Guitars

Joined: 09 Jul 2007 Posts: 341 Location: cali.

I guess water Blue is the next big thing now, check the Epi prophecy ! Admittedly I am a sucker for the abalone pearl inlays and the black does set the blue off and it is a slightly different twist.

http://www.americanmusical.com/Item--i-EPI-ENCH-XXBH1-LIST?src=WNWSLTTRE130206H&utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=Email&utm_content=Inhouse&utm_campaign=130206

Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2013 4:17 pm

This is just my opinion, please take no offense...

You couldn't give me an Epi regardless of model. For a few hundred more, you can get a used Gibson Les Paul that will kill any Epi. Even the Studios crush the Epi's and they are less money used. All the prettiness does not hide the Epiphone name on the headstock, they will always be considered a poor man's guitar in the Les Paul World

In fact, join MLP, there is Epi Elite's and other models on there that people can't give away

Get an Edwards if you can't afford a Gibson, they crush Epi's also and cost about the same used as the Epi's do new. You will also end up with a guitar you can actually get your money back out of when it comes time to sell

Joined: 15 Dec 2008 Posts: 4257 Location: Derry, N Ireland

I totally agree with Northwind's. For the price Epiphone will make a good workhorse guitar, but the brand is seen as a runner up to a Gibson.

There has only ever been one high end Epiphone that blew me away, and that was one of the LP custom sunburst models. The sound and playability was phenominal.

My cousin recently ordered an EM-II prophecy, the one with the floyd. And had to send it back the day he recieved it because the craftsmanship was poor. I like the looks of that blue one posted, but I would urge anyone who is looking for an Epiphone to go and try one out before buying it. I have always wanted an Epi Zakk Wylde bullseye, but for the love of god I have played about 4 or 5 of them over the years and not one of them made me want to take it home Confused

Joined: 27 Feb 2006 Posts: 13396 Location: Earth

Epi Elites crush most Gibsons though. I don't buy for the name generally. Playability trumps all. The Elite LPC I had was better than any Gibson LP I have ever played. Yes for a few hundred more you can buy a Gibson Studio LP but why spend more money for a lesser product? Is the name that much more of an issue for some people? Yes, on MLP it's true, but those guys seem more concerned with bragging rights than playability. I can't reason with that kind of logic. The Elitists were made by Fuji Gen Gakki who also make/made, Robin, Ibanez, Tokai, Orville, Caparison as well as Charvel and Jackson in the 80s. I don't think the word "Epiphone" should be any deterrent.

Joined: 27 Sep 2010 Posts: 1275 Location: Easton Ma

I dont understand the hate... Its just a budget guitar

Joined: 28 Mar 2006 Posts: 5498 Location: White Haven,Pa

Has anyone seen the Epi Matt Heafy sig in 6 and 7 string versions?

Joined: 15 Sep 2010 Posts: 1002 Location: Rock Hill,SC

Eternal Scar wrote:

Has anyone seen the Epi Matt Heafy sig in 6 and 7 string versions?

its on their website.

Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2013 11:17 pm

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

Epi Elites crush most Gibsons though. The Elite LPC I had was better than any Gibson LP I have ever played

Do you really think Gibson would allow a sub-brand to compare to a top of the line brand? No way, no how

Tell you what, if you go to DOA, ask Dave to let you try the '79 Black Beauty LPC he got from me and see if any Epi Elite even comes close to it. When you hold that guitar, you just know what you have before you even turn the volume knob up. It gave me chills when I first slung it on. Same goes for my tobaccoburst Standard. No Epi compares

All companies have their issues including Gibson w/ QC, we all know that but Epiphone for far too many years put out a product that left a bad taste in older players mouths and the name plate just brings all those garbage guitars back to mind

Joined: 27 Feb 2006 Posts: 13396 Location: Earth

Northwinds wrote:

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

Epi Elites crush most Gibsons though. The Elite LPC I had was better than any Gibson LP I have ever played

Do you really think Gibson would allow a sub-brand to compare to a top of the line brand? No way, no how

Tell you what, if you go to DOA, ask Dave to let you try the '79 Black Beauty LPC he got from me and see if any Epi Elite even comes close to it. When you hold that guitar, you just know what you have before you even turn the volume knob up. It gave me chills when I first slung it on. Same goes for my tobaccoburst Standard. No Epi compares

All companies have their issues including Gibson w/ QC, we all know that but Epiphone for far too many years put out a product that left a bad taste in older players mouths and the name plate just brings all those garbage guitars back to mind

I know the Elitist LPC holds against any Gibson that is priced comparably. You said you can get a better Gibson for a few hundred more, and I call foul. I own a custom shop Gibson now, and have had others. I have had regular run Gibsons as well, from Studios to Standards and Traditionals. That Elitist was on par up to a Standard LP. It's not on par with a LPC but there is also a $2k price difference. Hate against the Elitist is nothing more than brand/internet snobbery. You can't compare an Elitist to a LPC but you can compare it to anything lower. Yes I can feel the difference. Yes I have owned both. No I don't agree with you. Laughing

I had a LPC Black Beauty RI that I took back last year because it was sub par. The Elitists were all outstanding and precision built instruments. From owning both sides of the fence I am speaking from my personal experience so I'm not going to let any one else's opinion change mine.

Posted: Thu Feb 07, 2013 12:09 am

I have the Epi Zakk bullseye that's my current workhorse guitar and I like it fine (after the electronics were swapped out). In my eyes, a good guitar is a good guitar nomatter what label's on the headstock. You get winners and stinkers in every line of guitars.

Joined: 20 Aug 2008 Posts: 2188 Location: New York City

Northwinds wrote:

Get an Edwards if you can't afford a Gibson, they crush Epi's also and cost about the same used as the Epi's do new. You will also end up with a guitar you can actually get your money back out of when it comes time to sell

I was actually looking at a few Edwards LP's on eBay and the price jumped up. They're a hair under a grand now, as opposed to 800-900 about a year ago. If I ever own an LP, it'd definitely be made by Edwards though.

Joined: 29 Nov 2003 Posts: 12280 Location: PEORIA ILLINOIS

Northwinds wrote:

This is just my opinion, please take no offense...

You couldn't give me an Epi regardless of model. For a few hundred more, you can get a used Gibson Les Paul that will kill any Epi. Even the Studios crush the Epi's and they are less money used. All the prettiness does not hide the Epiphone name on the headstock, they will always be considered a poor man's guitar in the Les Paul World

In fact, join MLP, there is Epi Elite's and other models on there that people can't give away

Get an Edwards if you can't afford a Gibson, they crush Epi's also and cost about the same used as the Epi's do new. You will also end up with a guitar you can actually get your money back out of when it comes time to sell

this is horseshit propaganda. The epiphone prophecy guitars are twice if not five times better any Gibson studio guitar. those things are the biggest turds every and shouldnt have the gibson name on them.Gibson makes some nice stuff and people that dont own those are riding the coat tales of the good stuff. Not all Gibsons are great just cause they are USA made and have the Gibson logo. There is a big deal going on right now on the internet that the studios are all made in China now and get sent to the USA for assembly. No proof but Gibson hasnt confirmed or denied. Studios are right above playing a hondo in my opinion. they are light weight, their frets are total s#%t material , the action is real high and the quality control on them must be from a blind man. I have never played a studio that didnt have tool marks all over the fretboard material and didnt have uneven fret wire. I wish they didnt have this issue cause there are a few studios by 10 feet away appearance are amazing but soon as you get close you soon change your mind. Probably better off buying a chinese knockoff LP custom. Some of those little asian kids probably do a better job since they work for food and americans are entitled to their jobs and work as little as possible.

I do agree on the ugly headstock

Joined: 27 Feb 2006 Posts: 13396 Location: Earth

I guess for me I'm just not an enthusiast anymore. I care more about playability than a name. I'm going to hold my opinion of the Elitist being superior to most Gibsons below the $2200 mark.

Joined: 09 Jul 2007 Posts: 341 Location: cali.

Northwinds wrote:

This is just my opinion, please take no offense...

You couldn't give me an Epi regardless of model. For a few hundred more, you can get a used Gibson Les Paul that will kill any Epi. Even the Studios crush the Epi's and they are less money used. All the prettiness does not hide the Epiphone name on the headstock, they will always be considered a poor man's guitar in the Les Paul World

In fact, join MLP, there is Epi Elite's and other models on there that people can't give away

Get an Edwards if you can't afford a Gibson, they crush Epi's also and cost about the same used as the Epi's do new. You will also end up with a guitar you can actually get your money back out of when it comes time to sell

No offence , either way. I only posted it in relation to the color scheme resembling our limited run "V"
I would buy a ESP, Jackson or BC Rich before a Epi. But its alarming to me how many les pauls are sub par.I personally don't like the studios (newer ones) I know their are tons of elite LPC's but just going in GC and picking up a random LP I can't tell how many of them don't stay in tune or just don't seem very inspiring to play.
Like I have said many times here (not like my opinion is that important) Before I bought the limited run Dean I was looking at a used 2005 White Gibson "V" It did not have a good neck feel or sound to me but I was used to the 70's SG so I guess I compare everything to that.

Joined: 31 Mar 2006 Posts: 2024

I agree with Lanning, they quit making the Elitists for the simple reason that they were competing too closely with the gibsons at 1/2 the price. I've bought 2 Epi pro's this year and they are great guitars. The fit/finish/fretwork, and electronics are MUCH improved over the epi's of the mid to late 2000's. You almost never see a good flame top on a Gibson anymore either unless it's a supreme model. I broke down and bought a Classic custom LP a few months ago and wasn't impressed at all. The tone was no better than an epi with gibson pickups and the Nitro finish SUCKS. It wears out and damages so easy it's pitiful. So I sold it and bought 2 Epi's, a set of Gibson pups, a set of Motor City pups and still had money left over.

Joined: 09 Jul 2007 Posts: 341 Location: cali.

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

I guess for me I'm just not an enthusiast anymore. I care more about playability than a name. I'm going to hold my opinion of the Elitist being superior to most Gibsons below the $2200 mark.

That is one of the things for me, I will probably never own a Les Paul Custom even at $1800 it would be to much for my ability to consider. I would definitely buy a Edwards V

Joined: 27 Feb 2006 Posts: 13396 Location: Earth

ibmorjamn wrote:

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

I guess for me I'm just not an enthusiast anymore. I care more about playability than a name. I'm going to hold my opinion of the Elitist being superior to most Gibsons below the $2200 mark.

That is one of the things for me, I will probably never own a Les Paul Custom even at $1800 it would be to much for my ability to consider. I would definitely buy a Edwards V

It's not the cost for me. If a $4k guitar is an awesome player and I love it, I'll buy it if I feel like I really need it. The same goes for a $500 guitar. I don't care so much about the name behind it anymore. I see plenty of successful guys out there doing their thing with inexpensive guitars that play really well. Most of those guys probably don't sit online however, debating the usefulness or need for them like we do Laughing

If I had never been to a guitar forum in my life and needed a new instrument I would be more than happy with just picking something because I liked it instead of trying to impress others with my oh, so awesome NGD. lol

When I was 15 I found a Grand Prix, RR flying V copy in the back of a music shop I swept up at a few times a week for an after school job. I think it was like $350 with the case. Grand Prix was like Hondo and pretty cheap, but I didn't care because I loved that guitar so much. I worked off half the price and my mom payed the other half. I played that guitar hours and hours every day. I gigged that thing more than any other guitar I have owned in my life. I kept it until I broke a huge chunk of the top wing off by balancing the guitar on the end on my hand and running down the hall back stage at a big club when I was 16. I can't remember what happened to it. It's probably in storage somewhere. Either way, if I had been playing that guitar today people would judge me by it, not my playing. They'd think I have no taste and can't afford nice gear. Back then, people didn't have the internet in every home (1990) and you could be proud to own something that made you feel good without worry of ridicule from strangers.... At least to your face online. If I didn't have that cheap POS that made me so happy I may not be playing today.

What I'm getting at is, if an Epiphone looks awesome, plays well, and fits your budget, then buy it. Don't worry that it's not a Gibson. I'm not saying that every Epiphone is as good as a Gibson. What I'm saying is this. Put an Epiphone in Slash's hands and a Les Paul Supreme in the hands of some dude talking smack on-line and Slash more than likely make the guy look like someone with more money than brains. It's NOT the guitar, aesthetics and personal likes/dislikes aside.

I still maintain the Elitist as a top notch instrument in this debate.

Posted: Thu Feb 07, 2013 2:59 am

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

ibmorjamn wrote:

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

I guess for me I'm just not an enthusiast anymore. I care more about playability than a name. I'm going to hold my opinion of the Elitist being superior to most Gibsons below the $2200 mark.

That is one of the things for me, I will probably never own a Les Paul Custom even at $1800 it would be to much for my ability to consider. I would definitely buy a Edwards V

It's not the cost for me. If a $4k guitar is an awesome player and I love it, I'll buy it if I feel like I really need it. The same goes for a $500 guitar. I don't care so much about the name behind it anymore. I see plenty of successful guys out there doing their thing with inexpensive guitars that play really well. Most of those guys probably don't sit online however, debating the usefulness or need for them like we do Laughing

If I had never been to a guitar forum in my life and needed a new instrument I would be more than happy with just picking something because I liked it instead of trying to impress others with my oh, so awesome NGD. lol n

When I was 15 I found a Grand Prix, RR flying V copy in the back of a music shop I swept up at a few times a week for an after school job. I think it was like $350 with the case. Grand Prix was like Hondo and pretty cheap, but I didn't care because I loved that guitar so much. I worked off half the price and my mom payed the other half. I played that guitar hours and hours every day. I gigged that thing more than any other guitar I have owned in my life. I kept it until I broke a huge chunk of the top wing off by balancing the guitar on the end on my hand and running down the hall back stage at a big club when I was 16. I can't remember what happened to it. It's probably in storage somewhere. Either way, if I had been playing that guitar today people would judge me by it, not my playing. They'd think I have no taste and can't afford nice gear. Back then, people didn't have the internet in every home (1990) and you could be proud to own something that made you feel good without worry of ridicule from strangers.... At least to your face online. If I didn't have that cheap POS that made me so happy I may not be playing today.

What I'm getting at is, if an Epiphone looks awesome, plays well, and fits your budget, then buy it. Don't worry that it's not a Gibson. I'm not saying that every Epiphone is as good as a Gibson. What I'm saying is this. Put an Epiphone in Slash's hands and a Les Paul Supreme in the hands of some dude talking smack on-line and Slash more than likely make the guy look like someone with more money than brains. It's NOT the guitar, aesthetics and personal likes/dislikes aside.

I still maintain the Elitist as a top notch instrument in this debate.

Im with you. Usually am. Lanning fanboy , deal with it. But lets not forget youre contesting a bit of science here. Studies with wine snobs showed that in blind tests lots of cheap stuff rated better than expensive bottles. Why? Turns out that aquiring and posessing anyything of percieved value or prestige sets off pleasure centers in the brain. Same as chocolate, humor, sex etc. Some folks just dont want to believe in their hands vs thoughts.

Joined: 13 Feb 2004 Posts: 5634 Location: phoenix az.

guess im just a snob but epiphones just bother me.its like heres my almost gibson guitar.its the nicest almost gibson you can buy. Confused

it would just bug me to own one.even worst when guys go dude you gotta see my gibson les paul then they show up with an epiphone :?Ive played epiphones not impressed ive played new les pauls under the 2000 mark also not impressed.they dont even hold a candle to the 70s les paul custom i used to have,and the worn series and studios just terrible.if i buy another gibson it will be a pre 80s one that for sure.when i pick up a les paul and its light theres somthing wrong.my old one was heavy as fck!

Joined: 27 Feb 2006 Posts: 13396 Location: Earth

Epiphone has been around almost 20 years longer than Gibson. How many other companies make "Almost Les Pauls"? ESP, LTD, Orville, Tokai and a host of others. In your avatar you're playing an "Almost Gibson V". Laughing

Joined: 05 Mar 2012 Posts: 86 Location: Evanston, IL

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

The Elitists were made by Fuji Gen Gakki who also make/made, Robin, Ibanez, Tokai, Orville, Caparison as well as Charvel and Jackson in the 80s.

Wrong. Grover Jackson went to Japan in 1985 and setup his own shop called the Chushin Gakki factory. This factory made nothing but Charvel and Jackson guitars. Some of the top luthiers from the Chushin Gakki factory split off in the mid 90's and started Comparison, again having nothing whatsoever to do with FujiGen.

The Chushin Gakki factory is now closed.

Joined: 27 Feb 2006 Posts: 13396 Location: Earth

SRH wrote:

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

The Elitists were made by Fuji Gen Gakki who also make/made, Robin, Ibanez, Tokai, Orville, Caparison as well as Charvel and Jackson in the 80s.

Wrong. Grover Jackson went to Japan in 1985 and setup his own shop called the Chushin Gakki factory. This factory made nothing but Charvel and Jackson guitars. Some of the top luthiers from the Chushin Gakki factory split off in the mid 90's and started Comparison, again having nothing whatsoever to do with FujiGen.

The Chushin Gakki factory is now closed.

I guess you told me.

Joined: 05 Mar 2012 Posts: 86 Location: Evanston, IL

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

SRH wrote:

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

The Elitists were made by Fuji Gen Gakki who also make/made, Robin, Ibanez, Tokai, Orville, Caparison as well as Charvel and Jackson in the 80s.

Wrong. Grover Jackson went to Japan in 1985 and setup his own shop called the Chushin Gakki factory. This factory made nothing but Charvel and Jackson guitars. Some of the top luthiers from the Chushin Gakki factory split off in the mid 90's and started Comparison, again having nothing whatsoever to do with FujiGen.

The Chushin Gakki factory is now closed.

DO we need to get into this?

"In 2002, Epiphone began producing a range of higher quality instruments under the "Elitist Series" moniker which were built at the Fuji-Gen workshop in Japan[citation needed]. As of 2008, all of the Elitist models have been discontinued with the exception of the Elitist Casino and the Dwight Trash Casino. The Epiphone Elitist guitars included features such as higher grade woods, bone nuts, hand-rubbed finishes, "Made in the USA" pickups and USA strings.[12] Japanese Domestic Market Elitists used the Gibson Dove-wing headstock as opposed to the "tombstone" headstock used on exports."

Why don't you actually read what was written. It was about your wrong information regarding Charvel/Jackson and Comparison.

Joined: 27 Feb 2006 Posts: 13396 Location: Earth

SRH wrote:

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

SRH wrote:

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

The Elitists were made by Fuji Gen Gakki who also make/made, Robin, Ibanez, Tokai, Orville, Caparison as well as Charvel and Jackson in the 80s.

Wrong. Grover Jackson went to Japan in 1985 and setup his own shop called the Chushin Gakki factory. This factory made nothing but Charvel and Jackson guitars. Some of the top luthiers from the Chushin Gakki factory split off in the mid 90's and started Comparison, again having nothing whatsoever to do with FujiGen.

The Chushin Gakki factory is now closed.

DO we need to get into this?

"In 2002, Epiphone began producing a range of higher quality instruments under the "Elitist Series" moniker which were built at the Fuji-Gen workshop in Japan[citation needed]. As of 2008, all of the Elitist models have been discontinued with the exception of the Elitist Casino and the Dwight Trash Casino. The Epiphone Elitist guitars included features such as higher grade woods, bone nuts, hand-rubbed finishes, "Made in the USA" pickups and USA strings.[12] Japanese Domestic Market Elitists used the Gibson Dove-wing headstock as opposed to the "tombstone" headstock used on exports."

Why don't you actually read what was written. It was about your wrong information about Charvel/Jackson.

Why don't you pound the keyboard a little and grind your teeth. I don't care if you feel right or wrong. If it's Fuji Gen or Chuchi Gen or if it's I'maforumterrorist Gen. The sh1t is made in Japan. If you want to pick and pan about nonsense to feel big then go ahead. Make sure you pound the keyboard a little too.

The Elitists, made by Fuji Gen for Epiphone are better than 90% of the Gibsons costing 2X as much. Whatever point you're trying to prove is beyond irrelevant. If it's that I don't know the difference between Fuji Gen and Chushin Gakki then you need a hobby. This thread isn't about that. I hate the internet.

Posted: Thu Feb 07, 2013 11:52 am

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

I hate the internet.

And I still hate Epiphone's so there it is. Impasse Laughing

So Lanning, if it was so great, why did you get rid of it?

and Kris, it's MY opinion and it's my money. Propaganda my ass

Joined: 05 Mar 2012 Posts: 86 Location: Evanston, IL

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

Why don't you pound the keyboard a little and grind your teeth. I don't care if you feel right or wrong. If it's Fuji Gen or Chuchi Gen or if it's I'maforumterrorist Gen. The sh1t is made in Japan. If you want to pick and pan about nonsense to feel big then go ahead. Make sure you pound the keyboard a little too.

The Elitists, made by Fuji Gen for Epiphone are better than 90% of the Gibsons costing 2X as much. Whatever point you're trying to prove is beyond irrelevant. If it's that I don't know the difference between Fuji Gen and Chushin Gakki then you need a hobby. This thread isn't about that. I hate the internet.

Hahahaha, pick and pan nonsense. Grow up little guy. I was just pointing out that you had no clue what you were talking about, as usual. I was discussing Charvel/Jackson and Comparison only. It's so funny to see how butthurt you get when someone points out how you talk out your azz trying to act like a know-it-all.

I never mentioned a damn thing about Elitists or Epiphone, don't give a $hit about them.

I've had my fun with you little guy. Now you go ahead and blow up again so we can all watch this game of wind-up toy.

Joined: 28 Sep 2012 Posts: 379 Location: Kent, UK

Joined: 15 Dec 2008 Posts: 4257 Location: Derry, N Ireland

Pass me over some of that popcorn George Laughing

Posted: Thu Feb 07, 2013 5:09 pm

bazzabalboa wrote:

Pass me over some of that popcorn George Laughing

No, you don't want any of that Baz, George uses manbutter in his popcorn Laughing

j/k George you know your my favorite Son

Posted: Thu Feb 07, 2013 7:47 pm

SRH wrote:

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

Why don't you pound the keyboard a little and grind your teeth. I don't care if you feel right or wrong. If it's Fuji Gen or Chuchi Gen or if it's I'maforumterrorist Gen. The sh1t is made in Japan. If you want to pick and pan about nonsense to feel big then go ahead. Make sure you pound the keyboard a little too.

The Elitists, made by Fuji Gen for Epiphone are better than 90% of the Gibsons costing 2X as much. Whatever point you're trying to prove is beyond irrelevant. If it's that I don't know the difference between Fuji Gen and Chushin Gakki then you need a hobby. This thread isn't about that. I hate the internet.

Hahahaha, pick and pan nonsense. Grow up little guy. I was just pointing out that you had no clue what you were talking about, as usual. I was discussing Charvel/Jackson and Comparison only. It's so funny to see how butthurt you get when someone points out how you talk out your azz trying to act like a know-it-all.

I never mentioned a damn thing about Elitists or Epiphone, don't give a $hit about them.

I've had my fun with you little guy. Now you go ahead and blow up again so we can all watch this game of wind-up toy.

Oh by the way it's Caparison .....not Comparison .... Wink

Carry on ...... Laughing

Joined: 05 Mar 2012 Posts: 86 Location: Evanston, IL

mesa8699 wrote:

Oh by the way it's Caparison .....not Comparison .... Wink

Carry on ...... Laughing

HA ! Good One ! Razz

Joined: 28 Sep 2012 Posts: 379 Location: Kent, UK

Northwinds wrote:

bazzabalboa wrote:

Pass me over some of that popcorn George Laughing

No, you don't want any of that Baz, George uses manbutter in his popcorn Laughing

j/k George you know your my favorite Son

Shhh... thats the secret sauce!

Aww, love ya pops Wink

Joined: 09 Jul 2007 Posts: 341 Location: cali.

Feel the love !
F$%*king Hostile

Joined: 29 Nov 2003 Posts: 12280 Location: PEORIA ILLINOIS

Northwinds wrote:

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

I hate the internet.

And I still hate Epiphone's so there it is. Impasse Laughing

So Lanning, if it was so great, why did you get rid of it?

and Kris, it's MY opinion and it's my money. Propaganda my ass

Posted: Fri Feb 08, 2013 5:33 am

Opinions can be propoganda. Ever watch fox news?

Posted: Fri Feb 08, 2013 6:46 am

The Dean Forum is at DEFCON 1 Laughing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yU2qoKn-n3Y

Posted: Fri Feb 08, 2013 12:23 pm

BLOODROOT wrote:

Northwinds wrote:

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

I hate the internet.

And I still hate Epiphone's so there it is. Impasse Laughing

So Lanning, if it was so great, why did you get rid of it?

and Kris, it's MY opinion and it's my money. Propaganda my ass

Joined: 29 Nov 2003 Posts: 12280 Location: PEORIA ILLINOIS

If they would just change the ugly headstock then epiphones wouldnt be so bad.

Posted: Sun Feb 10, 2013 3:20 am

BLOODROOT wrote:

If they would just change the ugly headstock then epiphones wouldnt be so bad.

Agreed... and change that godawful Epiphone name too. Drop the "phone" and just call them Epi

Joined: 11 Mar 2011 Posts: 343

I'm definitely interested in the Prophecy EX. That midnight sapphire is beautiful. Might pick me one up with tax return cash.

Posted: Thu Feb 14, 2013 12:27 am

for what they are, epiphones are great. i don't see why everybody hates them so much. sure, they can't compare to a gibson, but not everybody can afford a gibson.

i don't like the headstock either! haha!

Joined: 15 Dec 2008 Posts: 4257 Location: Derry, N Ireland

Brave Dave wrote:

for what they are, epiphones are great. i don't see why everybody hates them so much. sure, they can't compare to a gibson, but not everybody can afford a gibson.

i don't like the headstock either! haha!

The headstock isnt great, but since its the same headstock as my first guitar, I will always have a soft spot for it!!

And you are correct sir, 99 times out of 100 they wont compare to a Gibson, but if you find that 1/100 that feels plays and sounds great, buy it!! I own a Gibson and due to the value of the object I rarely play it, so Epiphones make sense to anyone with a collection, and who babies their gear Laughing

Joined: 20 Jul 2007 Posts: 1749 Location: NJ

bazzabalboa wrote:

I own a Gibson and due to the value of the object I rarely play it, so Epiphones make sense to anyone with a collection, and who babies their gear Laughing

WHAT?!

Dude, play the hell out of that thing, that's WHY you bought it!!!

If you're gigging and worried, then yes, Epiphone is the way to go, or maybe a beat up Gibson that you got super cheap.

I hate scratching and dinging my guitars too, but sh!t happens, and unless you have it in a glass case with a spotlight shining on it so you can admire it every day what good is it doing sitting in it's case???

Laughing

Posted: Thu Feb 14, 2013 8:53 am

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151528074463974&set=a.84239663973.102129.68093208973&type=1&theater

Joined: 11 Mar 2011 Posts: 343

I don't know... I don't have the $$ to spend on high-end guitars. But I can play the midrange ones very well and can't imagine what would be so amazingly different between a $600-800 guitar and one at least twice as much.

I remember talking to this one dude about his Suhr guitars, and I tactfully asked what was great and special about them that warranted the $3000 price. His answer: "Its like a Cadillac!" along with other nondescriptive terms. Yeah, that really helps. I think my Squier Deluxe is the "Cadillac" of Squiers, so now what? Wink

Anyway, its funny that people trash talk Epiphone vs Gibson, but are more tolerant of import Deans, Ibanez, Jacksons and other companies that put their own name on their imports as opposed to using a different brand name.

Joined: 09 Jul 2007 Posts: 341 Location: cali.

For me it is cliché but like the foreigner song, " that one guitar felt good in his hands"
I have all ways raved about my old 70's ebay Gibson SG's but at the same time I have bad mouthed a ton of the newer Gibson stuff. I just flat out do not like them.
I have seen some of the old vintage Epiphones going for Gibson vintage prices.
I bought my son a LP epi copy in the 90's and honestly the only complaint I had was the machine heads could not hold tune but I have seen this even in a couple late model LP's.

Joined: 28 Mar 2006 Posts: 5498 Location: White Haven,Pa

ML Tib wrote:

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151528074463974&set=a.84239663973.102129.68093208973&type=1&theater

Fake Ace with a fake Les Paul. Laughing

Joined: 13 Feb 2004 Posts: 5634 Location: phoenix az.

Lanning is Killdozer wrote:

Epiphone has been around almost 20 years longer than Gibson. How many other companies make "Almost Les Pauls"? ESP, LTD, Orville, Tokai and a host of others. In your avatar you're playing an "Almost Gibson V". Laughing

no im playing a dean v which is much cooler in my book.something about epiphones doesn't do it for me

Joined: 13 Feb 2004 Posts: 5634 Location: phoenix az.

BLOODROOT wrote:

If they would just change the ugly headstock then epiphones wouldnt be so bad.

i think thats what it is for me to.

Joined: 27 Sep 2005 Posts: 1413 Location: Dallas, TX

I have a Gibby goldtop Studio and a white Epi Custom. I'd love to have all Gibson guitars but the decent models are just too pricey for me right now in this stage of my life, need too many other things that are more important so it all boils down to what I can afford. I love the looks of the Custom but there was no way I could afford to buy Gibson's version at a min of $2,500 used so I scooped up the Epiphone on the cheap.

I put alot of work into the Epi though and it's a sick playing guitar....81/85 combo, new nut, fret level, etc. They can be real nice players but they are a bit to be desired right out of the box and a pickup swap is just mandatory. I don't even want to get into the debate that some Epi's play as nice as Gibson's....anyone in their right mind would take a Gibson over an Epi every time IF money were no object. These guitars just have their place in the market at that price point. One thing that I do like about the Epi's as a copy is they have the same body thickness of the original Les Paul. The ESP LTD single cuts, Carvin's, PRS SE models, ect all have thinner bodies.

As far as the Studio's go the newer ones are alot nicer than the older versions. Mine is a 2012 model and it's flawless and what I could afford at the time. I do agree though....the Epi headstock is just f'ing terrible looking, they really should change it to the Gibson style.

Posted: Sat Feb 16, 2013 8:59 am

Eternal Scar wrote:

ML Tib wrote:

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151528074463974&set=a.84239663973.102129.68093208973&type=1&theater

Fake Ace with a fake Les Paul. Laughing

hahahahaha I know that. Laughing

Chump had his roadies un plug my Orange cabinets, back when we headlined over them in 83. I wanted to say he was not good enough to warrant a Gibson Signature like Ace was, but I was afraid of possibly offending some Tommy fans.

Look what a pretty boy he was in 1983.

Posted: Sat Feb 16, 2013 9:22 am

emunder wrote:

I have a Gibby goldtop Studio and a white Epi Custom. I'd love to have all Gibson guitars but the decent models are just too pricey for me right now in this stage of my life, need too many other things that are more important so it all boils down to what I can afford. I love the looks of the Custom but there was no way I could afford to buy Gibson's version at a min of $2,500 used so I scooped up the Epiphone on the cheap.

You can always buy a used one. I saw a nice Cherry burst Les Paul at Guitar Center for $1299 back when I bought my 335.

Joined: 28 Mar 2006 Posts: 5498 Location: White Haven,Pa

ML Tib wrote:

Eternal Scar wrote:

ML Tib wrote:

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151528074463974&set=a.84239663973.102129.68093208973&type=1&theater

Fake Ace with a fake Les Paul. Laughing

hahahahaha I know that. Laughing

Chump had his roadies un plug my Orange cabinets, back when we headlined over them in 83. I wanted to say he was not good enough to warrant a Gibson Signature like Ace was, but I was afraid of possibly offending some Tommy fans.

Look what a pretty boy he was in 1983.

Don't ever be afraid to say the truth bro!!He is not good enough to get a Gibson signature that's why he's playing the Epi!

Posted: Sat Feb 16, 2013 3:51 pm

ML Tib wrote:

Eternal Scar wrote:

ML Tib wrote:

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151528074463974&set=a.84239663973.102129.68093208973&type=1&theater

Fake Ace with a fake Les Paul. Laughing

hahahahaha I know that. Laughing

Chump had his roadies un plug my Orange cabinets, back when we headlined over them in 83. I wanted to say he was not good enough to warrant a Gibson Signature like Ace was, but I was afraid of possibly offending some Tommy fans.

Look what a pretty boy he was in 1983.

Man, Tommy has close set eyes. I wonder if he got punched in the head simutaneously on both sides and they got squeezed together LOL

Posted: Sat Feb 16, 2013 4:00 pm

Northwinds wrote:

ML Tib wrote:

Eternal Scar wrote:

ML Tib wrote:

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151528074463974&set=a.84239663973.102129.68093208973&type=1&theater

Fake Ace with a fake Les Paul. Laughing

hahahahaha I know that. Laughing

Chump had his roadies un plug my Orange cabinets, back when we headlined over them in 83. I wanted to say he was not good enough to warrant a Gibson Signature like Ace was, but I was afraid of possibly offending some Tommy fans.

Look what a pretty boy he was in 1983.

Man, Tommy has close set eyes. I wonder if he got punched in the head simutaneously on both sides and they got squeezed together LOL

Not near as bad as the Singer, Jamie???, in the middle.

Joined: 11 Mar 2011 Posts: 343

Speaking of Epi's, there's also the Matt Heafy Signature 6 and 7 strings:

http://www.epiphone.com/News/Features/Features/2013/Ltd-Ed-Matthew-K-Heafy-Epiphone-Les-Paul-Custom.aspx

What I like about it is he's been playing the exact same Korean-made model on the road and in the studio as of late.

Joined: 15 Dec 2008 Posts: 4257 Location: Derry, N Ireland

nomadic wrote:

Speaking of Epi's, there's also the Matt Heafy Signature 6 and 7 strings:

http://www.epiphone.com/News/Features/Features/2013/Ltd-Ed-Matthew-K-Heafy-Epiphone-Les-Paul-Custom.aspx

What I like about it is he's been playing the exact same Korean-made model on the road and in the studio as of late.

I like what they have done with the heal on that model. Looks classy.

Joined: 21 Jul 2008 Posts: 632 Location: Yorkshire, England

bazzabalboa wrote:

nomadic wrote:

Speaking of Epi's, there's also the Matt Heafy Signature 6 and 7 strings:

http://www.epiphone.com/News/Features/Features/2013/Ltd-Ed-Matthew-K-Heafy-Epiphone-Les-Paul-Custom.aspx

What I like about it is he's been playing the exact same Korean-made model on the road and in the studio as of late.

I like what they have done with the heal on that model. Looks classy.

I think epiphone did a custom run of 7 string LP's a while back, always wanted one. I'm glad they've put this out, tempted to get one.

Joined: 11 Mar 2011 Posts: 343

bazzabalboa wrote:

I like what they have done with the heal on that model. Looks classy.

Yeah, the Axcess heal, the one Neal Schon claims Gibson ripped off of him for his never-produced signature LP (which according to him became the Axcess).