@BFreeMedia13]

Another huge thing is finish. Gibson's finishes are usually more brilliant and look so much better when sat side by side to a Gibson. This coming from someone who owns Epiphone and Gibson guitars.

[@angellesambre1]

I'm "Team what I can afford"... which is more than most people and a wife that never says a peep about what I spend. The "Hey I need to sell a few of these dust collectors" and reining myself in all comes from me. I am currently looking at the Firefly Goldtop, Harley Benton Lemon drop, and a Burny ( while they're still available! Supplies are bound to dry up!) I have a buddy with 2 or 3 Epis, including one that came stock with ProBuckers I believe and they are fine guitars. I don't have anything against anybody that likes what they like, but as a hobby ( and being raised dirt poor) I just can't bring myself to shell out thousands on a Gibson. Especially when there are so many kick-axe, moddable alts out there.

[@JPVanderbuilt]

Competition status: Robert Baker 524K subscribers 1.9K videos Sean Daniel 500K subscribers 2.6K videos Ben Eller 498K subscribers 766 videos I'm posting this to all 3 channels.

[@sinakaedwards2009]

Bass player here, as far as guitar goes I like Epiphone better because of affordability and variety. Epiphone actually makes a 7 string Les Paul. The Prophecy series is a plus as well. As for bass I love a Thunderbird.

[@killedbycoconuts]

It's Chevy an Cadillac. You wanna look good or do you need something that works with less trim?

[@Stephenmichaelsguitar]

Had a Gibson Les Paul Custom and an Epiphone Les Paul Custom. After trying to justify that the Gibson was worth keeping solely because it was a Gibson, when the Epiphone played and sounded better, I sold my Gibson Les Paul Custom. That said I do have two other Gibson Standards that i love. Guitars rule..

[@theoversouls]

Been gigging an Epiphone Les Paul ES (semi-hollow) for over 20 years now. I have swapped the pickups for JBE's and changed to locking tuners. Sounds killer and incredibly light weight.

[@johanbergman4882]

You hit the nail on the head. Support the factory/country you want. Atleast understand that there is a huge difference in working environments and wages around the world.

[@leftyjcw7173]

I love Gibson for one big reason. They offer EVERY MODEL LEFT-HANDED. Thank you Gibson. That’s why I own 12 of them. Oh, Martin the same thing. I own 10 of those.

[@Shell_Beach]

I got both my Gibsons just before the prices went totally absurd. They are entirely the purview of rich youtubers now.

[@spaceace41]

I've owned 2 Gibson Les Paul Studios, 2 Gibson Les Paul Traditionals, 1 Gibson Custom Shop Les Paul Custom and I've owned 2 Epiphone Les Paul Standards, 2 Epiphone Les Paul Classics, 1 Epiphone Les Paul Studio, 3 Epiphone Les Paul Customs (2 of those had the Kalamazoo headstocks), and honestly...I'm team Les Paul. The Gibson's finishes felt better (but they weren't without flaws, the epiphones sounded great but most of those guitars I didn't gel with. The thing I did love was the sound. I love the Les Paul sound more than the name on the headstock or if it was finished in nitro or poly. Just my humble opinion, your mileage may vary.

[@Tonetwisters]

A 3:15 commercial? No. You lose again, UTub.

[@roberte03915]

3:15? Pffft. I've had some pop up that were going to be several _hours_ long. Right. I'm going to watch a 2 hour commercial when I came to watch a 5 minute video. 🙄

[@discotex2236]

I have played many Epiphones and I bought a used Epiphone SG Modern that is the best Epi I ever played. It's completely stock (I filed the fret ends). I have two Gibsons, also used, that are incredible guitars. It's not just a name. The way they play sound and feel, the way they are put together is far superior. There is some extra magic in them. Better to buy a used Gibson than a new Epi for sure, especially if you have only one guitar.