Was lucky enough to learn on my father`s 1960 Gibson es 330 which I inherited,loved Gibson ever since, but it took me decades before i could actualy save the money to buy the custom shop reissue goldtop Les Paul ime playing in my pic,An absolutely wonderful guitar and worth every penny,you dont just create instruments but works of art
Me too.....got a 2019 Epiphone Les Paul 1960 Tribute with Gibson pickups, CTS electronics, Mallory tone pots & Switchcraft USA pickup selector switch. Pretty much a Gibson for $849, hardshell case included!!!
Thanks for making the important point that Epiphones made in China are made in two factories wholly owned by Gibson solely for that purpose since 2002 and many of the staff have 18 years experience and service. So many people wrongly think that China made Epiphones are produced in no-name factories that do all sorts of contract manufacturing.
I have the Epiphone OLD Glory ( JJ Nichols model) and its a fantastic Guitar , Seymour Duncan , Cts , Groover , made in china , very good Finition ...what else !!! I have had very expensive guitars in the past, now I bought squier, epiphone, and the quality of the guitars is just incredible, but it is true that I favor Chinese manufacture, my future purchase, the squier paranormal offset tele.
I bought the Alpine White Epiphone Les Paul Custom about two years ago, and I love it. Beautiful guitar, and sounds so great. So much fun to play. You're an incredible player, Dagan. I wish I had a quarter of your guitar skills. Thanks for the killer videos you provide us.
I have epiphones and gibsons. They're very similar forsure nowadays. Back in 2000 when I started playing there was a huge difference but not so much anymore. It's worth noting that a Gibson led paul always sounds warmer and brighter. The tone is unmatched with a Gibson imo.
Been a session player for over forty years. Had 2 Gibson LPs, a custom and a studio. In ‘94, my kids bought me an Epi (Korean) LP for Father’s Day so I’d have something cheap laying around the house to hammer on. Messed around playing it for a couple weeks and loved the neck. Put Duncan PAFs, switchcraft pots and switch, and a set of NOS ‘58 caps in it. This is now my go to guitar and I guard it with my life. Just picked up a ‘16 custom pro in koa and it seems pretty good so far. Sold the Gibson LPs because I never used them. I do have an Epi dot delux and a Gibson 335. The dot delux is good, but the Gibson outshines it. I would rather hear a good player on an epiphone, than a bad player on a Gibson……
A shame you didn't picked a "inspired by gibson" Epiphone then, you had it right there! Proper maple cap, CTS pots, great tuners, switchcraft jack and switch... I mean, you might end up changing the pickups but other than that it's brilliant, equiped mine with phat cat and it's awesome!
I've my first ever guitar, an Epi Les Paul Special II and it sits right next to my Custom Shop Les Paul Modern. Two totally different feeling and sounding guitars, but I love playing both.
I have an epi SG custom shop. I've put a ton of work into it so epis definitely need some work if you're looking for top notch playability. I had to have this guitar when I saw it , it took me back and the feel was outstanding. It's my favourite guitar I've ever owned now. Some new Seymour's , Daddario locking tuners , tusq nut , fret sand and polish , proper setup and it plays and sounds better than any Gibson SG I've come across
I actually love my Gibson guitars, but I will say the guitars I have had the most issues with are Gibsons. Two have had a slight twist develop in the neck and all but 1 have the dreaded "hump" at the body (which isn't a huge deal, but does make a small difference in the action as you transition up the neck).
Dealers can't keep the new all-mahogany Inspired by Gibson Epi Les Paul Customs in AW or Ebony with the ebony fingerboards in stock! They also have one with a Koa top and ebony f/b. Friend of mine has an AW and it is beautiful, not a flaw anywhere, and sounds fabulous
You're in good company. Gibson has been my favorite brand for over 30 years since I was a kid. Even before I played guitar I liked reading about Gibsons. Epiphone has it's place in my heart because they've always been there with decent quality and sound. And I understand their history.
Hi there. I do love Gibson and don’t want to hijack the thread but they did let me down in 2018 when I bought my brand new 2016 Les Paul Standard in Ebony. Looks and feels like the dream to me but unfortunately the electrics were a joke as it has static / EMI to the point it was unplayable clean. It was a gift from my wife who chose it and on that basis I kept her (wife as well). Solution was to change every bit of the harness, pots and switches. Gibson were useless with my lifetime warranty and it’s not worth the paper it’s written on. Today it’s looks, plays, feels and now sounds like a dream. We love them but they do still need to fix the quality in all to many cases as my guitar came out the factory that way. Love the review. 👍🇦🇺
Michael tried one already but could not shake the feeling I was screwed on my 2016 so the heart said yes brain said no.. My 2016 is as good as it gets now so it’s a keeper. I replaced the PCB and all the guts for a 50s “Guitar Sauce” Loom with Russian PIO’s. Shielded the crap out of the cavities and wow, what a difference. Nothing Gibson should not be able to sort out. Check out the wiring looms at guitarsauce.com.au/guitar-wiring-harness-upgrades/. They are sweet looking quality bits of kit.. 👍🇦🇺
@@Zoso981 Once bitten, twice shy. Reality is they sold some crap guitars and take no responsibility for it other than they have “improved” their quality control. I paid for a quality instrument and may have well bought a Chibson..
@Michael New Strat or PRS next time round. Gibson blew it first time for me. The LP I have is sorted after a complete overhaul so no need to step in that ring again..👍👍🇦🇺
Just purchased an epiphone les Paul custom thats alpine white with gold hardware and ebony fretboard. I absolutely love it and the Grover locking tuners really have kept it in tune.
I have two Epiphone acoustics including one of the “Inspired by Gibson” models, a Gibson USA Les Paul and a Gibson Custom Shop Les Paul and they’re all great guitars.
that is one of the best looking LP Standard`s I`ve ever seen (& I`ve seen a few, trust me) Mr Smith, do not carry that guitar in front of me on a dark night, you might get hurt (& robbed)! man, what a beauty!
I just bought a Epiphone Les Paul Traditional Pro III Plus, and it has a 60's D shaped neck, Grover Rotomatic tuners, Gibson USA 57 Classic pickup in the neck, Super 57 in the bridge, real Tune O Matic bridge, and also has coil splits, an out of phase tone in the middle position, and a 15 db boost. They only made them two years and they are apparently not plentiful on the used market. That alone indicates what a great guitar it is. Absolute beast with tons of tonal possibilities. If anyone wants a Paul that sounds and plays great keep an eye out for one. Don't get me wrong I love Gibsons but they are way out of my budget. Btw you are a better player than a lot of TH-cam reviewers I've heard.
I'm happy with my Bonamassa Epiphone and Jared James Nichols Epiphone. Both are really good quality with premium components. More than good enough for my skill level. Anyone else not a fan of this Orange amp uses in the recent videos? I don't think it is doing these guitars any favours.
You got it with your describing. Also very passionate spoken. I'm owning an Epiphone, which I upgraded a lot (2009 Model). I love Les Pauls. One day I'll get a Gibson Custom Shop, but till then I make sure my Epiphone doesn't need to hide, like.
From someone who had a 1979 Gibson Flying V...Epi's are now the heart of my guitar collection. Included is a 2003 Epi LP 60's Tribute Plus. 57 Classic PAF's, Mallory pots, locking tuners, all the Gibson innards. I've never played a Gibson LP and perhaps I should...but all of the Epi's I own, including the 2006 LP Custom and the ES 335 Pro are amazing quality instruments...!!
I also own 2 if the last Gibson/ Epiphone Spotlights. These were a limited production by Gibson that have no serial numbers. They were distributed to see public reviews. One of the people who got one...was a previous Gibson designer by the name of Paul Reed Smith, aka PRS Guitars. Upon receiving it, he went directly to Gibson and said..."This is my guitar, if you produce it...I'll sue..!!" Gibson immediately stopped. It is believed only 500 to 800 of these were ever produced. If you ever get the chance...grab one. Amazing guitars...!!
Boy did I enjoy that. One of the best yet (but I am a bit of a Les Paul man so perhaps not surprising). Informative, entertaining and persuades me somewhat that you do indeed 'get what you pay for' - whereas I was of different mind before. Thanks and carry on doing what you do - beats the hell out of the telly.
I’m a proud owner of a Gibson Les Paul Standard. I’m lucky to have it as my daily workhorse 🙂 Edit: I thought the hardware on the Epiphone uses a different metal than the Gibson’s as well. No?
It was quite the mental fight to choose between the cheaper Gibson or a 60's Standard 2020 Epi LP. I went with the Epi, and have not been disappointed. I've never owned a LP before to really know the tonal differences but did watch quite a few reviews before pulling the trigger. Got mine in the Iced Tea color. Great way to get the look and sound for the player on a budget.
I was just in the same position and went the same way you did mostly because of the necks. I prefer the epi neck then the old school rounded one on the Gibson
took me over 30 years before I could afford my one and only custom shop Les Paul but was lucky enough to have access to my Dad`s ES 330 Gibson,So obviously I agree 100 per cent with you,Gibsons are wonderful and amazing instruments
Bought my first Gibson last year, a new, 2020 Les Paul Standard 60's. It's MILES ahead of any of the Epiphones I've ever owned or played. A great investment.
couldn't agree more. tried to will myself into an epiphone but couldn't get past the frets on every one i picked up. proud owner of a New Burbon Burst 60's Standard.
@@TheCheesewalrus Whatever you gotta tell yourself to sleep at night, to justify throwing away $2k+ on wood, plastic and pieces of metal in the form of a guitar, instead of making a down payment on a home or a car that would've been a better use.
You answered your own question chap.Its to light.When I dont like the rosewood substitutes it's because of looks,and looks only.I like it on my player jag,but take the Olympic white strat for example. It just needs that dark RW fretboard to capture the true look.
That white Custom is gorgeous, but looked like you were struggling a bit to hold it up. Lol. Im saving for either an R9 or 68 LP Custom ebony reissue right now. Should have it on a few months.
My epi standard has Gibson tuners and stainless steel frets. SD pickups. Push pull with coil tap, and out of phase set humbuckers. Custom tail piece. Gold hardware.
I have my eye on an epiphone les Paul custom that alpine white one. I feel like I'm still gonna get about the same sound and style for a fraction of the price
I love my epi LP standard.. its 2007 but Im thinking of upgrading the pickups in it just to liven it up....one day ill buy a gibson.. ive never played a real Gibson and im afraid to even try one as Im broke 😄
I have an epi that thinks it’s a dog. It loves to growl. It really has an attitude! I have a couple of Gibsons that are fun to play, although my standard is a bit of a whoos. I’m getting a custom shop in the next week or two as it will be a lovely way to put closure on my guitar buying phase of life. I love them all for different reasons. ❤️ 🎸
The tops on those Gibsons are stunning. I agree with the statement that Epiphones are superb workhorse guitars. I've owned a few, including a Bonamassa Goldtop, which was a stunning instrument for the money, and very very close to a Gibson but, there is a difference.
Love these video series. Great detail and so interesting!! I've got an Epiphone Slash's Snakepit Signature 98, it's great!! But definitely Gona get a Gibson Les Paul when the time is right!
I think the coolest Gibsons are the non-historic Custom shop guitars... special runs, m2m, etc. They're a great value if you find one you like, custom shop quality without the historic price tag :)
I’ve got a 2020 Epiphone Les Paul Custom and I will put it up against ANY non-custom shop Gibson. It plays, sounds, and LOOKS incredible. Especially through my JCM800.
You have to admit though, there's just something about playing a Gibson that's unlike everything else... It makes no logical sense, so it has to be the paint or finish. 😂
My custom epiphone SG is as good as as my Gibson SG in my opinion and I LOVE Gibson. People need to open there eyes that a lower price doesn’t always mean lower quality. Again just personal opinion. Everybody is entitled to there own.
There is a good video from that hp42 guy upgrading a Harley Benton with even more expensive hardware than a Gibson standard and it still sounded quite a lot worse...
To some people it's not only some hardware upgrades, it's all about the feel and playability of the instrument. And the higher priced instruments deliver that.
Check out Iron Gear pickups, bloody awesome and about 1/4 the price. They're better than Seymour Duncans or at least as good... buy a pair and you'll be back buying more to put in your other axes.
I'm pretty sure Gibson moved from Korea to China to reduce costs. South Korea is an upward economy and the salary were getting higher. But that's just what I think. Great video!
I will always look at it like this. Buying A Gibson Les Paul or an Epiphone Les Paul is Akin to buying a BMW M3 vs an BMW M340i it's literally right there neck in neck, and virtually only car guys would be able to tell you the differences, but to the average consumer they're both super highly powered performance vehicles.
I recently bought a used epiphone less Paul standard pro blood orange 🍊 push poll volume pots to split humbucker into single coial at my music store KSM music in Logan Utah ....
I absolutely adore ma wee 1995/6 epiphone les Paul the things awesome man n it’s one of those things that Paul here will never part with Cheers Dagan good stuff as always
I am fortunate to have worked hard and saved enough to buy a Gibson custom shop... I went to store all excited but I was disappointed. To be honest from a distance they look beautiful but the quality and finish is not good even for a guitar around 4k and for a fraction of the price the Epiphones are much better quality finish. The Gibos do sound better it's more fuller and clearer than the Epi, but there's not a lot in it. If you have the money I would buy the Epi and use the rest of the money on a good amp and then the Epi would sound amazing. Gibson pickups are relatively cheap second hand on EBay and easy to swap out. My local guitar shop will do it for around £60, I would change the pots too they are around £12 each and would be included within the £60 including of setting up. You would need new strings though. It's funny as alot of people who have Gibos swap out the pups. And most people with the Epis want the Gibo pups. Regardless of which brand I would put in Bare knuckles. As with all guitars see it in real life before buying so there's no disappointment. There was no way my hard owned cash was going on a Gibo that was so poorly finished just because of the headstock. But they are not all like that some are real nice. I ended up buying a FGN as it felt right and comfortable for me And the quality is excellent throughout. I will get a Gibo or Epi when I see a nice one in store....they only had the colours which I did not like. I am fussy but you need to be.
I’ve had 3 custom shops, 2 59’s and a 60 reissue. Are they good? Absolutely, but $6200 and I had to change everything (cheap capacitors, terrible nuts etc), and the quality control is not what you would expect for the price. We used to have custom shops come into our stores all the time, had an R8 with splotchy stain work and the neck was glued in at the wrong pitch angle. Pretty shocking, not the fan I used to be lol.
I'm fairly new to guitars but I really don't get the obsession with vintage guitars. Surely you're gonna want whatever sounds best and not just what feels old?
Well, one reason people are obsessed with vintage guitars is the sound. Some people feel that since the wood has aged, it affects the sound. Personally, I don’t agree with that. Even if I did, I wouldn’t be able to afford one. 🤣
I think it’s the history and some vintage guitars aren’t made anymore (for example an esquire). Also they are limiting the guitars with rosewood fretboards as there is a shortage or something. I believe those are the main reasons on why
Neglected to mention the headstock angle difference between Epi and Gibson. I find that I prefer Epiphones as the less extreme angle seems to result in better tuning stability.
the issue with tuning stability isn't due to headstock angle, its the sharp angle the G and D strings sit at due to the 3 pegs a side tuners. Both Gibson and Epiphone can experience this. Mostly dependent on the nut.
Differences between USA Standard Production and Custom Shop Les Pauls include: (1. Standard two piece mahogany body glued together v Custom one piece Mahogany body). (2. Standard modern wood glue v Custom Hide glue). (3. Standard truss rod is surrounded by a tube within the neck v Custom no tube surround - the truss rod is inserted straight into the neck which is a more difficult manufacturing process but ensures better neck resonance). (4. The Customs use a higher standard of wood than the Standards, usually resulting in a lighter guitar). (5. The nitrocellose used is a different recipe on the Standards versus the Customs). (6. The Standard uses a short neck tenon v the Customs use a long neck tenon). (7. Standards mainly use Burstbucker pickups v the Customs use the unpotted lower output Custombuckers for a more open sound). (8. The Bridge adjustment screws on a Standard go into a metal post whereas on the Customs the Bridge adjustment screws go directly into the wood, positively improving the vibration of the saddles. Also the quality of the metals used in the Bridge and tailpiece are higher in the Customs which have Brass saddles). (9. The Standard uses orange drop capacitors whereas the Custom has the higher quality paper oil Bumblebee capacitors giving a more varied selection of sounds from the Tone knobs).
@@EM-km8em most Epiphone Les Pauls can be improved by upgrading the pickups and wiring. You can also upgrade the Tuners, Nut, Bridge and tailpiece. Check out some Epiphone user forums and see what fellow owners have done to upgrade their instrument, and find a good luthier who can work on your guitar once you decide what you want to do to improve it.
@@craigthomson3621 can the paper oil bumblebee capacitors be purchased? How close can the sound get to a custom gibson les paul with these steps mentioned ?
@@EM-km8em Gibson used to offer a pair of PCAP-059 0.22mfd Bumblebee capacitors but I don’t know if they are still available. DMC, LUX, Sprague and Jensen are companies that offer their own take on Bumblebee capacitors. Generally speaking you will improve a guitars sound by upgrading the electronics and hardware, but best to work with a luthier to plan what you want to achieve.
@@craigthomson3621 awesome Man i really appreciate it! I been checking out pick ups and i really love the sou d of the 498t bridge! I like those type of tones for heavy metal rhythm palm muted chords.
I love old Epiphone's head design. I think they were unique. But no doubt Kalamazoo head looks awesome and more Gibson-ish. I think Epis are a winner option for the money you pay. The only thing I would really like them to have improved is the finish. Epiphones have not the same level of detail as Gibsons.
Buying my last ever guitar next month and it will be my first ever voyage into American made, will either be Gibson or a Fender in HSS formation. Took me a year to save up the money for it, never played a Gibson or A Fender America pro, I hope it's not a big anti climax, I will go with an open mind, if it dosent sound or feel worth more than double the money of a made in mexico deluxe strat, or a epiphone with Gibson pups, I wont be parting with the cash!
I have the inspired by gibson studio and standard. I put the seymour duncan pearly gates in the standard and I like it better than my gibson les paul standard
I know so many people who have both Custom or Standard Gibsons and as well Epi Custom, almost everyone say that for the price of 1 to 1.2k you get an Guitar thats often equal good as the USA Made.. Even a lot of Guitar Shop owners and Salemen i talked to say that the new "Inspired by Gibson" Epiphones of 1,2k €/$ have better wood quality and better feel on neck while playing than the 2,600€/$ Gibson Standard 50s / 60s and even a lot of peiople prefer the tone of Epis over the Gibsons. The newer Gibsons Standards Necks feels like old Epiphone Standard necks lel
On the Epiphone fretboard material: I actually really like the Indian Laurel. Aside from the larger grain (which I think is kind of neat), it resembles Rosewood pretty well. It's dark and looks sharp. I do not like and will never own a guitar with a Pau Ferro fretboard. It's way too light, and I find that feature alone is enough to make an the entire guitar ugly.
I work at the Gibson Custom Shop and love your videos. Thanks for the compliment because we put a lot of heart and effort into our instruments
Just bought a 2021 R8 in Cherry Burst from you guys and absolutely love it! Best guitar I've ever played hands down.
Great job you guys. I absolutely LOVE Gibson. Never had the privilege of owning a custom shop but I love Gibson
I have a 1965 VOS Gibson Non Reverse Firebird brand new and its perfect..great guitar
Was lucky enough to learn on my father`s 1960 Gibson es 330 which I inherited,loved Gibson ever since, but it took me decades before i could actualy save the money to buy the custom shop reissue goldtop Les Paul ime playing in my pic,An absolutely wonderful guitar and worth every penny,you dont just create instruments but works of art
Ur guitars are expensive, bought a squier
I'll buy a custom shop some day, until then I shred on a shovel.
At least u ve a shovel
@@nizaryart177 (luxury)
An actual shovel ? I mean i seen a bass guy turn a pickaxe into a bass and he kept the pick and everything on it
@@jakewolf2512 check out Justin Johnson's TH-cam videos, he plays shovel.
@@AuntAlnico4 o ya he did use a shovel same with this one guy dont remember his name but he used a pickaxe
Dagan is the jewel in PMT’s crown - informative, knowledgeable, passionate and entertaining. Keep up the great work!
I have an epi lp with the Gibson pickups. Never gonna let it go!
I have an epi SG with Grover tuners and Gibson p-90's and I love it.
Same. Mines a 60s tribute with classic 59s in it
Me too.....got a 2019 Epiphone Les Paul 1960 Tribute with Gibson pickups, CTS electronics, Mallory tone pots & Switchcraft USA pickup selector switch. Pretty much a Gibson for $849, hardshell case included!!!
@@jameshughes6049 im not sure what my electronics are but i got the traditional pro iii plus and i love the 57' zebra pickups!
@@Gin132456 👍 they're great pickups!!!
Thanks for making the important point that Epiphones made in China are made in two factories wholly owned by Gibson solely for that purpose since 2002 and many of the staff have 18 years experience and service. So many people wrongly think that China made Epiphones are produced in no-name factories that do all sorts of contract manufacturing.
I have the Epiphone OLD Glory ( JJ Nichols model) and its a fantastic Guitar , Seymour Duncan , Cts , Groover , made in china , very good Finition ...what else !!!
I have had very expensive guitars in the past, now I bought squier, epiphone, and the quality of the guitars is just incredible, but it is true that I favor Chinese manufacture, my future purchase, the squier paranormal offset tele.
If this guy was my math teacher I'd probably be in Harvard right now
I bought the Alpine White Epiphone Les Paul Custom about two years ago, and I love it. Beautiful guitar, and sounds so great. So much fun to play. You're an incredible player, Dagan. I wish I had a quarter of your guitar skills. Thanks for the killer videos you provide us.
Got the same guitar, it really is a beauty.
@@photag2162 No. I'm Larry Lawson the porn star.
I have epiphones and gibsons. They're very similar forsure nowadays. Back in 2000 when I started playing there was a huge difference but not so much anymore. It's worth noting that a Gibson led paul always sounds warmer and brighter. The tone is unmatched with a Gibson imo.
whos ur favourite person on this yt channel mine is dagan
@@CCovers1 yea ur right
Assassin I thought you were talking to me because my name is Cameron but nah
@@muaythaiisfun4404 LOL xD
Been a session player for over forty years. Had 2 Gibson LPs, a custom and a studio. In ‘94, my kids bought me an Epi (Korean) LP for Father’s Day so I’d have something cheap laying around the house to hammer on. Messed around playing it for a couple weeks and loved the neck. Put Duncan PAFs, switchcraft pots and switch, and a set of NOS ‘58 caps in it. This is now my go to guitar and I guard it with my life. Just picked up a ‘16 custom pro in koa and it seems pretty good so far.
Sold the Gibson LPs because I never used them. I do have an Epi dot delux and a Gibson 335. The dot delux is good, but the Gibson outshines it.
I would rather hear a good player on an epiphone, than a bad player on a Gibson……
A shame you didn't picked a "inspired by gibson" Epiphone then, you had it right there! Proper maple cap, CTS pots, great tuners, switchcraft jack and switch... I mean, you might end up changing the pickups but other than that it's brilliant, equiped mine with phat cat and it's awesome!
I've my first ever guitar, an Epi Les Paul Special II and it sits right next to my Custom Shop Les Paul Modern. Two totally different feeling and sounding guitars, but I love playing both.
The flaming on that Gibson is awesome. I like how it is different from the usual burst finishes. That thing is a looker. Crazy cool finish.
I have an epi SG custom shop. I've put a ton of work into it so epis definitely need some work if you're looking for top notch playability. I had to have this guitar when I saw it , it took me back and the feel was outstanding. It's my favourite guitar I've ever owned now. Some new Seymour's , Daddario locking tuners , tusq nut , fret sand and polish , proper setup and it plays and sounds better than any Gibson SG I've come across
That flame top is just 😍 and it's a STANDARD.
I actually love my Gibson guitars, but I will say the guitars I have had the most issues with are Gibsons. Two have had a slight twist develop in the neck and all but 1 have the dreaded "hump" at the body (which isn't a huge deal, but does make a small difference in the action as you transition up the neck).
Love the look of ebony fingerboards on white or black guitars! More importantly, I prefer the buttery smooth feel of ebony vs rosewood
Dealers can't keep the new all-mahogany Inspired by Gibson Epi Les Paul Customs in AW or Ebony with the ebony fingerboards in stock! They also have one with a Koa top and ebony f/b. Friend of mine has an AW and it is beautiful, not a flaw anywhere, and sounds fabulous
You're in good company. Gibson has been my favorite brand for over 30 years since I was a kid. Even before I played guitar I liked reading about Gibsons. Epiphone has it's place in my heart because they've always been there with decent quality and sound. And I understand their history.
Hi there. I do love Gibson and don’t want to hijack the thread but they did let me down in 2018 when I bought my brand new 2016 Les Paul Standard in Ebony. Looks and feels like the dream to me but unfortunately the electrics were a joke as it has static / EMI to the point it was unplayable clean. It was a gift from my wife who chose it and on that basis I kept her (wife as well). Solution was to change every bit of the harness, pots and switches. Gibson were useless with my lifetime warranty and it’s not worth the paper it’s written on. Today it’s looks, plays, feels and now sounds like a dream. We love them but they do still need to fix the quality in all to many cases as my guitar came out the factory that way.
Love the review. 👍🇦🇺
Michael tried one already but could not shake the feeling I was screwed on my 2016 so the heart said yes brain said no.. My 2016 is as good as it gets now so it’s a keeper. I replaced the PCB and all the guts for a 50s “Guitar Sauce” Loom with Russian PIO’s. Shielded the crap out of the cavities and wow, what a difference. Nothing Gibson should not be able to sort out. Check out the wiring looms at guitarsauce.com.au/guitar-wiring-harness-upgrades/. They are sweet looking quality bits of kit.. 👍🇦🇺
Their quality has improved greatly since the old regime. The new management has brought on big changes, beginning with the overall quality.
@@Zoso981 Once bitten, twice shy. Reality is they sold some crap guitars and take no responsibility for it other than they have “improved” their quality control. I paid for a quality instrument and may have well bought a Chibson..
@Michael New Strat or PRS next time round. Gibson blew it first time for me. The LP I have is sorted after a complete overhaul so no need to step in that ring again..👍👍🇦🇺
@@jimmyjimmy951 I hear ya and I agree 100% I would be plenty pissed off too.
I have 3 Epiphone Les Pauls, all with Grover locking tuners & they all stay in tune excellently.
Just purchased an epiphone les Paul custom thats alpine white with gold hardware and ebony fretboard. I absolutely love it and the Grover locking tuners really have kept it in tune.
I have two Epiphone acoustics including one of the “Inspired by Gibson” models, a Gibson USA Les Paul and a Gibson Custom Shop Les Paul and they’re all great guitars.
that is one of the best looking LP Standard`s I`ve ever seen (& I`ve seen a few, trust me) Mr Smith, do not carry that guitar in front of me on a dark night, you might get hurt (& robbed)! man, what a beauty!
I just bought a Epiphone Les Paul Traditional Pro III Plus, and it has a 60's D shaped neck, Grover Rotomatic tuners, Gibson USA 57 Classic pickup in the neck, Super 57 in the bridge, real Tune O Matic bridge, and also has coil splits, an out of phase tone in the middle position, and a 15 db boost. They only made them two years and they are apparently not plentiful on the used market. That alone indicates what a great guitar it is. Absolute beast with tons of tonal possibilities. If anyone wants a Paul that sounds and plays great keep an eye out for one. Don't get me wrong I love Gibsons but they are way out of my budget. Btw you are a better player than a lot of TH-cam reviewers I've heard.
I watch just to listen to you play, Dagan! So good!!!🎸
Rly like Dagan... I feel like we would be best friends.
I'm happy with my Bonamassa Epiphone and Jared James Nichols Epiphone. Both are really good quality with premium components. More than good enough for my skill level.
Anyone else not a fan of this Orange amp uses in the recent videos? I don't think it is doing these guitars any favours.
I had epiphone lp and I love it,I had gibson lp standard and I love it,now I have lp r8 costume and I absolutely love it
The orange guitar and orange amp looks awesome together
You got it with your describing. Also very passionate spoken. I'm owning an Epiphone, which I upgraded a lot (2009 Model). I love Les Pauls. One day I'll get a Gibson Custom Shop, but till then I make sure my Epiphone doesn't need to hide, like.
I love Dagan, I love his passion, he has so much information on guitars it's brilliant!
Definetly not Shock Me in the beggining ;)
Yup 👍
Copyright though init’ 😉
Trying to avoid a copyright strike
With a splash of Whole Lotta Rosie
From someone who had a 1979 Gibson Flying V...Epi's are now the heart of my guitar collection. Included is a 2003 Epi LP 60's Tribute Plus. 57 Classic PAF's, Mallory pots, locking tuners, all the Gibson innards. I've never played a Gibson LP and perhaps I should...but all of the Epi's I own, including the 2006 LP Custom and the ES 335 Pro are amazing quality instruments...!!
I also own 2 if the last Gibson/ Epiphone Spotlights. These were a limited production by Gibson that have no serial numbers. They were distributed to see public reviews. One of the people who got one...was a previous Gibson designer by the name of Paul Reed Smith, aka PRS Guitars. Upon receiving it, he went directly to Gibson and said..."This is my guitar, if you produce it...I'll sue..!!" Gibson immediately stopped. It is believed only 500 to 800 of these were ever produced. If you ever get the chance...grab one. Amazing guitars...!!
Boy did I enjoy that. One of the best yet (but I am a bit of a Les Paul man so perhaps not surprising). Informative, entertaining and persuades me somewhat that you do indeed 'get what you pay for' - whereas I was of different mind before. Thanks and carry on doing what you do - beats the hell out of the telly.
I have an Epi LP custom 2021 ... sounds great!
I cant imagine a better sounding guitar!
I’m a proud owner of a Gibson Les Paul Standard. I’m lucky to have it as my daily workhorse 🙂 Edit: I thought the hardware on the Epiphone uses a different metal than the Gibson’s as well. No?
Hey, your reviews are as lovely as always, can you review the Jackson JS11 dinky please?
It was quite the mental fight to choose between the cheaper Gibson or a 60's Standard 2020 Epi LP. I went with the Epi, and have not been disappointed. I've never owned a LP before to really know the tonal differences but did watch quite a few reviews before pulling the trigger. Got mine in the Iced Tea color. Great way to get the look and sound for the player on a budget.
I was just in the same position and went the same way you did mostly because of the necks. I prefer the epi neck then the old school rounded one on the Gibson
I also went with Ice Tea which their sold out of ATM of course lol.
Which way would ypu go on the SG , the custom with the gold or the standard with the chrome ? I don’t even know what else is different
The top on that Gibson USA Standard is awesome 🥰
This was definitely helpful and i learned about new things.
Great video as always! What model is that gorgeus Les Paul with zebra pickups?
Great video guys 🔥🤘
I have an Epiphone DC Pro... Awsome sound and looks just a bit different..
took me over 30 years before I could afford my one and only custom shop Les Paul but was lucky enough to have access to my Dad`s ES 330 Gibson,So obviously I agree 100 per cent with you,Gibsons are wonderful and amazing instruments
Love the explanation!!
Bought my first Gibson last year, a new, 2020 Les Paul Standard 60's. It's MILES ahead of any of the Epiphones I've ever owned or played. A great investment.
couldn't agree more. tried to will myself into an epiphone but couldn't get past the frets on every one i picked up. proud owner of a New Burbon Burst 60's Standard.
I got me a 2020 gib explorer…amazing amazing guitar
Keep coping bro
@@sonnyday6727 coping with a fantastic guitar? will do buddy, thanks!
@@TheCheesewalrus Whatever you gotta tell yourself to sleep at night, to justify throwing away $2k+ on wood, plastic and pieces of metal in the form of a guitar, instead of making a down payment on a home or a car that would've been a better use.
That poor SG hung out for the entire video and got completely ignored.
You answered your own question chap.Its to light.When I dont like the rosewood substitutes it's because of looks,and looks only.I like it on my player jag,but take the Olympic white strat for example. It just needs that dark RW fretboard to capture the true look.
That white Custom is gorgeous, but looked like you were struggling a bit to hold it up. Lol. Im saving for either an R9 or 68 LP Custom ebony reissue right now. Should have it on a few months.
My epi standard has Gibson tuners and stainless steel frets. SD pickups. Push pull with coil tap, and out of phase set humbuckers. Custom tail piece. Gold hardware.
What's the best 'How to play beginner/intermediate/advanced electric guitar' book? Suggestions on the back of a postcard please.
Dagan is the cool rock uncle that gives you your first guitar and takes you to local shows
I have my eye on an epiphone les Paul custom that alpine white one. I feel like I'm still gonna get about the same sound and style for a fraction of the price
Another top video Dagan, thanks man.
I love my epi LP standard.. its 2007 but Im thinking of upgrading the pickups in it just to liven it up....one day ill buy a gibson.. ive never played a real Gibson and im afraid to even try one as Im broke 😄
Same
I have an epi that thinks it’s a dog. It loves to growl. It really has an attitude! I have a couple of Gibsons that are fun to play, although my standard is a bit of a whoos. I’m getting a custom shop in the next week or two as it will be a lovely way to put closure on my guitar buying phase of life. I love them all for different reasons. ❤️ 🎸
Thanks for this superb R8 its total killer!!!
The tops on those Gibsons are stunning. I agree with the statement that Epiphones are superb workhorse guitars. I've owned a few, including a Bonamassa Goldtop, which was a stunning instrument for the money, and very very close to a Gibson but, there is a difference.
Love these video series. Great detail and so interesting!! I've got an Epiphone Slash's Snakepit Signature 98, it's great!! But definitely Gona get a Gibson Les Paul when the time is right!
I love my Epiphone SG so much I'm gonna get another from the inspired by gibson range
Save and get the Gibson. You won't regret it.
In modern times you can't go wrong with either. Epiphones have come a long long way. The new epi les paul custom is something special.
I think the coolest Gibsons are the non-historic Custom shop guitars... special runs, m2m, etc. They're a great value if you find one you like, custom shop quality without the historic price tag :)
Great video Thanks Mate
The two Epiphone les Pauls I have do have maple caps the same size as the Gibsons, but the flame on the one the flame top, is a vaneer.
Awesome presentation!
I’ve got a 2020 Epiphone Les Paul Custom and I will put it up against ANY non-custom shop Gibson. It plays, sounds, and LOOKS incredible. Especially through my JCM800.
There we go! Lol always somebody saying their Epi is just as good or better than a Gibson.
Was that an eye roll I saw when he said Nitro allows the wood to breathe? 😂 Ah the age old tone discussion.
You have to admit though, there's just something about playing a Gibson that's unlike everything else... It makes no logical sense, so it has to be the paint or finish. 😂
My custom epiphone SG is as good as as my Gibson SG in my opinion and I LOVE Gibson. People need to open there eyes that a lower price doesn’t always mean lower quality. Again just personal opinion. Everybody is entitled to there own.
How would rate a black Epihpone Les Paul 100 bought for £100 with a pickup switch that comes loose every so often?
So buy a cheaper ephiphone and spend $300 on new pickups ...save the extra cash and go on a holiday as well
There is a good video from that hp42 guy upgrading a Harley Benton with even more expensive hardware than a Gibson standard and it still sounded quite a lot worse...
To some people it's not only some hardware upgrades, it's all about the feel and playability of the instrument. And the higher priced instruments deliver that.
Check out Iron Gear pickups, bloody awesome and about 1/4 the price. They're better than Seymour Duncans or at least as good... buy a pair and you'll be back buying more to put in your other axes.
T. I. N Mateus yeah but it’s just wood in a shape at the in if learn a bit you can make any guitar play great
Till you try to sell it.
Am i the only one who got the ace frehley refrence at the beginning when dagan play half the riff of shock me? 🤘🏼⚡️
I'm pretty sure Gibson moved from Korea to China to reduce costs.
South Korea is an upward economy and the salary were getting higher. But that's just what I think.
Great video!
I will always look at it like this. Buying A Gibson Les Paul or an Epiphone Les Paul is Akin to buying a BMW M3 vs an BMW M340i it's literally right there neck in neck, and virtually only car guys would be able to tell you the differences, but to the average consumer they're both super highly powered performance vehicles.
I recently bought a used epiphone less Paul standard pro blood orange 🍊 push poll volume pots to split humbucker into single coial at my music store KSM music in Logan Utah ....
You don't want Dave on a Monday! LoL Great video I'm sharing in my Epiphone groups. Thanks.
The sheer amount of sustain in this video
I absolutely adore ma wee 1995/6 epiphone les Paul the things awesome man n it’s one of those things that Paul here will never part with
Cheers Dagan good stuff as always
Small sound difference, big feeling difference.
2014 epiphone les paul gold top 56 re issue with p90s I love it.
Please make reviews on Fender Deluxe Stratocaster HSS
I am fortunate to have worked hard and saved enough to buy a Gibson custom shop... I went to store all excited but I was disappointed. To be honest from a distance they look beautiful but the quality and finish is not good even for a guitar around 4k and for a fraction of the price the Epiphones are much better quality finish. The Gibos do sound better it's more fuller and clearer than the Epi, but there's not a lot in it. If you have the money I would buy the Epi and use the rest of the money on a good amp and then the Epi would sound amazing. Gibson pickups are relatively cheap second hand on EBay and easy to swap out. My local guitar shop will do it for around £60, I would change the pots too they are around £12 each and would be included within the £60 including of setting up. You would need new strings though. It's funny as alot of people who have Gibos swap out the pups. And most people with the Epis want the Gibo pups. Regardless of which brand I would put in Bare knuckles. As with all guitars see it in real life before buying so there's no disappointment. There was no way my hard owned cash was going on a Gibo that was so poorly finished just because of the headstock. But they are not all like that some are real nice. I ended up buying a FGN as it felt right and comfortable for me And the quality is excellent throughout. I will get a Gibo or Epi when I see a nice one in store....they only had the colours which I did not like. I am fussy but you need to be.
I’ve had 3 custom shops, 2 59’s and a 60 reissue. Are they good? Absolutely, but $6200 and I had to change everything (cheap capacitors, terrible nuts etc), and the quality control is not what you would expect for the price. We used to have custom shops come into our stores all the time, had an R8 with splotchy stain work and the neck was glued in at the wrong pitch angle. Pretty shocking, not the fan I used to be lol.
i want to hang out and jam with this dude. he rules!
I'm fairly new to guitars but I really don't get the obsession with vintage guitars. Surely you're gonna want whatever sounds best and not just what feels old?
Well, one reason people are obsessed with vintage guitars is the sound. Some people feel that since the wood has aged, it affects the sound. Personally, I don’t agree with that. Even if I did, I wouldn’t be able to afford one. 🤣
I think it’s the history and some vintage guitars aren’t made anymore (for example an esquire). Also they are limiting the guitars with rosewood fretboards as there is a shortage or something. I believe those are the main reasons on why
Neglected to mention the headstock angle difference between Epi and Gibson. I find that I prefer Epiphones as the less extreme angle seems to result in better tuning stability.
the issue with tuning stability isn't due to headstock angle, its the sharp angle the G and D strings sit at due to the 3 pegs a side tuners. Both Gibson and Epiphone can experience this. Mostly dependent on the nut.
if you want the gibson sounds, get the gibson pickups. Everything is soooo similar.
It's not so similar or Gibson would be out of business. I've never picked up an epiphone that plays are sounds as nice as any of my Gibsons .
Awesome video! :D
That was actually really informative that. Nice work.
you forgot about the binding..Epiphone is painted on.. thats a lot of time and money savings just in that
Stunning Gibson in the intro
lol the wood breaths
Differences between USA Standard Production and Custom Shop Les Pauls include: (1. Standard two piece mahogany body glued together v Custom one piece Mahogany body). (2. Standard modern wood glue v Custom Hide glue). (3. Standard truss rod is surrounded by a tube within the neck v Custom no tube surround - the truss rod is inserted straight into the neck which is a more difficult manufacturing process but ensures better neck resonance). (4. The Customs use a higher standard of wood than the Standards, usually resulting in a lighter guitar). (5. The nitrocellose used is a different recipe on the Standards versus the Customs). (6. The Standard uses a short neck tenon v the Customs use a long neck tenon). (7. Standards mainly use Burstbucker pickups v the Customs use the unpotted lower output Custombuckers for a more open sound). (8. The Bridge adjustment screws on a Standard go into a metal post whereas on the Customs the Bridge adjustment screws go directly into the wood, positively improving the vibration of the saddles. Also the quality of the metals used in the Bridge and tailpiece are higher in the Customs which have Brass saddles). (9. The Standard uses orange drop capacitors whereas the Custom has the higher quality paper oil Bumblebee capacitors giving a more varied selection of sounds from the Tone knobs).
How can i get my epi LP to get a gibson custom sound
@@EM-km8em most Epiphone Les Pauls can be improved by upgrading the pickups and wiring. You can also upgrade the Tuners, Nut, Bridge and tailpiece. Check out some Epiphone user forums and see what fellow owners have done to upgrade their instrument, and find a good luthier who can work on your guitar once you decide what you want to do to improve it.
@@craigthomson3621 can the paper oil bumblebee capacitors be purchased? How close can the sound get to a custom gibson les paul with these steps mentioned ?
@@EM-km8em Gibson used to offer a pair of PCAP-059 0.22mfd Bumblebee capacitors but I don’t know if they are still available. DMC, LUX, Sprague and Jensen are companies that offer their own take on Bumblebee capacitors. Generally speaking you will improve a guitars sound by upgrading the electronics and hardware, but best to work with a luthier to plan what you want to achieve.
@@craigthomson3621 awesome Man i really appreciate it! I been checking out pick ups and i really love the sou d of the 498t bridge! I like those type of tones for heavy metal rhythm palm muted chords.
I love old Epiphone's head design. I think they were unique. But no doubt Kalamazoo head looks awesome and more Gibson-ish. I think Epis are a winner option for the money you pay. The only thing I would really like them to have improved is the finish. Epiphones have not the same level of detail as Gibsons.
Buying my last ever guitar next month and it will be my first ever voyage into American made, will either be Gibson or a Fender in HSS formation. Took me a year to save up the money for it, never played a Gibson or A Fender America pro, I hope it's not a big anti climax, I will go with an open mind, if it dosent sound or feel worth more than double the money of a made in mexico deluxe strat, or a epiphone with Gibson pups, I wont be parting with the cash!
Epiphones stay in tune better due to the headstock angle
It’s the exact same.
@@ryanfulldark2775 really? I always knew that Gibson had a 17° bend and Epi had a 14° bend.
@@ryanfulldark2775 it's not the same
My Epiphone almost never went out of tune. My Gibson almost never stayed in tune.
I sold the Gibson.
I have the inspired by gibson studio and standard. I put the seymour duncan pearly gates in the standard and I like it better than my gibson les paul standard
Do you have a EA250 ? I’ve had mine since 1985 amazing guitar
I know so many people who have both Custom or Standard Gibsons and as well Epi Custom, almost everyone say that for the price of 1 to 1.2k you get an Guitar thats often equal good as the USA Made.. Even a lot of Guitar Shop owners and Salemen i talked to say that the new "Inspired by Gibson" Epiphones of 1,2k €/$ have better wood quality and better feel on neck while playing than the 2,600€/$ Gibson Standard 50s / 60s and even a lot of peiople prefer the tone of Epis over the Gibsons. The newer Gibsons Standards Necks feels like old Epiphone Standard necks lel
On the Epiphone fretboard material: I actually really like the Indian Laurel. Aside from the larger grain (which I think is kind of neat), it resembles Rosewood pretty well. It's dark and looks sharp. I do not like and will never own a guitar with a Pau Ferro fretboard. It's way too light, and I find that feature alone is enough to make an the entire guitar ugly.
He should used the 50s New Epiphone
TV yellow Les Paul special !
the top on that standard was custom shop worthy