Great review Randy. You have to be truthful to be respected as a reviewer. And I respect your opinions enough, that last Dec., I purchased an Epiphone Excellente. Not solely on your review, but your honesty swayed me over the top. And you were right. It is an awesome guitar. One of the best I own.
Hey Randy,, greatings from Belgium. Good mojo, I'm Daithi's neighbour Steven. You may not like this guitar, but it sounds great in my ears, lots of bass and midd.. Thank you.
Hey there Steven! Great to hear from you. Any neighbor of Daithi, is a neighbor of mine 👍🏻. It only gets intolerable when you bear down on it. For some reason the sound seems to completely compress to the soundhole, which distorts in a way that’s very difficult to describe. Great to hear from you, brother man 👍🏻
Hi David, I'm just glad you got it and are happy with it. I've heard nothing but great things about that guitar. Just upload a video of it, brother man 👍
New, or almost new guitars, often sound tight and tinny for a period of time. My new J45 didn't sound good to me until I played the snot out of it for several months. It's amazing how time and playing can change the tone of an acoustic instrument.
Hi Aaron, a great point. That said, I couldn’t keep playing this one long enough to see. I’ve not experienced that before. Nevertheless, a great observation, sir 👍🏻
Very frank and honest review of a guitar that looks the part but obviously doesn't cut it in the sound department or fretting, it's unusual because Epiphone's are usually great but this one falls flat, oh well, great video Randy 🎸👏👏🙏🏻
Completely agree about Epiphone being a normally great guitar, brother man. Thank you very much, Trevor. Always enjoy your feedback and observations 👍🏻
Hey Randy. I see what you mean. When you were picking a bit at first I thought well that sounds pretty good. ( actually it was just your playing that sounded great). While you started playing chords it was evident that there was something that just didn’t sound right. Maybe it’s over braced inside but it was Really bright and thin. I have a natural version of this that I bought online and I go back and forth about it. Great honest video as always. God bless.
Beautiful picking Randy. But I agree. That Guitar has something funky going on. When individual notes are plucked it sounds okay. But when the top is Driven -chord work etc. the notes do not work in unison. It’s a crazy phenomenon sometimes found in Guitars. It’s like a Tuning fork that is out of Balance! Thanks for sharing. As a side note. The Original first year Kalamazoo Texans came off the assembly line in 1958. A special year! And gotta say. Your a true Texan❤️🇺🇸 best always my friend
Thanks Dennis! You have a way with words, which really communicated exactly what was going on with this one. I really appreciate your input here and especially your detailed responses. Great to hear from you, brother man 👍🏻
No sir, I have not. I’ve seen a few reviews from folks where I respect their opinion and they seemed to have loved it. I’m hoping to pick both versions up in the next year, one from Indonesia and one from Bozeman. A side by side would be a great video, I think 👍🏻
Hey Randy, I just saw your other video on the Epiphone FT79 inspired by Texan and I would recommend a proper set up on this guitar: Bone nut and saddle and unslotted bone bridge pins. Less than 100 bucks (material + luthier work) and this guitar will be going strong. It will still have brightness, but sound much much warmer with bone. Im interested to hear it. I have just bought one over the internet and when it arrives I will have the same set up done on that one.
Hi Dominik, you made some great suggestions and I would do that if I still had the guitar. I sold to someone locally, but had them play it before they bought it. They actually loved it, so I didn’t lose on the deal. Had I not sold it, I certainly would have taken your lead on this. I really do appreciate you taking the time out to give me some feedback here. Perhaps someone else will read this and it’ll save them some trouble. Thanks again, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Of course! Randy I almost never give up on guitars and even cheap plywood can sound great (to some extent). Some people say that those Epiphones are heavily braced and I am thankful for that comment! I will tell the luthier to take a look inside and sand it down if it needs to shed some wood. Wow! I can't wait for my guitar. Im excited now :)
The Inspired by Texan already has bone nut and saddle just as all the inspired by and Masterbilt collection guitars and the bridge pins are Tusq. I own almost all from the Texan to the Exellente.
@@spiritualawakenings6251 I have my luthier doing the setup right now. Mine had plastic. I will upload a video for you guys after its done. My luthier has a lot of Jobs in the Pipeline but it should not take too long now.
I know nothing about guitars but it was interesting the way you went through each feature in comparison to other guitars. You made it sound really good when you played it though!😁
@@randysrhythm Thanks for the honest review. To me it doesn't look like the current Masterbilt Texan. It looks too glossy and also the burst seems different. Could it be the earlier Peter Frampton model?
Yes Randy, as we talked about before, I think you got one that was over braced. I would love to get some sand paper and spend some time thining the braces down on that guitar. If I had the money, I would buy it from you and put some work into it. You are awesome for telling us the truth about what you think of it too. Most big channels get those guitars given to them and are expected to give a good review of it. But it definitely doesn't sound like mine..lol.. Although mine is much older...lol Anyways.. great video sir.
@@randysrhythm I think you could even work on it, in your spare time. Get some sandpaper and sand away. A little at a time though... Lol... It's just a shame that they couldn't put the quality controls in place for those guitars like they do for the Inspired By Gibson guitars and even the Exellente...
You’re right Randy! That is a great looking guitar but if it doesn’t sound right to your ear then you definitely won’t fall in love with it! I once had a guitar and tried every known set of strings hoping to find the one that would bring out the magical sound I was expecting. Unfortunately that guitar never spoke to me either so I sold it. Thanks for a great review !👏👏✌️😃🎸🎶👍
Appreciate the input, Brian. Yes sir, this one was just poorly braced, I’m afraid. It may also have a finish that is more restrictive. Either way, you are so right 👍🏻
Great honest review. Based on your assessment, I too think it could only be the bracing; probably quality control missed something. It would be interesting if you found another exact one and get to test drive it and compare. From here the sound isn't bad at all. BTW glad you dropped by my channel which then led me here. You have a new subscriber! Cheers!
Hi David, I knew you had this guitar, which is the only reason I left an out in my assessment. It is possible that I just got a lemon. Apparently that was the case, because I trust your judgement 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm you are a way better judge than I will ever be Sir; I might have just got one my fingers feel good on lol. I am hoping this new Hummingbird builds the same confidence. Always love and respect your discussion.
@@randysrhythm PSS: Watching again, and each time you say "I just don't like this guitar it makes me smile; in retrospect, maybe even Paul McCartney's 1960's model was better than those being built today. "Some of you bought this thing and you're in love with it. . .I don't like this guitar." I do love mine, but I love my Taylor, and I love the new one too. I guess I have not developed that great tone recognition more advanced musicians such as yourself have developed. Sry for the long chain of responses Randy.
Did you consider that all of the IGB line has a 24.75 scale lenght, incuding Epiphone Frontier and Exellente. But the Texan has a 25.5 scale lenght, that's a typical martin scale lenght or let's say fender is 25.5 Gibson is 24.75. And do you know that the longer the scale the harder is to bend and do bar cords etc.. ?
Yes sir, correct on all counts. What I later found out was that they built several versions of the Texan overseas. The one I picked up seems to be the one that has the most struggles. It’s an Inspired by Texan, instead of the Masterbilt. Appreciate the detailed information, as I’m sure anyone who reads it will benefit, brother man 👍🏻
Totally agree sir! The sound is "too bright". And as far as I know, the "regular" Chinese version sounds kinda better. Thanks for your review. Regards from Brazil!
Hello sir, I have the same guitar, it broke my heart. I really wanted to like it but I eventually failed. I did all the modifications that I could think of, since I didn't believe such good specs could produce such an unnatrual sound, but it turned out to be, no can do
Hi Sure, I hate to hear that, but fully appreciate it. No 2 are exactly alike, but we always hope. The online ordering of these instruments is frustrating, but that’s why I go through Sweetwater. They play the guitar, which ensures that I get a keeper. I do hope you get another chance at one, because the one I have is just a dreamboat. In fact, after pulling some of the relief out of the neck, it looks like I will not need to adjust the nut height. I really appreciate the comment and hope to hear more from you, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm thank you sir, my fault was I tried to love the guitar for what it was not, it wasn’t a texan, it was just inspired by 1964 Texan. The body depth and many details were very different from the real deal. I still love slope shoulders and Texan, but when I pull the trigger next time, I’ll go straight for the US one. Or if it’s not, I will make sure I love it for its sound and playability
@@sure5871 Hi Sure, I just did something that I knew would happen someday, I responded to someone where I had another video in mind 😂. For some reason I thought this was the Excellente video!! Well sir, that must have puzzled you! I agree fully with what you originally said. This texan (deliberately not capitalized) is a piece of junk. They should be ashamed of themselves for selling it! Sorry about the confusion, brother man and hope to see you around the channel 👍🏻
It's a pretty G-tar - Randy sir I believe you could make a paint can sound good brother - your knowledge is amazing - honest review - if you don't like you don't like - do you have any thoughts on Taylor ??? - I like the looks of the Taylor AD17 sunburst or black top - if the girls pretty but can't dance you don't take her to the prom .... I get it. - GOD bless
Hi Baker, I have never played a Taylor. I know, it sounds sinful that I haven’t, but it is what it is. At some point I’ll pick one up. I’ll see if I can find the one you mention here. Great to hear from you, sir 👍🏻
Yes Randy I commented on your j45 video because I’m looking at getting a hummingbird IBG and I looked on GC site says China. I didn’t see what Sweetwater said 🤷♂️. So now I’m confused on are they coming from both places and will they be different. I’m ready to get one but I liked try one first 1k a lot money for me. Thx if have any info.
Hi Curt, the IBGs are all made at the Epiphone custom shop. It’s the Masterbilt line you have to look closely at. Turns out the one I’m holding in this video was made in China. The IBG Hummingbird is definitely made in Indonesia at the custom shop, for sure. Great to hear from you, brother man 👍🏻
Ok thx I am seeing on line that IBG can be made in Indonesia and China(Qingdao factory)Says the 5th 6th # number tells you which factory or has or a S for Samick Indonesia factory. I may just go ahead order from Sweetwater and 🤞🏻🤞🏻. Thx for your time I enjoy your videos
Ok thx Randy. Please keep me updated I called GC they got one out in room I going try go look at it or order from Sweetwater. The site I read that from is guitar lobby.
Great review, but it isn't a Masterbuilt, it's an Inspired by 64 Texan. You can tell as it has a gloss finish, no pearl dots on the bridge, and it's one of those with the shallow depth.
Hi Steve, well now, I can’t tell you how happy I am to hear that! I was really beginning to question the Masterbilt line after playing this one. I think at this point I have some corrections to make in the title and the description. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the information, sir 👍🏻 I’ll do a bit more research, but would you happen to know if Masterbilt makes a version of this? If so, is it the depth larger?
@@stevecroft5068 Thanks, brother man! As soon as I have a few minutes, I’ll correct the title and edit the description. You’re a gentleman and a scholar 👍🏻
@@stevecroft5068 Hi Steve, please review the new title and edited description. Later this week I’ll do a quick video correcting my references to Masterbilt. Thanks again and you have a new subscriber 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm I’ve had two of these Inspired by 64 Texans. The first was a 2009 made in China, and the second from 2015 made in Indonesia. The early ones were full depth, but the later ones were shallower. The iInspired by Texans were solid top and back, but laminated sides. The Masterbilt Texans have replaced the Inspired by version, and appear to be a notch above in quality and tone.
Howdy Randy . . . . . Wow!! Ended up being a pretty emotional review here Mate. I wonder if that particular guitar is a 'lemon'. It didn't sound that bad to me, but I am not the person playing it and who owns it. Anywho . . . . what can I say! 🤷🏻♂ Cheers Randy! 🎸 🎼 😊 ✌ PS . . . . I thought when you strummed this guitar (with the pick), it sounded okay! 🤷🏻♂
Hi Johnny, sorry for the late response, but I’ve been a bit tied up lately. I just posted a follow up video on why this guitar has Covid. That video explains everything. Great to hear from you and hope you’re doing well, brother man. I’m looking forward to more conversations after the new place is (Johnny’s Studio) all finished, my friend 👍🏻
Too funny, l watched a video today.. l won't use any names like "Guitar stuff with John" or anything but the guy in the video raved about that very same guitar, he had that guitar made overseas and the same guitar built in Boseman Montana, compared side by side..they both sounded like yours! I have not seen a video of you Randy so...well.. uninspired that you just wouldn't play.. he went nuts on it and how great it is.. the specs say it should sound similar to a j45 but it certainly does not. I'm not a J45 fan, to me they sound like what one would expect a standard guitar to sound like, nothing special really, if l want a Spruce/Mahogany guitar...l want it to sound like the IBG Hummingbird.. something SPECIAL! Great video.. Thank you Randy!!
Hi James, I have missed hearing from you, my friend! Yes sir, I know exactly who you are talking about. It’s puzzling, unless they did a special one for him, knowing it was getting reviewed? It’s just not like him to miss the mark. By the way, thanks for the kind words, brother man. On a similar note, I just posted a review of the IBG Epiphone J-45. It sounds nothing like a Gibson, but it is powerful and resonates like crazy. I picked it up for $450.00 😂
Hi Randy. Isn't it funny how we're all different? My son bought one of these and he loves it. I've tried it a few times and I don't get on with it at all!! Oh well. It would be boring if we were all the same my friend, wouldn't it? 😉😅😅 Regards buddy, Dave
Randy , I can feel your struggle on this one. But keep in mind it is not a IBG , it is a true Epiphone model , cold this be the difference ? Do not know but I guess there cost cutting on this model or on purpose to Not Sound or Play like the IBG or USA guitars. Yes Epiphone did make the Masterbilts in China , my AJ is from there (early 2000`s) with the same QC as most Mastebilts have. I had a AJ100 (plywood guitar) at that time was the cheapest acoustic Epiphone had and I could not find Anything wrong with it , I had a lot of guys play her and they loved her but there were just something about her I just did not like. The neck is the same neck as the other Epiphones and she was a sloped shoulder but there just was something bout her I just did not like , Now I got her a a dirt cheap price but I would have pasted if I would have spent more time buying , but she did go to a young guy that wanted to learn to play he sold of his other toys to buy her. So I feel your pain but there are someone out there would be in High Cotton getting her !
Brother Randy, I am 1000% aligned with your opinion here. Fortunately for me, I was able to try one out in a local shop, and as badly as I wanted to love it, no way. The neck is scrawny, and the tone is scrawny. Sorry you had to buy one to find out, but that’s the guitar world we live in now. You’re the Texan we need to listen to in this video. Sorry Epiphone, you missed the mark again.
Brother Paul, you summed it up, brother man! That is exactly right and describes perfectly what I experienced. I hope you are doing well, my good friend 👍🏻
It certainly looks nice, Randy, but I know what you mean, sometimes you just know immediately that a guitar isn't for you. Hope you get it shifted and get something that fits you better sound and playing wise.
Randy, make me laugh 🤣🤣🤣🤣, I DO NOT LIKE THIS GUITAR. you are killing me 😂😂, don't like the sound, don't like the fretts, not smooth, has everything well built, beautiful , but doesn't have a personality.🤣🤣🤣🤣 Hope you don't criticize your wife like that great video, you had me laughing the whole time 👍🎶🎸
...but you are a Texan,right? I appreciate your honesty. You got a good buy,now say goodbye. If I didn't have several great mahogany guitars, I would ask for a price...
😂 I couldn’t do that to you, John! I have had this video done for weeks and this is actually the 3rd one that I’ve done. I deleted the other two and settled on this one. I hesitated to release it, but sometimes you just have to call a spade a spade, brother man 👍🏻
Hi, I never realized that they put the dots on the Masterbilt, so really appreciate that insight. I did sell this on Craigslist. I did that so that anyone considering purchasing it had to come play it first, because I didn’t feel right about shipping it and passing it off on some unsuspecting soul. The guy that bought it, loved it, and that was after telling him that I didn’t like it at all. In the end, I got my money back and he got a guitar that he loved. Appreciate the info, brother man 👍🏻
This model has a 1-11/16" fretboard width at nut not 1-3/4". The serial # tells the year, from there you can tell what factory was building during that period earlier ones in China newer in Indonesia. "The guitar that inspired two British Invasions joins the Masterbilt™ family! Based on the historic 60s-era Texans played by Paul McCartney and Peter Frampton. Featuring a solid Sitka spruce top, solid mahogany back and sides, bone nut and saddle, and the Fishman® Presys VT™ pickup and preamp system. Includes a vintage-style blue rectangle soundhole label. Available in Antique Natural Aged and Faded Cherry Aged finishes and featuring Gibson™ strings. Epiphone stands behind every guitar they make with a Limited Lifetime Warranty and Gibson Brands™ Customer Service. A battery is not included. To power your pickup, you will need a 9-volt battery." ua-cam.com/video/-XJX3aKOEmQ/v-deo.html
All great observations and corrections. I had already corrected the nut width in the description, but glad you did it here in the comments. Not everyone reads the description. Appreciate the additional information, brother man 👍
Don't sit on the fence Randy 🤣 This might be the first (justifiably) negative thing we've heard from you. Maybe you should do a whole second channel called 'Randy Slams'. Actually no, that just sounds like a wrestler...
That’s actually a great idea, Mat!! Great to see you stop in. I know you two have been busy lately, so it means a lot when you take the time to give some feedback. Hope you are keeping well, brother man 👍🏻
I have to say..the guitar that John bangs on about ala John's music stuff that another person has already mentioned is all solid from Indonesia 🇮🇩. Its OK.. as I have played it. But like you with your Chinese 64 inspired which is laminate back and sides,I was underwhelmed after mainly John's review. The American version is a whole lot better .In every department. Its amazing. John seems to have a thing about Masterbilt Epis. Not for me. US or nothing. Its best to save up and get the real deal. The usual famous people that are dragged up by guitar companies ,forget to mention they were playing the USA versions of these guitars. I love your honesty .
Great review Randy. You have to be truthful to be respected as a reviewer. And I respect your opinions enough, that last Dec., I purchased an Epiphone Excellente. Not solely on your review, but your honesty swayed me over the top. And you were right. It is an awesome guitar. One of the best I own.
Hi Terry, that comment meant the world to me. You made my week with that comment, brother man 👍🏻
Hey Randy,, greatings from Belgium. Good mojo, I'm Daithi's neighbour Steven. You may not like this guitar, but it sounds great in my ears, lots of bass and midd.. Thank you.
Hey there Steven! Great to hear from you. Any neighbor of Daithi, is a neighbor of mine 👍🏻. It only gets intolerable when you bear down on it. For some reason the sound seems to completely compress to the soundhole, which distorts in a way that’s very difficult to describe.
Great to hear from you, brother man 👍🏻
Dig the Texan and your pickin’ as always Randy - makes a dude feel good, brother
Brother 52!! Great to hear from you, brother man. Yes sir, this guitar just doesn’t do it for me. I may end up using it for firewood 😂
Well I finally received my master bill frontier. Very happy with it don’t know how to add a photo.
Hi David, I'm just glad you got it and are happy with it. I've heard nothing but great things about that guitar. Just upload a video of it, brother man 👍
I was going to buy one of these Randy but seen the inspired by Gibson 335 Epiphone and fell in love with it.Fab guitar straight out of the box
Hey Derek, thank God you made that decision! Very pleased to hear that and thanks for stopping in, brother man 👍🏻
A wonderful honest review ❤
Hi Layila, thank you very much for that observation. I hope you have a great week, ma'am 👍
New, or almost new guitars, often sound tight and tinny for a period of time. My new J45 didn't sound good to me until I played the snot out of it for several months. It's amazing how time and playing can change the tone of an acoustic instrument.
Hi Aaron, a great point. That said, I couldn’t keep playing this one long enough to see. I’ve not experienced that before. Nevertheless, a great observation, sir 👍🏻
Very frank and honest review of a guitar that looks the part but obviously doesn't cut it in the sound department or fretting, it's unusual because Epiphone's are usually great but this one falls flat, oh well, great video Randy 🎸👏👏🙏🏻
Completely agree about Epiphone being a normally great guitar, brother man. Thank you very much, Trevor. Always enjoy your feedback and observations 👍🏻
When I saw the Texan, I just had a bad feeling and went with the masterbilt frontier,, waiting to get it next week,,
Hi David, that just makes the point to always trust your instincts, brother man. A great choice on your part. Let me know what you think of it 👍🏻
Hey Randy. I see what you mean. When you were picking a bit at first I thought well that sounds pretty good. ( actually it was just your playing that sounded great). While you started playing chords it was evident that there was something that just didn’t sound right. Maybe it’s over braced inside but it was Really bright and thin. I have a natural version of this that I bought online and I go back and forth about it. Great honest video as always. God bless.
Thank you, Steve. Always appreciate you, brother man 👍🏻
Beautiful picking Randy. But I agree. That Guitar has something funky going on. When individual notes are plucked it sounds okay. But when the top is Driven -chord work etc. the notes do not work in unison. It’s a crazy phenomenon sometimes found in Guitars. It’s like a Tuning fork that is out of Balance! Thanks for sharing. As a side note. The Original first year Kalamazoo Texans came off the assembly line in 1958. A special year! And gotta say. Your a true Texan❤️🇺🇸 best always my friend
Thanks Dennis! You have a way with words, which really communicated exactly what was going on with this one. I really appreciate your input here and especially your detailed responses. Great to hear from you, brother man 👍🏻
Have you also tried or purchased the Epiphone masterbilt Frontier? Would love to hear your thoughts on that one?
No sir, I have not. I’ve seen a few reviews from folks where I respect their opinion and they seemed to have loved it. I’m hoping to pick both versions up in the next year, one from Indonesia and one from Bozeman. A side by side would be a great video, I think 👍🏻
Hey Randy, I just saw your other video on the Epiphone FT79 inspired by Texan and I would recommend a proper set up on this guitar: Bone nut and saddle and unslotted bone bridge pins.
Less than 100 bucks (material + luthier work) and this guitar will be going strong. It will still have brightness, but sound much much warmer with bone. Im interested to hear it.
I have just bought one over the internet and when it arrives I will have the same set up done on that one.
Hi Dominik, you made some great suggestions and I would do that if I still had the guitar. I sold to someone locally, but had them play it before they bought it. They actually loved it, so I didn’t lose on the deal. Had I not sold it, I certainly would have taken your lead on this. I really do appreciate you taking the time out to give me some feedback here. Perhaps someone else will read this and it’ll save them some trouble. Thanks again, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Of course! Randy I almost never give up on guitars and even cheap plywood can sound great (to some extent). Some people say that those Epiphones are heavily braced and I am thankful for that comment!
I will tell the luthier to take a look inside and sand it down if it needs to shed some wood.
Wow! I can't wait for my guitar. Im excited now :)
The Inspired by Texan already has bone nut and saddle just as all the inspired by and Masterbilt collection guitars and the bridge pins are Tusq. I own almost all from the Texan to the Exellente.
@@spiritualawakenings6251 I have my luthier doing the setup right now. Mine had plastic. I will upload a video for you guys after its done. My luthier has a lot of Jobs in the Pipeline but it should not take too long now.
I'll check it out, brother man 👍
I know nothing about guitars but it was interesting the way you went through each feature in comparison to other guitars. You made it sound really good when you played it though!😁
Ms Gypsy, you are such an encouraging friend and it was a great day when we crossed paths, ma’am 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Thank you! I'm glad I found your channel!😁
I'm just curious Randy. Did you get this Texan new?
No sir, Terry. I bought it used, but it is mint.
@@randysrhythm Thanks for the honest review. To me it doesn't look like the current Masterbilt Texan. It looks too glossy and also the burst seems different. Could it be the earlier Peter Frampton model?
@Martin Olsen I was thinking the same thing. Also, the Masterbilt Texan had the Epiphone logo on the pickguard.
Yes Randy, as we talked about before, I think you got one that was over braced.
I would love to get some sand paper and spend some time thining the braces down on that guitar. If I had the money, I would buy it from you and put some work into it.
You are awesome for telling us the truth about what you think of it too. Most big channels get those guitars given to them and are expected to give a good review of it. But it definitely doesn't sound like mine..lol.. Although mine is much older...lol
Anyways.. great video sir.
I haven’t ruled out sending it to you just yet. I really appreciate you, David 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm
I think you could even work on it, in your spare time. Get some sandpaper and sand away. A little at a time though... Lol... It's just a shame that they couldn't put the quality controls in place for those guitars like they do for the Inspired By Gibson guitars and even the Exellente...
You’re right Randy! That is a great looking guitar but if it doesn’t sound right to your ear then you definitely won’t fall in love with it!
I once had a guitar and tried every known set of strings hoping to find the one that would bring out the magical sound I was expecting. Unfortunately that guitar never spoke to me either so I sold it. Thanks for a great review !👏👏✌️😃🎸🎶👍
Appreciate the input, Brian. Yes sir, this one was just poorly braced, I’m afraid. It may also have a finish that is more restrictive. Either way, you are so right 👍🏻
Good review of this guitar. I usually lean towards a jumbo body as opposed to a dreadnaught.
Hi Kyle, appreciate the feedback. It is difficult to find a bad jumbo bodied guitar, for sure 👍🏻
Great honest review. Based on your assessment, I too think it could only be the bracing; probably quality control missed something. It would be interesting if you found another exact one and get to test drive it and compare. From here the sound isn't bad at all. BTW glad you dropped by my channel which then led me here. You have a new subscriber! Cheers!
I’m glad as well, kind sir. I really appreciate you stopping in and sharing your thoughts.
Great review Randy 🙂 Thumbs up
Have a great new week ♫ All the best, Jenny
Thank you, Ms Jenny and you as well, ma’am 👍🏻
Love my Masterbilt Texan; I have the lower end, made in Indonesia though not 2k version
.
PS: Sry it disappoints you Randy lol.
Hi David, I knew you had this guitar, which is the only reason I left an out in my assessment. It is possible that I just got a lemon. Apparently that was the case, because I trust your judgement 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm you are a way better judge than I will ever be Sir; I might have just got one my fingers feel good on lol. I am hoping this new Hummingbird builds the same confidence. Always love and respect your discussion.
@@randysrhythm PSS: Watching again, and each time you say "I just don't like this guitar it makes me smile; in retrospect, maybe even Paul McCartney's 1960's model was better than those being built today. "Some of you bought this thing and you're in love with it. . .I don't like this guitar." I do love mine, but I love my Taylor, and I love the new one too. I guess I have not developed that great tone recognition more advanced musicians such as yourself have developed. Sry for the long chain of responses Randy.
@@guitarhack007 I don’t think it’s so much a tuned ear. I really think I got a dud. The bracing isn’t right on this one, for sure 👍🏻
Beautiful performance brother thanks for sharing, New friend here stay connected God bless you
Thank you!
Did you consider that all of the IGB line has a 24.75 scale lenght, incuding Epiphone Frontier and Exellente. But the Texan has a 25.5 scale lenght, that's a typical martin scale lenght or let's say fender is 25.5 Gibson is 24.75.
And do you know that the longer the scale the harder is to bend and do bar cords etc.. ?
Yes sir, correct on all counts. What I later found out was that they built several versions of the Texan overseas. The one I picked up seems to be the one that has the most struggles. It’s an Inspired by Texan, instead of the Masterbilt. Appreciate the detailed information, as I’m sure anyone who reads it will benefit, brother man 👍🏻
Totally agree sir! The sound is "too bright". And as far as I know, the "regular" Chinese version sounds kinda better. Thanks for your review. Regards from Brazil!
Appreciate it, brother man 👍🏻
Sounds ok Randy and looks ok but I get it just has to be the right fit and hate when the frets are too high as well!
Hi Ms Kathy, great to see you. I’m with a few of your countrymen this week 😁. Yes’m, I just couldn’t agree with you more, ma’am 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm well you have too much fun Randy!!
amazing review,,,
have a nice day and sucses my friend
Thank you, sir 👍🏻
Hello sir, I have the same guitar, it broke my heart. I really wanted to like it but I eventually failed. I did all the modifications that I could think of, since I didn't believe such good specs could produce such an unnatrual sound, but it turned out to be, no can do
Hi Sure, I hate to hear that, but fully appreciate it. No 2 are exactly alike, but we always hope. The online ordering of these instruments is frustrating, but that’s why I go through Sweetwater. They play the guitar, which ensures that I get a keeper. I do hope you get another chance at one, because the one I have is just a dreamboat. In fact, after pulling some of the relief out of the neck, it looks like I will not need to adjust the nut height. I really appreciate the comment and hope to hear more from you, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm thank you sir, my fault was I tried to love the guitar for what it was not, it wasn’t a texan, it was just inspired by 1964 Texan. The body depth and many details were very different from the real deal. I still love slope shoulders and Texan, but when I pull the trigger next time, I’ll go straight for the US one. Or if it’s not, I will make sure I love it for its sound and playability
@@sure5871 Hi Sure, I just did something that I knew would happen someday, I responded to someone where I had another video in mind 😂. For some reason I thought this was the Excellente video!! Well sir, that must have puzzled you! I agree fully with what you originally said. This texan (deliberately not capitalized) is a piece of junk. They should be ashamed of themselves for selling it! Sorry about the confusion, brother man and hope to see you around the channel 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm lol it’s all good sir
@@sure5871What exactly were those differences that made all that difference? Mine is spot on with a slightly wider neck.
It's a pretty G-tar - Randy sir I believe you could make a paint can sound good brother - your knowledge is amazing - honest review - if you don't like you don't like - do you have any thoughts on Taylor ??? - I like the looks of the Taylor AD17 sunburst or black top - if the girls pretty but can't dance you don't take her to the prom .... I get it. - GOD bless
Hi Baker, I have never played a Taylor. I know, it sounds sinful that I haven’t, but it is what it is. At some point I’ll pick one up. I’ll see if I can find the one you mention here. Great to hear from you, sir 👍🏻
Yes Randy I commented on your j45 video because I’m looking at getting a hummingbird IBG and I looked on GC site says China. I didn’t see what Sweetwater said 🤷♂️. So now I’m confused on are they coming from both places and will they be different. I’m ready to get one but I liked try one first 1k a lot money for me. Thx if have any info.
Hi Curt, the IBGs are all made at the Epiphone custom shop. It’s the Masterbilt line you have to look closely at. Turns out the one I’m holding in this video was made in China. The IBG Hummingbird is definitely made in Indonesia at the custom shop, for sure. Great to hear from you, brother man 👍🏻
Ok thx I am seeing on line that IBG can be made in Indonesia and China(Qingdao factory)Says the 5th 6th # number tells you which factory or has or a S for Samick Indonesia factory. I may just go ahead order from Sweetwater and 🤞🏻🤞🏻. Thx for your time I enjoy your videos
@@curtthompson8920 I was unaware of that, so thanks for the info and I’ll check mine.
@@curtthompson8920 I just sent my Gibson contract an email to get the facts. If in fact my Hummingbird is made in China, I’ll be furious with Gibson.
Ok thx Randy. Please keep me updated I called GC they got one out in room I going try go look at it or order from Sweetwater. The site I read that from is guitar lobby.
Great review, but it isn't a Masterbuilt, it's an Inspired by 64 Texan. You can tell as it has a gloss finish, no pearl dots on the bridge, and it's one of those with the shallow depth.
Hi Steve, well now, I can’t tell you how happy I am to hear that! I was really beginning to question the Masterbilt line after playing this one. I think at this point I have some corrections to make in the title and the description. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the information, sir 👍🏻
I’ll do a bit more research, but would you happen to know if Masterbilt makes a version of this? If so, is it the depth larger?
@@randysrhythm Yes Randy, there is a Masterbilt Texan, and yes it is full depth. They have the same finish as your Excellente.👍
@@stevecroft5068 Thanks, brother man! As soon as I have a few minutes, I’ll correct the title and edit the description. You’re a gentleman and a scholar 👍🏻
@@stevecroft5068 Hi Steve, please review the new title and edited description. Later this week I’ll do a quick video correcting my references to Masterbilt. Thanks again and you have a new subscriber 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm I’ve had two of these Inspired by 64 Texans. The first was a 2009 made in China, and the second from 2015 made in Indonesia. The early ones were full depth, but the later ones were shallower. The iInspired by Texans were solid top and back, but laminated sides. The Masterbilt Texans have replaced the Inspired by version, and appear to be a notch above in quality and tone.
Howdy Randy . . . . . Wow!! Ended up being a pretty emotional review here Mate. I wonder if that particular guitar is a 'lemon'. It didn't sound that bad to me, but I am not the person playing it and who owns it.
Anywho . . . . what can I say! 🤷🏻♂
Cheers Randy! 🎸 🎼 😊 ✌
PS . . . . I thought when you strummed this guitar (with the pick), it sounded okay! 🤷🏻♂
Hi Johnny, sorry for the late response, but I’ve been a bit tied up lately. I just posted a follow up video on why this guitar has Covid. That video explains everything. Great to hear from you and hope you’re doing well, brother man. I’m looking forward to more conversations after the new place is (Johnny’s Studio) all finished, my friend 👍🏻
Too funny, l watched a video today.. l won't use any names like "Guitar stuff with John" or anything but the guy in the video raved about that very same guitar, he had that guitar made overseas and the same guitar built in Boseman Montana, compared side by side..they both sounded like yours! I have not seen a video of you Randy so...well.. uninspired that you just wouldn't play.. he went nuts on it and how great it is.. the specs say it should sound similar to a j45 but it certainly does not. I'm not a J45 fan, to me they sound like what one would expect a standard guitar to sound like, nothing special really, if l want a Spruce/Mahogany guitar...l want it to sound like the IBG Hummingbird.. something SPECIAL! Great video.. Thank you Randy!!
Hi James, I have missed hearing from you, my friend! Yes sir, I know exactly who you are talking about. It’s puzzling, unless they did a special one for him, knowing it was getting reviewed? It’s just not like him to miss the mark. By the way, thanks for the kind words, brother man.
On a similar note, I just posted a review of the IBG Epiphone J-45. It sounds nothing like a Gibson, but it is powerful and resonates like crazy. I picked it up for $450.00 😂
Hi Randy. Isn't it funny how we're all different? My son bought one of these and he loves it. I've tried it a few times and I don't get on with it at all!! Oh well. It would be boring if we were all the same my friend, wouldn't it? 😉😅😅 Regards buddy, Dave
Yes it would, David! The response from this one made me sigh, to say the least, brother man 👍🏻
Randy , I can feel your struggle on this one. But keep in mind it is not a IBG , it is a true Epiphone model , cold this be the difference ? Do not know but I guess there cost cutting on this model or on purpose to Not Sound or Play like the IBG or USA guitars.
Yes Epiphone did make the Masterbilts in China , my AJ is from there (early 2000`s) with the same QC as most Mastebilts have.
I had a AJ100 (plywood guitar) at that time was the cheapest acoustic Epiphone had and I could not find Anything wrong with it , I had a lot of guys play her and they loved her but there were just something about her I just did not like. The neck is the same neck as the other Epiphones and she was a sloped shoulder but there just was something bout her I just did not like , Now I got her a a dirt cheap price but I would have pasted if I would have spent more time buying , but she did go to a young guy that wanted to learn to play he sold of his other toys to buy her.
So I feel your pain but there are someone out there would be in High Cotton getting her !
Couldn’t agree more, Terry! Great to hear from you, Colonel 👍🏻
Brother Randy, I am 1000% aligned with your opinion here. Fortunately for me, I was able to try one out in a local shop, and as badly as I wanted to love it, no way. The neck is scrawny, and the tone is scrawny. Sorry you had to buy one to find out, but that’s the guitar world we live in now. You’re the Texan we need to listen to in this video. Sorry Epiphone, you missed the mark again.
Brother Paul, you summed it up, brother man! That is exactly right and describes perfectly what I experienced. I hope you are doing well, my good friend 👍🏻
It certainly looks nice, Randy, but I know what you mean, sometimes you just know immediately that a guitar isn't for you. Hope you get it shifted and get something that fits you better sound and playing wise.
Thank you, sir! Always appreciate seeing and hearing from you. Perhaps someone will love this unlovable instrument 👍
Great video randy👍. it's not nice when you get a guitar and it just doesn't work for you
Hey brother man, you are so right! This is only the 2nd guitar I’ve bought that I didn’t like at all. Sometimes you just get a clunker 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm yes I have had one or two in my time
Randy, make me laugh 🤣🤣🤣🤣, I DO NOT LIKE THIS GUITAR. you are killing me 😂😂, don't like the sound, don't like the fretts, not smooth, has everything well built, beautiful , but doesn't have a personality.🤣🤣🤣🤣 Hope you don't criticize your wife like that great video, you had me laughing the whole time 👍🎶🎸
That’s why I have guitars, it takes the pressure off of her!!! I did not like this beast, at all. Great to hear from you, brother man Steve 👍🏻
...but you are a Texan,right?
I appreciate your honesty.
You got a good buy,now say goodbye.
If I didn't have several great mahogany guitars, I would ask for a price...
😂 I couldn’t do that to you, John! I have had this video done for weeks and this is actually the 3rd one that I’ve done. I deleted the other two and settled on this one. I hesitated to release it, but sometimes you just have to call a spade a spade, brother man 👍🏻
awesome amigo
Appreciate that, Hierrito 👍🏻
That does not look like a Texan master built. It’s missing the dots on the bridge
Hi, I never realized that they put the dots on the Masterbilt, so really appreciate that insight. I did sell this on Craigslist. I did that so that anyone considering purchasing it had to come play it first, because I didn’t feel right about shipping it and passing it off on some unsuspecting soul. The guy that bought it, loved it, and that was after telling him that I didn’t like it at all. In the end, I got my money back and he got a guitar that he loved. Appreciate the info, brother man 👍🏻
macht sich sehr gut und sehr gehoben weiter so
Vielen Dank, freundlicher Herr!
So,what do you REALLY think? Lol
I'd buy it for a friend who has no guitar, but he needs to grow up first...and he is 67 already.
I think I know that guy!!
Well, I don't know what to say. It sounds good to me...but then, I'm half deaf.😂😂
LOL!!
NICE
Thanks
But it's sounding good!
Very kind of you to say. You must have really played with the EQ 😂
This model has a 1-11/16" fretboard width at nut not 1-3/4". The serial # tells the year, from there you can tell what factory was building during that period earlier ones in China newer in Indonesia. "The guitar that inspired two British Invasions joins the Masterbilt™ family! Based on the historic 60s-era Texans played by Paul McCartney and Peter Frampton. Featuring a solid Sitka spruce top, solid mahogany back and sides, bone nut and saddle, and the Fishman® Presys VT™ pickup and preamp system. Includes a vintage-style blue rectangle soundhole label. Available in Antique Natural Aged and Faded Cherry Aged finishes and featuring Gibson™ strings. Epiphone stands behind every guitar they make with a Limited Lifetime Warranty and Gibson Brands™ Customer Service. A battery is not included. To power your pickup, you will need a 9-volt battery." ua-cam.com/video/-XJX3aKOEmQ/v-deo.html
All great observations and corrections. I had already corrected the nut width in the description, but glad you did it here in the comments. Not everyone reads the description. Appreciate the additional information, brother man 👍
So tell us the truth do you like it or not. 😜😜😜🤔🤔
🤣🤣
Don't sit on the fence Randy 🤣
This might be the first (justifiably) negative thing we've heard from you. Maybe you should do a whole second channel called 'Randy Slams'.
Actually no, that just sounds like a wrestler...
That’s actually a great idea, Mat!! Great to see you stop in. I know you two have been busy lately, so it means a lot when you take the time to give some feedback. Hope you are keeping well, brother man 👍🏻
Perhaps your ears and fingers are just getting old. The neck is slightly wider than the original the nut is 1 11/16 inches .
You're probably right 👍
@randysrhythm I know from experience cause I'm old too.
🤣
That’s a fake knockoff.
Truer words were never spoken, brother man 👍🏻
That is the original headstock. 64.
Thanks Pip, appreciate it, sir 👍🏻
I have to say..the guitar that John bangs on about ala John's music stuff that another person has already mentioned is all solid from Indonesia 🇮🇩. Its OK.. as I have played it. But like you with your Chinese 64 inspired which is laminate back and sides,I was underwhelmed after mainly John's review. The American version is a whole lot better .In every department. Its amazing. John seems to have a thing about Masterbilt Epis. Not for me. US or nothing. Its best to save up and get the real deal. The usual famous people that are dragged up by guitar companies ,forget to mention they were playing the USA versions of these guitars. I love your honesty .
@@multipipi1234 Thank you, Pip and you’re a gentleman and a scholar, brother man 👍🏻