Epiphone ES-335 - Pickup Upgrade - Is It Worth It? - Guitar Review and Upgrade Series - Part 5

[@taylor12elementvb]

Colin. You are spot on regarding the psychological aspect related to how you feel about the guitar now. The changes were certainly noticeable in a good way. Thanks for bringing this to us youtubers who very much appreciate all your patience and efforts to show us that a decent guitar can be improved to a very good player now. Cheers from Canada

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks that's appreciated!

[@electoplater]

your fingers do the job

[@gregthompson9434]

What he said 👍🏻

[@pgroove163]

@@theguitaristas u okay in my book baby 👍...hi from brooklyn

[@chrissharratt4615]

@@theguitaristas I am thinking of the same harness with a pair of 57 classics,maybe a plus ,,great videos mate

[@MichaelFleming-qy5by]

After watching the whole series, I had the loom and the pickups of my old Epiphone Dot swapped out. Very nice, inexpensive guitar, but the electrical glitches and muddy pickups had bugged me for awhile. After everything was changed, it was a completely different (better) guitar. The upgrades completely transformed the sound of the guitar and made, what was already a fun guitar for me to play, even better. Thanks.

[@zseeley]

I was wondering if upgrading do something worthwhile. I just picked up a 2012 Dot in mint shape, lightly used. At some point I might want to swap some parts. I was wondering what strings sounded good. I having some Elixer 10-52 coated for a warm sound put on and putting the guitar on a plexer. Meanwhile, what kind of amp is going to go with those alinco picup for a vintage sound more on the clean side with some breakup? Im thjink ing at least let it be a tube amp.

[@Sean_Plays_Guitar]

I think the biggest difference I heard through this series happened with the wiring harness swap. Having nice pots, caps, and wiring really unlocked the capabilities of the Epiphone pickups. Great series and dead on talking about how ‘I feel about playing the guitar’.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Sean that’s appreciated! 😎🎸👍

[@OKuusava]

Could easily be. But, pots can be crappy, and switches especially, but: if they work, biggest diff to sound me thinks comes from the capasitors. Changing only them woud affect plenty.

[@michaellathim791]

Enjoyed the video....i think i will leave my inspired 335 the way it is, and avoid the frustation

[@JohnWDGTandTele]

@@michaellathim791yeah, I totally understand that! I am contemplating working on my Epi 335.

[@anthonynonya]

When I did my semi-hollow I used dental floss, tying a string to each pot, output jack, and switch BEFORE taking them out. When going back in you just have to make sure they don't tangle together, then you can pull up each component into the hole easily with the floss. Took less than 20 minutes to reinstall everything and I didn't need to risk dinging or scratching the guitar with pliers or forceps, etc.

[@theguitaristas]

Did it smell minty fresh afterwards too? 😆👍

[@MurphSA]

Thank you so much! Great series of videos. Unbiased and honest content is something we don't see often on KZbin

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Murph! 😎👍🎸

[@Mpcoluv]

Having made similar changes, I’m most surprised at how little difference the Montys PAFs made. Thanks so much for the testing.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, it seems pickups can make a big difference... but not always!

[@mhw6160]

I think this shows the Epiphone pickups in 2021 are pretty good. The Les Paul 1959 pickups certainly didn’t need to be changed as they were Gibson Burstbuckers but the Alnico Classics on the 335 sounded good to me after the string change. Thanks for showing the process 🎸

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Mark, agreed... hopefully it’s saved some $$$ for a few people! 👍😎🎸

[@richardlynch5632]

Fuller, clarity is enhanced and sustain is better.😎👍 Congratulations on a well done job 😎👍 Can't thank you enough for this endeavor for us...Felt your pain and triumphs 😎👍 You've bonded with your ES335... And THAT is worth more than cost. BRAVO for a much appreciated, successful series. Thanks for the Thorbak link😉😎👍 A CLASSIC to keep in my library😎 Heads up...a shim under Casino neck pup is worth it😉 😎👍❤🖖 Love brother

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man! :)

[@murraycrawford2741]

Hey Colin, thank you for this wonderful 5-part series! I just bought this guitar yesterday and was interested to see your improvements and results. My old ears are not good enough to appreciate some of the upgrades you made. After changing the strings and adjusting the action, I found mine to play and sound increadibly well (and not only for the price). There is a lot of hype on the web about how good this IG model is and I am very pleased to see that the hype is not over stated. Thanks again for all your amazing work in this series and for all of your films over the years. I enjoy my time here!

[@haydenisaac3030]

A good example of the law of diminishing returns. The last fraction of improvement often costs a lot so it is debatable if it's worth while. Having said that the guitar sounds great now and you seemed a lot more inspired to play it after the mods. I'm sure that it feels more like your guitar after you have tweaked it to your own preference.

[@spongiform]

Great video. Top tip: keep handy a small but strong magnet glued to the end of a thin dowel. Great for picking up small metal objects from nooks and crannies.

[@newtonb1426]

I wanted to thank you for giving me a great laugh that made my day, I had 4 surgeries that has left me bed ridden,but watching your videos has helped the pain. I’m in the U.S. , maybe being 62 helps us see eye to eye. Again, thanks mate.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, glad to have cheered you up a bit... get well soon!

[@ArthurWilson-y6y]

I can't thank you enough, Colin. This is exactly the video I needed to see. A new Monty's wiring loom arrived today. I'm seriously debating swapping out the classic 57's for Monty's Standard PAF set on my Gibson 335, so really looking forward to the sound demo at the end of the video. I was hoping to see a close-up of where the pickup wires are soldered exactly, but I'll find that somewhere, I'm sure. All your time, effort and hard work is really appreciated here. Many thanks again.

[@Andrew-un4pv]

Thank you Colin. I'm just mesmerized with every episode of this 335. So much so that I watched all 5 in this series, twice so far! They have motivated me so much that I ordered one today and feel like a kid at Christmas. Only thin is it won't arrive for 4-5 weeks. I've only been learning for a bit over two years and learning my first song, Lenny by SRV. I have a Mexican Strat, Gibson SG Std, and a Gibson Les Paul Standard, so this will male #4 in my collection. I can't justify a Gibson 335 when this Epiphone 335 is so close in build quality. I figure the money saved, I can do the upgrades and have a keeper for life like the other guitars. I want to say that I admire your talent and hope to play like you some day soon. Thank you for your humor, wisdom, knowledge and inspiration. Cheers!

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Andrew, thanks for the kind words and support! Nice collection to have there and this will be a great fit plus it’s good to get into the world of modifying so you can work on them yourself. Good luck with the playing… if you are tackling SRV already then you must be doing something right! 😎👍👍

[@harolddavis4138]

I enjoyed this series more than I ever thought I would. Thank you Sir Colin

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Harold! 😁👍

[@jayseb]

This channel should have 10X subscribers! Insane value, knowledge and curiosity. Cheers.

[@theguitaristas]

😁🙏

[@davidkerr1971]

Hey Colin, another great post, it was really nice to see it all come together, I agree with you the Monty's pick ups sound more refined. The Epiphone pick ups sound great also but the Monty's just have that little bit extra. I had a nice wee jam with you at the end, great playing man, thanks for sharing this series of videos. Can't wait for the broken Epiphone Casino video lol. Take care man, great channel.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers David 👍 I can’t believe I whacked the Casino like that! 🤣🎸

[@RobertNolan]

There is no other stress like that of getting a semi hollows guts back in place. When I did the pickup change of the Casino I told you about, it only took me an hour to put the electronics back in place and I honestly felt blessed. Really great content with these deep dives into modifying/upgrading an Epiphone. It gives people a better understand of what's to be needed and how you need to do it. I acquired an olive green 335 and think I'm going to convert it into a Chris Cornell inspired guitar with the lollartrons and everything.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Robert, thanks for all the support man its really appreciated...now lollartrons sound nice! :)

[@seanoakes3525]

Colin it sounds amazing. A quality 335 for under a grand is unbelievable. That’s how I thought when I started mine and I still believe it ✌🏼. New pick ups and loom in the vintage Ronno guitar next please

[@johnmilligan6605]

P

[@Fawkes1978]

Great video as always, the fact that there was very little difference between the stock pickups and Monty's PAFs is testament to the quality of the original Epiphone pickups. I own a much older Sheraton II from 2011 which was probably made in the same factory and while mine sounds a bit muddier (through a very different setup, of course) it is still quite usable and playing it is a satisfying experience. I think the time we invest in a guitar matters far more. Sometimes it takes a while before that bond forms and it has certainly taken a long while for you. The pay off is the joy you are gonna get from playing it for many hours to come... P.S. Have you ever thought of collaborating with other KZbin musicians like Dave Simpson or others. Just a thought...

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man! I think that’s very true that the more time we spend with a guitar the stronger the bond will be. I guess if this thing continues the way it’s going right now I might get chance for collaborations one day and that could be fun!... I watch Dave and he’s on a whole other level though 🙌 he inspires me to think it’s ok to jam for as long as I feel like.... he’s a great and humble guitar playing talent and he’s got such a great voice too it’s almost annoying! I would be playing rhythm guitar and backing vocals 😜 cheers for comment and support 😎🎸👍

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

My Epi 335 pro (2019?) pickups are quite subdued and muddy. I am thinking they not the same as shown here. I cannot wait to change them out. Anybody tried some gold foil pickups in their 335?

[@AlmostLakai94]

@@geraldhenrickson7472 I have the factory p90s in my Epi 339 pro that I think sound pretty good so I always suggest trying some (or HB sized P90s in your case)

[@InGrindWeCrust2010]

Thanks for the input! I have a Dot from 2007 and a couple from this side of 2014...the current Epiphone electronics sound MILES better. I wouldn't change anything about them. The 2007 sounds pretty bad, even after adjusting pickup heights and pole pieces. The 2007 is the most comfortable for me, so I'll change the pots and wiring first and then, if it's still worth it, the pickups.

[@InGrindWeCrust2010]

@@geraldhenrickson7472 I haven't, but I am planning to put some into my LTD semi-hollow. Be aware that most pickups labelled as "gold foil" are not made with ferrite but just weak ceramic magnets. The ones I have picked out are Malinoski pickups and are the real deal. There are other good makes as well.

[@gerryloughran1676]

Can’t believe you went all in again ! buts it’s a big WOW … sounds great pickup balance is super and the sustain got mojo … you deserve a medal well done

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Gerry, at the very least I deserve a lie down? 😂👍🎸

[@fabrizioluccitti6960]

Hey pal, this experiment is just an amazing thing. I think the most significant change is made by the pickup height adjustment. The new wiring is also a win. New string is also a factor, but more on term of personal tone and preference. I think sound wise the guitar has improved a lot with proper set up, new bridge and tailpiece and new wiring. Pickups issue is like the string issue to me. It's more a preference thing. There are so many pickups out there. I'm going to replace bridge and tailpiece and I really would love to swap the electronics but after your drama :) I am not that confident anymore. Thank you for your amazing content and the entertainment.

[@rocket_appliances]

i remember doing this to an epiphone dot years ago. it didn't have the fancy cut out in the bridge pickup cavity so everything had to go in and out through the lower f hole. it was an absolute bastard of a job. great job staying calm the whole time!

[@victorbeebe8372]

Aloha and mahalo again! Enjoyed the series of videos. The Epiphone sounds good. Now I'm more aware of the choices available and techniques. Knowledge is the key. Looking forward to the casino video and more on the 59 LP. Thanks again

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Victor thanks for following! 😎🎸🙌

[@wesmclaughlin9369]

A Gibson is a Gibson and no other will ever be! Great series on this epiphone! Sounds great! Keep doing what you do!

[@MartyGerman]

Been there/done that but, alligator clips work better than pliers because they grab the screw threads and will let you turn them more easily!

[@mikedwiles]

I enjoyed going through this series of videos. It was incredibly helpful to watch you go through the frustrating experience of the rewire. I watched several people persevere through the process. This helped me get in the proper mindset to perform the task. I spent one full day last week building a new loom from scratch using the pots, caps, and wiring along with new pickups and performing the installation. My guitar is an Eastman T386. Got it as a demo for $1050. Tried to work with the factory pickups and never got happy with them. Found a used set of Gibson Burstbucker 1&2 which I had liked in a Gibson Midtown that I previously owned. There were several times during the day that I had to make myself take a 'time out' to calm down and stay on track. When all was tidied up, I found the new pickups and electronics to sound much different. It kind of blew my mind. So much so that I worried, 'Am I going to like this?' The new pickups were so much more articulate and bright. I wasn't sure what to think. I spent some time playing against some backing tracks with various amps. What I found is that my guitar sounded a lot more like some good recordings. I started to hear familiar sounds that reminded me of songs. The new pickups were filling in sounds that I didn't realize were missing. Now, the volume and tone knobs actually get used. I don't have to run everything on 10. So, was it worth the change? Definitely yes. $1050 + $200 (p/u's) + $50 wiring/electronics = $1300 for a guitar that is (in my opinion) better than a 335.

[@DaringDan]

I did something similar for my first guitar build. I bought a Grote 335-style guitar and dremeled out the cavities to fit some J. Mascis Jazzmaster pickups in it and replaced the pots and nut and tuners. The guitar was $160 American. $75 for the pickups and $15 for the nut and $50 for the nice wiring kit. $310 total for what's an amazing sounding guitar now. Sure, I had to level the frets myself and crown the edges, but I learned SO much doing it that in the end it was worth the money saving and knowledge I acquired. Love your channel, homie. Cheers.

[@theguitaristas]

Sounds like a great project although I did wince when I read 'dremeled out the pickup cavities'... now that's brave!! :) Cheers man.

[@John-hi2yi]

Hilarious at times thank you for the laughs. The Psycholgy of it all is massive and can pull you through the rabbit hole. Very interesting series, thanks again.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks John that's appreciated :)

[@daviddiehl8523]

I own a Sheraton Pro II and your videos on it's cousin, the 335, have given me some ideas for change. The Sheraton sounds good, I'm looking for great.

[@charliemcgrain]

Massive difference to my ear. More detail and thus much more complex and richer sounding chords, more of the cross harmonics are apparent, obviously more apparent when you strum chords. Definitely worth the effort.

[@jkf9167]

The Montys sound clearer and more refined, and they definitely sound like they'd have that liquid transparency that's very rewarding when you're practicing solo. Playing with a loud band, either you'd barely notice, or the denser mids in the the stock pickups would cut through better. The stock pickups sound great, just a slightly different wind with slightly higher output and more mids.

[@2WAL-]

Another superb video Colin !!! Really interesting, you’ve got so bloody good at this .

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man that’s really appreciated... it’s a labour of love for sure!

[@Edwarbr]

The Epiphone pickups have gotten better. My 92 LP Standard had very bad pickups. They were extremely muddy. Thanks to other guitar brands using higher quality parts in guitars within the same price range, Epiphone had to step up their game. With the current quality, I would suggest that the best upgrade is the electronics. I have seen recent Epiphones with CTS pots, but the 60’s wiring can cause a muddy sound. I prefer the 50’s wiring or using a treble bleed on my bridge pickup. I would also recommend trying different amps before you make any changes. I have a 2019 custom shop 58 LP and it sounds horrible with my Fender amp. The Jensen speaker does not like my bridge pickup. I get very strong feedback. I swapped the speaker out and now it’s my amp of choice for the 58 CS LP. The sad truth is that my 92 Epiphone is my favorite guitar. I have a lot of expensive guitars, to include a real 58 LP. The only guitar I have on a stand by my amps, is my 92 Epi. I have not played the others in the past two years. I may just have a really good Epi though. A very famous guitarist who came to play my original 58, played my Epi and wanted to buy it from me. The name on the headstock doesn’t matter if it sounds and feels good.

[@striknine570]

Listening back to the first video in comparison to the final, I fully agree with your analysis. The stock guitar after a good setup is not that bad. I was planning to upgrade the pickups on mine and I believe you’ve made me rethink that decision. Sure there are small differences in the tone, however if you had the new pickups in there originally and installed the stock ones, the argument could be made that they rounded out the tone and provided a more vintage sound in an attempt to justify the purchase. Thanks again for documenting this. Awesome channel you have.

[@pg123ab]

Epiphone’s quality is very good. I also own a 1968 Es 335 and the difference is very noticeable. Before owning the Gibson I was really impressed by the Epiphone, I also got a 339 and a 339 P-90 and a Casino. Great guitars for the price.

[@jeffreyfoster4260]

Great content, what I’ve learned from this video is that Epiphone is really making very good pickups these days

[@aitken1965]

Third time watching this video series in it’s entirety. My thoughts are that before the average player of this guitar even thinks about modifying it with upgrades that they should: 1.) take guitar lessons 2.) change the strings and experiment with a few types and gauges 3.) spend a lot of practice time experimenting with volume, tone, and amplifier settings 4.) lower the pickups/raise the pickups depending upon your preferences 5.) get an inexpensive graphic eq pedal and adjust your frequency input to the amplifier If you do all those free/cheap fixes and you're still not satisfied, or if you just love to swear and solder then have it and swap out all the hardware and electronics!

[@KRE808]

I've been looking forward to this all week and it didn't disappoint. I've also learned a lot through this series and enjoyed every minute of it. I think like others that probably the strings, tailpiece, bridge changes did the most, but also what you said about how the guitar makes you feel, and how the various changes impact that, was spot on. Kudos for sticking with all of it and maintaining such a hunky-dory attitude through and through. Truly a pleasure.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for sticking with us.. we made it! 😎🎸👍

[@ScottfromBaltimore]

Thanks! Nice comparison, nice playout, and nice manner! I'm considering putting nice PAFs in my Dot 335, and it's nice to see that they really can make a difference. Also, great tip about using the pickup hole to pull things through - I may need that!

[@ivarjanson54]

This has been a great little series! Also, Yeeess!! cant wait for casino review!!!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Ivar! 👍😎🎸

[@aaronjwoolley]

I stumbled upon these vids only because I was looking at the 59 355 inspired Epi's - with the ebony neck and Gibson pick ups - Really enjoyed watching the whole process - My first 'real' guitar was a s/h cherry red 335 in 1966 when i was 16 ! - it was sadly stolen in 1969 - many guitars and gigs later I''d like to end up with another cherry red 335 - hence the search - and your vids - thank you

[@voyager7]

The tones in the 'jam out' are phenomenal!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man... yes sounding good now! 😎👍🎸

[@rshack4927]

I watched this series and loved every minute. Not only that, but so did my wife... who knows zip about guitars and cares even less. Great job! Question: Had you changed strings prior to committing to upgrading parts, would you have still done so? Also, my SG dilemma: In 1980, I bought a '73 SG Standard... so-called "special edition" with ebony fretboard, but I think maybe they all came that way.... I paid $175... then my little brother asked to borrow it and, since he never-ever asks me for anything, I said "Sure!". Well, it stayed under his bed, unplayed for 20+ years and I just got it back. Seems fine... original pots and wiring... might need a new nut re: high-E... missing the Bigsby's handle... otherwise fine... except... the original owner tossed the neck tarback and replaced it with a 70-something Dimarzio Super Distortion 100. If you were me, what pickup would you stick in the neck in place of the SD-100? If tarbacks didn't cost what they do, I'd just get one of those... but for that kind of money (or less), what do you think might be the best choice? Thanks for all you do... I learn stuff from you all the time... plus, you're a hoot :-)

[@theguitaristas]

Excellent thanks for the support (both of you!) 😁👍 nice guitar that! I’d probably go for a boutique PAF type… lots of great custom wounds available or maybe off the shelf SD 59 or something like that? It’s going to sound fantastic!!

[@esimms1889]

I know that my comment arrives late to the party but I can’t thank you enough for doing this series. I recently picked up an Epiphone ES 335 IBG guitar and pretty much followed your general recipe. I bought the exact same Faber hardware, a pair of Lollar Low Wind Imperial humbuckers and a TOTL wiring harness with Vintage Inspired(VIP brand) pots. With inflation it was 600 USD for the guitar and 630 USD for the parts. For 1230 USD all in I have a killer 335 Dot for WAY LESS than what I would have had to pay for a similarly spec’d Gibson. Added in a Mono gig bag for 249 USD and now I’m ready to rock! You definitely took one for the team when you upgraded the wiring harness and the pickups in two separate steps! So far, I’m very happy with the stock Graph Tech Nubone nut and Kluson-style nonlocking tuners. After the mods it strikes me as being a better deal than a similarly spec’d Eastman semi hollow that would also be unlikely to hold onto its value on resale.

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one man!… there should be special awards for the completion of these upgrades! 😆👍🥇

[@michaellirodimos3688]

... hallo my friend - after all, i made it ! ... I bought a mint 2013 epiphone dot in 🍒 red (300 euros with soft case) and i upgraded and replaced the whole thing : set up, nut (handmade), gold harrdware (gotoh - tone pro) wiring, transformers (vintage) etc and finally put my original 1972 gibson embossed pickups right into my new baby's heart ... Every one tells me that THIS epi, has nothing to jealous from the new gibsons 335 ! Even if this isn't the truth, i now own a so very, VERY good and beautiful guitar that sounds REALLY amazing. That's the truth : she is unique and she steals hearts !!! ... Thanks 👍 to you ...

[@theguitaristas]

Fantastic Michael! If you did this yourself you deserve a 👏👏👏 and probably need a lie down now! 🤣 have fun man and enjoy what you have created 😎👍👍

[@michaellirodimos3688]

@@theguitaristas ... .... Not by my self 😉 ... I'm greatfull to the experts ! ...

[@WeDreammore]

We’ll done! Really nice to watch you on your journey great videos fantastic watch

[@glennmattison3180]

Great series! The only thing you missed (IMHO)is checking the nut height and lowering the slots if needed. I found a lot times (even on expensive guitars) the slots are too high. Getting them cut to the correct height can change the feel dramatically.

[@theguitaristas]

Yes true... I do get used to playing around these things as I okay a lot of different guitars so it's detail I miss unless there's an obvious problem.

[@dn4166]

I think it depends on what guitar you are upgrading. Epiphones are already great guitars. If you upgrade a Squier, on the other hand, there is a massive difference when upgrading guitars.

[@DavidBiddle]

As I try to figure out Epiphone or Gibson ES, this is a great video. Thank you! One thing I find for myself is the sound and feel of the sound with guitars, esp electric ones, is something each player learns to create for themself. No doubt all the tech means something, but I find my cheaper Mexican Strat sounds as amazing as my G&L Fullerton ASAT. I'd think if I had a brilliant technical person like you to provide me with options, I'd slowly raise the level of playability of an Epiphone over time. I don't think I do, though. So, the question I have is how satisfied can I be learning to play a guitar as it wants to be played.

[@sgtpilko5428]

I look forward to these videos :) Definitely need to get myself a project guitar to tinker with.

[@jeremywooldridge5537]

Couldn't agree more. There's really only 2 things I'm very particular about. My strings and how I set it up. This was another great series. You put in a ton of work on that 335 and definitely respect your opinion. I look forward to the next project, whatever that may be!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Jeremy! 😎🎸👍

[@joelmiddaugh8229]

If you want pickups to completely change the guitar the best bet is to install completely different pickups. Change the output if you cant change the shape, but the only way pickups will completely change your tone is if you put a humbucker that's 16k, or a strat single coil instead of an 8k humbucker. Also, wax potting or removing wax potting will change how they interact with feedback and gain. Changing magnets also makes as much difference.

[@aitken1965]

I very much appreciate you doing this project. I recently purchased this exact model and I could not be happier with it. Mine is lively and resonant when played unplugged, and the stock pickups are bright and chimey (for PAFs). There’s no fret buzz, or dead notes even though I’ve lowered the action substantially. It really scratches that 335 itch nicely. My band mate who has a Gibson 335 studio looks at it a bit begrudgingly 😆

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one Michael i just pictured your band mates face and empty pockets! 😆👍 I think mine needed to be played in a bit to accept it had become a guitar but we’re getting there!

[@francescogiagnorio3672]

I was Looking for a Gibson 335 but after this video I will buy an Epi 335 which seem to be a great guitar. Thanks for your great and review! In my opinion the best on KZbin

[@theguitaristas]

😊🙏

[@dennisreeves632]

Down to two hours vs two days is a great improvement. Sounds great.

[@qddk9545]

On single coils people tend to use rubber tubing instead of springs. I think that would be a good idea on humbuckers also.

[@jimshomestudio]

Very much enjoyed this series. I have a Gibson 335, it was $3700. Love its bell like sound. Bought a cheap 335 made in China and did the pickups but also added an LR Baggs Piezo and a Fishman Tripleplay MIDI pickup. There’s a 9V battery packed under the pick guard too. Takes a lot of patience, it surely does. Sounds lovely now Cole, my compliments. Epiphones always sound dead, in my opinion.

[@james-he7xv]

Unless you have to change the pots just cut pu wires and splice new one in. It does accomplish the job with much less hassle. I do however get your point about not wanting to do it on camera.

[@Mountainrock70]

You have done one thing imho. You have made this guitar sound modern. I prefer out of the box and all the adjustments made.

[@charliemcgrain]

I bought a Grote 335 copy off Amazon, $129 delivered. It wasn't bad, for the money, right out of the box. But the body and neck were solid so I spent 300 more bucks on pickups and hardware, locking tuners, tail and bridge, nut, etc. So all in it owes me 429 and it plays and sounds as good as my original Gibson 335. Amazing! And, I can drive it like I stole it, really thrash it and not worry. The 335 cost me 2.5k...second hand! And, like you, making it "mine" really changes the way I feel about it. I love that guitar but I am going to sand the Grote decals off coz I can't bare than name. Grote! Sounds like something you might do on a farm..ee, av got to grote the lambs t'dee.

[@theguitaristas]

Yeah best get rid of that decal!... I shall try to find one, will be worth reviewing just for the comedy innuendo content! 😂👍

[@georgehunt182]

Alvin Lee, God rest his soul, would approve . Nice review, upgrades and gorgeous playing !

[@jonathancraig1738]

Loved this series of videos. Great delivery. Actually my favourite bit was the jam at the end where you demonstrated the flexibility and availability of sound and tone you have just with the switch, volume, tone, and playing style / attack. Loved everything about it. New fave channel. Thank you.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Jonathan that's appreciated, glad you found us man!

[@unkleian]

This was the most enjoyable hour I have spent on you tube in a long time. Brilliant. The new pickups sound awesome to me. Well done....

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man that’s appreciated! 😎🎸👍

[@TheGuitaristChannel]

Just got one of these and so far I really like mine completely stock. I have an Epi Les Paul Classic (inspired by Gibson) which I had a similar experience to you here. I put Faber bridge with ABR-1 conversion posts and put Dimarzio 36th Anniversaries in it. Needed a good set up and some fret levelling. Sounds great now but still thinking of putting the Alnico Classic Pros back in it. I quite like them but bridge pickup a bit on the bright side. Thanks for these videos I appreciate the work and effort you put into making these and it helps us all out making similar decisions about these sorts of things. This is one of the best guitar channels on KZbin now in my opinion. Completely unbiased and not trying to sell us anything either. Cheers

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for the kind words and support it's appreciated! 🙏😊 I was surprised how much difference the bridge and tailpiece changes made and its great to have an excuse to try this stuff out! 😎👍

[@GreenshieldKnight]

well your playing at the end was certainly 'Inspired'! Nice work

[@MichaelHattem]

Loving these videos with the "bits and bobs!" I just want to say that it's not about feeling superior. It's that it makes you want to do that thing more, whether it's wearing sneakers or playing a guitar. If you pay for an upgrade like that and it makes you want to play the guitar more, big-picture that's exactly what you want out of an upgrade. And when some people say "oh the difference isn't even noticeable; you're just perceiving it as sounding better," I say who cares. How else are you supposed to judge it?Perception is reality, after all. If it sounds better to you, then it sounds better, and again, that's exactly what you want out of an upgrade.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Michael, thats a really good way of explaining the benefit an upgrade can have... so in a way we are upgrading our own perception of what we’re hearing and our emotional attachment with the guitar... and that can only make it better! 😎👍

[@jacquesd5781]

These videos are syrprinsingly enternaining for some reason I can't figure out. Well done, sir!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers I think that's a nice compliment! 🤣👍

[@Yannplaysguitar]

Loved the series! My absolute favorite channel at the moment. I think the new pick ups make a huge different. They bring the couple missing percents to tone that make one enjoy it.

[@Yannplaysguitar]

But the way, I wonder if an upgrade of the nut would not be interesting.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Yann... nut and tuners upgrade to test difference will be in next big project I think!

[@Yannplaysguitar]

@@theguitaristas yeah I also think the 335 is where it needs to be. Funnily I tried the olive drab casino at a friend of mine recently and we A/B tested it against a Gibson ES 330 from 2018. I look forward to your review of it!

[@stevelankford7087]

I’m not sure I got thru part, but I’m glad your still at it with the 335. You’re pretty awesome for doin this series in my humble opinion😎

[@stevelankford7087]

Part 4 that is🥴

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man... hard to remember though it was such a long series! 😂👍🎸

[@paulsworld2]

Colin you are fantastic. This was a great series on the ES-335.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks that’s very kind and appreciated! ☺️👍🎸

[@weasel6535]

I really like how honest and down to earth your videos are. I was going to put some TV Jones Classics in my 335 (want the rockabilly sound) but maybe will change out the bridge and tail piece first, then maybe try some 59 Seymour Duncans in it (40% the cost of TV Jones).

[@thebenefactor6744]

I think I'm starting to fall madly in love with this program. The whole exercise gave me a strategy for what I might do if I decide to change the pups, as I have one of these beauts on order. As well, the comparison showed me that the original pups are quite good in relation to the upper end boutique winds out there. Col, I thought you should have left those parts inside the body......so you could use it as the world's biggest maraca later on😁. But as a comic in all seriousness, what a superb instructional episode. P.S., I think I'm gonna clip 'n' splice the pups wires, because I want to live my life in a good mood. Toodles, baby.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man! 😁 check out my more recent upgrade on Gretsch Streamliner… I made a bit less of a mess of it! 🤣

[@Sammywhat]

Thank you, kindly!! Great journey indeed! Looking forward to the next one. Cheers! 🍻😁👍

[@rhythmofblues]

Morning! Just wondering if you have fitted a vibrato to one of these. Are the stop piece ones any good, ie, the xtrem or Duesenburg. Thanks Colin.

[@theguitaristas]

I haven't... and to be honest I not a fan of the way those style of vibratos look so if I I did it would have to be a bigsby. Probably just me though!

[@darvinclement3250]

Thanks for this series on the 335 Colin. I appreciate all the time and money it took to make it. The guitar sounds absolutely amazing now! One of those and a Tele style guitar is all I need now (don't tell the missus).

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Darvin, thanks for supporting! 😎🎸👍

[@LeviSiccard]

After following your series on the es-335 inspired by Gibson series I picked up mine today from Germany. You got me all into it ;-) It sounds awsome, plays awsome, has a magical sustain. It is an incredible instrtument for less than 600€! I own a 1957 Gibson goldtop Custom Shop wich plays absolutely amazing and comparing to this guitar the es-335 just feels right. Of course there are differences in finish and woods but the 335 is an amazing guitar anyways. So all I can say is thank YOU for pointing out this guitar to me! I already bounded with it and I feel like a fxx teenager who just got his first mid range electric guitar, lol

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Lee! 😁👍

[@tomrosa4248]

Thanks for a great series Colin and as always I enjoyed your play out jam.

[@Michael777Simmons]

Just put my money down for a Gallagher Riviera. When it finally comes in this may be what I do with it. Thank you for this awesome video.

[@theguitaristas]

Me too!! 😁👍

[@Darko.666]

Thank you for such an in depth series Colin. I can now see/hear how quality parts can really make a difference, and can now justify paying extra for higher end guitars.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks BigCat... that’s a good point and an extra takeaway from this! Cheers 👍😎🎸

[@2dazetake]

The way you screw a pickup into the pickup ring,is to hold the pickup in your hand as you center the pickup ring over the first hole with one sping,use the back of your hand to hold both pickup ring and pickup,use your free hand to screw the first screw down,just to strat it, then move to the other side,and repeat,wah lah done.😊👍🎸

[@theguitaristas]

Yeah sounds easy when you say it like that but no so much in practice! 😆

[@robertdickinson889]

Seeing you working with the forceps adds more to the image of you been a SOUND SURGEON. An interesting exercise over the past few weeks. I agree with you there is a point to stop throwing money at enhancements. The final outcome is good. Worth the swearing and stress!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Robert! :)

[@taylor12elementvb]

As a PS to my last comment. Alvin Lee and Ten Years After came to mind during your outro. SWEET!

[@theguitaristas]

Yep too right... trying to bring an 'Id love to change the world' vibe to the proceedings! :)

[@NikolaiHT]

Colin, are you the one editing your videos? Two days in a raw I am losing sleep because I binge watch your videos. I learn so much and you humor is awesome!

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Nik! Yes I am in fact doing everything myself… a one man production machine! 😁👍 so do you want me to make them a bit shorter for you? 🤣🤣 Thanks for the kind words glad these films are appreciated I enjoy making them!

[@pinkmoon4211]

I done the same with a Sheraton rewire and seth lovers .On your change I hear more clarity treble has nice ring I got the same results the more you play it the differance sticks out I learn a lot from your videos Cheers.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers David! Nice one.... we should have badges and t shirts made for those that have achieved the rewire of a semi-hollow! :)

[@yyzca6126]

Fantastic review and spoken honestly. This is how people think and it doesn’t have to be rational but we like nice things and we believe they make us superior. Thanks for taking us on your journey. Cheers, Kim

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Kim, thanks for kind words and support it's appreciated!

[@zseeley]

Watched the series again... geesh! "I'm not one to make promises", but, I will not attempt this procedure. Good job!

[@machoman5172]

That was a pleasing outro. I think the swap was a big enough factor. It is a bother when there is such a toll to be paid on these more inconvenient than normal modifications. I find that the reward can be greater than normal as well, it gives the finished product a sort of exclusivity knowing even experienced tinkerers probably wouldn't bother. I find pickup swaps are deeper than a quick A/B comparison. Changes in attack, harmonics, feel that are best judged by the player. With the A/B the player is generally more concerned about replicating their playing exactly than going out there and slinging it. I always say a great way to evaluate a pickup isn't just after an upgrade, but after a downgrade. I was building a guitar once and it was a few weeks from completion, I had the pickups for it so I decided to try them out in a budget guitar I had. When I got them in I felt it had improved, gave it a more professional feel but I couldn't help feeling underwhelmed at the lack of undeniable difference I was expecting. So I made a point to play that guitar almost exclusively for that period. Fast forward a month and it's time for the pickups to go to their intended guitar and I swap the original budget pickups back in. Wow. The difference of downgrading back was more jarring than any pickup swap upwards or sideways I have ever experienced. The guitar felt completely disarmed (yes they were wired properly).

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man, good point you make here that the benefits are not always as immediately obvious as we hope 😎👍

[@johnwhitehouse2582]

Collin , thank so much for taking us on this 335 mod journey , it's been fantastic to watch , except the pain of the pots change 😎😎 The end result is a fantastic sounding 335 at less than half the cost of the Gibson .

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks John! 😎🎸👍

[@johnlloyd9613]

Great video Colin! I had an Epiphone 335, put Duncan 59’s in it. Really didn’t suit me so I sold it. Decided I’m just not a 335 person. Les Paul for me

[@mattholley5652]

Great series. For me the wiring loom made the biggest difference. The final play out sounded great. Would love to see a comparison with a Gibson. Sure someone could lend you one?

[@theguitaristas]

Trouble with that Matt it's dangerous.... I might want to buy it! ;)

[@Sammywhat]

@@theguitaristas I'd have to concur with Matt. Seeing this up against a Gibson 335 might help make a decision to purchase an Epi and modifying it. Maybe someone at Monty's will lend you one - you could suggest to Mr. Gleason it may help sell more pickups! 😉

[@theguitaristas]

@@Sammywhat if you keep on at me I will end up buying one!... just for research purposes of course ;)

[@richardlynch5632]

@@theguitaristas Well if you do, more of us will have become Patreon members to help with the overhead😎👍

[@theguitaristas]

I’m not sure Patreon is a good idea... I would have to offer you shares in the guitar if I did that and that’s a crazy idea who on earth would do that? ... oh hang on a minute that’s what Gibson are doing so it might just work! 🤪🤣🎸👍

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Awesome series! My ear agrees with your summary about the modifications. Great playing at the end again. "Bend them guitar strings!"

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for kind words! 😎🎸👍

[@patrickgribben2781]

The Montys are very slightly clearer but i would put that primarily down to the montys being set a little further from the strings. If anything i preferred the sound of the original pups. The string change by far made the biggest difference. Thank you for this short series. Really informative.

[@markdakel9253]

Another excellent series I believe you were right about the articulation being the biggest improvement with the new PAFs All the mods were definitely great additions to that guitar

[@lichfern7915]

Thns for the series ! Excellent I think in MHO the people today listen with your eyes not with the ears!! So in the headstock said Gibson waooo!! But the truth is The Gibson is no onethousand better in Tone to this one NEVER..!!!! So if you hold the pressure for other about the name of the headstock you can win because you can buy like video said more very good quality guitars with that money!!! Thnks a lot for the series..!! PD in my opinion the most important things in the equation is The amp and the Speakers Then the guitar..!!! 😬

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Lich! 👍😎🎸

[@oldasrocks9121]

Yes yes, Monty's have the hf transient emphasis that's classic 335, I bet its even more dramatic a difference on your side of the KZbin codec compression. Certainly worth it for a regular player or a studio instrument in reserve. I just ordered a particular 335 copy, ubiquitous among overly optimistic cheapskates, that's how I ended up here today, 2 years late to this specific party. Quite a work out C (discreetly lol), respect-- Happy holidays sir!

[@oak3076]

Thank you ever so much for this amazing saga. Brilliant.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers that’s appreciated! 😎👍

[@micheltremblay4774]

I made it to #5 and I must say I too was talking to myself when working on the semi-hollow, I use XL gloves so the F hole was a pain but the wiring made it out almost easy, mabe there is variations in the finish product between my 2000 Dot DeLuxe made by Saein, Korea and the new ones made in China. Beside the 335, I had a Epi "Joe Pass signature guitar, full size hollow that was above and beyond the 335. Last year I had 18 guitars and at 71, I have to start unloading those I use less often. My latest is a Matsumoku Univox copy of the Gibson Les Paul Jr 1959. It has two P90 and this axe rocks as much as the original it is made after. I love it. Take care and be safe.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Michel.. glad you made it! :)

[@jahbrake9791]

Wow. Pretty positive this thing sounds worlds better than a Gibson! ❤️

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Jason... well we can’t compare but in my head it certainly does! 😎👍🎸

[@jahbrake9791]

@@theguitaristas I played a Gibson 335 a few weeks ago at a shop because of your videos. It sounded nothing like yours mate. Gibson's sound great but Epiphone pick-ups for the most part don't have a soul.

[@ronedee]

Some guitars, Epi Riviera's specifically (at least mine) don't have an opening to the body in the bridge pickup cavity. Just a hole to place the wire(s).