as an epiphone guy who is a financially struggling 18 year old not being able to afford the full priced gibsons, i am more than thankful for how high quality these epiphones have gotten
@@shaneelvis1699 I wouldn’t recommend it now. Used guitar market seems to have gone insane, and you can’t really seem to find any in stock. I would say wait it out if you were going to buy a really good guitar.
I don't know if you pulled the trigger on either the Epi or Gibson version of this guitar, but here's my own two cents on whether or not to get the Epiphone version of this guitar followed by why. Unless you feel you need to have the Gibson logo on the headstock, and unless you feel you need to be able to say that it's a Gibson, I would get the Epiphone version. Now the why. I have the Gibson Pelham Blue Les Paul Modern and absolutely love the guitar. It's pretty much spot on with every single detail and I absolutely love the asymmetrical slim taper neck on it. I have mild carpal tunnel and this neck bothers my fretting hand the absolute least of any of my guitars. However, there are instances in which I don't want to carry my $2700 dollar guitar with me, so I purchased the Epiphone version of the same guitar, even the same color. After playing the Epiphone version I can flat out say that there is no reason to purchase the Gibson version. There are some subtle differences, but they really are minor. One difference is that the Gibson model has a compound radius fretboard whereas the Epi version is just the 12 inch radius up and down the neck. Both models, however, have the asymmetrical slim taper neck profile on the back. The pickups don't sound exactly the same, and I think the Epi pickups are using Alnico 2 magnets as opposed to the Alnico 5 in the Gibson Burstucker Pro and Plus models in their guitars. I could be wrong about the magnets, but I believe this is the difference. However it's not so much of a difference that I've felt the need to upgrade the pickups or look into swapping out the magnets. So, soundwise there is a minor difference, but really it's not enough to spend another 2000 dollars for the Gibson. These Epiphone Probuckers are pretty da*m good. The Epiphone doesn't have as many coil splitting/tapping options as the Gibson version. To me that's a minor thing as I don't really use those features, but for some it could be a game changer. The Epiphone just stays in tune. My Gibson, on the other hand, I had to have a new nut put in and even after that I had to put on one of those String Butler gadgets to change the overall break angle of the strings behind the nut. After that the Gibson stays in tune really well, but I didn't have to do anything at all to the Epiphone. I'm thinking the break angle of the Epi headstock might be slightly different than the Gibson(?) but don't quote me on that. Both guitars play equally well, the finish on both are spot on, fret work on both were excellent. The Gibson has a slight ghost/wolf tone on the G string on every fret that noone has been able to pin down the cause of. All frets are level, the neck is straight, there is no retainer wire on the bridge of these guitars, no loose parts/screws etc. It's a mystery, but it's very, very slight and I'm the only one who hears it except for the two luthiers that I took it to; they can hear it but anyone else that hears me play doesn't notice it at all. The Epiphone doesn't have this problem. So, overall I do love the Gibson and when at home that's my main guitar that I use. However, I also play the Epiphone quite a bit and that's what I use if I'm playing anywhere other than the house. If I had it to do over again I would have just bought the Epiphone.
@@ronpipes1988 Thanks for the advice, appreciate the fact you have both versions and did an in depth guide. I dont own any Epis but if I went for a Les Paul type guitar this might be the one.
I got a used modern figured for $460 plus tax with free shipping and I'm extremely happy with it. It's in near mint condition and I really don't think there's much better of a deal to be had. It does absolutely everything I want, feels great, sounds even better, and is well built. I feel absolutely no need to shell out the money for a Gibson.
This is exactly the guitar I have and I love it. Can’t lie, the new headstock was a consideration and as beautiful as the Pelham blue finish is, what I was really surprised by is how beautiful the back and neck is!
I played a graphite one of these a few days ago and it was incredible! It was a heck of a guitar to look at and even better to play. It can sound like anything from a strat to a Gibson les paul. This is a great guitar for the money!
I just got the Caribbean Burst Epiphone LP. It’s shocking how good it sounds. The tone is the best out of any guitar in my collection that ranges from US Made Gibsons to Mexican made EVH to Asian made Jacksons. The Chinese made epiphone is the best looking and best sounding out of the bunch 😂👍🏻
Based on looks, specs, and this review I ordered this guitar at the start of the pandemic…it not only made me happy for the 18 months or so that I couldn’t gig, it’s been my main player ever since. I recently had the frets leveled and I love it even more now, which I didn’t think was possible. At this price point it’s an absolute steal!
I have 3 Epi's.....All 3 are solid guitars. Gold top, honey burst, and a natural 100 year anniversary. Play, sound, look amazing. Wouldn't trade them for anything.
I just got mine, delivered yesterday. It's a lovely instrument and it was playable right out of the box. I can't find any flaws worth mentioning and no high frets although I lowered the action very slightly this morning. Mine was built in February according to the serial number.
Hey just wanna day thank you for your videos I’m going through a really rough time right now but everytime I watch your videos it’s a nice escape from it all I know it’s cheesy and stuff but I appreciate your work a lot hope you and your family are staying safe
For the price an amazing guitar. I purchased one after Trogly’s review and am not disappointed. The locking tuners are a plus. My guitar just need a fret polish and good to go. Epiphone has come a long way.
I bought this beautiful guitar last week - and I love her so much!! She is as imperfect as my Gibson Les Paul Custom, but it doesn't matter. Thank you!!
I just bought a Epiphone Les Paul Modern in Caribbean Blue fade. It has a really nice flamed top that fades from a light blue to almost clear. It has a very nice chime if you strum it without plugging it in. You can hear the resonance. One thing that I really like was that it was shipped without the pickguard attached. The pickguard was in the box with the hardware to attache it but it was not installed. This guitar has such a beautiful top that it would be a shame to cover it with the guard.
Trogly you should contact Agufish and ask him to send you his signature Harley Benton guitar for a bench review. It retails for under $500 from Thomann and it’s spec’d out to the max.
I just took delivery of a Harely Benton T style yesterday... in having a hard time finding any fault with it. Can’t believe the amount of guitar for the price.
@@JMac. yeah. I took a punt and bought a harley benton electro acoustic classical guitar because it was so cheap that I thought if it turns out crap, well then I haven't lost a fortune or anything. And I absolutely love it. The thing plays so well, has rock hard tuning stability, and the pickup system is a Fishman pickup system and even with a normal electric guitar amp (as opposed to an acoustic amp) it sounds great. Maybe I'll get an acoustic processor pedal thing one day but I don't really need it. And throw on some distortion or fuzz and the thing actually sounds good doing that. Though usually I just use some chorus and reverb Anyway yeah I'm gonna buy 3 or 4 more harley bentons once the pandemic is over. I've been wanting to modify a tele to put in gretsch filtertron style pickups for ages now, and Harley Benton sell that exact thing, so no routing required. I'll swap the pickups out for some of the Seymour Duncan filtertron style ones, or maybe Lollar or something. But yeah other than that, it'll basically be a solid body gretsch but with the longer fender style scale length and neck style, and cos I learned on a fender strat I always play much better on anything fender style. Also they sell a telecaster with 2 p90s. I'm trying to decide between either that or the goldtop Les Paul with 2 p90s that they sell. P90s are the best guitar pickups bar none and nobody can convince me otherwise. It helps I'm in the UK, so the cost of everything to ship from Germany is so much cheaper than if I was in say north America.
Landon, I purchased mine via Sweetwater about 9 months ago after watching a few demo's and then trying one locally. I go through Sweetwater because I've been a loyal buyer for several years and the service. That all said, I have found the Epiphone brand guitars to be phenomenal. I'm not a professional, but I still want a dependable and well made guitar. Personally, I think the price point on Gibson branded guitars are over the top. The hardware, wood, etc for me can not be justified to pay the monstrous prices when I get such a great guitar for the price in the Epiphone. Then the QC at Gibson has been in great question and if you look at what has been coming out, someone at the QC department needs to be replaced with someone who holds the Gibson name with honor. Bad analogy but I'm sure you get my point. I don't purchase guitars because an Artist plays them, because I know they often choose for the sponsorship benefits. If it works for me, that's why I purchase it. Thanks for the video
I have almost one year with that guitar model and I swear it’s a dream guitar. Just imagine having a strat inside a les Paul body, it just sounds awesome. Also it has those locking tuners that makes changing strings a lot easier and keeps that G string on tune. Recommended af 10/10
For an epiphone maybe... But there are tons of guitars with better specs that are priced lower... Still, the quality/price ratio is much higher than any Gibson's, so I guess we should be happy(?)
I picked up the epiphone modern figured in Caribbean burst... gotta say, it keeps up really well with my gibsons and my Brian moore les paul. Really impressed.
Dude your playing came alive with that guitar! Compared to others that I have heard from you this one was a bit inspired. Nice playing. I want one of these now. Epiphone should pay you for this video. I'm sold! I have been looking at goths, nuclear, and other LP's but I think I may go the new route now. Thanks
Epiphones have been impressing for a while now. Besides my Elitist Les Paul I have a MiC ES-339 P-90 Pro, and an Epi ES-355 with Bigsby from the Pelham Blue collection. I really love them, and play them next to my Gibsons.
I played my friend's Carribean fade version. I loved it! I've never loved an Epiphone before. This one you have review sounds and looks great to me too. I want one.
Ebony is not *that* expensive (especially since they probably used 2nd/3rd grade pieces that they stained black/even), it's less than $20 for a fingerboard sized piece. The locking tuners contribute to the price considerably more even tho Epiphone is buying them in bulk. I paid $400 for my Epiphone Les Paul Custom Lite which comes with an ebony fingerboard-granted, it was on a discount (right as the 2020 Epis were announced, the seller was afraid they won't be able to sell it at a regular price I guess) but it was $560 before the discount.
I think for the price these guitars are stunning. I saw a wine red studio in the new range for under £500 pounds. I paid 500 for my japanese fender jaguar in 1999. I wish these were around then.
I think the Epi didn't get the extra pull pot because they wanted the real Gibson model to be a bit more featured than it's cheaper counterpart. The locking Grover tuners make up for the lack of extra pull pot, though.
Yeah I think that's a much better feature really. The terrible tuning issues of Gibson style headstocks is such an annoying thing to deal with that any method of fixing that is very welcome to me. There's that thing called a String Butler you can put on Gibson and epiphone headstocks that's meant to fix the tuning problems, but it's kinda ugly and covers up the logos. Locking tuners look exactly the same really so it just looks like a normal les paul in that sense. You could add another pull pot if it's really something you need.
I like it, great color, great features, and even though I’m one of the weirdos that liked the old Epi headstock, I like the new one too. The only thing I don’t like are the weird knobs, but that’s easy enough to fix.
I purchased the new Modern SG 2 months ago and had to put relief in the neck. '9s were no good, I put on 10-46 and adjusted the action to 2.5mm. from the top of the 15th fret to the underside of both E strings, set radius to 12", set intonation and voila! I also lowered each pickup just a little, and raised the stop tailpiece a little for easier bending. Use a strap with suede lining and it will help with neck dive. NOW, I have an awesome SG!
Wow that's a very thorough review! I was looking for info on this model and believe my mind is made up now. Subscribed! Looking forward to more videos.
Pretty sure Gibson Les Paul Standards don't normally have pearl trapezoid fret markers. The Trapesoid inlays are traditionally made of Acrylic/Pearloid material. The Grover tuners found on import guitars are not the same Grover tuners made domestically. The import Grover tuners do have small differences when compared to the more expensive domestically manufactured tuning pegs/machines.
Not 100% sure but I don't think Grovers have been made in the USA for a long time. Important to note that these are 18:1 ratio not 14:1 ratio which is one of the common comparisons people make
Very informative, thanx! Another really important thing that the EPI will have over a Gibson LP Studio, or for that matter over most Gibson LP models, is staying in tune! I had a beautiful Gibson LP Studio that just would not stay in tune, even after putting Grover locking tuners on it. I felt like I couldn't in good conscience sell it and have another musician stuck with that problem. However, a luthier I knew was happy to buy it from me at a bargain basement price - and I was happy to be rid of it. I'm not thrilled with the scarf joint on this EPI, but the EPI 59' has it too. At least this one has an ebony fingerboard, and not the Indian Laurel, which I just can't get jiggy with.
Wow!!! I am literally 20 seconds into the video, and have to stop myself right there and comment... Beautiful freaking guitar! I mean that thing is gorgeous! OK I’ll shut my hole now and continue watching the rest of the video😆
That is actually a sweet guitar. I'm looking for some clear knobs like that guitar has. That Pelham blue but it is starting to grow on me a little but I really dig the natural finish on the backside Great info today...Thanks.
Thanks Trogly, this review gave me the final push to buy this Epi in graphite black, and I f...ing love it. Was doubting to buy this one or the classic worn but your review totally conviced me.
I bought this guitar and had it pleked to ensure it was perfect. Amazing value even after paying for the plek. Zero regrets. I'm planning on putting a SD JB in it.
Yeah...they were originally supposed to ship in early March. Then it got pushed back to early May (per Sweetwater). Wouldnt surprise me if it ends up being in July.
Great video Trog. Looks like a really nice guitar. Now you've got to do the Epiphone SG Modern to see if that's as good. I remember you really like the Gibson SG Modern.
I don't think if you're playing it at a gig night club, bar or wedding that you'd have people walking out on you because your guitar has a three piece body or one of the headstock wings had a little different color. Could you imagine: "1. I hate that band.." "2. Why? I think they're really good"... "1. Yeah they play great but the guitar has a three piece body, I can't listen to that crap any more"...
This is one of the best comments I’ve ever seen on youtube. A good guitar player can play a piece of garbage and entertain a crowd. Somebody who doesn’t know a chord will never entertain a crowd no matter how high quality the guitar it. I like guitar videos because I love guitars and it’s fun to learn about different ones. But, most guitar review feature really good players, and they always sound good. Most guitars can sound good. A $100 guitar played through a really good pedal board and a great amp, will sound good if it’s played well. Too bad a video can’t really give you a sense of how the guitar will feel in your hands. For now, all the guitar shops in my area are closed, so I can’t go try different guitars just for fun, so this helps satisfy that need.
Perfect. That's what cracks me up about most music gear. How often will your average punter notice a handwired amp going through a shitty house pa system with a battered old sm57
that bridge pickup sounds amazing with some drive, in humbucker and coil split.. i was thinking of getting a Gibson Les Paul of some sort but this is looking really temping. This or a Epi Les Paul Custom Koa
I really like the grovers on this one, I always had a thing for them ever since I met Grover family member at their warehouse in Garfield while on a service call.
I bought that guitar about month and a half ago, and soundwise it really is a killer guitar, so versatile, it is easy to play and looks helluva good. I think that this epiphone modern les paul faded pelham blue is worth evry fucking penny, I got mine fo 670€
I'm surprised that volume pots, that have the highest wear and replacement needs, are always first choice for push/pull. All the used epiphones will be missing that last knob with no push/pull because people will keep pulling on them and wear out the knob's grip. The scarf joint is across the headstock rather than on the neck under the first fret and nut like prior Epiphones where it's sandwiched by the fretboard. Depending on how big the truss cavity is that may or may not be a stronger solution, but it may give more stability to the fretwork during humidity/temperature fluctuations.. That muddy neck pickup can be improved by raising the screw poles 1/8th inch and lowering the pickup, which will also help reduce coil split volume drop.
Hey Trogly. Loved the neck dimension visual representation. The neck matters a lot and was the main thing i wanted to know before pulling the trigger on this. Cant wait to get one!
I always put extra length on my guitars with locking tuners. That way I can loosen the strings up to have access to things without taking off the strings and of coarse some songs are a half step low and some times people use other drop tunings
Agreed, probably why Epiphone ship with wraps around each post; provides the customer with more options (especially while setting the action to their choice).
In some places like Ebay the Epiphone Custom Koa Les Paul's are selling New up to $1,200 plus and the Epiphone modern figured Sgs as high as $1,000 plus..these prices will be everywhere including the big box stores in 2023..
I ordered one of these in October of 2021. Won't receive it until January of 2022. Its definitely worth the wait. And i agree that Harley Benton guitars are maxed out with specs. Too bad you can't check them out in stores. And shipping is ridiculous. For now I'll stick with the new Epiphone guitars.
I lucked out on this exact Guitar! Yesterday I had everything in the Sweetwater cart ready to buy, then I went to Guitar center for a guitar lesson and normally I bring my acoustic but I asked if I could play eclectic today. the rule is you can use any guitar under $500. I just happened to gravitate towards this exact guitar and it happened to be on SALE for $499! So I bought it! I f ing love love LOVE this Guitar!!!!
I have this one, and it is the first Les Paul that clicked with me. The pickups are so-so, but this is the Les Paul I’ve waited for my whole life. Now if they could just add a gold top to the modern lineup, all the boxes that need ticking would be checked. But I suppose I’ll settle for the graphite black when I buy my second one.
I wish Epiphone would make one of these with a finish that looks like an old goldtop beginning to turn green. The guitar doesn't have to be relic'd, I just like that color.
I've read that some guitar manufacturers give the locking tuners an extra wind so if you want to drop the tuning down you don't have to change strings.
I think that dip in the neck pocket could be where the use a staple or small nail gun to help hold the neck in place during the glueing process. Then they usually clamp if as well but I’ve seen that done on several guitars in the process.
Picked up the Graphite black on reverb . Looks like it was never played. 620$ shipped with a brand new epiphone case. Super happy with it . Probuckers are a little bright but that’s what tone controls are for . Neck is awesome and I have a 56 with a bat neck, Lazarus also hefty, slim taper 60’s on a Gibson and another Epiphone . They all are comfortable. Mine came in at 8lbs. Excellent guitar . Oh yeah the frets were perfect
I just got my Gibson LP modern and I sure hope this Epiphone has better fret work than my Gibson. I have several Gibson's as well as many other makes and my Gibson modern came to me with about the worst fret work as any guitar I own including my$200 guitars.
I’m in the market for a les Paul and I have it narrowed down to this model and the studio. I’m leaning towards this one, but I don’t particularly like the way the natural finish on the back looks with the red top, but I like the top and details of this one more than the studio. Having this top (and ebony fretboard) with the studio’s back finish would be the ticket for me
The missing direct to bridge pull is 100% a differentiating feature to justify the exorbitantly priced gibson. For us mere mortals :) a $1500< guitar is hard to justify so appreciate you doing this epiphone review. Having access to the modern features is astounding at this price but Gibson knows they have to hold some things back otherwise there really wouldnt be any reason to buy a brand new Gibson when you can have an Epiphone of equal value at a lower price. Also wanted to say I really like the strap you are using and appreciate the Lion King lick you did mid way through the overdrive part :) Thank you for all you do.
I bought the Black Graphite one earlier this year...NOT disappointed at all..Its the most played Guitar i have now No Regret's on the purchase .I highly recommend trying one if your on a budget and like les pauls..Thanks fpr the review ;)
Interesting tidbit you may not know: compound radius fretboards can actually help you get lower action because the frets will follow the cone shape of the strings' height better. However, it has to be a mellower change like 10-13" or 12-16" to help with this, 10-16" won't actually help.
Bought one in burgundy, was delivered before the lock down so lucky there. Really nice guitar, found I had to adjust the action with the truss rod as the string buzzing on the 5th string was driving me nuts. I'll get it fret leveled once were back to normal. Very happy with it otherwise.
I bought the Sweetwater exclusive TV Blue finish and spent a bit extra on having it PLECK'd and set up to my specs, Plays beautifully. The neck Pickup on mine is also a bit muddy but not bad at all
make sure you get the Gibson Les Paul. but if you want a really good Les Paul like there is a company in California call All in One Guitars that make great LP style guitars that are of much much higher quality than a Chinese Epiphone. there WLP is just like a Gibson Les Paul Standard . check em out, they have a web site www.allinoneguitars.com/
If you are readily finding Les Paul Studio's for $649 in your area, you are doing way better than I am
Really? You talking epiphone les Paul or Gibson? The epiphone run $499 all over, but my guitar shop has them for $599😡
@@diggindaddy5381 he's talking Gibson because that's the comparison at the end of the video
No apostrophe is used to pluralize a word.
as an epiphone guy who is a financially struggling 18 year old not being able to afford the full priced gibsons, i am more than thankful for how high quality these epiphones have gotten
Save up twice as long get something 3 times as good! My advice bro
@@shaneelvis1699 I wouldn’t recommend it now. Used guitar market seems to have gone insane, and you can’t really seem to find any in stock. I would say wait it out if you were going to buy a really good guitar.
I don't know if you pulled the trigger on either the Epi or Gibson version of this guitar, but here's my own two cents on whether or not to get the Epiphone version of this guitar followed by why.
Unless you feel you need to have the Gibson logo on the headstock, and unless you feel you need to be able to say that it's a Gibson, I would get the Epiphone version.
Now the why. I have the Gibson Pelham Blue Les Paul Modern and absolutely love the guitar. It's pretty much spot on with every single detail and I absolutely love the asymmetrical slim taper neck on it. I have mild carpal tunnel and this neck bothers my fretting hand the absolute least of any of my guitars. However, there are instances in which I don't want to carry my $2700 dollar guitar with me, so I purchased the Epiphone version of the same guitar, even the same color. After playing the Epiphone version I can flat out say that there is no reason to purchase the Gibson version.
There are some subtle differences, but they really are minor. One difference is that the Gibson model has a compound radius fretboard whereas the Epi version is just the 12 inch radius up and down the neck. Both models, however, have the asymmetrical slim taper neck profile on the back. The pickups don't sound exactly the same, and I think the Epi pickups are using Alnico 2 magnets as opposed to the Alnico 5 in the Gibson Burstucker Pro and Plus models in their guitars. I could be wrong about the magnets, but I believe this is the difference. However it's not so much of a difference that I've felt the need to upgrade the pickups or look into swapping out the magnets. So, soundwise there is a minor difference, but really it's not enough to spend another 2000 dollars for the Gibson. These Epiphone Probuckers are pretty da*m good.
The Epiphone doesn't have as many coil splitting/tapping options as the Gibson version. To me that's a minor thing as I don't really use those features, but for some it could be a game changer.
The Epiphone just stays in tune. My Gibson, on the other hand, I had to have a new nut put in and even after that I had to put on one of those String Butler gadgets to change the overall break angle of the strings behind the nut. After that the Gibson stays in tune really well, but I didn't have to do anything at all to the Epiphone. I'm thinking the break angle of the Epi headstock might be slightly different than the Gibson(?) but don't quote me on that.
Both guitars play equally well, the finish on both are spot on, fret work on both were excellent. The Gibson has a slight ghost/wolf tone on the G string on every fret that noone has been able to pin down the cause of. All frets are level, the neck is straight, there is no retainer wire on the bridge of these guitars, no loose parts/screws etc. It's a mystery, but it's very, very slight and I'm the only one who hears it except for the two luthiers that I took it to; they can hear it but anyone else that hears me play doesn't notice it at all. The Epiphone doesn't have this problem.
So, overall I do love the Gibson and when at home that's my main guitar that I use. However, I also play the Epiphone quite a bit and that's what I use if I'm playing anywhere other than the house. If I had it to do over again I would have just bought the Epiphone.
@@ronpipes1988 Thanks for the advice, appreciate the fact you have both versions and did an in depth guide. I dont own any Epis but if I went for a Les Paul type guitar this might be the one.
I got a used modern figured for $460 plus tax with free shipping and I'm extremely happy with it. It's in near mint condition and I really don't think there's much better of a deal to be had. It does absolutely everything I want, feels great, sounds even better, and is well built. I feel absolutely no need to shell out the money for a Gibson.
The new tool is shockingly very useful for visualizing the neck.
This is exactly the guitar I have and I love it. Can’t lie, the new headstock was a consideration and as beautiful as the Pelham blue finish is, what I was really surprised by is how beautiful the back and neck is!
That’s exactly what I am considering and for the exact same reasons.
Love how versatile this is... love that it sounds like a LP and how nasally you can make it in the split and OOF sounds
Just got this one yesterday. I sat in Guitar Center for about an hour playing everything in my price range. I just feels great.
I played a graphite one of these a few days ago and it was incredible! It was a heck of a guitar to look at and even better to play. It can sound like anything from a strat to a Gibson les paul. This is a great guitar for the money!
I just got the Caribbean Burst Epiphone LP. It’s shocking how good it sounds. The tone is the best out of any guitar in my collection that ranges from US Made Gibsons to Mexican made EVH to Asian made Jacksons. The Chinese made epiphone is the best looking and best sounding out of the bunch 😂👍🏻
Based on looks, specs, and this review I ordered this guitar at the start of the pandemic…it not only made me happy for the 18 months or so that I couldn’t gig, it’s been my main player ever since. I recently had the frets leveled and I love it even more now, which I didn’t think was possible. At this price point it’s an absolute steal!
I have 3 Epi's.....All 3 are solid guitars. Gold top, honey burst, and a natural 100 year anniversary. Play, sound, look amazing. Wouldn't trade them for anything.
This is potentially the nicest looking Epi LP I've seen yet. Gorgeous. Cheers for the review.
I just got mine, delivered yesterday.
It's a lovely instrument and it was playable right out of the box. I can't find any flaws worth mentioning and no high frets although I lowered the action very slightly this morning.
Mine was built in February according to the serial number.
SOLD!! As soon as I can sell my '13 Epi Les Paul Standard, I'm hitting up Sam Ash for the Graphite Black model. Good review.
Hey just wanna day thank you for your videos I’m going through a really rough time right now but everytime I watch your videos it’s a nice escape from it all I know it’s cheesy and stuff but I appreciate your work a lot hope you and your family are staying safe
enough with the 'staying safe' crap ... we get enough of that propaganda from the news. lol
For the price an amazing guitar. I purchased one after Trogly’s review and am not disappointed. The locking tuners are a plus. My guitar just need a fret polish and good to go. Epiphone has come a long way.
One of the best sounding guitars he has ever reviewed. Makes me wonder if he has changed his signal chain.
Always makes me happy when you're showing some Epi love. Always a fan of Gibson, but Epiphones got me through until I got my first Gibby.
I bought this beautiful guitar last week - and I love her so much!! She is as imperfect as my Gibson Les Paul Custom, but it doesn't matter. Thank you!!
It's a really good guitar.
I just bought a Epiphone Les Paul Modern in Caribbean Blue fade. It has a really nice flamed top that fades from a light blue to almost clear. It has a very nice chime if you strum it without plugging it in. You can hear the resonance. One thing that I really like was that it was shipped without the pickguard attached. The pickguard was in the box with the hardware to attache it but it was not installed. This guitar has such a beautiful top that it would be a shame to cover it with the guard.
Trogly you should contact Agufish and ask him to send you his signature Harley Benton guitar for a bench review. It retails for under $500 from Thomann and it’s spec’d out to the max.
Yesss please!
What is Agufish?
216trixie Fellow TH-camr
I just took delivery of a Harely Benton T style yesterday... in having a hard time finding any fault with it. Can’t believe the amount of guitar for the price.
@@JMac. yeah. I took a punt and bought a harley benton electro acoustic classical guitar because it was so cheap that I thought if it turns out crap, well then I haven't lost a fortune or anything. And I absolutely love it. The thing plays so well, has rock hard tuning stability, and the pickup system is a Fishman pickup system and even with a normal electric guitar amp (as opposed to an acoustic amp) it sounds great. Maybe I'll get an acoustic processor pedal thing one day but I don't really need it. And throw on some distortion or fuzz and the thing actually sounds good doing that. Though usually I just use some chorus and reverb
Anyway yeah I'm gonna buy 3 or 4 more harley bentons once the pandemic is over. I've been wanting to modify a tele to put in gretsch filtertron style pickups for ages now, and Harley Benton sell that exact thing, so no routing required. I'll swap the pickups out for some of the Seymour Duncan filtertron style ones, or maybe Lollar or something. But yeah other than that, it'll basically be a solid body gretsch but with the longer fender style scale length and neck style, and cos I learned on a fender strat I always play much better on anything fender style.
Also they sell a telecaster with 2 p90s. I'm trying to decide between either that or the goldtop Les Paul with 2 p90s that they sell. P90s are the best guitar pickups bar none and nobody can convince me otherwise.
It helps I'm in the UK, so the cost of everything to ship from Germany is so much cheaper than if I was in say north America.
Landon, I purchased mine via Sweetwater about 9 months ago after watching a few demo's and then trying one locally. I go through Sweetwater because I've been a loyal buyer for several years and the service. That all said, I have found the Epiphone brand guitars to be phenomenal. I'm not a professional, but I still want a dependable and well made guitar. Personally, I think the price point on Gibson branded guitars are over the top. The hardware, wood, etc for me can not be justified to pay the monstrous prices when I get such a great guitar for the price in the Epiphone. Then the QC at Gibson has been in great question and if you look at what has been coming out, someone at the QC department needs to be replaced with someone who holds the Gibson name with honor. Bad analogy but I'm sure you get my point. I don't purchase guitars because an Artist plays them, because I know they often choose for the sponsorship benefits. If it works for me, that's why I purchase it. Thanks for the video
Early gang!
I love a Pelham Blue finish on almost any guitar! The SG and the LP are by far my favorites with Pelham blue!
Great video!
you were first
@@gabemots5200 ah really! That's cool! I'm not usually this fast haha
@@avnorth6749 thats not what she said ! lol
@@malcolmhardwick4258 😂😂😂😂😂
I have almost one year with that guitar model and I swear it’s a dream guitar. Just imagine having a strat inside a les Paul body, it just sounds awesome. Also it has those locking tuners that makes changing strings a lot easier and keeps that G string on tune. Recommended af 10/10
That’s a keeper. For the price and quality you can’t beat it.
For an epiphone maybe... But there are tons of guitars with better specs that are priced lower... Still, the quality/price ratio is much higher than any Gibson's, so I guess we should be happy(?)
I picked up the epiphone modern figured in Caribbean burst... gotta say, it keeps up really well with my gibsons and my Brian moore les paul. Really impressed.
Always been more of a fan of fender guitars but, damn, this guitar looks absolutely awesome.
Loved this Guitar as soon as I saw it come out of the box, a worthy guitar for any collection.
Dude your playing came alive with that guitar! Compared to others that I have heard from you this one was a bit inspired. Nice playing. I want one of these now. Epiphone should pay you for this video. I'm sold! I have been looking at goths, nuclear, and other LP's but I think I may go the new route now. Thanks
Your playing has gotten much better! keep it up! Would love to see one of those caribbean blue burst ones. They look nice.
Yoooooo, that overdriven Doors riff with coil split gave me chills. This might be what I’m looking for.
I've owned this very guitar for a couple of years and I love it. It's great!
Epiphones have been impressing for a while now. Besides my Elitist Les Paul I have a MiC ES-339 P-90 Pro, and an Epi ES-355 with Bigsby from the Pelham Blue collection. I really love them, and play them next to my Gibsons.
Tell me about that Epiphone 339. Do you think the build and sound is quality? How is the touch response?
A really Nice LP . Really dig its sound and all the available on board tonal options . Good job on the review .
I played my friend's Carribean fade version. I loved it! I've never loved an Epiphone before.
This one you have review sounds and looks great to me too.
I want one.
It's shocking that Epi can offer ebony on the fingerboard at that price point. Great looking guitar!
Ebony is not *that* expensive (especially since they probably used 2nd/3rd grade pieces that they stained black/even), it's less than $20 for a fingerboard sized piece. The locking tuners contribute to the price considerably more even tho Epiphone is buying them in bulk. I paid $400 for my Epiphone Les Paul Custom Lite which comes with an ebony fingerboard-granted, it was on a discount (right as the 2020 Epis were announced, the seller was afraid they won't be able to sell it at a regular price I guess) but it was $560 before the discount.
@@zwerko I actually got a lot of 10 for 100 dollars shipped a couple years back on ebay. It was a great deal. Some were very black too.
I think for the price these guitars are stunning. I saw a wine red studio in the new range for under £500 pounds. I paid 500 for my japanese fender jaguar in 1999. I wish these were around then.
The world would be a lonely place if we didn't have your channel, outstanding work bro
I have the SG Modern, you are right about the new Epi controls being easy to use. Easily my favorite push-pulls I've used.
I think the Epi didn't get the extra pull pot because they wanted the real Gibson model to be a bit more featured than it's cheaper counterpart. The locking Grover tuners make up for the lack of extra pull pot, though.
Yeah I think that's a much better feature really. The terrible tuning issues of Gibson style headstocks is such an annoying thing to deal with that any method of fixing that is very welcome to me. There's that thing called a String Butler you can put on Gibson and epiphone headstocks that's meant to fix the tuning problems, but it's kinda ugly and covers up the logos. Locking tuners look exactly the same really so it just looks like a normal les paul in that sense. You could add another pull pot if it's really something you need.
the one that didnt pull was the volume though was it not?
I like it, great color, great features, and even though I’m one of the weirdos that liked the old Epi headstock, I like the new one too. The only thing I don’t like are the weird knobs, but that’s easy enough to fix.
That’s for sure and for certain.
Dyamnnnnnn 👌🏾 my man that was the most in depth Demo I've ever seen !!!! Amazing
OMG I've been waiting for this review since NAMM, I'm in love with this guitar, I really hope I can buy it
I just bought a Sparkling Burgundy and it is flawless.
I purchased the new Modern SG 2 months ago and had to put relief in the neck. '9s were no good, I put on 10-46 and adjusted the action to 2.5mm. from the top of the 15th fret to the underside of both E strings, set radius to 12", set intonation and voila! I also lowered each pickup just a little, and raised the stop tailpiece a little for easier bending. Use a strap with suede lining and it will help with neck dive. NOW, I have an awesome SG!
Trogly is simply the best guitar You Tube channel. Long may these videos continue. I have learned a lot from Trogly binges
Gotta be one of the best guitar review's I've seen on yt. Great video, keep up the great work.
Wow that's a very thorough review! I was looking for info on this model and believe my mind is made up now. Subscribed! Looking forward to more videos.
Epi have really got their act together. These are getting seriously good guitars for the price.
Nice color on a Paul. Looks great. The tones are very thick and sweet. I like it.
Best review I have seen on the modern epiphone guitars.
Yes! The contour gauge in this video turned out AWESOME, GREAT SHOT.
Great in-depth review. The more I watched, the more that color grew on me. Nicely done!
Glad to see you back doing the reviews!
I'm sold on this one, getting one for sure, love the Epiphone guitars.
Clear knobs are on point.
but the vol pots are on/off switches....
my god theyre the ugliest thing i ever saw on a guitar LOL to each their own, right?
@@mbellizia75 agree, the knobs would be the first thing I change. I cannot stand this clear knob fad going on.
One of the best guitar reviewers online.. thanks for what you do. Rock on..
Pretty sure Gibson Les Paul Standards don't normally have pearl trapezoid fret markers. The Trapesoid inlays are traditionally made of Acrylic/Pearloid material.
The Grover tuners found on import guitars are not the same Grover tuners made domestically.
The import Grover tuners do have small differences when compared to the more expensive domestically manufactured tuning pegs/machines.
Not 100% sure but I don't think Grovers have been made in the USA for a long time. Important to note that these are 18:1 ratio not 14:1 ratio which is one of the common comparisons people make
Very informative, thanx! Another really important thing that the EPI will have over a Gibson LP Studio, or for that matter over most Gibson LP models, is staying in tune! I had a beautiful Gibson LP Studio that just would not stay in tune, even after putting Grover locking tuners on it. I felt like I couldn't in good conscience sell it and have another musician stuck with that problem. However, a luthier I knew was happy to buy it from me at a bargain basement price - and I was happy to be rid of it. I'm not thrilled with the scarf joint on this EPI, but the EPI 59' has it too. At least this one has an ebony fingerboard, and not the Indian Laurel, which I just can't get jiggy with.
Wow!!! I am literally 20 seconds into the video, and have to stop myself right there and comment...
Beautiful freaking guitar! I mean that thing is gorgeous! OK I’ll shut my hole now and continue watching the rest of the video😆
That is actually a sweet guitar. I'm looking for some clear knobs like that guitar has. That Pelham blue but it is starting to grow on me a little but I really dig the natural finish on the backside Great info today...Thanks.
Thanks Trogly, this review gave me the final push to buy this Epi in graphite black, and I f...ing love it. Was doubting to buy this one or the classic worn but your review totally conviced me.
These are fantastic- enjoy it!
I bought this guitar and had it pleked to ensure it was perfect. Amazing value even after paying for the plek. Zero regrets. I'm planning on putting a SD JB in it.
I have one of these locked down on pre-order. Sparkle red. Cant wait to get my hands on it.
I ordered mine a month ago. Apparently they aren't shipping until July according to Music Zoo.
Yeah...they were originally supposed to ship in early March. Then it got pushed back to early May (per Sweetwater). Wouldnt surprise me if it ends up being in July.
Great video Trog. Looks like a really nice guitar. Now you've got to do the Epiphone SG Modern to see if that's as good. I remember you really like the Gibson SG Modern.
I don't think if you're playing it at a gig night club, bar or wedding that you'd have people walking out on you because your guitar has a three piece body or one of the headstock wings had a little different color. Could you imagine: "1. I hate that band.." "2. Why? I think they're really good"... "1. Yeah they play great but the guitar has a three piece body, I can't listen to that crap any more"...
people won't notice, and besides when people get this nitpicky everyone will know they're an asshole. so i guess i agree
This is one of the best comments I’ve ever seen on youtube. A good guitar player can play a piece of garbage and entertain a crowd. Somebody who doesn’t know a chord will never entertain a crowd no matter how high quality the guitar it. I like guitar videos because I love guitars and it’s fun to learn about different ones. But, most guitar review feature really good players, and they always sound good. Most guitars can sound good. A $100 guitar played through a really good pedal board and a great amp, will sound good if it’s played well. Too bad a video can’t really give you a sense of how the guitar will feel in your hands. For now, all the guitar shops in my area are closed, so I can’t go try different guitars just for fun, so this helps satisfy that need.
Perfect. That's what cracks me up about most music gear. How often will your average punter notice a handwired amp going through a shitty house pa system with a battered old sm57
Hahahahaha! Imagine that
@@tcw8287 excellent observation!
Thanks for the video! I have one on order and can't wait to play.
that bridge pickup sounds amazing with some drive, in humbucker and coil split.. i was thinking of getting a Gibson Les Paul of some sort but this is looking really temping. This or a Epi Les Paul Custom Koa
I really like the grovers on this one, I always had a thing for them ever since I met Grover family member at their warehouse in Garfield while on a service call.
I bought that guitar about month and a half ago, and soundwise it really is a killer guitar, so versatile, it is easy to play and looks helluva good. I think that this epiphone modern les paul faded pelham blue is worth evry fucking penny, I got mine fo 670€
I'm surprised that volume pots, that have the highest wear and replacement needs, are always first choice for push/pull. All the used epiphones will be missing that last knob with no push/pull because people will keep pulling on them and wear out the knob's grip. The scarf joint is across the headstock rather than on the neck under the first fret and nut like prior Epiphones where it's sandwiched by the fretboard. Depending on how big the truss cavity is that may or may not be a stronger solution, but it may give more stability to the fretwork during humidity/temperature fluctuations.. That muddy neck pickup can be improved by raising the screw poles 1/8th inch and lowering the pickup, which will also help reduce coil split volume drop.
Recently I got of these as part of a batch of epiphones in that sparkly red. It is a seriously good looking guitar
Hey Trogly. Loved the neck dimension visual representation. The neck matters a lot and was the main thing i wanted to know before pulling the trigger on this. Cant wait to get one!
I always put extra length on my guitars with locking tuners. That way I can loosen the strings up to have access to things without taking off the strings and of coarse some songs are a half step low and some times people use other drop tunings
I agree. A couple of turns are not a problem, and don't amount to "a mistake". They're not strictly necessary, that's all.
Agreed, probably why Epiphone ship with wraps around each post; provides the customer with more options (especially while setting the action to their choice).
Fantastic videos, I love the way you literally take the guitar apart and really check out the specs. Quality stuff!
In some places like Ebay the Epiphone Custom Koa Les Paul's are selling New up to $1,200 plus and the Epiphone modern figured Sgs as high as $1,000 plus..these prices will be everywhere including the big box stores in 2023..
I ordered one of these in October of 2021. Won't receive it until January of 2022. Its definitely worth the wait. And i agree that Harley Benton guitars are maxed out with specs. Too bad you can't check them out in stores. And shipping is ridiculous. For now I'll stick with the new Epiphone guitars.
I lucked out on this exact Guitar! Yesterday I had everything in the Sweetwater cart ready to buy, then I went to Guitar center for a guitar lesson and normally I bring my acoustic but I asked if I could play eclectic today. the rule is you can use any guitar under $500. I just happened to gravitate towards this exact guitar and it happened to be on SALE for $499! So I bought it! I f ing love love LOVE this Guitar!!!!
I have this one, and it is the first Les Paul that clicked with me. The pickups are so-so, but this is the Les Paul I’ve waited for my whole life. Now if they could just add a gold top to the modern lineup, all the boxes that need ticking would be checked. But I suppose I’ll settle for the graphite black when I buy my second one.
I wish Epiphone would make one of these with a finish that looks like an old goldtop beginning to turn green. The guitar doesn't have to be relic'd, I just like that color.
Thanks for the review; helped me decide to pull the trigger on one of these today.
Pull-pot configuration is pretty standard for the Epi LP's - coil split on each volume pot, 15dB boost on the neck tone pot which works globally.
Um, how to you think you're getting a 15 db boost in a passive, no battery rig. "No".
Really impressed by this! I'd like to see a comparison of this and the muse series
Got one at GC for $550 yesterday, really digging it!
I picked up a very slightly used one for $500. Wow !
if i ever saw a gibson les paul studio for under $900 i'd pick it up immediately. i've been looking for years.
I've read that some guitar manufacturers give the locking tuners an extra wind so if you want to drop the tuning down you don't have to change strings.
I think that dip in the neck pocket could be where the use a staple or small nail gun to help hold the neck in place during the glueing process. Then they usually clamp if as well but I’ve seen that done on several guitars in the process.
Very nice test. Appreciated. BTW, How different is this Epiphone's body shape from the Gibson counterpart?
Picked up the Graphite black on reverb . Looks like it was never played. 620$ shipped with a brand new epiphone case. Super happy with it . Probuckers are a little bright but that’s what tone controls are for . Neck is awesome and I have a 56 with a bat neck, Lazarus also hefty, slim taper 60’s on a Gibson and another Epiphone . They all are comfortable. Mine came in at 8lbs. Excellent guitar . Oh yeah the frets were perfect
I just got my Gibson LP modern and I sure hope this Epiphone has better fret work than my Gibson. I have several Gibson's as well as many other makes and my Gibson modern came to me with about the worst fret work as any guitar I own including my$200 guitars.
I’m in the market for a les Paul and I have it narrowed down to this model and the studio. I’m leaning towards this one, but I don’t particularly like the way the natural finish on the back looks with the red top, but I like the top and details of this one more than the studio. Having this top (and ebony fretboard) with the studio’s back finish would be the ticket for me
The missing direct to bridge pull is 100% a differentiating feature to justify the exorbitantly priced gibson. For us mere mortals :) a $1500< guitar is hard to justify so appreciate you doing this epiphone review. Having access to the modern features is astounding at this price but Gibson knows they have to hold some things back otherwise there really wouldnt be any reason to buy a brand new Gibson when you can have an Epiphone of equal value at a lower price.
Also wanted to say I really like the strap you are using and appreciate the Lion King lick you did mid way through the overdrive part :) Thank you for all you do.
I bought the Black Graphite one earlier this year...NOT disappointed at all..Its the most played Guitar i have now No Regret's on the purchase .I highly recommend trying one if your on a budget and like les pauls..Thanks fpr the review ;)
@ 16:35 That is why you play the guitars before you buy! Go play 5 of the same models and you will hear the difference! One will always stand out!
I own this guitar , paid 250.00 uk for it , absolutely beautiful guitar and very versatile
Interesting tidbit you may not know: compound radius fretboards can actually help you get lower action because the frets will follow the cone shape of the strings' height better. However, it has to be a mellower change like 10-13" or 12-16" to help with this, 10-16" won't actually help.
With a 12 inch radius tune o matic bridge?
@@ResoBridge yeah, that probably ruins it too. I would think the bridge should match the upper frets' radius for best action.
Bought one in burgundy, was delivered before the lock down so lucky there. Really nice guitar, found I had to adjust the action with the truss rod as the string buzzing on the 5th string was driving me nuts. I'll get it fret leveled once were back to normal. Very happy with it otherwise.
i have a classic worn and its the best guitar i own
i love it
I bought the Sweetwater exclusive TV Blue finish and spent a bit extra on having it PLECK'd and set up to my specs, Plays beautifully. The neck Pickup on mine is also a bit muddy but not bad at all
Thanks for the review!!😉👍
Man I wish I could get a nice LP they're one of my dream guitars, and I love this color
make sure you get the Gibson Les Paul. but if you want a really good Les Paul like there is a company in California call All in One Guitars that make great LP style guitars that are of much much higher quality than a Chinese Epiphone. there WLP is just like a Gibson Les Paul Standard . check em out, they have a web site www.allinoneguitars.com/
@@xjohn1970 They're $500. You can get a used Gibson Les Paul Studio for $600. Is the copy better than a real LP?
@@rrrafiel where can I get the studio for 600 ?
@@ryanmcmanus5992 Got an LP Studio Faded for 650 at Guitar Center (used section)
@@xjohn1970 why are you letting your xenophobia get the better of you