Epiphone Launches the new Emperor Swingster Hollow-Body Guitar

Epiphone Launches the new Emperor Swingster Hollow-body Guitar Designed for Musicians Who Appreciate Exceptional Playability and Effortless Style

Nashville, Tennessee - October 12, 2009... Leading guitar maker Epiphone is best known for making some of the best and most innovative hollow-body guitars such as the Casino, Sheraton and Riviera to name a few. Never one to question creativity, Epiphone has created a guitar which features the best of their classic and best loved models, introducing the Epiphone Emperor Swingster. Starting with the same body and neck as used on their Emperor-II guitar and made famous by the jazz master himself, Joe Pass, Epiphone swings into action and turns it into a serious rock-a-billy slinging, country flinging' instrument at the same time retaining a modern and contemporary feel.

The Epiphone Emperor Swingster has what it takes to satisfy any professional's demand for great one. The Epiphone Emperor Swingster features series/parallel switching controlled by two push/pull tone controls. This allows you to change each pickup's output individually from parallel to series wiring creating a palette of useful sounds to tap into, ranging from warm humbuckers to "quacky" single-coil type sounds and everything in-between. Naturally all good swinging machines need a vibrato and the Swingster is no exception featuring a Bigsby Licensed B30 with original style wire handle as preferred by "Certified Guitar Player" and legend, Chet Atkins. Epiphone spares no expense by adding a "pinned" tune-o-matic bridge with roller saddles for smooth operation and accurate return to pitch which is preferred when using a vibrato. Other professional features include a hand-scalloped arched spruce top combined with a laminated arched-back Flame Maple body and glued-in 3-piece Hard Maple neck. At the heart of the guitar are Epiphone's new SwingBucker pickups. Specially designed for the Emperor Swingster, the humbuckers offer no-hum performance and feature classic Alnico-V magnets, enamel wire and over-wound coils for the perfect combination of warmth and bite.

Topping it all off are Epiphone's trademark, multi-bound headstock with the classic mother-of-pearl "vine" inlay, premium Grover(tm) tuners and a multi-bound, 20 fret Rosewood fingerboard with block inlay. The Epiphone Emperor Swingster comes in a variety of finishes including Trans Black, Wine Red and Sunrise Orange. Epiphone proudly stands by every guitar they make by supporting it with a Limited Lifetime Warranty and Gibson 24/7/365 Customer Service. If you're ready for a professional guitar with unique features and an attractive price tag, make sure to check out the new Emperor Swingster today.

Guitar Edge Reviews The Epiphone Dove

Be sure to check out the December 2009 issue of Guitar Edge Magazine. On page 147 Pat Smith reviews the Epiphone Dove. Here's a sneak peek at Pat's conclusion:

"For the money, an aspiring folkie would be hard pressed to find a better guitar than this Epiphone Dove."

Guitar Player Reviews The 1962 Wilshire Reissue

Be sure to pick up a copy of the September 2009 issue of Guitar Player. On page #86 Dave Hunter does a full review of the Limited Edition 1962 Wilshire Reissue. Dave concludes that the Wilshire Reissue is "Well made and very playable. Plenty of gutsy P-90 mojo. Some surprising sonic twists."

BetterGuitar.com Reviews The LP Ultra

BetterGuitar.com recently reviewed the Epiphone Les Paul Ultra. Here's what they had to say:

Epiphone Les Paul Ultra
Review by Mark Starlin

For many guitar players (myself included), the Les Paul represents the ultimate guitar design. Although it is truly a matter of personal taste, the Les Paul’s perfect symmetry and the beauty of its simplicity make it an undeniable classic. And when you factor in the legion of guitar heroes who have wielded the axe, its cool factor goes through the roof. Unfortunately, the cost of a new Gibson Les Paul is beyond reach of many students and working musicians. Realizing this, Gibson also provides Les Paul models under its less expensive Epiphone brand, providing nearly everyone a chance to enjoy a Les Paul of their very own.

The Ultra

While the Epiphone Les Paul Ultra is a beauty, it is more than just the same old Les Paul wrapped in new cosmetics. In fact, it contains two significant changes from the standard Les Paul line. The first change is evident the minute you pick up the guitar. If you are expecting the heft of a standard Les Paul, you will be surprised at its lighter (around 5.5 pounds) weight. The weight reduction was achieved by carving chambers out its Mahogany body. This not only makes the Ultra much more comfortable to play for long periods, it also has a major impact on its tone (which I will discuss later.)

Another new comfort feature is the “belly contour” on the back of the guitar. This contour allows the guitar to hug your body closely when sitting down, although I found that the rather abrupt end of the contour where it nears the pickup selector electronics actually poked into my belly. It wasn’t uncomfortable, but noticeable. I guess this feature’s usefulness depends on your body size and how you wear the guitar.

Construction

The Ultra is constructed in Korea and inspected by Epiphone technicians before shipping to dealers. The body is chambered Mahogany, with a quilted Maple top. The neck is Mahogany with a Rosewood fingerboard and satin finish. It has a slightly narrower 42mm neck than the standard 43mm Les Paul neck. It has Grover tuners, an Alnico Classic pickup in the neck position, and a HOT Alnico Classic pickup at the bridge. The body and neck are bound with single-ply cream binding. Construction was solid throughout, although the guitar I received for review had a warped (bowed) pickguard. Epiphone assured me this was probably the result of shipping, as the guitars go through thorough inspection before shipping. A pickguard is easily replaceable by a dealer and has no effect on the tone, so I continued with the review.

Playability

The most common complaint about Les Pauls is their weight. The Ultra’s lighter weight makes the guitar less tiring for long gigs and jam sessions. The neck is a “medium” thickness and is ruler flat. The action was perfect out of the box and there were no buzzes or dead spots on the neck. There were no sharp edges on the fret ends, but file marks were visible on many frets and all along the binding. The neck is very fast and felt quite smooth for having a satin finish. The Ultra’s light weight and fast neck make it great fun to play.

Tone

Here is where the Ultra makes a major departure from its solid chuck of Mahogany brethren. The chambers carved out of the Ultra’s body have a very noticeable effect on its tone. Acoustically it is much more “alive” than a standard Les Paul. When using a clean setting on my amp, the Ultra had a more acoustic quality to its tone than my Les Paul Custom. It’s not bright like a Strat, but it does seem to resonate more than a typical Les Paul. The biggest difference, however, came when I added some overdrive. The attack was less defined and overall the tone was less focused than my Custom. The best analogy is a semi-hollowbody guitar with more sustain. Which makes sense since, technically, a semi-hollowbody is what the Ultra is.

If you are looking for a thick bluesy tone, a clean rootsy tone, or a raging garage band/punk tone, the Ultra may be just your cup of tea. Fans of guitar noise will appreciate that the Ultra makes it easier to get feedback than the typical solidbody. Shredders, metal fans, or those looking for well-defined attack and chords would do better with a standard solidbody Les Paul. The Ultra’s tone is not your typical Les Paul tone, so you will want to give it a good workout before you decide if it’s right for you.

Final Thoughts

When you name something “Ultra”, you are setting the bar pretty high. Does the Ultra live up to its name? That depends on your vision of the ultimate guitar. If you consider its attractive faded Cherry-burst, quilted Maple top, gold hardware, cream binding and pickguard, the Ultra has the looks department covered. If you like a fast, flat neck, the Ultra provides it. If you long for a lighter Les Paul, check that off your list also. If you want a more acoustic clean tone and a “raging” distorted tone, the Ultra is calling your name. And if you want it all at an affordable price, the Ultra may be just the ticket.

Epi Les Pauls, Built To Perform, Night After Night, Gig After Gig

The classic design of the Les Paul electric guitar is timeless. With a unique combination of mahogany and maple, the signature sound of the Les Paul has defined rock and roll for over 50 years. For over 130 years, Epiphone has been passionately designing and making guitars and basses built to perform. You can count on Epiphone to give you time-tested designs, top-quality electronics and consistent performance from models like the Les Paul.

Mahogany/Maple Set Neck Construction: A unique combination of mahogany and maple give the Les Paul it's signature sound, a sound that has defined rock and roll for over 50 years.

3+3 Headstock: More spacing and larger buttons make our 3+3 headstock and tuner design easier and faster to use.

Tune-o-matic Bridge: Fully adjustable, the Tune-o-matic remains a classic after over 50 years. Unlike guitars fitted with tremolos, there are no tuning or restringing difficulties. Plus, tone and sustain are improved because all string vibrations are transferred directly to the guitar.

Angled Headstock: Unlike less costly designs, all Epiphone Les Pauls feature a 14 degree headstock that gives you more pressure at the nut so you get more sustain with less tuning hang-ups caused by "string-tree" gadgets.

Grover Machine Heads: All Epiphone guitars and basses feature premium, precision tuners for ease of use, excellent tuning stability and long life.

Quick-Connector: For unequaled reliability as well as ease of service, Epiphone wiring harnesses feature quick-connectors.

All-Metal Toggle Switch: Proven for years to be the most reliable, our all-metal toggle switches use rugged spring-steel contacts to ensure years of reliable service and performance.

Full-Size Potentiometers: We're passionate about performance. That's why our instruments use 1" diameter potentiometers for better "throw", longer life and reliable service.

Output Jack: To increase reliability and ensure consistent performance, our proprietary output jacks feature an improved contact shape and heavy-duty spring steel.

Double Vacuum Waxing: Epiphone utilizes a vacuum waxing process that ensures optimum performance. The pickup is first placed in the specialized wax vacuuming system before the cover is placed on the unit to ensure that the wax fully penetrates to the very center of the pickup and solidifies all parts. After the cover is placed on, it is again given a second vacuum, wax bath until the unit is completely saturated in wax. Epiphone uses only the highest quality parts for it's pickups. ABS plastic bobbins, 1010 Coil Rolled Steel pole shoes and pole screws, Alnico and ceramic magnets and the finest magnet wire available.

Guitarist Magazine Reviews The Epiphone DR-500MCE and Inspired By 1964 Texan

Check out the September 2010 issue of Guitarist Magazine. On page 97 Steve Harvey takes an in-depth look at two Epiphone acoustic guitars... the Masterbilt DR-500MCE and the Inspired By 1964 Texan. Mr. Harvey concluded:

Epiphone, as ever, has produced two great vintage-looking guitars that both benefit from a little modern technology... Both are also excellent value for money, especially the DR-500 with its solid back and sides and Shadow NanoMag system.

Epiphone Offers A Wide Range Of SG Guitars

Looking back, it seems that almost every legendary guitarist has used an SG at some point in their career. From George Harrison's’s use of it on “Revolver” to Clapton’s use of it on “Disraeli Gears” to Santana’s mesmerizing Woodstock performance to Jimmy Page’s “Stairway to Heaven” double-neck duty, the appeal of the “two-horned devil” is universal. Today, Angus Young of AC/DC, Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, Pete Townsend of The Who, Elliot Easton of the Cars, as well as countless others reach for the SG to give them the look, tone and feel they need.

Originally introduced in 1961 bearing Les Paul’s name, the then radical ultra-thin, two-horned solid body electric guitar was intended to bring an entirely new look to the Les Paul line up. Sales of the traditional thick bodied, single-cut Les Paul guitar had seemingly peaked in 1959 and Gibson wanted a fresh look. Nicknamed the “Fretless Wonder” because of its ultra-fast neck with easy access all the way up the fingerboard, the guitar was designed by Gibson engineers and targeted to compete with the thin, double cutaway guitars from Leo Fender. In 1963, due to issues related to Les’ divorce from Mary Ford and subsequent contract negotiations, Les’ name was dropped and the new name “SG” emerged. Gibson had used the name before simply to mean “Solid Guitar.” However, this time the name stuck and the rest, so they say, is history.

Epiphone offers a wide range of SG guitars suitable for every player’s budget and style. Don’t settle for an imitation. You deserve the real deal. Visit your Authorized Epiphone Retailer today and feel the SG difference.

SG Special: Now everyone can own the classic styling and killer performance of the SG with our most affordable SG guitar – the SG Special. Features include an Epiphone 650R humbucker in the rhythm position and a 650T in the treble position. Both feature powerful ceramic-VIII magnets and traditional noise-free humbucker tone with the 650T being slightly over-wound for a little hotter output and enhanced highs. Controls include a master volume, master tone and a three-way pickup selector toggle switch. Available colors are Cherry and Ebony. Hard case available (part #940-EGCS).

G-310: The G-310 brings traditional SG looks to the party with its full-face pickguard, dual-open coil humbuckers and individual pickup volume/tone controls. As with all Epiphone SG’s, the combination tunomatic bridge with stopbar tailpiece anchors directly to the body creating the tone and sustain you’ve come to expect from a rock guitar. Available colors are Ebony, Red and Vintage White. Hard case available (part #940-EGCS).

Emily the Strange G-310: This limited edition model features the 13-year-olds “anti-cool” face and other familiar graphics from the character created on the Internet by the Cosmic Debris company. It comes with a custom gigbag and strap, both bearing Emily the Strange graphics. All other features are the same as the G-310.

G-400: When you’re really ready to rock, it’s time to pick up an Epiphone G-400. This faithful reproduction of its legendary ancestor, the 1962 Gibson SG, possesses all the bite, tone and comfort at a price that’s also legendary. Its solid mahogany body and set (glued in) mahogany neck combined with the tunomatic/stopbar give it excellent sustain and powerful SG tone. Add to that, two Alnico Classic humbuckers (with an Alnico Classic Plus in the bridge position) with an effortless Slim-Taper™ neck and you’re on your way to rock-‘n-roll heaven. Available colors are Cherry and Ebony. Hard case available (part #940-EGCS).

“Faded” G-400: They’re relatively NEW to the SG line up but they look OLD. One run up the 22 fret, worn-finish neck and you’ll be hooked. Our “faded” finishes give the G-400 that well-worn look and feel you in an aged guitar. We’ve also even added “aged” pearl inlays to complete the vintage vibe. Available colors are Worn Brown and Worn Cherry. Hard case available (part #940-EGCS).

G-400 Deluxe: The G-400 Deluxe has all the same great features of the G-400 except we’ve added a gorgeous, flame maple top. Available in Vintage Sunburst. Hard case available (part #940-EGCS).

G-400 Custom: Originally named the “Les Paul Custom” (as indicated on the neck plate) the G-400 Custom is a reproduction of the original “Fretless Wonder” originally introduced back in 1961. The “Custom” brings a level of sophistication and elegance to the SG line with it’s gold hardware, bound fingerboard with multi-bound headstock and ornate pearl inlays. Unique to the Custom, is its three pickup configuration and pickup controls that allow infinite blending combinations and tonal variations. Available in traditional Antique Ivory. Hard case available (part #940-EGCS).

Tony Iommi Signature G-400: What do you get when you take a traditional SG and give it steroids? The answer is the Tony Iommi signature G-400. Legendary Black Sabbath guitarist, Tony Iommi started with the 1962 SG but added a longer 24-fret neck for a full two-octave range, his signature “cross” inlays on the fingerboard, black hardware and Gibson USA “Tony Iommi” pickups. Hard case available (part #940-EGCS).

Using a totally unique design, this is the first signature pickup made by Gibson. With its closed cover it's built to pack a real punch, with blistering mids, razor-sharp highs and balanced low-end. The "patent-applied-for" magnet configuration and special wire winding ensure maximized sustain, while the wax and epoxy potting protects against unwanted feedback.

Also available in left-handed version. Available color is Ebony.

G-1275 Double-Neck Custom SG: Think of all the possibilities… Originally introduced in 1962, it features a 12-string and a 6-neck combined on a modified SG body. Epiphone’s G-1275 is a reproduction of the one made famous by Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin) with open-coil humbuckers on the 6-string neck and the two tailpieces positioned further back on the body. Available in traditional Cherry finish. Hard case available (part #940-EDOBL).

The perfect SG is waiting for you. Visit your Authorized Epiphone Dealer Today!

If you want to find out even more about SG’s, be sure to also visit the following websites:

www.gibson.com
www.epiphone.com
www.everythingsg.com
www.thewho.org/sg.htm

Presenting... A Zakk Wylde Original!

There's no question that Zakk Wylde is a one-of-a-kind performer and guitarist. As the lead guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne and founding leader of Black Label Society, Zakk has torched many a stage with his unique style and performance. Winner of multiple "Most Valuable Guitarist" awards in the metal genre, Zakk combines pure speed shredding with the use of pinch harmonics and chickin' pickin' to create a wall of sound that's second to none. And like Zakk, his new limited edition Epiphone "Graveyard Disciple" will also light up a stage.

Scary Good Looks! You may have already caught a glimpse on YouTube of Zakk performing on the 2009 "Peddle to the Metal" tour and caught a glimpse of this monster on stage. Designed by Zakk in cooperation with Epiphone, the new Graveyard Disciple combines killer sound with equally killer looks. Shaped like a coffin, the edges of the body are tapered and "pin-striped" in silver giving it a striking visual appearance and depth while providing for a comfortable feel. Pick one up on stage and you will raise the dead!

Dying to be Played: While looks are important, the new Graveyard Disciple doesn't compromise in the performance department either. As with most all Zakk's guitars, the neck is made of Hard Maple for bright attack and glued into a solid Mahogany body adding a touch of warm and of course, sustain. The neck features a "D" profile, SlimTaper neck with a smooth, satin finish for fast and effortless lead work. Top it off with a bound, Ebony fingerboard and medium-jumbo frets with easy access to all 22 frets and you've got a real performance guitar that's dying to be played.

EMG Pickups and Floyd Rose Tremolo: Perfectly paired for hard rock and metal, the Graveyard Disciple combines an original Floyd Rose(tm) tremolo with EMG HZ pickups. The tremolo cavity allows for serious dive bombing as well as pull-ups. The EMG HZ-4A is positioned in the bridge position for optimized lead performance while the EMG HZ-4 is voiced for and positioned in the neck position. Designed to emulate the sound of their active counterparts (the EMG 81 and 85), these HZ's are probably the quietest passive pickups available. And unlike actives, you never have to worry about these babies showing up dead.

Attention to Detail: Other features on the new Graveyard Disciple include a multi-bound headstock with mother-of-pearl "cross" inlay, black hardware with premium 16:1 ratio Grover(tm) machine heads, Mother-of-Pearl topped metal knobs, Epiphone's non-rotating output jack and Zakk's signature silhouette on the back of the headstock. For added comfort and convenience while playing in the seated position, the guitar features the brilliantly designed and patented Steinberger LegRest. Fold it down and rest it on your leg. Fold it up and it practically disappears.

Premium Add-Ons: With a guitar like this, you need to carry it in style and so it comes with a custom-made Coffin(tm) case featuring the "Graveyard Disciple" artwork on it. And for this limited edition model, you also get a Certificate of Authenticity.

It may look dead but it will last a lifetime! As with every Epiphone, it features their Limited Lifetime warranty backed by world famous 24/7/365 day Gibson Customer Service. Plug one in and wake the dead today!

Guitarist Magazine Lists Nighthawk Custom as Top Ten From NAMM

Guitarist Magazine (UK) is announcing their "Top Ten products from NAMM 2011" in the March 2011 issue and we are happy to say that the Epiphone Nighthawk Custom is included.

MusicRadar.com Reviews the Epiphone Slash Appetite Les Paul Standard

MusicRadar.com recently posted a review of the Epiphone Slash Appetite Les Paul Standard and awarded it 5 out of 5 stars. Henry Yates had this to say:

"Every position is a joy: the buttery, bell-like warmth of the Rhythm setting, the hot bite of the bridge, the pugnacious punch when you park the selector in the middle. We can genuinely say it sounds killer when played sans reverb or distortion."

"Luthiers take note: this is how you make a killer signature model."

"This Slash Epi sets the bar for all signature models, subtly different from the Les Paul template and a joy to play."

The Epiphone Les Paul Studio

The Epiphone Les Paul Studio enhances the solid, proven design of the world’s most famous guitar with a sleek, no-frills look. A favorite among guitarists who demand value, the Les Paul Studio offers traditional Les Paul performance with a modern attitude.

The Epiphone Les Paul Studio features a Stop-Bar tailpiece with Tune-o-Matic bridge. This set-up remains a classic after over 50 years and provides improved tone and sustain because all string vibrations are transferred directly to the guitar. Two high-output humbucker pickups provide the power.

Set neck construction provides unparalleled sustain with fast, easy access to the upper frets.

Unlike less costly designs, all Epiphone Les Paul Studios feature a 14 degree headstock that gives you more pressure at the nut so you get more sustain with less tuning hang-ups caused by "string-tree" gadgets. Grover tuners provide excellent tuning stability.

The solid Mahogany no-frills body offers traditional Les Paul performance and tone at unmatched value. The Epiphone Les Paul Studio is available in Ebony, Vintage Sunburst, Wine Red and as pictured above, Heritage Cherry Sunburst.

A traditional pickguard keeps your Les Paul Studio looking great for years.

Volume and tone controls for each pickup with three-way pickup selector provide limitless tone variations. To increase reliability and ensure consistent performance, our proprietary output jacks feature an improved contact shape and heavy-duty spring steel.

Joe Hurley's 10th Annual All Star Irish Rock Revue

Guitarist Mark Bosch is pictured above with an Epiphone Custom "Irish Flag Guitar" at Joe Hurley's 10th Annual All star Irish Rock Revue at (Le) Poisson Rouge in New York City held on St. Patrick's Day. This year the annual “Paddy Rock & Roll Circus” also celebrated the 80th-birthday of the Irish-American newspaper The Irish Echo. Hurley and friends performed hits from U2, Van Morrison and others.

Epiphone created this custom one-of-a-kind "Irish Flag Guitar" three years ago and it only comes out once a year to be seen and heard.

Epiphone Rocks Turner Field With 96rock Atlanta

On your next trip to Turner Field in Atlanta, take a moment to stop by the 96rock tent and register to win a brand new Epiphone electric guitar covered in autographs from some of your favorite Braves players! Epiphone has teamed up with the Atlanta rock station to give a guitar away at each of the remaining Braves homestand games.

Epiphone Limited Edition Special-II Guitars

Epiphone's BEST SELLING electric guitar just got HOTTER! Two new "Limited Edition" versions of the Special-II have just been introduced!

Limited Edition Special-II "Hot Rod" Guitar
This beauty offers guitarists something unique at a smokin price. With a Custom "Flame" graphic on the body, "Limited Edition" logo on the back of the headstock and all the other features that have made the Special-II a best seller, this is a must! And the best part is....the Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is only $332.00!

Limited Edition Special-II "Dr Skull" Guitar
For those on the edge! With Custom "Skull & Anarchy" graphics on the front, "Limited Edition" logo on the back of the headstock and all the other features that have made the Special-II a best seller, this guitar will set you apart from the crowd! Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is only $332.00!

BetterGuitar.com Reviews The Epiphone Faded G-400

Imagine yourself as a Gibson executive back in 1961. Sales of Les Paul guitars are dropping off. Rock and Roll is changing the music business, including tastes in guitars. So you do the (now) unthinkable. You redesign the Les Paul. Not just a minor makeover, a radical new guitar design with double horn-shaped cutaways and a thin body. Les Paul himself is not impressed and asks to have his name removed from the guitar, which is temporarily renamed SG for “solid guitar.” The name sticks and the SG becomes a success. And fortunately Gibson management comes to their senses and reissues the original Les Paul body style a few years later giving them two very popular rock guitars. The Epiphone Faded G-400 is based on the Gibson SG design and bares its name on its truss rod cover plate.
Construction

The G-400 I received for review totally exceeded my expectations. Construction was flawless. I even opened the back control plate looking for sloppy workmanship only to find a shielded cavity with spotless wiring. The guitar had a rich, beautiful “faded” red satin finish. Even my wife commented on how nice it looked. It also comes in a worn brown finish [pictured.] The only thing I didn’t care for was the bright orange pickup selector switch, but this is an easy swap for those who prefer something less colorful like black. The neck action was great right out of the box, low and fast with no buzzes. Fretwork was also impressive with no sharp edges. The neck inlays had an aged look to them which worked well with the “faded” finish. The neck itself is on the thicker side of things, but I had no problems with it. It came with chrome hardware and Grover tuners. At this price range, I was very impressed.
Tone

The Faded G-400 comes with two humbucker pickups, a 57N in the neck position and a HOT-B in the bridge position. I tested the G-400 through a Mesa/Boogie Mark II tube amp (6L6 tubes), a Traynor Custom Valve 20 tube amp (EL84 tubes), and a Fender Jazzmaster Ultralight solid-state amplifier. The overall tone was somewhat dark and muffled when played clean, especially the 57N which was somewhat lifeless. The Hot-B pickup had more bite. But once you turned on the overdrive it cranked out 70’s riff rock tone with ease. Let’s state the obvious. You’re not going to buy an SG style guitar to play jazz. The G-400 wants to rock, and rock alone.
Playability

The neck on the Faded G-400 is a joy to play. I had great fun rocking out with this dude. But like any SG style guitar it is headstock heavy, and when wearing a strap the neck will pull toward the ground. Most players get used to this quickly and it becomes a non-issue, but it is an issue for some, so you’ve been warned.
Final Thoughts

The Faded G-400 is a great rock axe. It features flawless construction and an awesome finish. It may not be the most versatile guitar, but if you want to crank out some classic rock licks the Faded G-400 will look the part and sound good doing it.
Reader Comments

Better Guitar encourages your input. Agree with this review? Think I’m crazy? If you have played an Epiphone Faded G-400, email me your comments and I’ll post them below. The more opinions we have available, the better our buying decisions will be.
Brian Driver

I just got an Epi Faded Brown SG and I loved it! Beautiful finish, plays great, good frets (not common in a cheap guitar) and a great price $300.00. Only a couple of things wrong. First, the "Grover" tuners wouldn't stay in tune, and the orange toggle switch was kinda ugly. So I put U.S.A. Grovers on it, and a tan toggle switch cover on it. I might cut a bone nut for it but not in a big hurry! The guitar is VERY light! So it's great for practice around the house (as opposed to my Gibson LP STD!) I actually like the stock pickups. The bridge PU is VERY hot! Great for rock. Also I was really impressed with the access to all of the frets COULDN'T BE EASIER! Overall, a great value for the price!
Tris Stevens

Hi, got an Epiphone G400 Vintage faded cherry [the previous version of the Faded G-400] in the UK about 3 years ago. Nice guitar, some sharp fret edges and buzzes but fine after a fret dress. Very good value for money (they're even cheaper now), pickups fine for this price range. I also have a Gibson 61 reissue so it's easy to see where corners have been cut on the Epi (although they've been very neatly cut, tidy workmanship throughout apart from a couple of slightly askew tuners!) That said it's a good all round gigger at an amazing price. I also have an Epi Korina SG which is a sweetie.
Tom Domoslai

I recently purchased a Faded G-400. I love it!!! The first thing I noticed upon inspecting it, was that it was made from a solid piece of Mahogany, not a laminated Alder/Mahogany combo. This guitar wreaks of quality. The one I bought was actually a factory second because of a minor blemish, I paid a lot less as well. I can’t say enough about this guitar, It is light and plays like a dream. It sounds pretty good too. I may change the pickups just because I prefer Seymour Duncan’s. It is just a great guitar, as are the 4 other Epi’s I have. You just can’t beat them for the price and the quality.

Epiphone Player Pack - LP PeeWee RaveRig

Les Paul PeeWee RaveRig: At Ѕ the size of standard electric guitars, don’t let this Les Paul fool you. Its full-width neck and powerful humbucking pickup make it the perfect choice for kids and adults looking to take the party everywhere and anywhere!

• Classic Les Paul Shape: Since its introduction in 1952, the Les Paul has become synonymous with rock’n’roll. More great guitarists have played the Les Paul over the last 50 years than any other rock guitar. Pick one up today and find out why.

• Angled Headstock: Unlike cheaper designs, all Epiphone’s feature a 14-degree headstock that gives you more pressure at the nut and so you get more sustain with less tuning hang-ups caused by “string-tree” gadgets.

• Upgraded Controls: All Epiphone’s feature traditional large diameter potentiometers for smoother range and longer life.

• Upgraded Switches: All Epiphones feature our all-metal, USA designed switches for reliable contact and longer life.

• Rosewood Fingerboards: All Epiphone player packs feature guitars and basses with Rosewood fingerboards for smoother feel and longer life. Plus, dirt and grunge doesn’t show like on cheaper maple fingerboards.

• Humbucking Pickup: If you wanna Rock, you gotta have a humbucker! With its dual-coil design that eliminates unwanted “hum”, humbuckers are the choice of professional rockers worldwide. Rich, rock tone with no noise – don’t settle for less!

• Three-On-A-Side Machine Heads: More spacing and larger buttons make our 3+3 headstock and tuner design easier and faster to use.

• Precision Machine Heads: All Epiphone guitars and basses feature premium, precision tuners for ease of use, excellent tuning stability and long life.

• Everything You Need: All Epiphone Player Packs feature everything you need to get you started including…

Deluxe Gigbag
Strap
Picks
Cord

Epiphone Proudly Supports Hard Rock's Pinktober

Hard Rock International announced the launch of "Pinktober" - a month-long initiative to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research through a series of live music gigs featuring Hue and Cry, Beverley Knight, Starsailor, Melanie C and Staind.

For the second year running, Hard Rock Cafes in the U.K. will donate proceeds to The Caron Keating Foundation, which offers financial support and grants to all types of cancer charities, professional carers, complimentary healing practitioners, as well as individuals and families who are affected by the disease.

Hard Rock has teamed up with leading guitar makers Epiphone to produce a number of specially customized Epiphone Les Paul Junior guitars with the breast cancer pink ribbon logo emblazoned across the body. Each Epiphone Les Paul Junior guitar will be displayed at a participating Hard Rock Cafes around Europe during Pinktober.

Those who benefit range from hospices, professional carers and all types of support groups. Founder of the foundation, Gloria Hunniford... "I am so thrilled that Hard Rock Cafe has chosen to support the Caron Keating Foundation again. We are very much a family run organization, with our only expense being a part-time secretary. We have all in our working lives been involved in the music industry. Caron used to present a television rock program as well as hosting occasionally 'Top of the Pops', and I know, she would truly approve of 'Pinktober' and how many people dealing with cancer will be helped through your efforts in raising money, in her name."

Hard Rock’s 'Pinktober', which started out as 'Rocktober' in Europe in 2005 and grew into a global campaign, brings some of the world’s best live music to small and intimate surroundings. The series of events support local breast cancer charities across the world, and proceeds from each event throughout the month goes to the chosen charities.

Scottish pop brothers Hue and Cry join the Pinktober line up on October 15th in Edinburgh. With the release of their first mainstream album, Open Soul, in 16 years this month, Greg and Pat Kane have enjoyed a hugely successful two decades in music with their unique brand of thoughtful soul-influenced pop, with hit singles such as 'Labour of Love', 'Looking for Linda' and 'Violently'. www.hueandcry.co.uk

Platinum selling artist Beverley Knight will take to the Hard Rock stage on October 8th in London. Widely regarded as Britain's greatest soul singer, the multi award winning Beverley Knight will melt audiences with an acoustic set including her hit singles, "Greatest Day", "Shoulda Woulda Coulda" and "Come As You Are" as part of Pinktober. www.beverleyknight.com

Hard Rock favorites Starsailor return to the London stage for this prestigious event. The Wigan quartet have had three top ten albums and eleven Top 40 singles in the UK since 2001 and have won coveted NME and Q awards. As they near completion of their highly anticipated fourth studio album, Starsailor will play the London Cafe on October 15th. www.starsailor.net

Liverpool's Melanie C will take to the Manchester stage on October 9th. After shooting to fame as part of the Spice Girls, Melanie has gone on to forge her own successful solo career with four studio albums and a BRIT nomination. With hits including "Never Be the Same Again" and "When You’re Gone", Melanie C will support the Caron Keating Foundation when she plays Hard Rock Cafe Manchester this October. www.melaniec.net

Kick starting the Pinktober series will be Staind, whose single 'It's Been A While' was a Number 1 single on the Billboard charts and whose 10 year career has garnered 12 million album sales worldwide. Their last three albums debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Album Chart, earning their place as one of the most successful rock bands of the new millennium, with sixth studio album The Illusion Of Progress out Monday. www.staind.com

PINKTOBER DATES:
Wednesday September 17th -STAIND - Hard Rock, London
Wednesday October 8th - BEVERLEY KNIGHT - Hard Rock, London
Thursday October 9th - MELANIE C - Hard Rock, Manchester
Wednesday October 15th - HUE AND CRY - Hard Rock, Edinburgh

Tickets are on sale now and are available through www.ticketweb.co.uk, or for London shows only, by calling Hard Rock Cafe London on 0207 514 1700. Proceeds from the sale of special limited-edition 2008 Hard Rock "Pinktober" merchandise will benefit The breast Cancer Research Foundation, with 75% of the retail price of each pin sold and 15% of the retail price of each t-shirt and key chain sold going directly to the cause.

Epiphone Mandobird Takes Off With Flying Colors And 8-String Option

Epiphone has dressed up its popular electric mandolin, the Mandobird, with a striking array of new finishes, including Seafoam Green, Metallic Gold, Fiesta Red, Gold Metal Flake and Goth Black. The four-string solidbody mandolin, modeled after the classic Gibson Firebird guitar, will also be available in an eight-string version.

"The Mandobird's unique look and sound made it very appealing to guitarists as well as mandolin players," said Jim "Epi" Rosenberg, president of Epiphone. "As with any hot new model, players immediately started asking for more finish choices to fit their personal styles, and the new lineup offers a color for every artistic persona."

The Epiphone Mandobird sports the angular "reverse body" shape that Gibson introduced on its Firebird line in 1963. Like the Firebird, the Mandobird's headstock has all the tuners on the same side. The Mandobird IV, with four strings, produces clear single-string tones; the Mandobird VII, with eight strings arranged in pairs, will feel and sound more familiar to acoustic mandolinists. The Mandobird comes with a gig bag.

Mandobird IV MSRP (with gig bag): $332.

Mandobird VIII MSRP (with gig bag): $415.

Introducing the Latest Version of Epiphone's Classic Casino!

The NEW "Inspired by" John Lennon Casinos offer the professional musician the same key features of Epiphone's acclaimed John Lennon signature U.S.A. Casinos but at a more affordable price. Also based upon the "1965" Casino and the "Revolution" Casino, these two "Inspired by" versions combine the cost-effective workmanship of Epiphone's own factory in Asia with original Gibson U.S.A. electronics including classic P-90 pickups with dog-ear, nickel plated covers and a Switchcraft(tm) made toggle and output jack.

The Inspired by "1965" Lennon Casino: In 1966, during the recording of "Revolver," John Lennon and George Harrison each acquired vintage sunburst Epiphone Casino guitars. The 1965 Casino is a reproduction of the original guitar John purchased with its sunburst finish and stock hardware. Attention to detail includes the correct "burst" pattern and front and back, neck joint at the 16th fret (instead of the 17th), vintage style tuners with small metal buttons, black washer around the toggle switch and the historically accurate rectangle "blue label" inside the sound hole.

The "Inspired by" Revolution Casino: In 1968, John had his Casino sanded down to the bare wood and covered with a thin, dull finish. During that time, he also replaced the tuners with Gold Grovers and removed the pickguard. He first used this "natural" Casino during "The White Album" sessions in 1968. The "Inspired by" Revolution Casino is a reproduction of this stripped guitar and as it also remains today.

The Complete Package: Both "Inspired by" Casinos include a hard case while the Revolution version also includes the unattached pickguard and mounting bracket.

Support Music Education: As with all Epiphone Lennon guitars, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of each goes to the BMI Foundation for the John Lennon Scholarship Fund which supports music education. Backed by Epiphone's Limited Lifetime Warranty and 24/7/365 day Customer Service, these new "Inspired by" Casinos capture the essence of the 1960's and the Beatles with their authentic looks, specifications and one-of-kind sound and feel that only a Casino has. Pickup one today and start a Revolution!

Epiphone's top-selling Special-II gets Revved UP!

Since it's introduction almost 20 years ago, The Special-II has met the needs of countless musicians with it's combination of Les Paul features, great tone and affordability. Now, Epiphone puts a new twist on this classic with the NEW Special-II GT. Like the Special-II, this is a full-on, in your face rockin' machine with all the same features (and more!) that you've come to expect from Epiphone.

High-Out Ceramic Pickups: Providing the sizzle and snarl that you can only get from humbuckers is a 650R (neck) and 700T (bridge) pickup combo. You'll be amazed how these U.S.A. designed pickups with their high-output magnets add more highs with increased definition and no muddiness. Slightly over-wound, the hotter 700T bridge pickup is smooth but can give you a little extra scream or growl when you need it while never losing its rich combination of enhanced lows and crystal clear highs.

Cool New Electronics: Always an innovator, Epiphone has equipped the GT with a patent-applied-for combination Master Tone and Kill Switch. Operating just like an ordinary tone pot, if you push or "tap" it down it acts as a KILL switch muting all output signal and creating a cool effect (think Buckethead!) when combined with distortion. Is that a WHAMMY bar? Yes it is! Epiphone has equipped the new GT with a vintage style tremolo what allows you to bend strings and chords with ease. Typically not found on Les Paul guitar, this combined with the kill-switch, this guitar can create amazing effects - all at a price that won't break your budget.

The Whole GT Package: Other features include a tapered heel for more comfortable access in the upper frets, Epiphone's patent-applied-for LockTone(TM) tune-o-matic/stopbar combination for re-stringing ease and increased sustain and of course, their Limited Lifetime Warranty with 24/7/365 Customer Service. Top it all off with a Rosewood fingerboard upgraded with pearloid parallelogram inlays and 22 medium-jumbo frets. With this GT's singlecutaway design and a contoured, recessed bolt neck, all 22 of those frets are easy to access and it's SlimTaper(tm) neck profile make it comfortable and fast. Wrap it all up in a thin "worn" black finish that feels vintage all with a price tag that any guitarist can afford and you've got a NEW Epiphone classic made just for you!

Vintage G-400 - Why Is This Guitar Shaking Up The Industry?

In the early '60's Gibson came up with a radical new guitar to inject a shot of adrenaline into the Les Paul line. They named the new guitar SG which stood for Solid Guitar, which is one of the biggest inside jokes in the guitar industry....sort of like saying Angus Young and Tony Iommi are just solid guitarists!

Now Epiphone offers a faithful reproduction of the classic Gibson guitar in a vintage finished, affordable package! One run up the 22 fret neck of the Vintage G-400 and you'll be hooked! The "Worn" finish gives the instrument the look and feel of the originals and the high-output designed in the U.S.A. pickups complete the hard rockin', vintage vibe! Check it out below.

The Epiphone 1962 Wilshire Custom Historic USA

In 1957 in an effort to bolster their stand up bass business Gibson purchased their arch rival the Epiphone Guitar Company and moved production to Kalamazoo, Michigan. Along with the sought after bass tooling Gibson acquired access to many storied models and a brand name with a history of quality and prestige. With plans to expand retail distribution by differentiating Epiphone dealers from Gibson dealers, Gibson began production of a new line of "Kalamazoo-made and designed" Epiphones in 1959.

For over a decade from 1959 through early 1970 Epiphone solid body guitars and basses were produced in limited numbers right along side some of the greatest Gibson's of all time. These Epiphone guitars represented some of the highest quality and best sounding instruments of their generation. They provided unique shapes, pickup arrangements, and tonal signatures not seen on comparable Gibson models of the day. Under appreciated at the time of their release numerous artists through the years have recognized the unique appeal of these guitars. Jimi Hendrix, Johnny Winter, Paul Gilbert and Steve Marriot are but a few of the artist that have embraced the tone and build quality of these Kalamazoo built Epiphone solid body instruments.

One such Epiphone instrument was the Wilshire. First released in 1960 the Wilshire featured two P90 pickups, a 3 on a side headstock and a solid mahogany body and one piece neck. It was designed to compete with the popular Fender Stratocaster in terms of upper fret access, light-weight and playability. It is little surprise given its Kalamazoo origins that this guitar would share many features with its Gibson cousin the Les Paul Jr. However unlike the Les Paul Jr. the 62 Epiphone Wilshire provided two P90 pickups and an intonatable bridge. This arrangement offered an extremely functional and versatile alternative.

With an original MSRP of $210, production of the 1962 Wilshire SB-432 was limited to only 180 guitars. Today, owners of original 1962 Wilshires are not only blessed with an outstanding instrument, but also a wise investment and a very collectible guitar. Original Wilshires now sell regularly for $5,000 to $12,000 or more depending upon their year and condition.

To commemorate the Wilshire as well as other "Kalamazoo-made' models, Epiphone is proud to introduce the "Epiphone Historic Custom USA" collection. The first in the series of reissues is the 1962 Wilshire in Cherry. Made in Nashville, Tennessee in cooperation with the Gibson Custom Shop and limited to only 100 instruments worldwide, it combines impeccable attention to detail and historic accuracy. The historic reissue includes:

Original Style Hard Case
Numbered Certificate of Authenticity in leatherette binder
Vintage Style Coiled Guitar Cord
Commemorative Picks
Commemorative T-Shirt
1962-style Thin Leather Strap

Epiphone at the GRAMMY Gift Lounge

Epiphone is helping celebrate the 53rd Annual GRAMMY® Awards, by participating in its official GRAMMY Gift Lounge. The GRAMMY Gift Lounge is open to presenters and performers during rehearsals (February 10-12) and invited guests are able to stop by to experience and rock out on a selection of Epiphone guitars that are on hand. Celebrities attending the Lounge are also being encouraged to sign several Epiphone guitars that will be used in charity auctions.

The Epiphone Les Paul Acoustic/Electric Ukulele Outfit

Real Les Paul Styling in a Ukulele! Long known for it's history of making great Les Paul guitars, Epiphone expands upon that knowledge and experience with the NEW Les Paul Acoustic/Electric ukulele outfit. Like a traditional Les Paul Standard, it features a solid Mahogany body combined with a AAA grade flame maple top for great tone and great looks. The Mahogany neck features a comfortable D-profile shape and is bolted onto the body with 4-recessed screws for rock-solid stability and ease of service. It's Rosewood fingerboard features a concert length 15" scale and 21 nickel/silver frets with a 16" fingerboard radius.

Plug it In and Turn It Up! Unplugged, this Les Paul Uke has great natural acoustic tone and volume. But plug it in and it really comes alive. Equipped with a high-quality, piezo film pickup located under the saddle, both the natural tone of the strings as well as the sound of and the body are accurately captured and routed to it's durable all-metal, rim-mounted 1/4" output jack. Plug it into a PA System or amplifier and it sounds great! And loud too!

Other Bonus Features! For accurate tuning stability, it features 14:1 geared machine heads. Unlike traditional "friction" tuners, these tuners have fine-tuning capability and won't slip. The new LP Uke comes with premium black nylon strings as well as a gigbag with accessory pocket for easy and safe transportation. Top it all off with a classic LP pickguard that not only looks cool but protects the beautiful flame Maple top as well and you've got a real Les Paul ukulele at an affordable price.

Limited Lifetime Warranty. As with all Epiphone instruments, you can rest assured that your investment is protected with Epiphone's Limited Lifetime Warranty backed by Gibson Musical Instrument's 24/7/365 day Customer Service. So what are you waiting for? Pick up this cool acoustic/electric uke and start jamming today.

Zakk Wylde Embarks On Far East Journey...

Zakk Wylde, Gibson and Epiphone Guitar Embark On Far East Journey To Bring Rock To The Masses

Wylde Visits Tokyo, Singapore, Beijing and Sydney in Global Trek Across Far East

Zakk Wylde's fame as a guitar icon has known no boundary since his appearance on the rock scene two decades ago as Ozzy Osbourne's newly recruited guitarist. Having performed all over the world, and in landmark venues most can only dream of, he has seasoned the guitar virtuoso in ways he could never have imagined as he practiced tirelessly while growing up in his home state of New Jersey. The creation of his own band Black Label Society (BLS) nearly a decade ago took him back to his roots, before exploding internationally as one of the heaviest outfits in rock music today. Wylde's legend has also grown with appearances on film (Rockstar, with Mark Wahlberg and Jennifer Aniston) and in video games (Guitar Hero 4 & 5). But it is Zakk's contribution to Gibson and Epiphone guitars as one of the most influential endorsees the company has ever seen that has given Wylde satisfaction beyond boyhood dreams. With his name on one of the most identifiable signature guitars ever produced, the Gibson Custom or Epiphone Zakk Wylde Les Paul Bullseye, Zakk entered a new plateau. The "fiddle" as Wylde affectionately calls it, has become the most discriminating guitarist's first weapon of choice. Boyhood dreams realized, rock star status achieved, and a stable of signature guitars bearing his name filling in the blanks - mission accomplished, so he thought.

Up until this year, Wylde thought he had seen and done it all - that is until a health issue forced him to reevaluate just where he was headed. And, with his usual tenacity and ferocious commitment, Wylde conquered even that setback within a couple of months. "While I was recuperating, I realized there was plenty more for me to do - not only with creating music, but performing as well," says Wylde, who is readying a new studio next to his Castaic, California area home. But it wasn't until Gibson approached him about taking his signature model guitars and his heroic chops over to the Far East for a series of promotional appearances that begin this coming week that Wylde realized maybe he HADN'T actually seen it all. "I jumped at the chance," says Wylde. "After tackling NYC with the Hellfire Bash on Halloween in Times Square, to the other night in Nashville for Les, I cannot wait to conquer terrain in which I haven't been."

Wylde's enthusiasm for all things Gibson these days continues, "When Gibson Guitar CEO, Henry Juszkiewicz outlined his plan to introduce my signature product line in China and the company's commitment, I made it mine too. It's going to be a blast to meet new fans. The world is a much larger place than just the US," says Wylde. "I have no doubt that this trip and meeting these fans will be inspiration for the next BLS CD."

The Far East jaunt makes stops in Tokyo, Japan, Beijing, China, Singapore and Sydney, Australia. While in Singapore he plans to appear at a rehabilitation prison for inmates. "My first gig with Ozzy was in a prison," says Wylde reflecting. "Apparently, they did a survey and BLS is really popular with the inmates. God Bless them, I hope that maybe they'll be inspired to do the right thing and straighten their lives out."

"How many people get to go from Tokyo to The Great Wall, Singapore to Sydney... I'm truly blessed and I want to thank Gibson and Epiphone for this opportunity to further secure BLS World Domination!" It's all a matter of connecting the dots as they continue to build on the successful Rocktober Program with this roll out of new products and exciting artist introductions. It's safe to say the Chinese have never experienced firsthand the energy, entertainment and virtuosity that is Zakk Wylde. Well, that's all about to change.

About Black Label Society:

In the two decades since Ozzy Osbourne hired him away from his job at a New Jersey gas station to become his new guitarist, Zakk Wylde has established himself as a guitar icon known and revered the world over. He spawned his now legendary Black Label Society in 1994, and in the fifteen years since has turned the outfit into a heavy metal institution true to his vision of uncompromising, unfiltered and unrestrained rock and roll. Inspired by guitarists including Frank Marino, Robin Trower and Al DiMeola, as well as the vocal styling of Elton John, Gregg Allman and late Lynyrd Skynyrd frontman Ronnie VanZant, Wylde has won every guitar award imaginable and is a major influence to the new wave of heavy metal guitarists. Wherever Zakk Wylde's Black Label Society travels, one thing is for certain: brutality is sure to follow. For more information, please visit: www.blacklabelsociety.com

Which SG is Right For You?

With its double-cutaway good looks and screaming tone... the SG has established itself as one of the most recognizable and desirable guitars in rock history. Made famous by a host of professional players including... Angus Young (AC/DC), Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath), Robby Krieger (The Doors), Derek Trucks (Allman Brothers Band), Frank Zappa and others, the SG remains a must have guitar for any serious rock guitar player.

But... which SG is right for you? Epiphone offers a wide range of SG guitars for all experience levels and budgets. Here's an in-depth look at four of our most popular models to help you make your decision.

The SG Special is an incredible way to get real SG tone and styling without breaking the bank. A pair of Humbucking pickups voiced specifically for the bridge position and neck position give you authentic rock tone with just the right amount of grit and growl.

This edition of the prized 1962 Gibson SG boasts the power and merciless sustain you expect to shake you all night long. It’s constructed of a Mahogany neck set to a Mahogany body with twin Alnico Classic Humbucker pickups.

Elegant and powerful, this 1961 Les Paul Custom, we know today as a 3-pickup SG lives on in stunning detail, even down to the LP script at the neck. Alnico Classic Plus Humbucker pickups for the fullest vintage SG sound possible.

The EX starts with a solid Mahogany body and adds a highly-figured, quilt Maple top. It's 24-fret, Ebony fingerboard combined with a SpeedTaper, satin finish neck and double-cutaway.

A Real LP Only Smaller!

Epiphone's new LP-Express captures the look, sound and feel of their famous LP's but in a slightly smaller package that's perfect for younger players or for travel use. The neck has the same basic dimensions as a full-size guitar but the scale length is only 22.0" as compared to 24.75" on a full-size Les Paul. The result is a guitar that's more comfortable to play - especially for smaller players - while still maintaining good string tension when tuned to standard "E".

Great Design Features! While the new LP-Express is a real Les Paul, Epiphone has incorporated in some unique design features to ensure that the guitar performs well. First, while the body is still Mahogany the neck on the Express is Hard Maple as opposed to the traditional Mahogany neck. This gives the guitar a little more high-end "bite" or brighter tone which effectively offsets the slightly looser string tension due to the shorter scale length. Additionally, the combination of the fully-adjustable "fixed" bridge with a string-through body design fits well on the smaller size body while adding sustain and making string changes a breeze. Finally, the neck is bolted in place securely using 4 recessed bolts set into a tapered heel making upper fret access easier and very comfortable.

Premium Additions! With the slightly looser string tension, it's even more important to have great tuners. Epiphone designed the new Express with premium, 14:1 ratio diecast tuners to give you excellent tuning accuracy and stability. As a bonus, a custom "Express sized" padded gigbag is included with every guitar making it the perfect travel companion.

Peace of Mind! As with all Epiphone's, the Express includes Epiphone's Limited Lifetime Warranty and is backed by their famous 24/7/365 Customer Service. So what are you waiting for? Express yourself today with the new Epiphone LP-Express.

The Epiphone DOT Studio - It's A Necessity

Gibson's first “semi-acoustic” the ES-335, was intended to combine together a solid-body and hollow-body guitar thereby achieving the best of both worlds. Now legendary, it is neither totally solid nor fully acoustic offering a unique tone that has defined rock and blues since it's introduction in the 1950's. Used by many famous guitarists such as Andy Summers, Elvin Bishop, Lee Ritenour, Jay Graydon, Robben Ford, Freddie King, John McLaughin, Jimmy Page, Chuck Berry, Tony Mottola, Johnny Rivers, Jack Wilkins, Bono, Grant Green, Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Alvin Lee, B.B. King, Emily Remler, Otis Rush, Pete Townshend, John Lee Hooker, and Larry Carlton, it received it's nickname "the DOT" because of it's original, "dot" inlays found on the fingerboard.

Epiphone's DOT Studio captures all the essence of the ES-335 but brings a new look, new functionality and new affordability to this legendary, semi-hollow body guitar. The hot, open-coil Alnico-V humbucking pickups and simplified electronics - just a single tone and single volume control - give the guitar a clean look while the black hardware and markerless fingerboard (perhaps we should have called it the "DOT-less Studio) add to it's simple elegance. Likewise building upon Epiphone's great tradition of archtops such as the Sheraton and Emperor, the DOT Studio is a very versatile guitar capable of dishing out hot blues, rock and roll when overdriven or modern jazz tones clean.

"It doesn’t get smoky enough for traditional jazz—even with the Tone knob rolled completely down—but its forceful, articulate, and robust voice kicks ass for rock, modern jazz, prog, pop, and punk."

Guitar Player Magazine
By Michael Molenda
DOT Studio Review - June 2005

With those kind of credentials combined with a suggested U.S. retail price of $499, the Dot Studio is not only an affordable addition to any guitarist's arsenal, it's a necessity.

Guitar & Bass Gives an In-Depth Review of the Inspired By Casino Revolution

Check out the October 2010 issue of Guitar & Bass. On page 48 Dave Walsh gives an in-depth review of the Epiphone Inspired By Casino (Revolution).

The Final Score awarded was: Build Quality: 18/20, Playability: 19/20, Sound: 19/20, Value for Money: 18/20, Vibe: 19/20 for a total of 93%.

Here is a peek at what Dave had to say:

"While the valve amp went through its warm up cycle, I absently strummed the Casino unplugged. Ten minutes later I realized that I still hadn't plugged it in. The acoustic voice has such a presence and character that you could happily consider ditching the lounge acoustic all together."

"The wide beefiness of the pickups colours the tone but retains the mellow, air and presence that makes partial chord rhythms or flat-out strumming come alive with chiming authority."

"The bridge P90 is juicy and vibrant while the neck unit is nicely balanced, deeper yet still full of usable clarity."

"For a production run guitar, the attention to detail and scruffy aesthetics (some of them, we guess, intentional) genuinely deserve praise... the result is a potent symbol of a lost and at times maverick genius, and Epiphone captures it faithfully here without a Custom Shop price."

"But looks are only half the story; the sound is equally impressive. By fitting high-quality upgraded US components at the factory, Epiphone has transformed what would have been a merely good guitar instantly into a no-nonsense, gig-worthy and reliable instrument."

Seven Epiphone SGs Compared

SG Special - Now everyone can own a real SG shape! The SG Special from Epiphone features twin open-coil Humbucker pickups, the Tune-o-matic bridge/Stopbar tailpiece combo for maximum sustain and a fully-carved SG body for devilish good looks... MSRP $249

G-310 - Based on the 1967 Gibson SG, the Epiphone G-310 has all the SG style and features you want, but at bolt-neck affordability. It also has a full pickguard, sports two hot open-coil Humbucker pickups and full controls... MSRP $332

G-400 - A true icon guitar, the SG was originally a successor Les Paul Model from '61 to '68. This edition of the prized 1962 Gibson SG boasts the power and merciless sustain you expect to shake you all night long. It's constructed of a Mahogany neck set to a Mahogany body with twin Alnico Classic Humbucker pickups... MSRP $499

G-400 Deluxe - Epiphone has taken the classic SG body shape and added a premium Flame Maple top! All the other features of the G-400 remain, including Alnico Classic humbuckers, stopbar tailpiece with Tune-o-matic bride and an all-Mahogany back for maximum sustain and great tone! The Trademarked bridge double-cutaway body and ultra-fast, slim-taper neck allow for blistering lead work all the way up the smooth Rosewood fingerboard... MSRP $665

Tony Iommi G-400 - Rock legend and Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi lends his name to this G-400 from hell. All blacked out with Tony's signature 'cross' inlays up the 24 fret slim-taper neck and Gibson USA Tony Iommi Humbucker pickups for that demonic roar... MSRP $832

G-400 Custom - Elegant and powerful, this 1961 Les Paul Custom, we know today as a 3-pickup SG lives on in stunning detail, even down to the LP script at the neck. The Epiphone G-400 Custom features Alnico Classic Humbuckers in the bridge, middle and neck positions for the fullest vintage SG sound possible... MSRP $832

G-1275 Custom - Jimmy Page made it famous. Epiphone makes it available to you in fabulous detail. It combines a 6-string SG and a 12 string SG featuring Alnico Classic pickups, open-coil on the six side and covered on the twelve side, mounted on a Mahogany body with a gorgeous Flame Maple top... MSRP $1499

A Brief Review Of The Reissue Epiphone Casino

Crimsongun.com just posted a review of the Epiphone Casino. They had this to say:

With a street cost of only $599, there’s not much to not love about the Epiphone Casino. If you’re looking for a consummate guitar for classic rock, jazz, blues, or just an excuse to whip out some Beatles’ tunes, the Casino is an instrument you can bet on.

Vintage Guitar Magazine Reviews The Epiphone SG Special

Be sure to pick up a copy of the April 2011 issue of Vintage Guitar Magazine. Pete Prown reviews the Epiphone SG Special and here is a sneak peek at what he had to say:

Plugged into digital and tube amp rigs, the SG Special proved a formidable metal machine.

The humbuckers are awesome for high-gain situations, too.

In fact, these are yet more examples of Epiphone's excellent import pickups - not the first we've run into on lower-end Epi models.

While it would be easy to scoff at the Special's price and bolt-on neck, it's a seriously badass solidbody - proof that paying less for an import doesn't automatically mean you're getting an inferior product.

It's a serious butt-kickin' guitar.

Epiphone Guitar Highlighted At 53rd annual GRAMMY® AWARDS OFFICIAL GIFT LOUNGE

Presenters and Performers of Music's Biggest Night® to be Treated to Gifts Including an Epiphone Inspired by John Lennon Revolution Casino and Epiphone Gift Bag

Los Angeles, California... (February 3, 2011) Renowned music instrument maker Epiphone Guitar will help celebrate the 53rd Annual GRAMMY® Awards, by participating in its official GRAMMY Gift Lounge and providing GRAMMY presenters and performers with esteemed instruments. Distinctive Assets, an LA-based entertainment marketing company credited with beginning the marketing craze of celebrity swag over a decade ago, will once again be producing the official talent gift bags and backstage gift lounge for the 53rd Annual GRAMMY Awards®. Music's Biggest Night® will be held on February 13, 2011, at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles and will be broadcast live on the CBS Television Network from 8 - 11:30 p.m. (ET/PT). The legendary show's presenters and performers will be offered thank you gifts at the exclusive backstage GRAMMY Gift Lounge, including a few special gifts from Epiphone in honor of John Lennon's recent 70th birthday.

The GRAMMY Gift Lounge will be open to presenters and performers during rehearsals (February 10-12). Invited guests will be able to stop by to scoop up amazing gifts. Epiphone will be offering exclusive gifts including an Epiphone Inspired by John Lennon Revolution Casino and an Epiphone Gift Bag, which includes an Epiphone Leather Guitar Strap, Epiphone Zip-up Hoodie, Epiphone Vornado Water Bottle, and Epiphone Incense Kit.

A gift in celebration of John Lennon's 70th birthday anniversary and the contributions made to the world of music and the 53rd GRAMMY Awards, the new "Inspired by" John Lennon Revolution Casino is based off Lennon's sanded down 'natural' Casino he began using in 1968 and offers the professional musician the cost-effective workmanship of Epiphone's own factory in Asia with original Gibson U.S.A. electronics including classic P-90 pickups with dog-ear, nickel plated covers, a Switchcraft(tm) made toggle and output jack, and hardshell case. As with all Epiphone Lennon guitars, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of each goes to the BMI Foundation for the John Lennon Scholarship Fund which supports music education.

Celebrities attending the Lounge will be encouraged to sign several Epiphone guitars that will be used in charity auctions, and will also have the chance to experience and rock out on a selection of Epiphone guitars that will be on hand. Guests will have the exclusive chance to participate in the now famous impromptu jam sessions which have been a highlight of past Gift Lounges. And, as Epiphone is celebrating John Lennon's recent 70th birthday anniversary, Lounge attendees will be encouraged to honor Lennon by playing their favorite John Lennon song.

Epiphone signature artist Marcus Henderson will help welcome guests to the Epiphone booth, sharing a few Lennon songs of his own and serving as a jam partner for those who want to rock out. Marcus is a critically acclaimed rock and heavy metal guitarist. Chosen to take the role as one of the lead guitarist's for the "Guitar Hero" video games series, Marcus yielded jaw-dropping results including several dozen best soundtrack awards, multiple Game of the Year awards, countless accolades, and millions of copies sold. With 20 years playing and touring experience, Marcus has brought an energy and authenticity to the game that few interactive experiences offer. His previous bands include Drist and The Hellbillys as well as work for En Vogue and Simon Stinger whose song Fringe Authority can be found inside the movie "Diamonds" with Dan Akyroyd and Kirk Douglas. In 2008, Marcus played on Bootsy Collins' CD, as well as recorded with one-time Guns N' Roses guitarist, Buckethead. Marcus' signature Epiphone guitar, "The Apparition", a guitar that takes guitar design to the extreme and that's perfect for every guitar hero, will also be on hand at the Lounge

This year's GRAMMY talent will, as always, include top musicians and notable celebrities in all genres. Arcade Fire, Eminem, Cee Lo Green, Lady Gaga, Miranda Lambert and Katy Perry have already been tapped to perform. Additional presenters and performers will be announced soon.

Distinctive Assets will continue its long-standing philanthropic tradition with an in-Lounge "giving station" which will allow the celebrities to autograph and donate one of their favorite new gifts to the MusiCares® Foundation, which provides a safety net of critical assistance for members of the music community in times of need.

About Epiphone: Epiphone fretted instruments, amplifiers, strings and accessories are known worldwide for offering the best combination of quality, performance and value. One of Gibson's most formidable competitors through the first half of the 20th century, Epiphone was acquired by Gibson Guitar in 1957. Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, Epiphone is part of the Gibson family of brands.

About Distinctive Assets: Established in 1999, Distinctive Assets not only produces the Gift Bags and Backstage Gift Lounges for many major award shows but also provides product placement, product introduction, event production, public relations and branding opportunities within the entertainment industry and beyond.

About The Recording Academy®: Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards - the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music - The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture. For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com . For breaking news and exclusive content, join the organization's social networks as a Twitter follower at www.twitter.com/thegrammys , a Facebook fan at www.facebook.com/thegrammys and a YouTube channel subscriber at www.youtube.com/thegrammys .

One of a Kind Sound from Epiphone's Glorious Past!

One of a Kind Sound from Epiphone's Glorious Past! In 1957 Gibson purchased New York's Epiphone Guitar Company and moved production to Kalamazoo, Michigan. With plans to expand retail distribution by differentiating Epiphone dealers from Gibson dealers, Gibson began production of a new line of "Kalamazoo-made and designed" Epiphones in 1959. For over a decade, Epiphone solid body guitars and basses were produced right alongside Gibsons. These Epiphone guitars represented some of the highest quality and best sounding instruments of their generation. They provided unique shapes, pickup arrangements, and tonal signatures not seen on comparable Gibson models of the day. Under appreciated at the time of their release, numerous artists through the years have recognized the unique appeal of these guitars. Jimi Hendrix, Johnny Winter, Paul Gilbert and Steve Marriot are but a few of the artists that have embraced the tone and build quality of these Kalamazoo built Epiphones. One such Epiphone instrument was the Wilshire.

Today, Epiphone brings back the Wilshire with a faithful reproduction of the 1966 model. Like an SG guitar, the Wilshire's double cutaway Mahogany body with a glued-in Mahogany neck that joins the body at the 22nd fret gives you ultimate upper fret access. Lightweight and comfortable, the Wilshire has excellent resonance and natural acoustic tone - even unplugged! Featuring Epiphone's LockTone tune-o-matic/stopbar combination, the transfer of string vibration is improved even more giving this guitar excellent sustain and clarity. But here's what separates the Wilshire from the SG. Most early Epiphone guitars including the Wilshire were equipped with mini-humbucking pickups and Epiphone carries on this tradition. With its smaller size, narrow magnetic field and unique design combination, the mini-humbucker produces bright and focused output while retaining famous humbucker "hum-free" performance. A replica of the originals, they feature adjustable pole pieces, enamel wire, bar ceramic magnets and rounded nickel plated covers set in an original style black mounting ring with height adjustment screws.
Cool Retro-Looks! Also unique, the Wilshire features Epiphone's own "batwing" headstock. A classic design that improves tuning ease and accuracy by offering a straight string-pull design, the headstock is adorned like the original with the vintage "Epiphone" logo in gold. Other features include a 1960's SlimTaper neck profile with Rosewood fingerboard, premium 14:1 die-cast tuners and individual Volume and Tone controls for each pickup. And to give it that worn-in look and feel, Epiphone tops it all off with a thin satin finish.

It could last a lifetime! As with all Epiphone's, the Wilshire is backed by Epiphone's Limited Lifetime Warranty and 24/7/365 Customer Service. Only 398 original 1966 Wilshires were produced and are selling today for $10,000 or more depending upon condition. If you're not fortunate enough to own an original or can't afford that kind of cash, here's your chance to own one with the same classic 1966 Epiphone vibe and tone. Cool!

Total Guitar (UK) Reviews The Epiphone Slash Les Paul Standard Plus-Top

The June 2008 issue of Total Guitar (UK) is now on the shelves and on page 134 Charlie Brewer reviews the Epiphone Slash Les Paul Standard Plus-Top signature model. Here's a peek at what Charlie had to say:

"All that's missing is a top hat and a curly wig - but at 700 quid, who cares?"

"A velvet gun between Epi Standard and Gibson roses."

"Like a fine Bordeaux, the neck pickup is all about plummy roundness."

Worn 1966 Wilshire Gets 5 out of 5 Stars and Total Guitar Best Buy Award!

Check out the March issue of Total Guitar Magazine! On page 135 you will find a review of the Epiphone Worn 1966 Wilshire and here is Jonny Scaramanga's conclusion:

The Wilshire has an unexpectedly high level of personality and it's friendly to play. Best of all, with its original body style and pickup arrangement, it offers a bunch of great tones, that are different from standard singlecoil and humbucker guitars. Indie and classic rockers who fancy a guitar with a "what's that?" factor should head for their nearest Epiphone emporium and brace their credit cards for (a small amount of) pain.

To top things off... Total Guitar awarded the Worn 66 Wilshire 5 out of 5 stars and the coveted Total Guitar Best Buy Award!