I tried an Epiphone Humingbird in the 90s. It was not worth the money. I recently have the chance to play a new Epi Humungbird again. Epiphone has massively improved. I could hardly resist to buy one. Very nice authentic review, Toni. Thank you very much!
I totally agree. The new Gibson Company owners really made a giant commitment to the more affordable Epis. They realized the need to compete in the lower end market and compete with some REALLY NICE AFFORDABLE GUITARS OUT THERE RIGHT NOW. I have some Epis and Gibson models of the same exact guitar and side by side, the Epi's may actually look a little better and play nearly as well...with a little setup they play as good.
I agree the Epis weren't inspiring sooo I decided to buy a 4k Gibson Hummingbird..sounds great, beautiful and feels so good to play but there's nothing wrong with the Epiphone. Interesting I found out that the Rolling Stones played all of their acoustic songs all the famous ones on a Gibson Hummingbird in the 60s and 70s I do believe..
For my Birthday yesterday, My wife gifted me this Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Hummingbird. Its awesome. I like more than my Martin. Its now my go to Guitar!
I have this guitar and all I can say it's a real goddess! I replaced plastic pins with Tusq pins to improve balance of the tone. Why pay 3000 or more if you can get outstanding all wood guitar only for 800
There are some differences that you cannot "fix" though. Gibson has a wider neck (it matters a lot, especially if you're finger picking), scalloped bracing, nitro finish, rosewood fretboard, neck profile. I think the neck joint is different too. Personally I cannot stand the Epiphone headstock shape (it's just ugly). The Epi is "machine made" while the Gibby is hand made - I guess that justifies a good part of the price difference. I don't own a hummingbird but if I were on the market for one, I would get the Gibson version.
I took out the sound deadening piezo under saddle pickup and put in a new bone nut, changed to brass bridge pins, and Elixir phosphor bronze strings. It sounds so much better.
@@birgerhellefatland6265 I don't want to try it at all I can get around the pick guard quiet easily with pure bone nut and saddle with walrus bone bride pins and 13s/14s strings blew Gibson out the water horray to the underdogs epiphone
I tried one yesterday and I was surprised at how good it sounded. Should be noted this is a higher model than the regular Hummingbird by Epi. The standard one has laminated back and sides and this Inspired one has all solid wood, top, back and sides. It sounded and felt like a $2,000 Gibson. And the Laurel fretboard doesn't bother me because it is dark unlike Pao Faro.
Just got one. It plays great, looks great, and sounds like a million hit records. Action is a bit high, so expect to do a bit of an initial setup on the nut and bridge - but I anticipate that with most new guitars.
I just bought this exact guitar 3 days ago and I will say I had a Gibson Hummingbird 3 years ago sorry I got rid of it and this Epiphone IBG sounds and plays and looks just like the Gibson.. its not a Gibson but its awfully damn close..it's a keeper!
THAT is good to know. I bout the Frontier Masterbilt. But I tried the Hummingbird at a Guitar Center and LOVED it. I might be switching to the Hummingbird.
I just bought the Epiphone Hummingbird Ebony Special Studio. With Martin Life Span 10/47's it sounds wonderful and plays super smooth. I did a little neck work and setup the bridge and nut to get the action where I like it. I think these are left over from a few years ago, but I did get a new one from GC. I think GC and their associate companies are the only ones that sold it. I heard it was exclusive to them. It has the older, taller headstock. I prefer the new shorter headstock, but the all black finish and black fingerboard steel your eyes from it anyway.
I have an Epiphone Hummingbird from the early 1990s - a fantastic guitar. I bought one of these ‘Inspired by Gibson’ recently and it plays beautifully and sounds great.
Had one, sold it….dead as a door nail…well made and looks are top notch. Also sounds very good plugged in. I tried every string type imaginable to get it ringing, various set ups and it still did not have the mojo I expected…have a Yamaha LL16 and no comparison at all for the same money. I have had many Epi Masterbilts over the years and all the same too…no mojo or warmth unplugged…thinner woods would help them..too heavy for acoustics in my opinion.
Great review my friend, I purchased mine in late 2019 when they were introduced at the Namm Show. and order one then...I have compared this Hummingbird Epiphone with the Gibson sister, and frankly the Epiphone sounded better at Long & McQuade at my local music outlet in Canada I was blown away....The only negative comment is and beware the new 2024 series Hummingbird IBG is its now manufactured in China and the quality (tone woods) and the pure hummingbird Gibson sound is not the same..Look for a used one if you can..This guitar is a good as any Martin, Gibson, quality acoustic I've every played or owned...Epiphones best keep secret, look for the Excellente IBG Epiphone another hidden gem...
Unfortunately I cannot play a dreadnaught due to a motorcycle injury, so I bought a Yamaha LS16 ARE concert size. All solid rosewood, Solid Engelmann Spruce with A.R.E., Ebony fingerboard, bridge is ebony, saddle and nut were urea but I upgraded it them to graph tech nubone. My guitar retails for $1100 without my upgrades. The LS16 is offered in Monogamy as well. So kudos to Epiphone, it looks sweet!
I had a bad motorcycle accident too, had to do with my eyes, found out I had glaucoma, but I can see better now, I could see then too. After the accident I could not hold the neck at all, I play drums, guitar, and piano and read music, I've played as a pro, I could play piano and over the course of three or four months, my strength came back, I am also a martial artist, had to work on that hard, it got everything else working again and was it all painful. I could not play bar chords at all, just my first finger across then the rest started slowly coming, no trouble at all with piano. Arthritis has given me trouble from playing guitar but not piano or drums. Keep working on your guitar and never stopl
The Epiphone without a doubt is a better bang for the buck. I have both Epiphone & Gibson Les Paul's + Hummingbirds, and though I do prefer the Gibson, it's not worth the extra $ you gotta pay. I did it because after 30+ years of playing on $100 guitars, I wanted something "better" for me. The quality of the wood will be higher on the Gibson's and generally make for easier fixing if there were to be issues. They also tend to be more resilient to temperature changes as well for gigging musicians. In closing, the Epiphone is 1/4 of the price, but at least 3/4 of the quality if you know what I mean.
As much as I like Gibson guitars, I own 2 Epiphone acoustics and have been completely satisfied with my two budget guitars. One of my guitars is the Epiphone DR-100 which I bought on sale for $139 (normally $169). I can see why it's their best selling guitar and is well liked by both beginners and more experienced players as well.
Played this guitar when they first came out and they had quality control issues with the pick guard staying on. I had to chance to play 2 at the same guitar center and it looks like they fixed that issue. Both guitars needed tuning out of the box, but afterwards the action was medium/low which is where you pretty much want it on an acoustic. They sounded pretty good for a "value guitar"; much better than several guitars in the same price range. I have played a Gibson Hummingbird and, maybe it's just my imagination, but the Epi versions sound slightly "boxier". I think I'd trade out the strings as I tend not to like the stock ones Epiphone and Gibson put on their guitars - that might improve the sound. I had a used Gibson L-00 (walnut) and I think the Hummingbird sounded nicer and played better, even on the crummy strings. If I had to nitpick, I prefer the feel of nitro over the urethane - it feels lighter, and allows the guitar to resonate more as you play it. I dunno - it just adds that tactile feel that makes the guitar seem "more alive" when played. I think that's pretty much subjective, tho. Great sustain, great fit and finish, didnt seem to need a set up other than tuning. If I was in the market for an acoustic, I'd easily add it to my collection.
I can confirm that the guitars that Epiphone are putting out lately, especially in their all solid wood models ( like the Inspired By Gibson and Master Class series), are outstanding guitars. We have the "Inspired By Gibson" J-200, which has solid spruce top and solid flamed maple back and sides and it is a Canon. I've made a couple videos on that guitar too. Bottom line is this, don't overlook Epiphone's all sold wood guitar coming out of Indonesia because they are great guitars at a very good price. Very nice video.
Did you replace anything on the J200? Because I had the Vintage Sunburst one and it sounded like pillow were inside it, I had to really dig into to get any real volume to it, I took it back
@@hotlov72 We didn't change anything on it. As it came right out of the box it sounded great. I have a review video out on that guitar, plus it's in a couple other videos I made on other guitar related topics. I don't like to post my videos or channel links in other channel video comments section, or I would link it here for you. If you want to hear how our guitar sounded just search my channels videos. The video is called " Epiphone J-200 Inspired By Gibson Review ".. Noah is still very happy with his purchase. And I love picking that guitar up and playing it. It's a cannon and sound better each time we play it.
1.) Headstock design is actually Kalamazoo era (pre Norlin Gibson) so it's the original Gibson headstock pre 1968... 2.) The 1.69" nut width was the standard nut width on Gibson acoustics in the 1960s. This Epiphone model is based on the vintage Hummingbirds, not the modern version. Gibson Montana changed it to the current 1.72". The Hummingbird is the best of this IBG series... Some points missed. It's 1-1.5 lbs heavier than the Gibson version, the lighter an acoustic is usually the more resonate it is. Epiphone goes for durability over lightly built, considering how fast they have to build these, that makes sense... Epiphone actually PLEKs these IBG and their Masterbuilt models at the factory. You won't find that on anything else under $1k.... I own the J-45 Epiphone Inspired by Gibson, I also own a 2001 Gibson J-45.. I play the Epiphone more. They do not sound identical, but they are certainly well into the same ballpark... To be fair I've never played two Gibson J-45s that sounded identical either.
(vs Washburn and Ibanez) i tried one in the store and wasn't all that impressed. *beautiful* guitar though. so one of the things i noticed is if you do slides, *it just doesn't really hold the note* . however, on a Taylor (obviously) it did. other guitars that were able to were an *Ibanez AEG70* in a similar $ as the epiphone (i got one for around $400 though on a sale) and the *Washburn Festival* . the only reason i picked the Ibanez over that one is the body cut was amazingly well thought out, comfortable, and no bear-hug effect trying to play the thing (and that it was shortscale, and i didn't have a shortscale acoustic yet). *these two guitars both smoked the Epi. and i ^wanted^ to love the Epi.* the vintage designs really do it for me. also, these 2 guitars were noticably the most like that little Taylor. blindfolded, i'm not sure i would have been able to tell. they were all comfortable, compact, resonant and very playable. even if you had $989 to BURN, you might still like the other 2 over the Taylor. that said, i'm dying to have a mustache (bridge) guitar and Epi is the only real option. (i do not have Gibson money on me.) so, if it potentially underperforms, i'll just have to take that chance on that model and not on this very cool looking Hummingbird. (SIDENOTE: all the other guitars i mentioned are a smaller body size, and all have a bigger and nicer sound than the Epi. however, if you aren't looking for sustains, and effects like slides, maybe you would still be happy with the Epi. I have a *Gretsch Historic* i got used for $250 that BOMBS it though, and the *LAG brand T88ACE* as well ($400) so i guess i just already expected more from something in the Epiphone's price range.) *hope that gives people some ideas of models they might wanna check out. :) * i'm not lagging on the Epi, i just think performance-wise it's.... a bit underwhelming at the pricepoint. so i'd not consider it good value for money compared to some others. but if you LOVE it, get it. you'll play it if you love the look or feel and if you are ok enough with the sound.
I have 3 Epiphone acoustics, J-45 Masterbuilt, Dove and a 1978 Texan 12 string. All great guitars that play fantastic and even at 44 years old now my 12 string can still boom out the volume. The Masterbuilt J-45 is the real star with lots of tone in it. I had another Masterbuilt before this and loved it but got a deal trading it in on a Gibson J-45, it was a POS and I got rid of it.
I bought the Ep Hummingbird in 2011, at about $325. It looks identical to yours, sounds identical. Rosewood fretboard, bridge. The headstock/tuning pegs appear to be the only difference.
Yeah, it's probably the Hummingbird Pro, which is nice and comes with closed Grover tunning keys ,but the Epiphone Hummingbird in this video is a different model. The Epiphone Hummingbird Inspired by Gibson.
@@j-bird6563 Yes, I have the Pro (which came in two versions that I know of) and it is very well-made and plays like a dream, but the b&s are laminate.
Great review. A shame about the cherry sunburst, though. I picked up a SDM-SG5 at Thomann, in Germany in 2020. Basically a straight Hummingbird copy, no red in the finish at all, all solid woods. 800 €. Ridiculously good tone.
I bought one about 6 months ago and couldn’t be more happy with it. I got mine brand new for $380 but the prices change pretty often I guess but I truly feel like I got the best acoustic for that price to this day. 100% recommend it.
I tried this guitar and it looks great, built very solid but the tone is way too bright for my liking. I even put on medium phosphorus bronze strings and there is still no bottom end to it. For around the same price you can get a Martin D 10e which blows this Epi out of the water
I managed to get a hold of and buy an Epiphone Excellente! With just 30 coming into all Canada I was so lucky I asked the local music shop to call around and he got the last one! I absolutely LOVE the guitar, J.P. Cormier says it should be selling for $5,000 rather than the $2,000 CDN I paid. I've had it for about 6 months when the entire love affair came to a screeching halt due to serious buzzing across the fret board up and down! I was shocked, I've played over 50 years so I know what I'm doing, and there was NOTHING I could do that made any improvement at all. I took it to the shop where I bought it and they had their luthier go over it, and he was also stumped and he had to replace the saddle and set the neck at absolute relief and so, there was a noticeable bow and I was not having that! So, it went back to Epiphone so they can have a go...sigh If I get it back repaired or if I get refunded I'm gonna buy a 12 string Epiphone Hummingbird (inspired) used and either a Seagull Maritime which I have owned and regrated selling or, another stupid decision trading an outstanding, awesome Yamaha FG365S which my dad bought for me when I was 12!! I TRADED IT FOR AN ELECRIC GUITAR THAT WAS SO AWESOME, I CAN T REMEMBER WHAT IT WAS OR WHAT HAPPENED TO IT!! So, I'm looking for one, and they are far and few between especially mint models. I would put that up against Martin d45 all day long! Or, an Epiphone inspired J 200!! I'm going used this time because you can get mint examples of otherwise very expensive axes at a fraction of the price!! Also, buying used allows me to buy two great used guitars rather than blowing my wad on just one....wait...that did NOT sound right! OH! Great channel brother! Jack ~'()'~ Canada AKA Commie-Da!! Ruled by comrade Crime Minister Justa Turdo!! Dude embarrasses us by wearing fluorescent purple and flood pants during a brief humiliating talk with President Trump! Jack ~'()'~
Aesthetically the Gibson hummingbird looks at lot better in my opinion, due to the nitro finish and rosewood instead of laurel board, soundwise there isn't a lot in it IMHO. The Epi like the Gibson is all solid wood. Up until the end of 23 these guitars were made in the Samick factory in Indonesia, they are now made in the Epiphone facility in China.
Thank you for that info. Production of the IBG J-45 moved to China and I wondered when the 'bird might do the same. Glad my IBG J-45 is from Indonesia, as we have yet to see how good the Chinese ones are. The serial number on the Indonesian ones has factory code 23, as in xxxx23xxxxx. Despite owning an Epi Hummingbird Pro I was tempted to buy the IBG, but the uncertainty of origin helped me to go the whole hog & buy a Gibson Standard.
That's a beautiful guitar indeed. In 1977 I had an Epiphone with a figure of 8 with a very soft sound as well the fretboard. Unfortunately someone stole my guitar assaulting my appartment in Paris. At the time the Gibsons were not so expansive as today. Today the market changed quite a bit, maybe to make the difference to the asian made.
Some Jim Dunlop “Fretboard 65” lemon oil, will safely and effectively condition and darken an Indian Laurel fretboard, if one prefers a darker appearance.
..Most exactly!! Check out pics of Hollies Graham Nash playing an older style sunburs Epi "Everly Bros." model, bookmatched large pickguards..and this old-style early 60's headstock..You'll see!
I tried 3 models of Epiphone Gibson inspired made in Indonesia: J200 -J45 - Hummingbird. They were fantastic and nearly as good as Gibson's original models from the sixties. I bought the J200 Sunburst. You felt on a bad guitar probably taken out without a final quality check. The Hummingbird was very good. The J45 better and the J200 better than any Gibson SJ200 I tried the last 30 years +. That is why I bought it. If I had more $$$, I would have bought the J45 to. I"m sorry you had such a bad experience. Visit a very good guitar store with a good luthier who verifies and tunes all the guitars ( the bad ones from all companies are sent back with explanations) and you will really be surprised.
Really comprehensive review! I just bought one of these and a great perspective. Thank you. Personally, swapping from electric to acoustic on stage, I find the narrower neck/ leaner nut, an easy transition for the fingers from a Fender Strat or Tele. The Sigma Hummingbird, whilst also a very nice guitar, has a broader neck which is more of a transition when switching. That said, if you only play acoustic it won’t matter as you’ll quickly adjust. In the showroom, the Epi just shone out to me…always a personal thing. Some excellent guitars being made at the moment which is just great for us.
'Hi there', thanks for the video! The Epiphone looks nice . I thought I would just tell you that a few years ago now I purchased a Sigma dmsg5 Hummingbird copy. If I had seen the Epiphone then yes I would probably have got it? but for the money I spent for the Sigma it's even half of the price again. The guitar came with Grover tuners and I swapped the tuners I had on my Les Paul (Klusons) over and was happy that that worked out. The Hummingbird is such a pretty looking guitar and I am happy with my version of it anyway. regards!
The next time you change the strings use some Howards Feed-N-Wax on the fingerboard. It is the BEST stuff I have used on my guitars. It is much better than any of the guitar branded stuff for fingerboard maintenance. You can get a lifetime supply at Lowes for $10. Shake it really well before you use it and be generous on application and it will treat and DARKEN the fingerboard better than anything else you'll find. It's good on the natural unfinished bridges as well.
Love your reviews. I just happened upon this one and had to watch it since I own this guitar. I scored this guitar pre-owed at Guitar Center last year for $649 and it was as flawless as brand new (I believe they were $849 new). It must've been a return from someone who had it for one day. I'm still giddy when I play it or look at on its stand. It sounds absolutely stunning to me. And it plays so nice. The neck is comfortable and the semi-gloss finish does not grip your hand, it glides easily up and down the neck. They had a new Epi Hummibird Pro which I tried out and it felt like such a cheap guitar to me. No quality feel whatsoever. In fact my 12 yo $149 beginner Yamaha is much nicer feeling and playing than the Hummingbird Pro. Epiphone has hit a grand slam with the "Inspired by Gibson" line. I'm a hobbyist home player and I feel like I own a professional level instrument now.
All these Epiphone high end guitars have plastic bridge pins. It says ivory on the spec sheet but they are plastic. So upgrade them to Tusq, bone or ebony. Gibson's same models have Tusq bridge pins. You will see improved tone after the upgrade.
I was thinking about about getting this and my buddy wants the Epiphone J-160E (Beatle Guitar) Any idea if Epi makes a good one? I love The Beatles Gibson J-160 but, the prize is out of my range. Thanks...
Aged cherry sunburst? I never felt like mine was RED enough to be cherry anything lol. Bought it secondhand so it didn’t have the color in the description.
I have a Gibson G45. Mine is wonderful. The one next to it in the shop was mediocre. The only thing I don’t care for is the Sonitone pickup. It’s very bass heavy plugged in. To the point that I don’t hear ANY treble when plugged in. The unplugged sound is amazing. That would be my fear with the IBG guitars. If it can be had w/o a pickup, but already have a drilled end pin, it would get some other pickup that works better to my ears.
I recently bought an Epiphone Dove 2years ago. Absolutely loved it until I lucked into, And purchased a real 1968 Gibson Dove. Now the Epiphone feels like a 2x4 with strings on it! The real thing is the real thing! P.s. I have an Epiphone Dove for sale! Any takers?
Sounds like something might have came loose if it's hanging in the sound hole. I've had that pickup system in other guitars and I don't remember that being the case. Replacing the pickup system with an LR Baggs anthem or lyric would probably be ideal if you want to improve on the design and sound. Kind of depends on how it sounds acoustically though.
@@TheChristafershawn Thanks. There was another review of the Epiphone Hummingbird I came across that has the same issue except theirs came with a leather type battery cover to put around it so you don't hear the clanking around. It's the fishman pickup but no where to attattch the battery to. Blows my mind. May contact Zzounds which is where I got it from to check
I have so much history with Humming bird guitars! I Own some Gibson models and sold an Ibanez 1972 model which was in a horrible beat up condition. Recently my brother purchased the same Epiphone model in this video and I absolutely love it! For its sort of affordable price I would recommend it to all guitar players. The people at Epiphone know what is up! Props to the Greeks for always making fine instruments at any price.
Please is there a big difference between the Epiphone Hummingbird Studio VS the Inspired Gibson for playing rock n roll shows ? Here in France this is 400€ VS 800€, thank you
Inspired by Gibson is solid wood, bone nut/saddle and scalloped bracing. Studio or pro is laminate, plastic nut/saddle, and non- scalloped bracing. Tuners and headstock are different as well. Overall, the inspired is much nicer, but twice the price.
@@matthewreid618 look for the orange tag it will run you $850 retail (I got mine for $699 as a demo from sweetwater) they are great guitars. I have a epi from the 70"s (not a humingbird) my 70"s model epi has aged beutifully and is my goto guitar
I wish that I didn't play them side by side. I think the Epi is a killer value and sounds good, but it's not a gibson. Is the Gibson 4 times better? Probably not, but I'm saving for a Gibson. I prefer a rosewood fretboard, nitro finish, and the true hummingbird sound. The epi sounds great for the price, but it doesn't sound the same at all, in my opinion.
I'm listening to this video through stereo speakers. The guitar is beautiful, but it sounds like it lacks on the bass end. This could be good if you're in a band and want the guitar to not compete in the upper bass frequencies, with a bass guitar.
Your review is nicely done and I enjoyed watching it. Thank you for that! I am wondering: - Is your review based on only playing the Epiphone, or have you played the real thing as well? If you played both, which one, regardless of the price tag, in your opinion is the better sounding and more easily playable instrument? - How is the playability out of the box? I've heard people say that the setup is not good. This would be a problem for me as I cannot do a setup myself, nor are there any guitar shops in my vicinity that could do that for me. - As far as I know the Epiphone doesn't ship with a bag or a hardcase, which I personally don't like as it means I would have to spend the extra money for that. Every guitar, regardless of the price, should include at least a decent gig bag. - I also heard that the ornaments on the Epiphone's pick guard are only printed on, and according to some, that is not very well done and fades away quickly.
TY for a very good review. I am a huge Epiphone fan. I own two Epiphone guitars the DR400MCE and Excellente. They are awesome guitars. Both of them are Masterbilt and solid wood guitars. The 400 is a mahogany back and sides guitar and the exellente is ovangkol back and sides. The prices of these if built by Gibson would be well beyond what I can afford for a Hobbie. The Epiphne Masterbilt line is an amazing value imo. TY MH
@@davebradford8539 I would go for the excellente. Maybe, what you should do is visit a guitar music store and try both. After you tried both of them you can make your decision. I also have a Texan, which is a fine guitar too. Good luck Dave... have fun.
I bought it, play it, love it, will never sell it. Nuff said!
Me to !
Me to !
Same hear. My son will inherit this gem of a guitar someday because I know that he too will love it.
I love mine, bought it from a guy who went up to a Gibson
I tried an Epiphone Humingbird in the 90s. It was not worth the money. I recently have the chance to play a new Epi Humungbird again. Epiphone has massively improved. I could hardly resist to buy one. Very nice authentic review, Toni. Thank you very much!
Now is the time to grab one! Cheers!
I totally agree. The new Gibson Company owners really made a giant commitment to the more affordable Epis. They realized the need to compete in the lower end market and compete with some REALLY NICE AFFORDABLE GUITARS OUT THERE RIGHT NOW. I have some Epis and Gibson models of the same exact guitar and side by side, the Epi's may actually look a little better and play nearly as well...with a little setup they play as good.
I agree the Epis weren't inspiring sooo I decided to buy a 4k Gibson Hummingbird..sounds great, beautiful and feels so good to play but there's nothing wrong with the Epiphone. Interesting I found out that the Rolling Stones played all of their acoustic songs all the famous ones on a Gibson Hummingbird in the 60s and 70s I do believe..
Wow was it really over 1000 USD 2 years ago.
I just picked up one mint for 280.-
Not a good investment but a Nice guitar
For my Birthday yesterday, My wife gifted me this Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Hummingbird. Its awesome. I like more than my Martin. Its now my go to Guitar!
I have this guitar and all I can say it's a real goddess! I replaced plastic pins with Tusq pins to improve balance of the tone.
Why pay 3000 or more if you can get outstanding all wood guitar only for 800
I agree!
Tusq is junk, use bone, ivory, or wood pins. Change the saddle with bone, or ivory.
@@Life-of-Bluegrass_Music
The saddle is from bone originally there.
It depends on personal taste.
I prefer tusq pins anyway.
Why pay for a Gibson? C'mon, man!
There are some differences that you cannot "fix" though. Gibson has a wider neck (it matters a lot, especially if you're finger picking), scalloped bracing, nitro finish, rosewood fretboard, neck profile. I think the neck joint is different too. Personally I cannot stand the Epiphone headstock shape (it's just ugly). The Epi is "machine made" while the Gibby is hand made - I guess that justifies a good part of the price difference.
I don't own a hummingbird but if I were on the market for one, I would get the Gibson version.
I took out the sound deadening piezo under saddle pickup and put in a new bone nut, changed to brass bridge pins, and Elixir phosphor bronze strings. It sounds so much better.
I did the same without gutting it I tried brass but ebonyworks best had to shave them down for installation once I did it is now a Gibby
Some would say the pick guard is holding it back
@@markwilliams439 ebony works great. Use them on other acoustics.
@@markwilliams439 true. The large and thick pickguards tend to dampen the vibration in the guitar. Wonder how it would sound without one.
@@birgerhellefatland6265 I don't want to try it at all I can get around the pick guard quiet easily with pure bone nut and saddle with walrus bone bride pins and 13s/14s strings blew Gibson out the water horray to the underdogs epiphone
I tried one yesterday and I was surprised at how good it sounded. Should be noted this is a higher model than the regular Hummingbird by Epi. The standard one has laminated back and sides and this Inspired one has all solid wood, top, back and sides. It sounded and felt like a $2,000 Gibson. And the Laurel fretboard doesn't bother me because it is dark unlike Pao Faro.
I got one for Christmas. Absolutely love it !
Same got my epiphone humming bird pro whine red on Christmas 4 years ago. I own many guitars now but my hummingbird still MY FAVORITE GUITAR 🤟
Got mine about 3 weeks ago love playing it epiphone really knocked it out of the park
Just got one. It plays great, looks great, and sounds like a million hit records. Action is a bit high, so expect to do a bit of an initial setup on the nut and bridge - but I anticipate that with most new guitars.
I just bought this exact guitar 3 days ago and I will say I had a Gibson Hummingbird 3 years ago sorry I got rid of it and this Epiphone IBG sounds and plays and looks just like the Gibson.. its not a Gibson but its awfully damn close..it's a keeper!
Thanks for the feedback!
I have the 12 String version of this guitar and could not be more pleased. I plan on getting this one in the near future to make up the set.
One of the things I Love about the Gibson or the Epiphone Hummingbird is the Short scale. For me it makes it very playable
THAT is good to know. I bout the Frontier Masterbilt. But I tried the Hummingbird at a Guitar Center and LOVED it. I might be switching to the Hummingbird.
@@leascaart The Frontier Masterbilt is a beautiful guitar but the Scale Length: 25.512"
I just bought the Epiphone Hummingbird Ebony Special Studio. With Martin Life Span 10/47's it sounds wonderful and plays super smooth. I did a little neck work and setup the bridge and nut to get the action where I like it. I think these are left over from a few years ago, but I did get a new one from GC. I think GC and their associate companies are the only ones that sold it. I heard it was exclusive to them. It has the older, taller headstock. I prefer the new shorter headstock, but the all black finish and black fingerboard steel your eyes from it anyway.
I have an Epiphone Hummingbird from the early 1990s - a fantastic guitar. I bought one of these ‘Inspired by Gibson’ recently and it plays beautifully and sounds great.
Had one, sold it….dead as a door nail…well made and looks are top notch. Also sounds very good plugged in. I tried every string type imaginable to get it ringing, various set ups and it still did not have the mojo I expected…have a Yamaha LL16 and no comparison at all for the same money. I have had many Epi Masterbilts over the years and all the same too…no mojo or warmth unplugged…thinner woods would help them..too heavy for acoustics in my opinion.
Great review my friend, I purchased mine in late 2019 when they were introduced at the Namm Show. and order one then...I have compared this Hummingbird Epiphone with the Gibson sister, and frankly the Epiphone sounded better at Long & McQuade at my local music outlet in Canada I was blown away....The only negative comment is and beware the new 2024 series Hummingbird IBG is its now manufactured in China and the quality (tone woods) and the pure hummingbird Gibson sound is not the same..Look for a used one if you can..This guitar is a good as any Martin, Gibson, quality acoustic I've every played or owned...Epiphones best keep secret, look for the Excellente IBG Epiphone another hidden gem...
Thank you for sharing your well-informed enthusiasm.
Unfortunately I cannot play a dreadnaught due to a motorcycle injury, so I bought a Yamaha LS16 ARE concert size. All solid rosewood, Solid Engelmann Spruce with A.R.E., Ebony fingerboard, bridge is ebony, saddle and nut were urea but I upgraded it them to graph tech nubone. My guitar retails for $1100 without my upgrades. The LS16 is offered in Monogamy as well. So kudos to Epiphone, it looks sweet!
I had a bad motorcycle accident too, had to do with my eyes, found out I had glaucoma, but I can see better now, I could see then too. After the accident I could not hold the neck at all, I play drums, guitar, and piano and read music, I've played as a pro, I could play piano and over the course of three or four months, my strength came back, I am also a martial artist, had to work on that hard, it got everything else working again and was it all painful. I could not play bar chords at all, just my first finger across then the rest started slowly coming, no trouble at all with piano. Arthritis has given me trouble from playing guitar but not piano or drums. Keep working on your guitar and never stopl
The Epiphone without a doubt is a better bang for the buck. I have both Epiphone & Gibson Les Paul's + Hummingbirds, and though I do prefer the Gibson, it's not worth the extra $ you gotta pay. I did it because after 30+ years of playing on $100 guitars, I wanted something "better" for me. The quality of the wood will be higher on the Gibson's and generally make for easier fixing if there were to be issues. They also tend to be more resilient to temperature changes as well for gigging musicians. In closing, the Epiphone is 1/4 of the price, but at least 3/4 of the quality if you know what I mean.
I totally agree. Thanks for watching.
As much as I like Gibson guitars, I own 2 Epiphone acoustics and have been completely satisfied with my two budget guitars. One of my guitars is the Epiphone DR-100 which I bought on sale for $139 (normally $169). I can see why it's their best selling guitar and is well liked by both beginners and more experienced players as well.
@gregweber3387 Well I think the Gibson is an outstanding great guitar but the Epiphone for the price is pretty good :)
Played this guitar when they first came out and they had quality control issues with the pick guard staying on. I had to chance to play 2 at the same guitar center and it looks like they fixed that issue. Both guitars needed tuning out of the box, but afterwards the action was medium/low which is where you pretty much want it on an acoustic. They sounded pretty good for a "value guitar"; much better than several guitars in the same price range. I have played a Gibson Hummingbird and, maybe it's just my imagination, but the Epi versions sound slightly "boxier". I think I'd trade out the strings as I tend not to like the stock ones Epiphone and Gibson put on their guitars - that might improve the sound. I had a used Gibson L-00 (walnut) and I think the Hummingbird sounded nicer and played better, even on the crummy strings. If I had to nitpick, I prefer the feel of nitro over the urethane - it feels lighter, and allows the guitar to resonate more as you play it. I dunno - it just adds that tactile feel that makes the guitar seem "more alive" when played. I think that's pretty much subjective, tho. Great sustain, great fit and finish, didnt seem to need a set up other than tuning. If I was in the market for an acoustic, I'd easily add it to my collection.
Thanks for your feedback on the guitar. I still really like it.
I can confirm that the guitars that Epiphone are putting out lately, especially in their all solid wood models ( like the Inspired By Gibson and Master Class series), are outstanding guitars. We have the "Inspired By Gibson" J-200, which has solid spruce top and solid flamed maple back and sides and it is a Canon. I've made a couple videos on that guitar too. Bottom line is this, don't overlook Epiphone's all sold wood guitar coming out of Indonesia because they are great guitars at a very good price. Very nice video.
Did you replace anything on the J200? Because I had the Vintage Sunburst one and it sounded like pillow were inside it, I had to really dig into to get any real volume to it, I took it back
@@hotlov72
We didn't change anything on it. As it came right out of the box it sounded great. I have a review video out on that guitar, plus it's in a couple other videos I made on other guitar related topics. I don't like to post my videos or channel links in other channel video comments section, or I would link it here for you. If you want to hear how our guitar sounded just search my channels videos. The video is called " Epiphone J-200 Inspired By Gibson Review "..
Noah is still very happy with his purchase. And I love picking that guitar up and playing it. It's a cannon and sound better each time we play it.
1.) Headstock design is actually Kalamazoo era (pre Norlin Gibson) so it's the original Gibson headstock pre 1968... 2.) The 1.69" nut width was the standard nut width on Gibson acoustics in the 1960s. This Epiphone model is based on the vintage Hummingbirds, not the modern version. Gibson Montana changed it to the current 1.72". The Hummingbird is the best of this IBG series... Some points missed. It's 1-1.5 lbs heavier than the Gibson version, the lighter an acoustic is usually the more resonate it is. Epiphone goes for durability over lightly built, considering how fast they have to build these, that makes sense... Epiphone actually PLEKs these IBG and their Masterbuilt models at the factory. You won't find that on anything else under $1k.... I own the J-45 Epiphone Inspired by Gibson, I also own a 2001 Gibson J-45.. I play the Epiphone more. They do not sound identical, but they are certainly well into the same ballpark... To be fair I've never played two Gibson J-45s that sounded identical either.
(vs Washburn and Ibanez) i tried one in the store and wasn't all that impressed. *beautiful* guitar though. so one of the things i noticed is if you do slides, *it just doesn't really hold the note* . however, on a Taylor (obviously) it did. other guitars that were able to were an *Ibanez AEG70* in a similar $ as the epiphone (i got one for around $400 though on a sale) and the *Washburn Festival* . the only reason i picked the Ibanez over that one is the body cut was amazingly well thought out, comfortable, and no bear-hug effect trying to play the thing (and that it was shortscale, and i didn't have a shortscale acoustic yet).
*these two guitars both smoked the Epi. and i ^wanted^ to love the Epi.* the vintage designs really do it for me. also, these 2 guitars were noticably the most like that little Taylor. blindfolded, i'm not sure i would have been able to tell. they were all comfortable, compact, resonant and very playable. even if you had $989 to BURN, you might still like the other 2 over the Taylor.
that said, i'm dying to have a mustache (bridge) guitar and Epi is the only real option. (i do not have Gibson money on me.) so, if it potentially underperforms, i'll just have to take that chance on that model and not on this very cool looking Hummingbird. (SIDENOTE: all the other guitars i mentioned are a smaller body size, and all have a bigger and nicer sound than the Epi. however, if you aren't looking for sustains, and effects like slides, maybe you would still be happy with the Epi. I have a *Gretsch Historic* i got used for $250 that BOMBS it though, and the *LAG brand T88ACE* as well ($400) so i guess i just already expected more from something in the Epiphone's price range.)
*hope that gives people some ideas of models they might wanna check out. :) *
i'm not lagging on the Epi, i just think performance-wise it's.... a bit underwhelming at the pricepoint. so i'd not consider it good value for money compared to some others. but if you LOVE it, get it. you'll play it if you love the look or feel and if you are ok enough with the sound.
Can I just give some love for that awesome pickguard ? Look at those smooth edges too. So many look and feel like they were cut with a dull hacksaw.
I have 3 Epiphone acoustics, J-45 Masterbuilt, Dove and a 1978 Texan 12 string. All great guitars that play fantastic and even at 44 years old now my 12 string can still boom out the volume. The Masterbuilt J-45 is the real star with lots of tone in it. I had another Masterbuilt before this and loved it but got a deal trading it in on a Gibson J-45, it was a POS and I got rid of it.
The J-45 looks really good. I agree. I am afraid to check it out!
I bought the Ep Hummingbird in 2011, at about $325. It looks identical to yours, sounds identical. Rosewood fretboard, bridge. The headstock/tuning pegs appear to be the only difference.
Bc you probably bought the hummingbird pro. It should say it on the headstock.
Yeah, it's probably the Hummingbird Pro, which is nice and comes with closed Grover tunning keys ,but the Epiphone Hummingbird in this video is a different model. The Epiphone Hummingbird Inspired by Gibson.
@@j-bird6563 Yes, I have the Pro (which came in two versions that I know of) and it is very well-made and plays like a dream, but the b&s are laminate.
The perfect workhorse to beat up a bit at gigs and not worry about a 3K loss
I bought this and the j45 ibg.. absolutely love them both and I will never trade them..
Have you traded them yet?
im going back and forth between the two; which do you like better?
Great review. A shame about the cherry sunburst, though. I picked up a SDM-SG5 at Thomann, in Germany in 2020. Basically a straight Hummingbird copy, no red in the finish at all, all solid woods. 800 €. Ridiculously good tone.
If only Gibson can use that color on their Hummingbirds. That Epi is absolutely gorgeous and sounds incredible.
I'm contemplating buying one of these. This very comprehensive review has convinced me.
I bought one about 6 months ago and couldn’t be more happy with it. I got mine brand new for $380 but the prices change pretty often I guess but I truly feel like I got the best acoustic for that price to this day. 100% recommend it.
Awesome review! Epiphone is absolutely killing it.
I think they have stepped up the game with these new guitars, lets hope they continue that trend. Thanks for watching!
@@addictedtogear Thanks to that New CEO
I tried this guitar and it looks great, built very solid but the tone is way too bright for my liking. I even put on medium phosphorus bronze strings and there is still no bottom end to it.
For around the same price you can get a Martin D 10e which blows this Epi out of the water
I absolutely love mine! ❤ Your video helped me decide to order one. 👍
Thank you for the breakdown on the guitar. I loved it
The sigma full solid wood hummingbird is on par with anything
I managed to get a hold of and buy an Epiphone Excellente! With just 30 coming into all Canada I was so lucky I asked the local music shop to call around and he got the last one!
I absolutely LOVE the guitar, J.P. Cormier says it should be selling for $5,000 rather than the $2,000 CDN I paid.
I've had it for about 6 months when the entire love affair came to a screeching halt due to serious buzzing across the fret board up and down!
I was shocked, I've played over 50 years so I know what I'm doing, and there was NOTHING I could do that made any improvement at all. I took it to the shop where I bought it and they had their luthier go over it, and he was also stumped and he had to replace the saddle and set the neck at absolute relief and so, there was a noticeable bow and I was not having that!
So, it went back to Epiphone so they can have a go...sigh
If I get it back repaired or if I get refunded I'm gonna buy a 12 string Epiphone Hummingbird (inspired) used and either a Seagull Maritime which I have owned and regrated selling or, another stupid decision trading an outstanding, awesome Yamaha FG365S which my dad bought for me when I was 12!!
I TRADED IT FOR AN ELECRIC GUITAR THAT WAS SO AWESOME, I CAN
T REMEMBER WHAT IT WAS OR WHAT HAPPENED TO IT!!
So, I'm looking for one, and they are far and few between especially mint models. I would put that up against Martin d45 all day long!
Or, an Epiphone inspired J 200!!
I'm going used this time because you can get mint examples of otherwise very expensive axes at a fraction of the price!! Also, buying used allows me to buy two great used guitars rather than blowing my wad on just one....wait...that did NOT sound right! OH!
Great channel brother!
Jack ~'()'~ Canada
AKA Commie-Da!! Ruled by comrade Crime Minister Justa Turdo!! Dude embarrasses us by wearing fluorescent purple and flood pants during a brief humiliating talk with President Trump!
Jack ~'()'~
i hope you kept it in the case, 6 month sounds like weather related
Aesthetically the Gibson hummingbird looks at lot better in my opinion, due to the nitro finish and rosewood instead of laurel board, soundwise there isn't a lot in it IMHO. The Epi like the Gibson is all solid wood. Up until the end of 23 these guitars were made in the Samick factory in Indonesia, they are now made in the Epiphone facility in China.
Thank you for that info. Production of the IBG J-45 moved to China and I wondered when the 'bird might do the same. Glad my IBG J-45 is from Indonesia, as we have yet to see how good the Chinese ones are. The serial number on the Indonesian ones has factory code 23, as in xxxx23xxxxx.
Despite owning an Epi Hummingbird Pro I was tempted to buy the IBG, but the uncertainty of origin helped me to go the whole hog & buy a Gibson Standard.
thank You for a good overview. Not to long, nor too short. Just right. Blessings
That's a beautiful guitar indeed. In 1977 I had an Epiphone with a figure of 8 with a very soft sound as well the fretboard. Unfortunately someone stole my guitar assaulting my appartment in Paris. At the time the Gibsons were not so expansive as today. Today the market changed quite a bit, maybe to make the difference to the asian made.
Fantastic review. Thanks for making this video!
Some Jim Dunlop “Fretboard 65” lemon oil, will safely and effectively condition and darken an Indian Laurel fretboard, if one prefers a darker appearance.
Just bought one. It arrives tomorrow. I'm so excited!
Good choice!
Sounds nice !! And the headstock is actually a original epiphone headstock from its early days. :)
Hey bro 😎
@@5150show hi !! :P
YES!! The Epiphone headstock has long been a deal breaker for me, not a fan at all (petty, I know, lol). The Kalamazoo headstock is so sharp.
..Most exactly!! Check out pics of Hollies Graham Nash playing an older style sunburs Epi "Everly Bros." model, bookmatched large pickguards..and this old-style early 60's headstock..You'll see!
I tried 3 models of Epiphone Gibson inspired made in Indonesia: J200 -J45 - Hummingbird. They were fantastic and nearly as good as Gibson's original models from the sixties. I bought the J200 Sunburst. You felt on a bad guitar probably taken out without a final quality check. The Hummingbird was very good. The J45 better and the J200 better than any Gibson SJ200 I tried the last 30 years +. That is why I bought it. If I had more $$$, I would have bought the J45 to. I"m sorry you had such a bad experience. Visit a very good guitar store with a good luthier who verifies and tunes all the guitars ( the bad ones from all companies are sent back with explanations) and you will really be surprised.
Really comprehensive review! I just bought one of these and a great perspective. Thank you. Personally, swapping from electric to acoustic on stage, I find the narrower neck/ leaner nut, an easy transition for the fingers from a Fender Strat or Tele. The Sigma Hummingbird, whilst also a very nice guitar, has a broader neck which is more of a transition when switching. That said, if you only play acoustic it won’t matter as you’ll quickly adjust. In the showroom, the Epi just shone out to me…always a personal thing. Some excellent guitars being made at the moment which is just great for us.
Hi, just wondering how the Epiphone Studio holds up to the IBG hummingbird?
Perhaps do a comparison.
'Hi there', thanks for the video! The Epiphone looks nice . I thought I would just tell you that a few years ago now I purchased a Sigma dmsg5 Hummingbird copy. If I had seen the Epiphone then yes I would probably have got it? but for the money I spent for the Sigma it's even half of the price again. The guitar came with Grover tuners and I swapped the tuners I had on my Les Paul (Klusons) over and was happy that that worked out. The Hummingbird is such a pretty looking guitar and I am happy with my version of it anyway. regards!
Yes those sigma guitars are great too
I have a inspired by Gibson Epiphone and just can recommend it. It's really high quality. I totally love it!
I see on guitar center that there is a hummingbird that goes for 849$ and a hummingbird “pro” for 449$. Anybody knows the difference?
They are not Kluson tuners, they are Epiphone Deluxe tuners. I swapped mine out for Gotoh.
Wrap it up I'll take it 😊 - well done !! really informative - Cheers !
The next time you change the strings use some Howards Feed-N-Wax on the fingerboard. It is the BEST stuff I have used on my guitars. It is much better than any of the guitar branded stuff for fingerboard maintenance. You can get a lifetime supply at Lowes for $10. Shake it really well before you use it and be generous on application and it will treat and DARKEN the fingerboard better than anything else you'll find. It's good on the natural unfinished bridges as well.
Hi Max, I've been using Feed-N-Wax for years, its great stuff too!
I heard some comments that they are like the volvo,"They're good, but boxy"; especially on the low strings.
I got the exact same guitar yesterday and I must say it is a beautiful guitar ...love the sound 😮
It really is!
A person can never go wrong buying a all solid wood guitar. I don’t care what it says on the headstock.
Love your reviews. I just happened upon this one and had to watch it since I own this guitar. I scored this guitar pre-owed at Guitar Center last year for $649 and it was as flawless as brand new (I believe they were $849 new). It must've been a return from someone who had it for one day. I'm still giddy when I play it or look at on its stand. It sounds absolutely stunning to me. And it plays so nice. The neck is comfortable and the semi-gloss finish does not grip your hand, it glides easily up and down the neck. They had a new Epi Hummibird Pro which I tried out and it felt like such a cheap guitar to me. No quality feel whatsoever. In fact my 12 yo $149 beginner Yamaha is much nicer feeling and playing than the Hummingbird Pro. Epiphone has hit a grand slam with the "Inspired by Gibson" line. I'm a hobbyist home player and I feel like I own a professional level instrument now.
I agree. Thanks for the comment
I got mine brand new for 389! The store I went to priced it wrong and honored the price. and I got a killer deal
Do you know what is the difference between the Eli hummingbird “pro” and the Eli hummingbird? Besides price
Fantastic review, thanks for sharing!
All these Epiphone high end guitars have plastic bridge pins. It says ivory on the spec sheet but they are plastic.
So upgrade them to Tusq, bone or ebony.
Gibson's same models have Tusq bridge pins.
You will see improved tone after the upgrade.
I may just try that
@@addictedtogear could you link the ones you get if you do? I am wanting to upgrade this same guitar.
@@jessicamoore551 yes no problem.
I was thinking about about getting this and my buddy wants the Epiphone J-160E (Beatle Guitar) Any idea if Epi makes a good one?
I love The Beatles Gibson J-160 but, the prize is out of my range. Thanks...
Hey Gary, I’ve only heard good things about the J160. I will check it out if I was you. I think you would like it…
@@addictedtogear Thanks, skunizz, we will check out Epiphone J-160. That Epi Hummingbird is sweet! Im getting one! 🙏🏿
Great review thanks
Thanks for watching!
Great review , I think they are great guitars too.
They really are.
Aged cherry sunburst? I never felt like mine was RED enough to be cherry anything lol. Bought it secondhand so it didn’t have the color in the description.
Love the guitar, but not crazy about the fretboard. Don't know if I can get behind laurel at that price - maybe it's good? Cheers for the video.
Apply a good bit of fretboard oil and let it sit awhile before cleaning/wiping. It will darken up and resonate better IMO.
The fretboard on my cheaper Pro is outstanding.
just bought a 1978 Carlos hummingbird model j-75
I have a Gibson G45. Mine is wonderful. The one next to it in the shop was mediocre.
The only thing I don’t care for is the Sonitone pickup.
It’s very bass heavy plugged in. To the point that I don’t hear ANY treble when plugged in.
The unplugged sound is amazing.
That would be my fear with the IBG guitars.
If it can be had w/o a pickup, but already have a drilled end pin, it would get some other pickup that works better to my ears.
Thank you for the feedback. Its a very nice guitar indeed!
Why do hummingbirds hum?
They don't know the words.
Good review Tony, thank you.
Good one!
What are same ways to darken the fretboard?
Very exclusive, I appreciated your honest opinion.
I recently bought an Epiphone Dove 2years ago. Absolutely loved it until I lucked into, And purchased a real 1968 Gibson Dove. Now the Epiphone feels like a 2x4 with strings on it! The real thing is the real thing! P.s. I have an Epiphone Dove for sale! Any takers?
What it the inspired by Gibson model or the older model?
Great review!
Epiphone is owned by Gibson, so it is not a knock off.
Sounds nice but absolutely hate that the battery just hangs in the sound hole. Thinking of returning just for that reason.
Sounds like something might have came loose if it's hanging in the sound hole. I've had that pickup system in other guitars and I don't remember that being the case. Replacing the pickup system with an LR Baggs anthem or lyric would probably be ideal if you want to improve on the design and sound. Kind of depends on how it sounds acoustically though.
@@TheChristafershawn Thanks. There was another review of the Epiphone Hummingbird I came across that has the same issue except theirs came with a leather type battery cover to put around it so you don't hear the clanking around. It's the fishman pickup but no where to attattch the battery to. Blows my mind. May contact Zzounds which is where I got it from to check
Mine has a battery case that attaches to the inside of the guitar with Velcro.
I have so much history with Humming bird guitars! I Own some Gibson models and sold an Ibanez 1972 model which was in a horrible beat up condition. Recently my brother purchased the same Epiphone model in this video and I absolutely love it! For its sort of affordable price I would recommend it to all guitar players. The people at Epiphone know what is up! Props to the Greeks for always making fine instruments at any price.
Love the sound! I think it inspired me haha Cheers!
I got the 12 string humming bird.
I just saw this. Should I watch it?
Yes
Please is there a big difference between the Epiphone Hummingbird Studio VS the Inspired Gibson for playing rock n roll shows ? Here in France this is 400€ VS 800€, thank you
Inspired by Gibson is solid wood, bone nut/saddle and scalloped bracing. Studio or pro is laminate, plastic nut/saddle, and non- scalloped bracing. Tuners and headstock are different as well. Overall, the inspired is much nicer, but twice the price.
@@matthewreid618 look for the orange tag it will run you $850 retail (I got mine for $699 as a demo from sweetwater) they are great guitars. I have a epi from the 70"s (not a humingbird) my 70"s model epi has aged beutifully and is my goto guitar
I have the same one. Great guitar for the price. 4K+ for the Gibson is too much. The Epiphones have come along way. It plays great!
I agree, it plays great and is built very well also. I recommend it.
Hello My Friend
Could you give me the 2 measurements of the width of the shoulders and the bottom of the guitar?
Kind regards
Anna
I looove the coolor i just winder if i can remove that pick gard?
You probably can just be careful
That's the first thing I remove when I own Hummingbirds.
Does the neck has a satin finish or a gloss finish?
Actually sounds a bit thin to me. Could be the pick. I'd go Alvarez or blueridge myself.
It's actually the way it was mic'd. Sounds a lot fuller in the room.
I wish that I didn't play them side by side. I think the Epi is a killer value and sounds good, but it's not a gibson. Is the Gibson 4 times better? Probably not, but I'm saving for a Gibson. I prefer a rosewood fretboard, nitro finish, and the true hummingbird sound. The epi sounds great for the price, but it doesn't sound the same at all, in my opinion.
Hi i have got chance of buying a epiphone hummingbird artist Hb acoustic guitar for £180 pounds. Is the Hb version anygood.
Does it come with a case?
Does anyone know how this compare to the Masterbilt Hummingbird? I'm so confused which one is the best hummingbird from epiphone?
Intonation issues. Every string on mine was flat at the 12th fret
Interesting
Then adjust it 🤷♂️
I see a lot of comments about how great they sound. Are they Indonesia or China made? Anyone have one from China and you are happy with it?
Very nice Tony!!
Thanks for the visit
Love mine. As good as the gibson in every way.❤️👍👏❤️
Great review, as always.
Glad you enjoyed it
I'm listening to this video through stereo speakers. The guitar is beautiful, but it sounds like it lacks on the bass end. This could be good if you're in a band and want the guitar to not compete in the upper bass frequencies, with a bass guitar.
I was only using the camera mic on the recording. I better mic on it would make a world of difference.
I am a bit disappointed in mine ....it sounds a bit " boxy". ( tinny .) .not a patch on my Yamaha APX 500 11 EW
Your review is nicely done and I enjoyed watching it. Thank you for that!
I am wondering:
- Is your review based on only playing the Epiphone, or have you played the real thing as well? If you played both, which one, regardless of the price tag, in your opinion is the better sounding and more easily playable instrument?
- How is the playability out of the box? I've heard people say that the setup is not good. This would be a problem for me as I cannot do a setup myself, nor are there any guitar shops in my vicinity that could do that for me.
- As far as I know the Epiphone doesn't ship with a bag or a hardcase, which I personally don't like as it means I would have to spend the extra money for that. Every guitar, regardless of the price, should include at least a decent gig bag.
- I also heard that the ornaments on the Epiphone's pick guard are only printed on, and according to some, that is not very well done and fades away quickly.
I did play both guitars. The Gibson is nice but OMG the price! This one is great for the money!
This guitar is only for beginners or advanced players can use it ???
Anyone can enjoy this guitar..
Is this guitar good for Finger Picking style?
Sure why not?
TY for a very good review. I am a huge Epiphone fan. I own two Epiphone guitars the DR400MCE and Excellente. They are awesome guitars. Both of them are Masterbilt and solid wood guitars. The 400 is a mahogany back and sides guitar and the exellente is ovangkol back and sides. The prices of these if built by Gibson would be well beyond what I can afford for a Hobbie. The Epiphne Masterbilt line is an amazing value imo. TY MH
Hey Mark you are very welcome. Thank you for watching!
I’m buying either the excellente or the hummingbird.. what’s your choice .??
@@davebradford8539 I would go for the excellente. Maybe, what you should do is visit a guitar music store and try both. After you tried both of them you can make your decision. I also have a Texan, which is a fine guitar too. Good luck Dave... have fun.
@@markhansen8078 thx for the response .. I just ordered the excellente actually :)
@@davebradford8539 OK cool. Let me know what you think of it. Mine is sounding better as it ages.
How heavy is it ?
Im just waiting on a friend!
Which pickup would suit this guitar?
It already comes with a Fishman Sonicore™ pickup in it.
Replacing the pickup system with an LR Baggs anthem or lyric would be a major upgrade.